Famous Treks of Cusco
From the original royal stone road of the Inca Trail to the untamed wilderness of Choquequirao and the high glaciers of Salkantay. Handcrafted private guided expeditions operated with ethical porter standards and mountain safety.
4 DaysClassic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
5 DaysSalkantay Trek to Machu Picchu
4 DaysChoquequirao Lost City Expedition
4 DaysLares Cultural Trek & Hot Springs
4 DaysAusangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain
Choquequirao Lost City Expedition
Expedition Route Overview
Choquequirao ("Cradle of Gold") is one of the grandest, most remote archaeological citadels in the world. Perched on a knife-edge ridge high above the thundering Apurímac River, it was the last bastion of the Inca empire after the Spanish conquest. Because no roads or trains exist, every stone terrace, llama mosaic, and imperial ceremonial plaza is preserved in absolute silence. You will share this vast lost city with almost nobody.
Depart Cusco early for the village of Capuliyoc (2,900m). Enjoy first dramatic views of the Apurímac Canyon and snow-capped Padreyoc peak. Begin the switchback descent into the canyon, spotting condors soaring on thermals. Stop for lunch at Chiquisca, then cross the roaring Apurímac River at Playa Rosalina before ascending to our camp at Santa Rosa.
Morning ascent through cloud-forest slopes to the settlement of Marampata (2,850m). Take in the first breathtaking views of Choquequirao's terraced complex across the ravine. Continue directly into the archaeological park. Spend the afternoon exploring the lower agricultural sectors and watching the sunset cast golden light on the ancient stone towers.
A full day dedicated entirely to this imperial wonder. Climb to the Sun Temple and the Main Plaza. Marvel at the famous "Llamas del Sol" — 24 stone-inlaid llamas etched permanently into vertical terraces. Visit the priests' quarters, water canals, and defensive walls. In the afternoon, begin the scenic descent back to Marampata / Chiquisca camp.
Begin early to tackle the ascent out of the canyon before the midday heat. Climb steadily to the Capuliyoc viewpoint for a final celebratory lunch overlooking the canyon. Board our private comfortable transport to return to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 PM.
Why this route is legendary:
Included in Your Private Expedition
Not Included
The Auqui Signature Standard
Our Choquequirao expeditions feature specialized archaeologist guides who decode the complex solar alignments and mysterious llama terraces that general visitors overlook.
Ethical Porter Treatment
Fair wages, warm equipment, insurance, and strict weight regulations strictly observed on every trail.
Chef-Crafted Mountain Menus
Warm, multi-course nutritional meals utilizing Andean superfoods (quinoa, native potatoes, fresh trout).
Satellite SOS & High-Flow Oxygen
Pulse oximeter daily altitude checks and medical-grade oxygen canisters carried on all expeditions.
Native Quechua Historians
Bilingual certified guides born in Andean villages with deep ancestral knowledge of Incan cosmology.
Cusco Trekking Comparison Matrix
Compare duration, elevation, permits, and difficulty to choose the perfect route for your fitness and travel style.
| Route Name | Duration | Distance | Max Altitude | Difficulty | Finish Point | Permits Needed | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu | 4 Days / 3 Nights | 43 km (26.7 miles) | 4,215 m | Challenging | Machu Picchu | Yes (4-6 mos ahead) | $890 |
| Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu | 5 Days / 4 Nights | 60 km (37.2 miles) | 4,630 m | Challenging | Machu Picchu | No strict permits | $695 |
| Choquequirao Lost City Expedition | 4 Days / 3 Nights | 64 km (39.7 miles) | 3,033 m | Demanding | Choquequirao Citadel & Apurímac Canyon | No strict permits | $690 |
| Lares Cultural Trek & Hot Springs | 4 Days / 3 Nights | 33 km (20.5 miles) | 4,450 m | Moderate | Machu Picchu | No strict permits | $720 |
| Ausangate 7 Lakes & Rainbow Mountain | 4 Days / 3 Nights | 52 km (32.3 miles) | 5,036 m | Demanding | Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain & Pacchanta | No strict permits | $650 |
The Auqui Expedition Standard
Every detail of your journey is managed with uncompromised attention to guest safety, authentic cultural immersion, and deep respect for the Andean ecosystem.
Ethical Porter Protection
We believe in human dignity on trail. Our porters receive fair wages, warm footwear, sleeping tents, insurance, and adhere to strict load limits.
Nutritious Andean Cuisine
Personal chefs accompany every expedition. Enjoy hot multi-course meals prepared fresh using organic Andean quinoa, fresh vegetables, and local trout.
Satellite & Medical Safety
We carry satellite communications for emergency SOS, high-flow medical oxygen canisters, and daily finger pulse oximetry monitoring.
Native Storytellers
Certified guides born in native Quechua communities, fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua, sharing living Andean folklore and history.