About Choquequirao
Choquequirao is the most spectacular Inca ruin that most travellers will never visit. Larger than Machu Picchu, more extensively terraced, and set in a position of even more dramatic mountain scenery above the Apurímac canyon — yet accessible only by a demanding 4-day return trek through one of the deepest gorges in the world. Only around 30 visitors per day reach Choquequirao compared to the 4,000 who crowd Machu Picchu. The site is just 30% excavated; archaeologists continue to uncover terraces, temples, and structures beneath the jungle. A cable car has been proposed for years but has not been built — meaning this window of empty magnificence will not last forever.
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Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip
Top Attractions in Choquequirao
The main ceremonial plaza of Choquequirao occupies a dramatic ridge with the Apurímac canyon dropping 1,500 metres on three sides…
The lower terraces of Choquequirao contain the most unusual feature in any known Inca site — terraces decorated with white stone…
The trek to Choquequirao descends into and climbs out of the Apurímac Canyon — one of the deepest gorges in the world. The view…
Around 70% of Choquequirao remains unexcavated under jungle. Walking the edges of the site reveals stone walls emerging from thick…
Best Neighbourhoods in Choquequirao
The small village where all Choquequirao treks begin. Basic guesthouses and hostels, a couple of restaurants, and tour agencies that can arrange mule hire and guides. Arrive the evening before to prepare.
Most trekkers base themselves in Cusco and arrange day transport to Cachora (4h). The wide range of Cusco accommodation and restaurants makes it the best place to recover after the trek.
The standard first-night camping spot partway down the canyon. Basic facilities. A cold river for washing. Extraordinary stargazing at 2,900m with zero light pollution. Bring all your own equipment.
The campsite immediately adjacent to the ruins — the closest thing to sleeping at the site. Basic (outhouse toilet, no shower), but the experience of being at Choquequirao at dawn before any other visitors is extraordinary.
Best Time to Visit Choquequirao
Clear skies, dry trails, and the most reliable mountain views. The canyon is at its most navigable and camping…
The rainy season makes the canyon dramatically lush and waterfalls are spectacular, but trails can be muddy an…
The transition months have good weather and are the quietest on the trail. In May especially, you may have the…
Cold nights at altitude (near 0°C at the ruins) but crystal-clear days. The dry air and low humidity make the…
Top Tours in Choquequirao
Best Hotels in Choquequirao
BoutiqueCapuliyoc Lodge, Cachora
The most comfortable lodge at the Choquequirao trailhead — a small, family-run property in Cachora...
BoutiqueTierra Viva Cusco Saphi
The best mid-range hotel in Cusco for trekkers heading to Choquequirao — a beautifully converted c...