Best Time for the Choquequirao Trek: When to Visit This Hidden Gem

Best Time for the Choquequirao Trek: When to Visit This Hidden Gem

Given the demanding nature of the Choquequirao Trek – particularly its significant descents into and ascents out of the Apurímac Canyon – weather conditions play an even more vital role in your safety and enjoyment. Like the rest of the Cusco region, Choquequirao experiences distinct wet and dry seasons.

Understanding these seasonal nuances will help you plan your journey to this remote Inca fortress and maximize your chances of an unforgettable, safe, and truly awe-inspiring experience.

The Dry Season: Optimal Conditions for a Demanding Trek (May to October)

This period is overwhelmingly considered the best time to trek to Choquequirao, offering the most stable and favorable conditions.

• Weather: Expect predominantly clear, sunny days and minimal rainfall. The skies are generally blue, providing incredible visibility for panoramic views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. Daytime temperatures are pleasant for hiking, ranging from approximately 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) at the ruins and even warmer in the lower parts of the canyon (up to 30-35°C / 86-95°F).
• Trail Conditions: Crucially, the trails are much drier and firmer during this season. This significantly reduces the risk of slips, falls, and mudslides, which is a major safety consideration on the steep, exposed sections of the Choquequirao trek. River crossings are also more manageable.
• Visibility: Clear skies ensure unobstructed views of the vast Choquequirao complex and the dramatic canyon, perfect for photography and appreciating the sheer scale of the site.
• Crowds: While it’s the “peak” season for trekking in Peru, Choquequirao maintains its status as a “hidden gem” even during these months. You’ll still encounter very few people compared to the Inca Trail or Salkantay, often having entire sectors of the ruins to yourself. This is a key advantage, as the sense of solitude is integral to the Choquequirao experience.
• Nighttime Temperatures: Be aware that while days are warm, nights, especially at the Choquequirao campsite (around 3,050m / 10,010 ft) or Marampata, can drop significantly, sometimes to 5°C (41°F) or even lower. A good 3- or 4-season sleeping bag is essential.

Best Months within Dry Season: June, July, and August are the driest and sunniest months. May and September are fantastic shoulder months – they offer great weather with slightly fewer crowds and perhaps slightly milder night temperatures than the peak dry months. October is also generally good, though the chance of rain slowly increases towards the end of the month.

The Wet Season: For the Very Prepared and Adventurous (November to April)

While trekking is generally possible during the wet season, it comes with significant challenges and is only recommended for highly experienced and well-equipped trekkers.

• Weather: Characterized by frequent rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Rain can be heavy and prolonged. While mornings might offer clear skies, clouds and fog can roll in quickly, obscuring views. Temperatures are generally milder than the dry season, with warmer nights, but the humidity can be high.
• Trail Conditions: This is the biggest concern. Trails become extremely muddy and slippery. The steep canyon walls are prone to rockfalls and smaller landslides, making certain sections potentially hazardous. River crossings can be more challenging due to higher water levels.
• Visibility: Views can be significantly obscured by clouds, mist, and rain, which can detract from the visual impressiveness of the canyon and the ruins.
• Lush Landscapes: The upside is that the landscapes are incredibly lush, green, and vibrant, with abundant flora and active waterfalls.
• Crowds: You will encounter even fewer trekkers during this period, offering maximum solitude.

Months within Wet Season:

• November & December: Transition months where rain gradually increases. Still some good trekking days, but you must be prepared for wet conditions.
• January, February & March: These are the wettest months, with February typically receiving the most precipitation. Trekking during these months is strongly advised against by many operators due to the increased risks of slippery trails and potential rockfalls. If you choose to go, you must have excellent rain gear, waterproof boots with good grip, and be mentally prepared for challenging conditions.
• April: A shoulder month where rain begins to taper off. The landscapes are exceptionally green from the wet season, but trails are still recovering and can be slippery, especially earlier in the month.

Key Considerations for Choquequirao

• Altitude & Canyon Heat: Regardless of the season, prepare for the extreme temperature variations. Days in the canyon can be scorching hot, while nights at the Choquequirao campsite are cold. Layering is paramount.
• Physical Preparation: The Choquequirao trek is demanding year-round. Ensure you are in excellent physical condition and have acclimatized well in Cusco before starting.
• Hydration: Always carry plenty of water, especially in the dry season when water sources can be less frequent.
• Guide & Operator: For a trek of this difficulty, especially in the wet season, a reputable and experienced tour operator (like Aremika Expeditions) is non-negotiable. They monitor trail conditions and prioritize your safety.

The Choquequirao Trek is an epic adventure that promises solitude and an unparalleled archaeological discovery. By choosing the dry season, you significantly increase your chances of a safe, clear, and immensely rewarding experience. As of july 2025, the cable car is still a future prospect, so this is still very much a trekker’s paradise.

Ready to plan your demanding yet deeply rewarding journey to Choquequirao? Aremika Expeditions guides are intimately familiar with the route and its seasonal variations, ensuring your safety and enjoyment regardless of when you choose to visit this magnificent hidden gem.

Contact Aremika Expeditions and let’s discuss the best time for your Choquequirao adventure!