The Apurímac — its Quechua name is often translated as “great speaker”, for the roar of its water — is one of the principal headwaters of the Amazon, and around Choquequirao it has carved one of the deepest canyons in the Americas. The trek is, in effect, a crossing of that canyon: down one wall, over the river, and up the other.
From the rim at Capuliyoc (about 2,900 m) the trail zigzags down dry, cactus-studded slopes to the river at Playa Rosalina (around 1,550 m), crosses on a bridge and climbs through small farms and campsites to Marampata. The scale is hard to grasp until you are in it: the ruins are visible across the gorge long before you can reach them.
Top things to do at Apurímac Canyon
Stop at the Capuliyoc viewpoint
The trailhead is also the best overview of the whole canyon — Choquequirao’s ridge is visible on a clear day on the far side. Take the photo before you start down.
Cool off at Playa Rosalina
The riverside campsite at the bottom is hot and full of biting flies, but after the descent the sound of the water is unforgettable. Do not swim: the current is powerful.
Watch for condors and hummingbirds
Andean condors ride the thermals along the canyon walls in the morning, and the flowering shrubs near the campsites attract hummingbirds.
How to get to Apurímac Canyon
- From Cusco: about four hours by road to Cachora and the Capuliyoc rim — see getting here.
- On foot: Capuliyoc to Playa Rosalina is roughly 10 km, almost all downhill — typically four to five hours.
- On a trek: every Choquequirao trek crosses the canyon — see our treks and tours.
Insider tips
- Start the climb out of the canyon at dawn; the walls are almost shadeless.
- Carry at least two litres of water and refill at the campsites.
- Use strong insect repellent near the river and cover your ankles.
- Trekking poles save your knees on the 1,400 m descent.
Best treks & tours for Apurímac Canyon
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Apurímac Canyon:
Trek from US$366 Trek to Choquequirao 4 Days
The classic out-and-back trek from Capuliyoc: down into the Apurímac canyon on day one, the big climb to Choquequirao on day two, the ruins on day three and the climb out on day four. A GetYourGuide “Top pick” with one of the lowest starting prices for a full-service trek.
- Transport from Cusco to Cachora and back
- Guide, cook, pack mules and camping gear
- Guided visit of the Choquequirao ruins
Trek from US$469 Choquequirao Trek 4 Days — The New Machu Picchu
A well-structured four-day group trek on the standard route, with a guided visit of the ruins and full camping logistics. A reliable, no-surprises way to see Choquequirao.
- Classic route via Capuliyoc and Playa Rosalina
- Guided tour of the main sectors
- Mules and meals included
