Choquequirao Trek Elevation Gain
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The Choquequirao Trek in Peru is one of the most spectacular and demanding hikes in South America. Known as the “sister city of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao offers breathtaking landscapes, impressive Inca ruins, and an authentic trekking experience away from the crowds. But one of the most important factors hikers need to understand before attempting this trek is the elevation gain.
Unlike the Inca Trail, which is shorter and more accessible, the Choquequirao Trek involves steep ascents and descents, with thousands of meters of elevation change over multiple days. Understanding the Choquequirao Trek elevation gain will help you prepare both physically and mentally for the challenge.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: elevation profiles, altitude challenges, day-by-day breakdowns, comparisons with other treks, and tips to prepare for the demanding terrain.
Overview of Choquequirao Trek Elevation Gain
The classic Choquequirao Trek is about 64 km (40 miles) round trip, usually completed in 4–5 days. What makes it especially challenging is the constant up-and-down terrain.
Starting altitude (Capuliyoc): 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
Lowest altitude (Apurímac River): 1,500 m (4,921 ft)
Choquequirao ruins: 3,050 m (10,006 ft)
This means that trekkers descend more than 1,400 m (4,600 ft) on the first day and then climb the same amount on the second day. The cumulative elevation gain of the trek exceeds 3,000 m (9,800 ft), making it one of the toughest hikes in Peru.
Choquequirao Trek Elevation Gain by Day
Day 1: Capuliyoc (2,900 m) to Chiquisca (1,900 m)
Elevation loss: -1,000 m (-3,280 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
The trek begins with a steep descent into the Apurímac Canyon, with spectacular views of the river and surrounding mountains. The trail is exposed to the sun, and while going downhill might seem easier, it is hard on the knees and requires trekking poles.
Day 2: Chiquisca (1,900 m) – Apurímac River (1,500 m) – Marampata (2,900 m) – Choquequirao (3,050 m)
Elevation loss (to the river): -400 m (-1,312 ft)
Elevation gain (to Choquequirao): +1,550 m (+5,085 ft)
Difficulty: Very difficult
This is the toughest day of the trek. After a short descent to the Apurímac River, you face a relentless climb of more than 1,500 m (5,000 ft) to reach Marampata and then continue to Choquequirao. This climb is extremely demanding and is considered one of the hardest sections of any trek in Peru.
Day 3: Explore Choquequirao Ruins (3,050 m)
Elevation gain/loss: Minimal, 100–200 m (328–656 ft) depending on exploration
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
You spend the day exploring the vast Choquequirao complex, which is larger than Machu Picchu but far less visited. Some terraces and ceremonial areas require additional climbing, but the elevation gain is minor compared to previous days.
Day 4: Choquequirao (3,050 m) – Marampata – Apurímac River – Chiquisca (1,900 m)
Elevation loss (to the river): -1,550 m (-5,085 ft)
Elevation gain (to Chiquisca): +400 m (+1,312 ft)
Difficulty: Very difficult
This day involves a steep descent back down to the Apurímac River followed by a tough uphill climb to reach Chiquisca. The combination of downhill and uphill makes it almost as challenging as Day 2.
Day 5: Chiquisca (1,900 m) – Capuliyoc (2,900 m) – Return to Cusco
Elevation gain: +1,000 m (+3,280 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate
The final day is a continuous ascent back to Capuliyoc, where the trek ends. While the trail is shorter, the climb can feel exhausting after several days of hiking.
Total Elevation Gain and Loss
Over the course of the trek:
Total elevation gain: +3,000 m to +3,500 m (+9,800 ft to +11,500 ft)
Total elevation loss: -3,000 m to -3,500 m (-9,800 ft to -11,500 ft)
This cumulative gain and loss is what makes the Choquequirao Trek elevation profile so demanding.
Altitude Challenges
While the highest point on the trek is just over 3,050 m (10,006 ft), which is lower than other treks like the Salkantay Trek or Lares Trek, the constant elevation changes make it very physically demanding.
Risk of altitude sickness: Moderate, especially if you are not acclimatized in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,154 ft) before starting.
Breathing difficulties: Even moderate altitudes can cause fatigue when combined with steep uphill climbs.
Choquequirao Trek Elevation Gain vs Other Treks
Choquequirao vs Inca Trail
Inca Trail elevation gain: ~1,200 m (3,937 ft)
Choquequirao elevation gain: ~3,000+ m (9,800 ft)
👉 Choquequirao is much harder due to steep ascents and descents.
Choquequirao vs Salkantay Trek
Salkantay highest point: 4,630 m (15,190 ft)
Choquequirao highest point: 3,050 m (10,006 ft)
👉 Salkantay is harder for altitude, Choquequirao is harder for cumulative elevation gain.
Choquequirao vs Lares Trek
Lares elevation gain: Less steep, highest point ~4,400 m (14,435 ft).
👉 Lares is easier in terrain but tougher in altitude.
Tips to Handle the Elevation Gain
Acclimatize properly – Spend 2–3 days in Cusco before trekking.
Train your legs – Practice long hikes with steep climbs and descents.
Use trekking poles – Essential for both uphill and downhill.
Pace yourself – Walk slowly and steadily, especially on long climbs.
Stay hydrated and eat well – Energy snacks and electrolytes help.
Hire mules or porters – To reduce the weight of your backpack.
Why the Elevation Gain Is Worth It
The Choquequirao Trek elevation gain is intimidating, but the rewards are unforgettable:
You experience one of the least crowded Inca sites, often with only a handful of visitors.
Stunning views of the Apurímac Canyon and Andean landscapes.
A true adventure that tests your limits and brings a sense of accomplishment.
Many hikers say the difficulty of Choquequirao is exactly what makes it so special—because not everyone is willing to take on the challenge.
Finally
The Choquequirao Trek elevation gain is one of the toughest aspects of this hike. With more than 3,000 m (9,800 ft) of cumulative ascent and descent, steep switchbacks, and long days of walking, it is considered one of the hardest treks in Peru.
However, with the right preparation, acclimatization, and mindset, it is absolutely achievable. And the reward of standing among the ruins of Choquequirao, surrounded by mountains and silence, is something you will never forget.
If you are looking for a trek that combines challenge, adventure, and history, the Choquequirao Trek is waiting for you.
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