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Choquequirao Full Moon Trek (5 Days)
The most spectacular trek in Peru! A scenic journey through the majestic Andes to the forgotten Inca citadel of Choquequirao, beneath the light of the full moon and one of the clearest skies in the Andes.
- Duration: 5 days / 5 nights
- Total distance: ≈ 58–60 km
- Difficulty: Challenging
Description – Choquequirao Full Moon Trek
(5 Days / 5 Nights)
- Route: Cusco – Choquequirao - Cusco
- Duration: 5 Days / 5 Nights
- Total Distance: ≈ 58–60 km
- Highest Elevation: 3,050 m (Choquequirao)
- Lowest Elevation: 1,450 m (Apurímac River)
- Difficulty: Challenging — good physical fitness and prior acclimatization are recommended
Walking to Choquequirao during the full moon is an experience that goes far beyond a traditional trek. Considered by many travelers to be the most spectacular and demanding trek in Peru, this route crosses more than 60 kilometers of wild mountains, deep Andean canyons, and ancient Inca trails, where every step and every challenge is rewarded with unforgettable landscapes. By day, the expedition winds through towering peaks, steep descents, and demanding climbs across the legendary Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in the Americas.
But everything changes after sunset. At the campsites, far from cities and free from light pollution, the full moon bathes the mountains, clouds, and Andean valleys in silver light, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels almost unreal. For the ancient Incas and the Quechua tradition, the moon, Mama Quilla, symbolized balance, feminine energy, a deep connection with nature, and the cycles of life. The full moon was regarded as a sacred time of harmony between people, the mountains, and the universe.
That energy still seems to linger in the Andes today. After long days on the trail, watching the full moon rise above the mountains surrounding Choquequirao becomes a moment that is almost impossible to describe. The silence, the endless sky, and the vast wilderness make every night at camp feel like part of an ancient expedition lost in time.
At the end of the trail awaits Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu: a vast Inca citadel still partially hidden beneath lush vegetation and visited by only a handful of travelers. Its terraces, ceremonial plazas, and temples remain surrounded by rugged mountains and untouched nature, preserving an atmosphere that is far more authentic and mysterious than most destinations in Peru.
This trek is much more than a journey to an Inca city. It is a physical and emotional adventure where endurance, nature, history, and the magic of the full moon come together to create one of the most unforgettable experiences in the Andes.
Highlights Along the Choquequirao Trek
Landscapes and Nature of the Apurímac Canyon:
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Scenic Viewpoints
Throughout the trek, especially around Capuliyoc, Chiquisca, and Choquequirao itself, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the deep Apurímac Canyon. One of the deepest canyons in the Americas, it offers dramatic scenery with snow-capped peaks in the distance and endless skies, making it a paradise for photography lovers.
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Landscapes & Biodiversity
The trail crosses a wide variety of ecosystems, from dry Andean valleys to lush cloud forests filled with orchids, bromeliads, and giant ferns. Along the way, you'll have the chance to spot remarkable wildlife, including Andean condors, deer, vizcachas, and colorful birds such as the Andean cock-of-the-rock.
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Full Moon & Starry Skies
Nights at the campsites offer crystal-clear, star-filled skies free from light pollution. The full moon creates a unique atmosphere of balance and tranquility, making it the perfect time for reflection and a deeper connection with nature.
Choquequirao Archaeological Site:
The archaeological complex of Choquequirao (from Quechua, meaning "Cradle of Gold") was an important Inca ceremonial and administrative center covering more than 1,800 hectares, of which only around 35% has been restored. Among its most remarkable sectors are:
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Main Plaza (Huaqaypata)
A spacious ceremonial plaza surrounded by terraces and stone walls, once used for religious ceremonies, political gatherings, and important events of the Inca elite.
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Agricultural Terraces
Magnificent agricultural terraces built across different levels of the mountainside, designed for farming and sophisticated water management. Some display unique geometric patterns, including the famous white-stone llamas embedded in the terraces.
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Ushnu – Ceremonial Platform
An elevated ceremonial structure believed to have served as a ritual altar and an astronomical observation point. It also offers spectacular views over the Apurímac Canyon.
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Temples & Sacred Sites
Several religious structures where offerings and ceremonies were dedicated to the Inca deities, especially Inti (the Sun God) and the sacred mountain spirits known as the Apus.
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Residential Sector
A group of residential buildings believed to have housed priests, nobles, and specialists responsible for maintaining and administering the complex.
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Ancient Inca Water Channels
An impressive network of canals, springs, and aqueducts showcasing the advanced Inca engineering used to manage water resources. Some sections are still functioning today.
Additional Information about the Choquequirao Trek:
What to Bring on the Trek:
- Layered clothing
- Hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Recommended Accessories:
- Trekking poles
- Gloves
- Hat
What's Included in the Tour:
- Transportation (Cusco – starting point – Cusco)
- Professional guide
- All meals during the trek
- Camping equipment (tents and sleeping mats)
- Pack mules for luggage transport
- Entrance fees
Not Included in the Tour:
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for the trekking staff
- Personal expenses
Practical Tips & Requirements
- Food & Water: Bring energy snacks, dried fruit, and energy bars. The trekking team provides boiled and filtered drinking water.
- Money: Bring cash in Peruvian soles only. There are no ATMs or card payment facilities along the route.
- Respect Nature: Leave no trace. Help protect the environment and the archaeological sites.
- Minimum Age: Recommended for travelers aged 12–14 and older (with good physical fitness and accompanied by an adult). There is no upper age limit, but older participants should consult their doctor regarding their health and fitness.
- Fitness & Experience: A moderately challenging to demanding trek, suitable for people accustomed to long hikes (6–8 hours per day). Previous hiking experience in mountainous terrain is recommended.
- Acclimatization: The route ranges from 1,500 m (Apurímac Canyon) to 3,100 m (Choquequirao). We recommend spending 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco or another Andean destination before the trek to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Health: Travelers with heart or respiratory conditions, or recent injuries, should consult a physician before joining the trek. Don't forget your personal medications, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Mindset: Beyond physical fitness, you'll need determination and a positive attitude to tackle steep climbs, challenging descents, and life at remote campsites. Motivation and flexibility are essential for enjoying the journey.
Itinerary – Choquequirao Full Moon Trek
(5 Days / 5 Nights)
Day 0:
Cusco – Capuliyoc
- Departure from Cusco towards the Capuliyoc viewpoint, crossing traditional Andean villages, mountain landscapes and scenic valleys.
- Arrival at the Capuliyoc lodge, the perfect place to begin your connection with the Andes and prepare for the expedition.
- First night beneath the Andean sky, where the waxing moon begins to illuminate the mountains and the immense Apurímac Canyon.
- Day 0 of the Full Moon Trek
- Route: Cusco – Capuliyoc
- Scenic transfer from Cusco
- First views of the Apurímac Canyon
- 3 days until the Full Moon in the Andes
- Overnight at Capuliyoc
- Day 1 of the Full Moon Trek
- Route: Capuliyoc – Playa Rosalina – Santa Rosa Baja
- Total distance: ≈ 14 km
- Elevation: 2800 m ↘ 1450 m ↗ 1900 m
- Hiking time: 6–7 hours
- 2 days until the Full Moon in the Andes
Day 1:
Capuliyoc – Santa Rosa Baja
- Begin the trek descending into the legendary Apurímac Canyon, surrounded by towering mountains and untouched wilderness.
- Along the way, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and the snow-capped Andean peaks.
- Arrive at the Apurímac River and take time to relax beside its crystal-clear waters.
- Climb to the first campsite at Santa Rosa Baja.
Day 2:
Santa Rosa Baja – Marampata
- A demanding ascent along one of the most challenging sections of the entire trek.
- The trail winds through rugged mountain landscapes with spectacular views over the deep canyon.
- Every step is rewarded with ever-expanding panoramas in the heart of the Andes.
- Arrival at the Marampata campsite, one of the finest natural balconies overlooking Choquequirao.
- Day 2 of the Full Moon Trek
- Route: Santa Rosa Baja – Marampata
- Total distance: ≈ 5 km
- Elevation: 1900 m ↗ 2850 m
- Hiking time: 7–8 hours
- Campsite overlooking Choquequirao
- 1 day until the Full Moon in the Andes
- Day 3 of the Full Moon Trek
- Route: Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata
- Total distance: ≈ 8 km
- Elevation: 2850 m ↗ 3050 m ↘ 2850 m
- Full day exploring Choquequirao
- Full Moon over the Andes and Choquequirao
Day 3:
Marampata – Choquequirao – Marampata
- Hike to the spectacular Inca citadel of Choquequirao.
- Explore ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, temples and ancient trails surrounded by pristine nature.
- From its viewpoints, admire soaring Andean peaks and the majestic flight of condors above the Apurímac Valley.
- Enjoy time to absorb the energy and silence of one of Peru's most mysterious archaeological sites.
- In the evening, return to camp while the full moon bathes the mountains and ancient Inca trails in silver light.
Day 4:
Marampata – Apurímac River – Chiquisca
- Descend from the mountains into the deep Apurímac Valley, following trails surrounded by dramatic scenery and wild nature.
- A demanding hike through ancient Andean paths and spectacular natural viewpoints.
- Arrive at the Chiquisca campsite to rest after one of the expedition's most intense days.
- Spend your final unforgettable night beneath the full moon, embraced by the silence and vastness of the Andes.
- Day 4 of the Full Moon Trek
- Route: Marampata – Apurímac River – Chiquisca
- Total distance: ≈ 13 km
- Elevation: 2850 m ↘ 1450 m ↗ 1900 m
- Hiking time: 7–8 hours
- Overnight beneath the Andean star-filled sky
- Day 5 of the Full Moon Trek
- Route: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
- Total distance: ≈ 8 km
- Elevation: 1900 m ↗ 2800 m
- Hiking time: 7–8 hours
- Private transfer back to Cusco
Day 5:
Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
- Final ascent to Capuliyoc with breathtaking farewell views over the Apurímac Canyon.
- Take a last moment to appreciate the Andes after completing one of Peru's most demanding and spectacular trekking routes.
- Private transfer back to Cusco.
- End of the expedition, carrying home the unforgettable experience of walking ancient Inca trails guided by the light and energy of the Andean full moon.