Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite

Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite

Price from:
$ 348.00 USD
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Tour Type
Hiking & Camping Tours
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Maximun Altitude
4600 Meters
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Physical Level
Demanding
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Recommended Season
May to December

Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite

Price from: $ 348.00 USD

Proper beds each night on the way to Choquequirao, plus a stop at the Sayhuite Monolith.

The Comfortable 4-Day Peru Andes Lodge Trek

The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge is the ONE tour that solves this — the ONLY Kondor Path combo delivering a FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour on Day 3 + Sayhuite Monolith bonus on Day 1 WITHOUT Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain bundles.

Five reasons discerning Choquequirao enthusiasts choose this specific 4-day trek:

1. FULL DAY Choquequirao Day 3 — CHEAPEST option in catalog. No other Choquequirao-only combo offers 4-5 hours archaeological immersion at this price. $348 vs $875 for 8-Day DEEPEST = $527 savings for those wanting Choquequirao FULL DAY without MP/Rainbow additions.

2. Sayhuite Monolith bonus Day 1 — UNIQUE in cluster. No other Kondor Path Choquequirao combo includes Sayhuite Monolith (pre-Inca ceremonial site with sacred stone carvings representing Inca cosmology). 30-minute guided visit en route Cusco → Capuliyoc adds historical depth to the adventure.

3. Balanced 4-day pace — comfortable + immersive. Unlike the fast-paced 3-Day PURIST (rushed, 6-8h daily) or extended 6-9 Day combos (excessive for Choquequirao-only interest), this 4-day format delivers balanced comfortable pace — Day 3 completely dedicated to Choquequirao exploration from Marampata base.

4. 3 LODGE nights with hot showers + soap + towels. Unlike traditional camping Choquequirao treks, this combo delivers 3 basic lodge nights included (Chiquisca Day 1 + Marampata Day 2 + Marampata Day 3) — private beds + pillows + hot or lukewarm showers with clean towels + soap at all lodges. Adventure with essential comfort.

5. Optional Llamas sector OR Choquequirao waterfalls extension Day 3. Weather permitting, extend your Choquequirao exploration with either the famous white-stone llama terraces (Choquequirao’s iconic UNIQUE feature) or the Choquequirao waterfalls (a natural extension) — flexibility not available in the shorter 3-Day option.

QUICK FACTS BAR

⏱️ Duration4 days / 3 nights
🎯 CategoryCOMFORTABLE + FULL DAY + SAYHUITE + LODGE
📅 Day 1Cusco → Sayhuite → Capuliyoc → Chiquisca Lodge
📅 Day 2Chiquisca → Playa Rosalina → Marampata Lodge
📅 Day 3 ⭐FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour (4-5h)
📅 Day 4Marampata → Chiquisca → Capuliyoc → Cusco
🕐 Day 1 pickup05:00 AM Cusco hotel
🕐 Day 2 start05:30 AM Chiquisca
🕐 Day 3 start08:30 AM Marampata
🕐 Day 4 start04:30 AM Marampata
📍 Pickup locationCusco hotels ONLY (NOT airport)
🏛️ Sayhuite Monolith Day 130-min guided visit
🏛️ Choquequirao Day 3FULL DAY 4-5h guided tour
🏛️ Optional extensions Day 3Llamas sector OR Choquequirao waterfalls
⛰️ Max altitudeChoquequirao 3,064m Day 3
⛰️ Lowest elevationPlaya Rosalina 1,500m
🌊 Apurímac crossings2 (Days 2 + 4 — Playa Rosalina bridge)
🥾 Total distance~39 km
🎫 Sayhuite entranceINCLUDED
🎫 Choquequirao entranceINCLUDED (60 soles)
🏠 Lodges included3 nights (Chiquisca + Marampata × 2)
🚿 Hot showers + towels + soapAll lodges
🍽️ Meals included10 (3B + 2L + 3D + 2BL)
🎯 FormatPRIVATE TOUR
👥 Group size1-10 travelers (+10 contact)
🎓 Minimum age14 years with a guardian
📅 OperatingMarch 1 to January 31 — Daily
🚫 CLOSEDFebruary
💪 DifficultyDemanding (experienced hikers)
💲 From$348 USD per person (group of 10)
Trending Tour
Price From
$ 348.00 USD
Trip Length: 4-Day
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Tour Type
Hiking & Camping Tours
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Maximun Altitude
4600 Meters
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Group Size
1 to 10 hikers
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Physical Level
Demanding
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Recommended Season
May to December
Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite
Duration
4-Day

Here’s what makes the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite worth 4 days. – SAYHUITE Monolith Day 1 ⭐ UNIQUE catalog. – FULL DAY Choquequirao Day 3 (4- 5 h guided tour). – CHEAPEST FULL DAY Choquequirao combo — $348. – Balanced 4-day pace — comfortable, not rushed. This is the heart of the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge + Sayhuite experience.

Overview

Choquequirao Trek 4 Days Lodge Overview

The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge is the CHEAPEST FULL DAY Choquequirao option in the Kondor Path catalog — the ONLY combo delivering a FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour on Day 3 + the Sayhuite Monolith bonus on Day 1 WITHOUT Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain bundles.

This IS the tour for:

  • Choquequirao archaeological enthusiasts wanting FULL DAY immersion
  • Budget-conscious archaeological purists — cheapest FULL DAY option
  • Time-limited travelers (4 days) wanting depth over breadth
  • Comfort-seeking trekkers — LODGE with hot showers preferred
  • Balanced pace adventurers — not rushed like 3-Day
  • Photography enthusiasts — extended Choquequirao lighting variations
  • Travelers with MP tour separately wanting Choquequirao FULL DAY
  • Sayhuite pre-Inca history enthusiasts
  • Peru “off-the-beaten-track” experienced adventurers
  • Couples/small groups wanting a premium private Choquequirao experience

Why Choose FULL DAY Choquequirao Focus?

Choquequirao (“Cradle of Gold” in Quechua) is one of Peru’s most spectacular archaeological sites:

  • Sister city of Machu Picchu — similar era + architecture + cultural significance
  • 10x LARGER than Machu Picchu (per some estimates) or 3x larger (conservative)
  • Only 30% excavated — much still hidden in vegetation
  • Fewer than 50 daily visitors — genuinely uncrowded experience
  • Only accessible by hiking — 2-day minimum round trip
  • Famous white stone llama terraces — UNIQUE Inca engineering
  • Built during Pachacuti’s reign (late 15th century)
  • Last Inca refuge from Spanish conquest

Why FULL DAY vs 2-hour rushed visits:

  • Explore ALL sectors: Main Plaza + Temple + Kallankas + Ushnu + Colcas + Andenes + Cemetery
  • Multiple lighting variations for photography (morning + midday + afternoon)
  • Time to absorb cultural context + guide’s expertise
  • Optional extensions: Llamas sector or Choquequirao waterfalls
  • Genuinely uncrowded (visit some sectors without other tourists)

About Sayhuite Monolith Bonus Day 1

Sayhuite Monolith — pre-Inca ceremonial site en route Cusco → Capuliyoc:

  • Sacred stone carvings representing Inca cosmology
  • Miniature model of Andean geography (rivers, mountains, terraces)
  • 30-minute guided visit included Day 1
  • Pre-Choquequirao archaeological context
  • UNIQUE in Choquequirao cluster (only this 4-Day includes it)

Direct, Licensed Operator — No Middlemen

  • 🏢 Direct local operator in Cusco — DIRCETUR licensed
  • 🎯 PRIVATE TOUR format
  • 🎫 Sayhuite Monolith entrance included
  • 🎫 Choquequirao entrance fee included (60 soles)
  • 🏠 3 basic lodges included (Chiquisca + Marampata × 2 — hot showers + soap + towels)
  • 🎓 Certified bilingual Choquequirao specialist guide
  • 🎓 FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour Day 3 (4-5 hours)
  • 🎓 Sayhuite 30-min guided visit Day 1
  • 🍽️ 10 meals included — home-cooked at lodges
  • 🚐 Private van Cusco ↔ Capuliyoc
  • 🚑 First aid kit + emergency oxygen bottle
  • TripAdvisor 5.0
  • 💳 PayPal payment processed within 40 minutes
  • 📱 WhatsApp 24/7 Choquequirao concierge
  • 🎓 Age 14+ with guardian

Top Highlights of the COMFORTABLE 4-Day Choquequirao Lodge Trek

  • 🏛️ SAYHUITE Monolith Day 1 ⭐ UNIQUE catalog
  • 🏛️ FULL DAY Choquequirao Day 3 (4-5h guided tour)
  • 💰 CHEAPEST FULL DAY Choquequirao combo — $348
  • Balanced 4-day pace — comfortable, not rushed
  • 🏠 3 basic lodges — Chiquisca + Marampata × 2
  • 🚿 Hot showers + soap + towels all lodges
  • 🍽️ 10 meals home-cooked at lodges
  • 🌊 Apurímac Canyon double crossing — Playa Rosalina, 1,500 m
  • 🏛️ Choquequirao ALL sectors — Main Plaza, Temple, Kallankas, Ushnu, Colcas, Andenes, Cemetery
  • 🏛️ Optional Llamas sector OR Choquequirao waterfalls on Day 3
  • 📸 Uncrowded archaeological experience (fewer than 50 daily visitors)
  • ⛰️ Choquequirao 3,064m (“sister city of Machu Picchu”)
  • 🎯 PRIVATE tour format
  • 🎓 Certified bilingual Choquequirao specialist
  • 🚐 Private van Cusco ↔ Capuliyoc
  • 🚑 Emergency oxygen + first aid in vehicles
  • 📅 Operating March-January — daily
  • 🏢 Direct operator — DIRCETUR licensed

Itinerary

This lodge-based version of the 4-day Choquequirao trek swaps tent camping for proper beds each night, while still covering the same iconic route — the Sayhuite Monolith, the descent into the Apurímac Canyon, and a full day dedicated entirely to exploring the Choquequirao ruins from a base camp at Marampata.

As with the camping version, Choquequirao’s ruins at 3,064 m represent the trek’s highest point, with the canyon’s dramatic elevation changes posing the real physical test rather than thin air at altitude. Having a full, dedicated day at Marampata for the ruins tour — rather than combining arrival and exploration into a single day — gives trekkers a genuine rest day at that elevation before the return descent and climb back to Capuliyoc.

Detailed Day-by-Day 4-Day Choquequirao Lodge Itinerary

BRIEFING: 6:30 PM at hotel reception the day before departure.

Day 1

Cusco → SAYHUITE Monolith → Capuliyoc → Chiquisca Lodge

05:00 AM — Private Pickup at Your Cusco Hotel

Early start for Day 1 with Sayhuite bonus stop.

Pre-tour preparation (night before):

  • Set alarms for 04:00 AM
  • Pack light for 4 days
  • Broken-in hiking shoes with ankle support
  • Trekking poles highly recommended
  • Headlamp — necessary for Day 4 04:30 AM start
  • Water 3L — canyon HOT
  • Sun protection SPF 45+
  • Insect repellent
  • Light warm jacket for Marampata (cold due to Padreyoc glacier)
  • Camera + batteries
  • Personal medications

05:00-08:00 AM — Cusco → Sayhuite Monolith

Scenic drive southeast of Cusco toward Apurímac region.

08:00-08:30 AM — 🏛️ SAYHUITE MONOLITH ⭐ (30-min guided visit)

UNIQUE archaeological bonus — pre-Inca ceremonial site.

Sayhuite highlights:

  • Sacred stone carvings representing Andean cosmology
  • Miniature model of Andean geography — rivers, mountains, terraces
  • Ceremonial platform
  • Cultural context for Choquequirao (pre-Inca → Inca evolution)

Photography opportunity: unique carved monolith.

08:30-10:30 AM — Sayhuite → Capuliyoc (~2h drive)

Continue drive to Capuliyoc mirador 2,956m.

Breakfast stop en route: local restaurant (NOT included).

10:30-14:00 PM — 🥾 Descent to Chiquisca (~3.5h)

Steep switchback descent through cactus forest to Chiquisca 1,898m.

Views:

  • 3 spectacular Capuliyoc viewpoints
  • Apurímac Canyon panorama
  • Padreyoc snow-capped mountains

🍽️ Box Lunch included en route

14:00 PM — Arrival Chiquisca + Lodge Check-in

Chiquisca basic lodge included:

  • Private bed + pillow
  • Hot or lukewarm showers with clean towels + soap
  • Basic bathroom facilities
  • WIFI available (~S/10/hour — additional cost)
  • Satellite phone service
  • Traditional family-run lodge

🍽️ Dinner included at Chiquisca Lodge

Home-cooked Peruvian meal.

Overnight: Chiquisca basic lodge included.

Total Day 1: 8 km / 3.5h hiking + Sayhuite Monolith visit + Chiquisca lodge.

Food

1BL, 1D

Physical Level

Intense

Walking Distance

10km (6.2 miles)

Hiking Time

3-4 Hrs.

Starting Altitude

Capuliyoc: 2,956m (9,698 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Chiquisca: 1,898m (6,227 ft)

Day 2

Chiquisca → Playa Rosalina → Marampata Lodge

05:30 AM — Depart Chiquisca

Early start to avoid canyon heat.

05:30-06:30 AM — 🥾 Descent to Playa Rosalina (~1h)

Steep switchback descent through cactus forest.

06:30-07:30 AM — 🌊 Playa Rosalina Apurímac Suspension Bridge Crossing

Spectacular canyon experience — Apurímac River crossing at 1,500m (lowest elevation of tour).

Photography stop: bridge + canyon walls.

07:30-13:00 PM — 🥾 Ascent to Marampata 2,850m (~5h)

Steep ascent through cloud forest.

Landscape:

  • Subtropical → cloud forest transition
  • Orchids + bromeliads
  • Progressive views of Choquequirao area

🍽️ Lunch included at Marampata Lodge

Home-cooked Peruvian meal.

13:00 PM — Arrival Marampata + Lodge Check-in

Marampata basic lodge included:

  • Private bed + pillow
  • Hot showers + soap + towels
  • Traditional family-run lodge
  • Views of Apurímac Canyon
  • Cold at night (Padreyoc glacier proximity)

Afternoon — Rest + Sunset Views

Marampata sunset: spectacular Andes panorama.

If the sky is clear at night: shooting stars + Inca constellation with Milky Way.

🍽️ Dinner included at Marampata Lodge

Overnight: Marampata basic lodge included.

Total Day 2: 8 km / 6-7h hiking + Playa Rosalina crossing + Marampata lodge.

Food

1B, 1L, 1D.

Physical Level

Challenging

Walking Distance

08 km (4.9 miles)

Hiking Time

6-7 Hrs.

Starting Altitude

Capuliyoc: 2,956m (9,698 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Playa Rosalina: 1,500m (4,921 ft)

Highest Altitude

Marampata 2,850m (9,350 ft)

Day 3

⭐ — FULL DAY CHOQUEQUIRAO GUIDED TOUR (Marampata base)

Peak archaeological day — FULL DAY Choquequirao immersion.

07:30-08:30 AM — 🍽️ Breakfast at Marampata + Prepare Box Lunch

Marampata lodge provides box lunch for Choquequirao day.

08:30 AM — Depart Marampata

08:30-10:10 AM — 🥾 Ascent to Choquequirao 3,064m (~1h40)

Cloud forest ascent to Choquequirao archaeological complex.

10:10-14:30 PM — 🏛️ FULL DAY CHOQUEQUIRAO GUIDED TOUR (4-5 hours)

Peak archaeological moment Day 3 — Choquequirao “Cradle of Gold”.

Complete guided exploration:

Main sectors:

  • Main Plaza (Hanan sector) — administrative + ceremonial center
  • Temple sector — main ceremonial platforms with Inca astronomy alignments
  • Kallankas (great halls) — Inca meeting + ceremonial spaces
  • Ushnu — ceremonial platform + Inca cosmology center
  • Andenes (agricultural terraces) — Inca hydraulic system
  • Colcas (storage buildings) — food preservation
  • Inca Cemetery — sacred burial sites

Cultural context throughout:

  • Pachacuti’s reign (late 15th century)
  • Tupac Yupanqui extensions
  • Administrative + ceremonial + fortress functions
  • Last Inca refuge from Spanish conquest
  • Comparison to Machu Picchu (sister cities: similar era, architecture, elevation, microclimate)
  • Ongoing excavations (only 30% excavated)

🍽️ Lunch (Box Lunch) at Choquequirao area

Provided by Marampata Lodge — panoramic views + Peruvian meal.

🏛️ OPTIONAL Day 3 Extensions

Weather + energy permitting, choose ONE:

Option A: Llamas Sector (recommended)

  • FAMOUS white stone llama terraces — UNIQUE Choquequirao feature
  • Iconic Inca engineering
  • Photography opportunity
  • Cultural symbolism
  • ~1h additional exploration

Option B: Choquequirao Waterfalls

  • Natural extension of archaeological complex
  • Photography + refreshment
  • ~1h additional exploration

Note: extensions extend Day 3 total time (arrival Marampata later).

14:30-16:00 PM — 🥾 Return to Marampata (~1.5h)

Descent back to Marampata lodge.

Heads up: pack a headlamp, since the return leg can run into darkness.

16:00 PM — Arrival at Marampata Lodge

Rest + hot shower + relaxation.

🍽️ Dinner included at Marampata Lodge

Community farewell dinner — Peruvian traditional meal.

Overnight: Marampata basic lodge included (Night 2).

Total Day 3: 7 km / 3-4h hiking + FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour + optional extension.

Food

1B, 1L, 1D.

Physical Level

Moderate

Walking Distance

7km (4.3 miles)

Hiking Time

3 Hrs.

Starting Altitude

Marampata: 2,910m (9,547 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Marampata: 2,910m (9,547 ft)

Highest Altitude

Choquequirao Ruin: 3,064m (10,052 ft)

Day 4

Marampata → Playa Rosalina → Chiquisca → Capuliyoc → Cusco

Longest and most demanding day — early start critical.

04:30 AM — Depart Marampata

Very early start with headlamp — flashlights + calibrated walking sticks.

04:30-07:30 AM — 🥾 Descent to Playa Rosalina (~3h)

Steep descent through cloud forest to Apurímac River banks.

07:30-08:30 AM — 🥾 Playa Rosalina Bridge + Ascent to Chiquisca (~1h)

Cross Apurímac River + steep ascent to Chiquisca 1,898m.

08:30-10:00 AM — 🍽️ Breakfast at Chiquisca

Local breakfast — recharge for final ascent.

10:00-13:30 PM — 🥾 Final Ascent to Capuliyoc (~3.5h)

Steepest section — final push up Apurímac Canyon to Capuliyoc 2,956m.

Note: hardest part of entire tour — save energy.

13:30-14:30 PM — Arrival Capuliyoc + 🍽️ Lunch (Box Lunch) included

Final photography stop: farewell views of Apurímac Canyon.

Thank the Andes for the incredible adventure.

14:30-19:30 PM — 🚐 Capuliyoc → Cusco (~5h drive)

Return via Abancay to Cusco.

~19:30-20:00 PM — Drop-off at Your Cusco Hotel

End of COMFORTABLE 4-Day Choquequirao Lodge Adventure.

Total Day 4: 16 km / 8-9h hiking + van return.

Total Tour Stats

  • ⏱️ Total duration: ~88 hours (4 days / 3 nights)
  • 🥾 Total trekking: ~39 km (Day 1: 8 + Day 2: 8 + Day 3: 7 + Day 4: 16)
  • 🏛️ Sayhuite Monolith visit: 30 min Day 1 ⭐
  • 🏛️ Choquequirao guided tour: 4-5 hours FULL DAY Day 3
  • ⛰️ Max altitude: Choquequirao 3,064 m Day 3
  • ⛰️ Lowest elevation: Playa Rosalina 1,500m
  • 🌊 Apurímac Canyon crossings: 2 (Days 2 + 4)
  • 🏠 Lodges included: 3 nights (Chiquisca + Marampata × 2)
  • 🍽️ Meals included: 10 (3 breakfasts + 2 lunches + 3 dinners + 2 box lunches)
  • 💪 Physical effort: Demanding
Food

1B, 1BL.

Physical Level

Challenging

Walking Distance

16km (9.9 miles)

Hiking Time

7-8 Hrs.

Starting Altitude

Marampata: 2,910m (9,547 ft)

Minimun Altitude

Playa Rosalina: 1,500m (4,921 ft)

Highest Altitude

Capuliyoc: 2,956m (9,698 ft)

Inclusions

What’s Included

Transport

  • Private van Cusco → Capuliyoc Day 1 (~4h with Sayhuite stop)
  • Private van Capuliyoc → Cusco Day 4 (~5h)
  • Vehicle with first-aid kit + emergency oxygen bottle

Accommodation (3 nights included)

  • Day 1: Chiquisca basic lodge (bed + pillow + hot showers + soap + towels)
  • Day 2: Marampata basic lodge (bed + pillow + hot showers + soap + towels)
  • Day 3: Marampata basic lodge (Night 2)

Guides

  • Certified bilingual Choquequirao specialist all 4 days
  • 30-minute Sayhuite Monolith guided visit Day 1
  • FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour Day 3 (4-5 hours) ⭐

Entrance Fees — All Included

  • Sayhuite Monolith entrance
  • Choquequirao entrance fee (60 soles)
  • ✅ All Choquequirao archaeological circuit access

Meals — 10 Included

  • Day 1: Box lunch + Dinner (2)
  • Day 2: Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner (3)
  • Day 3: Breakfast + Lunch (box lunch at Choquequirao) + Dinner (3)
  • Day 4: Breakfast + Box lunch (2)

Vegetarian + vegan options available (48h advance notice).

Safety

  • First-aid kit
  • Emergency oxygen bottle
  • Trekking poles rental available (advance request)

Other

  • 6:30 PM briefing at hotel reception day before
  • All local Peruvian taxes
  • WhatsApp confirmation + 24/7 support
  • Pre-departure hotel briefing 1-2 days before

What’s NOT Included

Meals NOT included:

  • Day 1 breakfast (before pickup)
  • Day 4 dinner (after Cusco arrival)
  • Additional beverages beyond meals

Other:

  • International/domestic flights
  • Cusco hotels before Day 1 + after Day 4
  • Airport pickup — not available due to 05:00 AM Day 1 pickup
  • Cargo horses (+$140-150 optional) — transport personal items 8 kg per hiker for 4 days
  • Muleteer service (with cargo horses) — additional cost
  • Canvas bags for personal belongings (rent/bring own)
  • WIFI at Chiquisca + Marampata — additional cost (~S/10/hour at lodges)
  • Single room supplement — additional cost (request in advance)
  • Sleeping bag — bring from home or rent in Cusco (~$5-10/day)
  • Personal travel + medical insurance
  • Tips for crew (muleteers, cook, guide — 10% suggested)
  • Personal expenses (snacks, extra water)

Optional Add-Ons (Extra Cost)

Cargo horse + muleteer (+$140-150 for 4 days):

  • Transports personal items: 8 kg per hiker
  • Lighter backpack = better adventure
  • Book in advance

WIFI at lodges (~S/10/hour):

  • Chiquisca lodge
  • Marampata lodge (limited signal)

Single room supplement:

  • Private accommodation Days 1 + 2 + 3
  • Request at booking

Sleeping bag rental (Cusco): ~$5-10/day

Essentials:

  1. Daypack: small, comfortable, lightweight
  2. Trekking poles (highly recommended for canyon descents/ascents)
  3. Headlamp (essential for Day 4 04:30 AM start)
  4. Broken-in hiking shoes with ankle support
  5. Warm light fleece jacket for Marampata cold nights
  6. Light hiking jacket for low temperatures
  7. Hat + sunglasses (canyon sun protection)
  8. Lightweight rain poncho (December-April)
  9. Plastic bags for dirty/wet clothes
  10. Personal grooming kit
  11. Sun protection SPF 45+
  12. Insect repellent (cream — allowed in Choquequirao)
  13. Bandages / moleskin
  14. Reusable water bottle 3LNO plastic bottles at Choquequirao
  15. Water purification tablets — for stream water
  16. Extra cash for snacks + water at Capuliyoc/Chiquisca/Marampata local stores
  17. Sleeping bag (rent Cusco if needed)

⚠️ Non-recyclable plastics FORBIDDEN in Choquequirao archaeological area.

Physical Preparation Guide

Choquequirao 4-Day is DEMANDING — experienced hikers only:

Physical preparation (2-3 months before):

  • Cardio training 6-8 weeks minimum
  • Uphill hiking practice with backpack
  • Broken-in hiking shoes essential
  • 6-9 hours daily hiking capability (especially Day 4)

Altitude preparation:

  • Cusco 2-3 days acclimatization
  • Hydration + coca leaves
  • Max altitude Choquequirao 3,064m — moderate risk

Day 4 endurance warning:

  • 16 km / 8-9 hours — hardest day of tour
  • 04:30 AM start required
  • Physical + mental endurance needed
  • Trekking poles + headlamp essential

Note: page states Choquequirao has “higher demand than the Inca Trail or Salkantay”. Prepare accordingly.

Not suitable for: sedentary travelers, beginners, mobility-limited travelers, altitude-sensitive travelers, family with children under 14.

WHO THIS TOUR IS FOR

Travelers Who Benefit from COMFORTABLE 4-Day Lodge Format

  • Choquequirao archaeological enthusiasts wanting FULL DAY immersion
  • Budget-conscious archaeological purists (cheapest FULL DAY option)
  • Time-limited travelers (4 days) wanting depth
  • Comfort-seeking trekkers (LODGE with hot showers preferred)
  • Balanced pace adventurers (not rushed)
  • Photography enthusiasts (extended lighting variations Day 3)
  • Travelers with MP tour separately wanting Choquequirao FULL DAY
  • Sayhuite pre-Inca history enthusiasts
  • Peru “off-the-beaten-track” experienced adventurers
  • Couples/small groups wanting premium private Choquequirao experience

Travelers Who Should NOT Book This Format

Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About the 4-Day Choquequirao Lodge Trek

Two UNIQUE features in the Kondor Path catalog:

  1. 🏛️ Sayhuite Monolith Day 1 ⭐ — pre-Inca ceremonial site (only 4-Day includes this)

🏛️ FULL DAY Choquequirao Day 3 — 4- 5-hour guided tour (vs 2h in 3-Day PURIST)

Cluster comparison:

  • 3-Day PURIST ($333): rushed 2h Choquequirao, no Sayhuite
  • This 4-Day ($348): FULL DAY Choquequirao + Sayhuite bonus
  • [6-Day

Lodge](https://www.kondorpathtours.com/choquequirao-trek/choquequirao-trek-by-lodge-6-days/) ($779): adds MP + Oroya

Choose this 4-Day if: want FULL DAY Choquequirao + Sayhuite + comfortable pace WITHOUT MP/Rainbow. Choose 6-9 Day combos if: want MP + Rainbow + more comprehensive experience.

Total: ~39 km / 4 days:

  • Day 1: 8 km / 3.5h (Capuliyoc descent to Chiquisca)
  • Day 2: 8 km / 6-7h (Chiquisca to Marampata via Playa Rosalina)
  • Day 3: 7 km / 3-4h (FULL DAY Choquequirao guided tour)
  • Day 4: 16 km / 8-9h (Marampata to Capuliyoc — hardest day)

Note: distances can extend on Day 3 if visiting optional Llamas sector or Choquequirao waterfalls.

Sayhuite — pre-Inca ceremonial site en route Cusco → Capuliyoc:

  • Sacred stone carvings representing Andean cosmology
  • Miniature model of Andean geography (rivers, mountains, terraces)
  • Ceremonial platform
  • 30-minute guided visit included Day 1
  • **UNIQUE in Choquequirao

cluster** — only 4-Day includes this bonus

Provides pre-Inca to Inca archaeological context before Choquequirao.

Physical demand extreme:

  • 6-9 hours daily hiking (especially Day 4)
  • Steep canyon descents + ascents (Apurímac Canyon twice)
  • Day 4 hardest: 16 km + 04:30 AM start + 8-9 hours

Alternative for younger travelers:

3 nights included:

  • Day 1: Chiquisca basic lodge 🏠 — bed + pillow + hot showers + soap + towels
  • Day 2: Marampata basic lodge 🏠 — bed + pillow + hot showers + soap + towels
  • Day 3: Marampata basic lodge (Night 2) 🏠

Both lodges:

  • Basic private rooms or shared dorms
  • Hot or lukewarm showers with clean towels + soap
  • Home-cooked Peruvian meals (vegetarian/vegan options available)
  • Family-run traditional hospitality
  • WIFI available at extra cost (~S/10/hour)

4-5 hours guided exploration from Marampata base:

Main sectors explored:

  • Main Plaza (Hanan sector) — administrative + ceremonial
  • Temple sector — ceremonial platforms
  • Kallankas (great halls)
  • Ushnu (ceremonial platform)
  • Andenes (agricultural terraces)
  • Colcas (storage buildings)
  • Inca Cemetery

Optional Day 3 extensions (weather + energy permitting):

  • Llamas sector — famous white stone llama terraces (UNIQUE feature)
  • Choquequirao waterfalls — natural extension

Advantage vs 3-Day 2-hour rushed visit:

  • Complete archaeological immersion
  • Multiple photography lighting variations
  • Time to absorb cultural context
  • Uncrowded exploration

Choquequirao entrance fee:

  • Adults: 60 soles (~$16 USD)
  • University students: 30 soles
  • Children: 25 soles

ALL included in tour price — no additional payment needed.

Sayhuite Monolith entrance: also included.

Low-moderate risk on this tour:

  • Max altitude: Choquequirao 3,064m (moderate)
  • NOT extreme altitude (vs Rainbow Mountain 5,100m tours)

Recommendations:

  • Cusco 2-3 days acclimatization before trek
  • Coca leaves + hydration
  • Cusco altitude (3,350m) higher than Choquequirao (3,064m) — Cusco time helps

Note: Choquequirao has warm-temperate climate + moderate altitude = altitude sickness (“Soroche”) unlikely.

If symptoms appear, coca leaf tea helps.

Yes — optional (extra cost):

  • $140-150 for 4 days cargo horse + muleteer
  • Transports personal items 8 kg per hiker
  • Lighter backpack = better adventure
  • Book in advance at booking

Recommendation: cargo horse strongly recommended if carrying heavy equipment.

Perfect fit for this 4-Day tour! — you’ll appreciate:

  • Comparing Choquequirao vs Machu Picchu (sister cities: similar era, architecture, elevation, microclimate)
  • Focus on Choquequirao’s unique features (llama terraces, less excavation, uncrowded)
  • Uncrowded experience (fewer than 50 daily

visitors vs MP’s 4,500)

  • Sayhuite pre-Inca context bonus
  • Save $187-800 vs longer combos with MP bundled

No — 05:00 AM Day 1 pickup requires Cusco hotel base + acclimatization time.

Recommended: fly to Cusco 2-3 days before tour for altitude acclimatization + rest.

Temperate-warm climate (Apurímac Canyon):

  • Day temperatures: 20-24°C (warm, especially canyon floor)
  • Night temperatures: 8-12°C (cold, especially Marampata due to Padreyoc glacier)
  • Rain risk: January-March (heaviest)
  • Dry season: May-September (best)
  • Annual average: 17°C

Clothing strategy:

  • Light hiking clothes for day
  • Warm layers for Marampata night
  • Rain poncho for Dec-April

  • 60+ days: 80% refund
  • 30-59 days: 50% refund
  • 15-29 days: 20% refund
  • Within 14 days: non-refundable

Travel insurance STRONGLY recommended through World Nomads.

Yes — PRIVATE tour format:

  • Group composition (family, friends, solo)
  • Meal preferences (vegetarian/vegan — 48h notice)
  • Optional cargo horse (+$140-150)
  • Single room supplement (extra cost)
  • Alternative departure dates
  • Add pre-tour Cusco acclimatization days
  • Choose Llamas sector OR Choquequirao waterfalls extension Day 3

Advanced customizations: contact at booking.

NoMarch-January daily, CLOSED February.

The driest, most reliable window is May through September. April and October-November bring fewer crowds but a slightly higher chance of rain. March, December, and January carry the highest rain risk, which directly affects trail conditions on this route.

February remains closed, matching the policy across Kondor Path’s entire Choquequirao cluster for trail safety.

Pricing

2026 Tour Price for COMFORTABLE 4-Day Choquequirao Lodge

PersonsPrice (p/p)
1$ 1 420.00 USD
2$ 839.00 USD
3$ 640.00 USD
4$ 535.00 USD
5$ 475.00 USD
6$ 433.00 USD
7$ 402.00 USD
8$ 379.00 USD
9$ 362.00 USD
10$ 348.00 USD

Contact Us

Customize Your Choquequirao Trek 4 Days by Lodge

Contact form Tour
Start Date
August 7, 2026
End Date
August 10, 2026
Group Size
16 Persons
14 Available spaces
Price
US $ 348.00
Participants
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