How to Get to Choquequirao from Cusco (Transport, Routes & Tips)

If you’re planning a trip to Choquequirao, one of Peru’s most majestic and remote Inca sites, you’re in for a true adventure. Unlike Machu Picchu, reaching Choquequirao isn’t as simple as hopping on a train — it’s a journey that combines winding roads, stunning landscapes, and a challenging trek through the Andes.

But that’s exactly what makes it special.

As a local trekking guide, I often tell travelers:

“The road to Choquequirao is part of the experience — a journey through time and nature before arriving at the last great Inca stronghold.”

In this complete guide, I’ll explain how to get to Choquequirao from Cusco, including all transport options, route details, travel times, and tips for a smooth and rewarding experience.

Where Is Choquequirao Located?

Choquequirao sits high in the Vilcabamba mountain range, overlooking the deep Apurímac Canyon — one of the deepest in the world.

Coordinates: 13°2′S 72°43′W
Elevation: 3,050 m / 10,007 ft
Region: Cusco, Peru
Distance from Cusco: Around 155 km (96 miles) southwest

The archaeological site can only be reached on foot — there are no roads leading directly to Choquequirao. Most treks start at Capuliyoc, a small Andean village that marks the beginning of the trail.

Overview: How to Get to Choquequirao from Cusco

Getting to Choquequirao involves two main stages:

Cusco → Capuliyoc (by road) — The starting point of the trek
Capuliyoc → Choquequirao (on foot) — The actual hiking adventure

Let’s explore both parts step by step.

Stage 1: Getting from Cusco to Capuliyoc

Capuliyoc is located near the village of Cachora, in the Apurímac region. The drive from Cusco to Capuliyoc covers roughly 290 km and takes 6 to 7 hours depending on the type of transport.

There are three main ways to get there:

1. Private Transport (Recommended for Trekkers or Groups)

This is the fastest, most comfortable, and flexible option.

Duration: 6–7 hours
Route: Cusco → Limatambo → Curahuasi → Cachora → Capuliyoc
Cost: USD $180–$250 (round trip, private van for 2–4 people)
Includes: Pick-up from your hotel, flexible stops, photo opportunities

🚙 Advantages:

Door-to-door service
Stops for food and viewpoints (Condor Lookout, Saywite Stone, Apurímac Canyon)
Perfect for those joining a guided trek or carrying camping gear

💬 Local Tip:
If you book with a local trekking operator (like us at Choquequirao Trek Operator), private transportation is already included in your package — no hassle, no transfers.

2. Public Bus + Local Taxi (Budget Option)

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind extra logistics, you can travel to Capuliyoc via public transportation.

Step-by-Step:

Cusco → Abancay (by bus)
1. Duration: 4–5 hours
1. Cost: S/ 25–35 (USD $7–$10)
1. Buses leave from Cusco’s Terminal Terrestre (Cruz del Sur, Tepsa, Palomino)
Abancay → Curahuasi or Cachora (shared taxi/collectivo)
1. Duration: 1–2 hours
1. Cost: S/ 15–25 (USD $4–$7)
Cachora → Capuliyoc (local taxi or mototaxi)
1. Duration: 45 minutes
1. Cost: S/ 30–50 (USD $8–$13)

🚶 Note:
This option takes more time (up to 8 hours) and requires changing vehicles, but it’s a good way to travel like a local and meet people along the way.

3. Combination Option (Shared Private Transport)

Some agencies and local drivers in Cusco organize shared vans for trekkers going to Choquequirao.

Cost: Around USD $40–$60 per person (one-way)
Departure: Early morning (4:00–5:00 AM) from Cusco
Arrival: Around 11:00 AM in Capuliyoc

This hybrid option balances comfort and affordability. It’s ideal if you don’t want to organize separate buses but also want to avoid the cost of full private transport.

The Scenic Route from Cusco to Capuliyoc

The drive itself is stunning — one of the most beautiful road journeys in southern Peru.

You’ll pass:

Rolling Andean valleys and terraced fields near Anta
The impressive Saywite Monolith (ancient carved rock near Curahuasi)
Spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon
Snowcapped peaks like Padreyoc (5,771 m) and Salkantay (6,271 m)

It’s worth stopping at Mirador Capuliyoc before starting your trek — here, you can enjoy your first glimpse of the canyon and possibly spot Andean condors soaring below.

Stage 2: Hiking from Capuliyoc to Choquequirao

Once in Capuliyoc, your vehicle can’t go any further. From here begins the real adventure — the Choquequirao Trek.

Basic Facts:

Total Distance: 64 km (40 miles) round trip
Duration: 4 days minimum (2 down, 2 up)
Difficulty: Challenging (steep ascents and descents)
Elevation Gain: +1,600 m / -1,500 m
Starting Altitude: 2,900 m (Capuliyoc)
Lowest Point: 1,450 m (Apurímac River)
Choquequirao Site Altitude: 3,050 m

Choquequirao Trek Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Cusco – Capuliyoc – Playa Rosalina

Depart Cusco early (4:30 AM).
Drive 6–7 hours to Capuliyoc.
Start trekking around 10:30 AM.
Descend 1,400 m to Playa Rosalina (camp near the river).

Highlights:
Condor sightings, Apurímac Canyon views, hot temperatures in the lower valley.

Day 2: Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao

Early start for a steep 1,500 m climb to Marampata village.
Continue 1.5 hours to the Choquequirao ruins.

Highlights:
Amazing views of the canyon and the Padreyoc glacier.
Camp near the archaeological site.

Day 3: Explore Choquequirao

Spend the full day exploring the complex:

Main plaza, ceremonial platforms, terraces, and llamas carved into the walls.
Optional hike to Phaqchayoc waterfall.

Pro tip: Go early morning or late afternoon — the light is magical and you’ll likely have the site to yourself.

Day 4: Return to Capuliyoc and Drive Back to Cusco

Retrace your steps via Marampata and Playa Rosalina, then ascend to Capuliyoc.
Private transport will drive you back to Cusco by evening.

Optional: Some trekkers stay overnight in Curahuasi for a relaxed trip.

Alternative Routes to Choquequirao

There’s not just one way to reach Choquequirao. Depending on your time and adventure level, you can extend your journey.

1. Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek (8–9 Days)

A breathtaking extension connecting two Inca cities — Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
This route continues through remote valleys, crossing the Yanama Pass (4,600 m) and ending in Aguas Calientes.

2. Huanipaca Route

A less common access route from the Huanipaca side. It’s steeper but shorter (great for experienced hikers).

Start Point: San Ignacio or Villa Los Loros
Access: 6-hour drive from Cusco
Highlights: Waterfalls, dense forests, fewer people

How to Get to Choquequirao by Organized Tour

The easiest and safest way to reach Choquequirao from Cusco is through a guided tour.

At Choquequirao Trek Operator, we handle everything:

Private transport Cusco–Capuliyoc–Cusco
Mules and equipment for your trek
Bilingual local guides
Camping and meals
Entrance fees and logistics

This allows you to focus on the experience, not the coordination.

Travel Tips for Getting to Choquequirao

Leave early from Cusco:

Roads are curvy and weather can change quickly. Start before 5 AM.

Bring local currency:

Cachora and Capuliyoc don’t have ATMs or card payments.

Acclimatize first:

Spend 2–3 days in Cusco before trekking to avoid altitude sickness.

Be ready for temperature changes:

From 35°C (95°F) in the canyon to near freezing at night.

Bring trekking poles:

They’re essential for the steep descent and climb.

Support local muleteers:

Hiring local arrieros helps sustain mountain communities.

Estimated Travel Times Summary

Route	Transport	Duration	Notes
Cusco → Abancay	Bus	4–5 hours	Paved highway
Abancay → Cachora	Collectivo	1.5 hours	Scenic route
Cachora → Capuliyoc	Taxi	45 mins	Rough road
Capuliyoc → Choquequirao	Trek	2 days (one-way)	Steep & scenic
Return to Cusco	—	6–7 hours	Same route back

Total round trip (without tour): ~4 days minimum

Why Getting There Is Part of the Magic

Reaching Choquequirao is not about convenience — it’s about discovery.
You’ll travel across three ecosystems, meet local Quechua families, and witness landscapes few travelers ever see.

Every step you take brings you closer not just to the ruins, but to the soul of the Andes.

As we guides often say:

“Choquequirao doesn’t give itself easily — but it rewards those who earn it.”

Book Your Choquequirao Adventure

At Choquequirao Trek Operator, we provide professional, sustainable, and culturally authentic trekking experiences.

Whether you prefer a private tour, a group departure, or the extended trek to Machu Picchu, we’ll handle all logistics — from transport to guides and meals.