Cachora is a small, unhurried farming village at about 2,900 m in the Apurímac region, set in a green valley that faces the glaciated peak of Padreyoc. For most of the year its life revolves around fields, livestock and, increasingly, trekkers — this is where the mules are loaded and the arrieros who lead them live.
About 10 km beyond the village by dirt road lies Capuliyoc, a viewpoint and small campsite at around 2,900 m on the rim of the Apurímac canyon. This is kilometre zero of the trail to Choquequirao, and the view from it — straight down into the canyon, with the ruins’ ridge on the far side — is a fitting overture.
Top things to do at Cachora & Capuliyoc
Hire a mule and arriero
Arrange your pack mule (and a saddle horse for emergencies, if you want one) the evening before you start. Your lodge will know who is available; you pay per day, including the days the animals walk home.
Walk the village and its viewpoints
Cachora is pleasant for a stroll at sunset, when the light catches Padreyoc’s ice. Some lodges have gardens with a view of the peak.
Start at Capuliyoc
Take a car to the Capuliyoc trailhead (around 30 minutes) rather than walking the dirt road — save your energy for the canyon.
How to get to Cachora & Capuliyoc
- From Cusco: about four hours by bus or colectivo towards Abancay to the Cachora turnoff near Sayhuite, then a taxi for the last 15 km — see getting here.
- From Abancay: roughly 1.5 hours by road.
- To Capuliyoc: 10 km of dirt road from the village, by car or on foot (around three hours).
Insider tips
- Bring all the cash you need from Cusco or Abancay; do not count on an ATM in the village.
- Lodges are small and family-run — message ahead, especially from June to August.
- Buy last-minute snacks and water in the village shops; prices on the trail are higher.
- See where to stay for lodges in Cachora.
Best treks & tours for Cachora & Capuliyoc
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Cachora & Capuliyoc:
Private trek from US$800 Private Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N
The classic four-day route with a team that works only for your group. Start on the day you choose, set the pace on the big climbs and split the cost — excellent value for three or four people.
- Your own guide, cook and mule team
- Choose your departure date
- Walk at your own pace
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
