Choquequirao Trek 5 days

Things To Know

• Unlike other popular treks, the Choquequirao route remains accessible year-round, even during rainy season. There is no need to book far in advance, as this trail is never overcrowded with tourists. You have the flexibility to choose between trekking in the dry or wet season, ensuring a unique experience no matter when you decide to go.
• Throughout the entire five-day Choquequirao trek, bottled water can only be purchased at the Marampata, Santa Rosa Baja, and Chikiska campsites. However, it is important to keep in mind that prices at these locations tend to be higher than usual due to the logistical challenges of transporting supplies over long distances using horses. Additionally, certain campsites, such as the Choquequirao campsite, do not have any shops, meaning bottled water is not available for purchase there
• This 5-day trek to Choquequirao is not recommended for travelers with back problems
• We do not organize the 5-day Choquequirao trek in January, February, and March because of heavy rainfall. During these months, the trail becomes muddy and slippery. Additionally, as the trail is situated in a valley, there is a risk of landslides or falling rocks from the upper sections, which makes the trek unsafe.

Pro Tips

• Ensure that your trekking shoes are not too tight before starting the 5-day Choquequirao Trek. It’s best to choose a pair that is slightly little larger than your actual size to prevent blisters on the steep descents as it will reduce friction from the shoe rubbing against your toes. On the other hand, shoes that are too large can cause your foot to slide around and create discomfort.
• Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before your Choquequirao 5-day hike to get used to the altitude.
• Remember to trim your toenails very short before starting your trek. Long toenails can rub against your hiking boots during descents, causing pain or even leading to your nails popping off.
• Place your clothing within your sleeping bag while sleeping. This way, if the morning is cold, you can put on warm clothes. This practice significantly simplifies your morning routine by ensuring your clothes remain at a comfortable temperature.
• Consistently be prepared for rain, even during the dry season of the 5-day Choquequirao trek. Unforeseen rain can transform your journey into an unpleasant experience if your cloths become thoroughly soaked without any opportunity for drying.
• Additionally, consider bringing sandals or comfortable shoes to relax in after a long day of hiking on your trek.

Duffle Bag

At the briefing session at our office in Cusco, we will provide you with a duffel bag to store your belongings. This duffel bag will be carried by a pack horse and will only be accessible at the designated campsites

The duffel bag must not exceed 7 kg to ensure the well-being of the animals. Of this weight, approximately 3 kg will be allocated for your sleeping bag (2 kg) and sleeping pad (1 kg), leaving you with around 4 kg for your personal belongings.

You should pack only essential clothing and personal items in your duffel, while keeping necessities such as water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear in your daypack.

Choquequirao Weather

Choquequirao is located deep in the Andes Mountains, where weather conditions can be highly unpredictable. Trekkers should be prepared for both warm and cold temperatures, as well as rainy and dry conditions throughout the journey.

The region experiences two main seasons: the dry season (April–October) and the rainy season (November–March). Each brings distinct challenges and advantages, so choosing the right time to trek depends on personal preferences and tolerance for varying conditions.

Temperature Variations

At lower elevations, such as the valleys and rainforest sections, temperatures can range from 20°C to 26°c (68°F to 79°F), making these areas warm and humid.

At higher altitudes, especially near the mountain passes, temperatures are much cooler, often dropping between 4°C and 6°C (39°F to 45°F), with colder nights during the dry season.

• Dry Season (April–October)

The dry season is the most popular time for trekking, thanks to its clear skies, sunny days, and minimal rainfall. Daytime temperatures typically hover around 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79F), but nights can be very cold, especially in June and July, when temperatures may drop to -5°C (41°F).

While the lack of rain means better trail conditions, it also brings strong sun exposure, especially at high elevations. Trekkers should pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing to avoid sunburn. Windy conditions can also be present, particularly in August.

• Rainy Season (November–March)

During the rainy season, trekkers should expect frequent rain showers and cloudy skies. January, February and March are the wettest months, often bringing heavy downpours that can make trails muddy and slippery.

Despite the rain, daytime temperatures remain mild, and nights tend to be warmer than in the dry season. However, sudden temperature drops can still occur, particularly in the early mornings and at higher elevations. Waterproof gear, including a high-quality rain jacket, poncho, and sturdy hiking boots, is essential for a comfortable trek.

Best Time To Visit Choquequirao

While May to August are the peak months for Machu Picchu and other popular tours, bringing larger crowds, this does not affect the off-the-beaten-path Choquequirao trek. This remote and less-visited site offers a more peaceful and immersive experience, even during the high season.

For the best combination of favorable weather and lush green landscapes, trekking in April is highly recommended. During this month, the scenery is vibrant from recent rains while still offering good conditions for hiking. From May to October, you can expect mostly clear skies, moderate temperatures, and excellent visibility—perfect for experiencing the breathtaking Andean landscapes at their finest.

Regardless of the season, it is crucial to dress in layers and pack for all types of weather, as conditions in the Andes can change rapidly. Being well-prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.

Physical Requirements

This hike is regarded as difficult, and we highly recommend to be in good physical condition. The Choquequirao path steepness make the hike tough as there are two steep sections during your 5 day Choquequirao trek.

Choquequirao Solo Traveler

During the Choquequirao trek, solo travelers will be paired to share a tent with another travelers of the same sex and couples will have a tent to themselves. But before booking, please send us a message to check our available groups you can join.

Pre-Departure Briefing

There is a pre-departure briefing at our Cusco Office at 6:00 p.m, one day before your 5  day Choquequirao hike begins. If you are not able to make this time, you should coordinate another time with the American Trekking team by email. Briefings last 30 -45 minutes roughly, where you will meet your guide and he/she will give you detailed information about your 5 day Choquequirao hike.

This session includes a list of what to bring, rental equipment, or answering any other questions you may have. Our office is located at Marquez Street 250, Second Floor, Office 03 in the Historic Centre of Cusco.

Tipping In Our Choquequirao Tour

Tipping is pretty common on Choquequirao tours. On the fith day before midday, we will say goodbye to our amazing horseman and professional chefs. This is when you’ll all be able to give them a tip. Anything extra is always really appreciated. Please know that tipping is not mandatory and that you should never feel forced to do so.

Usually, our customers pool their tipping money together for the chef and horseman. For your tour guide you decide the amount of money based on your experience with them. Soles is better for our muleteers and Chefs. Guides can receive U.S. dollars or Soles without any problem.

• Tips for our horsemen: 50 to 100 soles.
• Tip for our Cooks: 70 to 150 soles.
• Tipping for the tour guide would be more than the cook.

Group Service

Our Choquequirao 5 days 4 nights group is made up of all different types of people, with various trekking skills and ages. Once you book a group service, you will acknowledge that some people may be slower or faster than you. Each of you will go at your own pace for the trek, and our tour guide will work with the group to make sure everyone is happy.

Choquequirao Backpack Size

There’s no size limit on the backpack you can carry on the Choquequirao hike– you can bring a small or large backpack. However we recommend bringing a 25-liter backpack, which is small and convenient

Choquequirao Shoes

Hiking on the Choquequirao hike path is not the same as walking in a flat square. You will be hiking in the mountains, which means you will have to climb steep ascends, descents, and walk on mainly dusty paths. In some places, you will cross muddy trails that can be slippery. When it rains, the path can become quite slippery, so we strongly suggest wearing trekking shoes with good grip to help you on the rough terrain. You can choose between trekking boots or hiking shoes, depending on what you find comfortable. However, we mostly recommend trekking boots with ankle support, especially for those who do not hike often.

Choquequirao Bugs

Throughout the year, you will encounter insects hiking Choquequirao, though their numbers vary by season. Specifically, during August, September, October, and November, there is a noticeable increase in bugs, particularly mosquitoes. This seasonal surge is often due to the first rains of the year, which encourage the insects to emerge in greater numbers. Preparing accordingly with insect repellent or protective clothing is recommended to ensure a more comfortable experience.

Choquequirao Cell Service

During your 5-day hike along the Choquequirao path, you will experience intermittent cellphone service if you are using Claro or Movistar. On the first day, the signal will be weak until you reach Capuliyuc. However, throughout the rest of the hike, you will not have any service, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. On the fifth and final day of the trek, once you complete the hike, the signal will return. The absence of signal on the intervening days provides a great opportunity to disconnect and focus on the stunning landscapes and the journey itself.