We begin our adventure early in the morning, departing from Cusco on a scenic drive of approximately 4 hours towards Capuliyoc (2,850 m / 9,350 ft), the official trailhead of our expedition. As we leave the city behind, the road winds through traditional Andean villages and highland landscapes, offering the first glimpses of snow–capped peaks in the distance. Along the way, the majestic Salkantay and Humantay mountains dominate the horizon, their white summits glistening under the morning light.

Upon reaching Capuliyoc, we meet our muleteers and support team, and take time to organize our gear while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Before setting off, we pause to take in the sweeping views of the Apurímac River canyon — a dramatic gorge that plunges thousands of meters below, with deep green slopes contrasting against the rugged cliffs.

The first stretch of the trail is relatively gentle, a perfect warm–up to find our pace and acclimatize. Gradually, the path begins its long descent, winding through arid mountain slopes dotted with hardy shrubs, cactus plants, and patches of native vegetation. We pass ancient farming terraces still in use by local communities, evidence of the Inca agricultural ingenuity that has endured through centuries.

As we continue, the air becomes warmer and the flora more abundant. Keep an eye to the skies — if we are lucky, we might spot the mighty Andean condor soaring effortlessly above the canyon walls. The sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves accompany our journey down.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Chiquisca (1,950 m / 6,397 ft), a tranquil campsite nestled in a subtropical environment, surrounded by mango, avocado, and other fruit trees. The warmer climate here is a welcome change after the crisp high–altitude air. After settling into camp, we enjoy a hearty dinner prepared by our cook, sharing stories of the day’s trek before resting under a blanket of stars in the peaceful silence of the Andes.

We wake up to the gentle warmth of the subtropical climate and the sound of birdsong filtering through the fruit trees. After a nourishing breakfast, we resume our journey with a descent of about one hour towards Playa Rosalina (1,550 m / 5,085 ft), a peaceful spot at the very bottom of the canyon where the mighty Apurímac River flows with force and clarity. Its name in Quechua means “the Speaker,” and as we approach, the roar of its waters becomes the soundtrack of our morning.

At Playa Rosalina, we pause to appreciate the dramatic canyon walls that surround us before crossing a sturdy suspension bridge that sways slightly with each step — a moment that offers both excitement and awe. On the far side of the bridge, our challenge for the day begins: the most demanding ascent of the trek. Over the next several hours, we climb steadily towards Marampata (2,850 m / 9,350 ft).

The path winds sharply upward through semi-tropical vegetation, where orchids cling to mossy branches, bromeliads bloom in bursts of color, and butterflies dance in the dappled sunlight. As the altitude increases, the air cools slightly, yet the effort is intensified by the steep incline. We pace ourselves, making several well-timed rest stops to hydrate, catch our breath, and admire the spectacular views — the Apurímac River now appears as a silver ribbon far below, framed by towering cliffs.

Along the way, our guide shares fascinating insights into the region’s flora, fauna, and history, pointing out medicinal plants once used by the Incas and birds such as the vibrant Andean motmot or even the elusive cock-of-the-rock.

Reaching Marampata is a true accomplishment. This small highland settlement greets us with open spaces and a breathtaking panorama — from here, the horizon stretches to reveal rugged mountain peaks, cloud-kissed ridges, and the distant silhouette of Choquequirao, our destination for the next day.

We set up camp in this peaceful location, surrounded by nature’s quiet grandeur. As evening falls, the fading sunlight bathes the mountains in golden tones, and when darkness arrives, the sky becomes a canvas filled with countless stars. After a satisfying dinner prepared by our cook, we rest, knowing we are one step closer to the “Cradle of Gold.”

We start the day with a hearty breakfast, energizing ourselves for one of the most remarkable experiences of the trek. Leaving our camp in Marampata, we follow a scenic trail that gradually ascends towards the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex (3,050 m / 10,006 ft). The 1.5-hour hike is a feast for the senses — the crisp morning air carries the sound of distant waterfalls, while the trail winds through pockets of lush Andean forest dotted with orchids and bromeliads. Along the way, we catch glimpses of the Apurímac River far below and the surrounding snowcapped peaks standing majestically in the distance.

Upon reaching the entrance to Choquequirao, the grandeur of the site slowly reveals itself. Known as the “Sister City of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao remains one of the least visited Inca citadels, offering a unique and unspoiled atmosphere. We embark on an in-depth guided tour, exploring its vast agricultural terraces, ceremonial plazas, kallankas (large halls), storehouses, and intricate water systems ingeniously engineered by the Incas. Our guide brings the stones to life with stories about the site’s role as a political, religious, and administrative hub, and its significance in the final years of Inca resistance.

We also visit the famous llama terraces — exquisite stonework featuring white llama figures inlaid into the walls — a truly unique feature found nowhere else in the Inca world. With few tourists around, we have the rare privilege of experiencing the citadel in near solitude, taking time to pause, reflect, and absorb the historical energy of the place.

In the afternoon, after exploring the site at a relaxed pace and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, we retrace our steps back to Marampata. The return hike offers a different perspective, with the golden light of the late afternoon bathing the canyon walls. Back at camp, we have time to relax, share impressions of the day’s discoveries, and savor a well-earned dinner under a vast, star-studded Andean sky. Overnight at camp.

After a nourishing breakfast and a final farewell to the panoramic views from Marampata, we begin our descent along the same trail we climbed two days earlier. The morning light illuminates the canyon walls in warm tones, creating a spectacular backdrop as we carefully make our way down the steep, winding path toward Playa Rosalina. Although the descent is physically easier than the climb, it requires steady footing due to the loose gravel in some sections. Along the way, we pass through a variety of microclimates, each with its own vegetation and wildlife. With a bit of luck, we may spot vibrant hummingbirds darting between flowers, colorful butterflies floating in the warm air, and orchids blooming along shaded stretches of the trail.

After approximately three hours, we reach Playa Rosalina (1,500 m / 4,921 ft), located at the very bottom of the Apurímac Canyon. Here, we pause to rest beside the rushing waters of the Apurímac River, feeling its refreshing breeze and listening to the powerful current echoing through the gorge. We then cross the sturdy suspension bridge and begin the second part of our day: a steady climb toward Chiquisca (1,950 m / 6,397 ft). This section of the trail, though uphill, is shorter and less demanding than the climb to Marampata, and we are rewarded with periodic patches of shade from native trees.

The views behind us grow more dramatic with every step, offering sweeping perspectives of the canyon we have just traversed. By the time we arrive at Chiquisca in the late afternoon, the soft golden light bathes the surrounding hills, and the warm climate is a welcome change from the cooler highlands. We settle into our camp, enjoying a well-deserved rest, refreshing drinks, and a hearty dinner prepared by our cook. As night falls, the sound of crickets and the distant river accompanies us into a peaceful sleep under the starry Andean sky.

We start our final trekking day early, enjoying a hearty breakfast to fuel the challenging ascent ahead. The trail from Chiquisca to Capuliyoc (2,850 m / 9,350 ft) is a steady climb of approximately 4 hours, winding up the side of the canyon. The crisp morning air, combined with the golden light of sunrise, paints the surrounding mountains in warm hues and casts dramatic shadows over the Apurímac River far below. Although the incline is demanding, frequent rest stops allow us to catch our breath, hydrate, and take in the incredible scenery — from the deep, rugged canyon to distant snowcapped peaks and glistening glaciers on the horizon.

As we ascend, the vegetation begins to change, shifting from semi-tropical foliage to the more arid high-Andean landscape. Each turn of the trail offers a new perspective, reminding us of the distance and altitude we’ve conquered over the past days. Reaching the Capuliyoc viewpoint feels like both a triumph and a farewell — here, we pause for one last look at the breathtaking expanse of the canyon and the hidden sanctuary of Choquequirao, now tucked away behind the mountains.

At Capuliyoc, we meet our muleteers for a warm farewell and share words of gratitude for their invaluable support during the trek. From here, our private vehicle awaits to take us back to Cusco. The drive offers its own rewards, as we pass through picturesque Andean villages, terraced farmlands, and scenic viewpoints where we can stretch our legs and capture the last photos of the journey.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Cusco, where the lively streets and colonial architecture welcome us back to the city. The trek may have ended, but the memories of the Apurímac Canyon and the majestic Choquequirao will remain vivid for years to come. Dinner and overnight in Cusco are on your own, allowing you to choose from the city’s many excellent restaurants and enjoy a well-earned rest.

After several days of trekking through remote mountains and immersing ourselves in the history of Choquequirao, today is a slower-paced day to rest, reflect, and enjoy Cusco at your own rhythm. Depending on your departure time, you can spend the morning wandering the city’s charming cobblestone streets, where centuries-old Inca stone walls blend seamlessly with elegant Spanish colonial architecture.

For those who wish to explore a little more before leaving, there are countless possibilities: visit the San Pedro Market, where the vibrant colors of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and artisan products create a lively atmosphere; step inside the Qorikancha Temple, once the most important temple of the Inca Empire and later transformed into the Santo Domingo Convent; or simply sit in the Plaza de Armas, sipping a cup of coca tea while watching the city come to life.

Cusco’s neighborhoods also offer hidden gems — the bohemian district of San Blas is perfect for discovering local art galleries, craft workshops, and cozy cafés, while the streets surrounding Hatun Rumiyoc hold the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, an impressive example of Inca masonry.

At the scheduled time, we provide your transfer to the airport or bus terminal, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure. As you leave, you carry with you not only photographs, but also the memories of breathtaking landscapes, quiet starry nights, and the sense of accomplishment from completing one of Peru’s most rewarding treks.