Can Choquequirao be reached by bus? The whole truth

Many travelers dream of visiting Choquequirao, but few actually know how to get there. People talk about long hikes, forgotten paths, and complicated routes. But is it true that there’s no way to get there by bus? In this blog, we tell you the whole truth, with clear, up-to-date, and straightforward information.

Can you get to Choquequirao by bus?

Is there a direct bus to Choquequirao?

No, there is currently no direct bus service to Choquequirao, as the archaeological site is located in a mountainous area that is difficult to access, with no road connections directly from Cusco or other nearby cities. To get there, you must combine ground transportation with a hike.

The usual route is by bus from Cusco to the towns of Cachora or Huanipaca, depending on the route chosen. From either of these points, a hike begins that can last between two and four days depending on the pace, as Choquequirao is only accessible on foot or horseback.

How far can you go by public bus?

You can reach the towns of Abancay, Cachora, or Huanipaca by public bus, which are the closest towns with road access. The most common option is to travel from Cusco to Abancay and then continue by bus or local transport to Cachora, from where the trek to Choquequirao begins.

Some people choose to reach the Mirador de Capuliyoc, a point where the paved road ends and the descent into the Apurímac Canyon begins. This point can be reached by private transportation or, in some cases, by shared vehicles from Cachora, although these are not always available.

How much does the ticket cost from Cusco to the last accessible point?

The bus ticket from Cusco to Abancay costs between 30 and 40 soles, depending on the transport company and the time (the trip takes approximately 4 to 5 hours). From Abancay, you can take a colectivo to Cachora or Huanipaca, which can cost between 15 and 25 soles more, although these services don’t have frequent departures.

In total, the trip by public transportation to the last accessible point (Capuliyoc) can cost approximately 50 to 70 soles per person, if you can arrange buses or shared services. If you decide to take a taxi or hire a private vehicle from Abancay or Cachora to Capuliyoc, the price can rise to 100 soles or more, depending on the number of passengers and the season.

How frequent is transportation from Cusco to Cachora or Huanipaca?

There is no direct, frequent bus service from Cusco to Cachora or Huanipaca, as most buses only go to Abancay. From there, you must find buses or taxis that take you to the closest points to Choquequirao. These services don’t have fixed schedules and usually only depart when they are full.

The route to Cachora is busier than the one to Huanipaca, making it easier to find transportation, especially between April and October. However, during the low season or outside of weekends, you may have to wait several hours or even hire a private vehicle. For this reason, many travelers prefer to arrange their transportation from Cusco to avoid delays and ensure arrival at the starting point of the hike.

Other forms of transportation to the start of the trek

Can I get to the start of the trail by taxi or private car?

Yes, you can get there by taxi or private car to Capuliyoc, which is the closest point accessible by road to Choquequirao. This marks the beginning of the hike, as from there the rest of the route can only be done on foot or on horseback.

Many travelers prefer to hire a private taxi from Cusco or Abancay for greater convenience, although the cost is higher than public transportation. You can also travel in your own vehicle, as long as it’s in good condition for rural roads, as the final stretches are not completely paved and may have sharp curves or dirt areas.

Where can I leave my car if I’m traveling alone?

If you’re traveling by car, you can leave your vehicle in Capuliyoc, where there are designated parking areas. Some local residents offer guarded parking spaces, for a daily fee, on secure land near the viewpoint, which is very useful if you’re trekking for several days.

There is no official parking; however, communal or private services are usually sufficient and quite safe, although it is always recommended to ask residents directly and make sure someone is responsible for the vehicle. If it’s the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a tarp or cover, as the parking lot is outdoors.

Are there buses or vans from Cusco?

There are no buses or vans that go directly to Capuliyoc from Cusco. The most common route is to take a bus or van to Abancay, a trip of approximately 5 hours, and from there, find a bus to Cachora or Huanipaca, depending on the route you want to take to Choquequirao. Schedules are not fixed, and availability varies depending on the season.

Another option is to coordinate with local transportation companies at the Santiago (Cusco) terminal, where shared vans sometimes depart for Abancay and other provinces. However, keep in mind that there are no frequent buses from Cachora to Capuliyoc, so you’ll need to find a taxi or private vehicle from there or walk approximately two hours to the viewpoint.

Can transportation be arranged through a travel agency?

Yes, several travel agencies like ours in Cusco offer private transportation services to Capuliyoc, either as part of a complete tour to Choquequirao or as a solo transfer for those who wish to make the trip on their own.

When booking a service with an agency, pickup from your hotel, technical stops along the way, and in some cases, the return trip is also scheduled for the day you finish the trek. This is a convenient, though more expensive, option that may be worth it if you’re traveling in a group or want more logistical security.

Access routes: Cachora vs Huanipaca

Route 1: Cusco – Abancay – Cachora – Capuliyoc

This route is the most popular because it offers more public and shared transportation options. From Cusco, you can take a bus to Abancay (4 to 5 hours), then look for buses to Cachora. Although there are no direct buses to Capuliyoc, from Cachora you can take a taxi or negotiate with a driver for a ride.

Capuliyoc has parking, basic services, and even muleteers available if you need to rent mules. The route is better signposted and there are more travelers, so even if you’re traveling alone, you can easily find company. Because it’s more well-known, it’s ideal for those looking for more secure logistics and affordable options.

Route 2: Cusco – Abancay – Huanipaca – Villa Los Loros

This route is shorter, but access is much more private and offers fewer transportation options. From Abancay, there are few buses that go to Huanipaca, and from there, you’ll need to arrange with local lodging or agencies to take you by car to Villa Los Loros (a lodge at the bottom of the canyon).

Villa Los Loros offers accommodation and some services, although it doesn’t have direct public transportation, so it’s best if you’ve booked a private service or tour from the start. It’s not recommended for those who want to improvise or search for options on the fly.

Recommendations for choosing transport

What is the cheapest option to get to Choquequirao?

The most economical option to get to Choquequirao is Route 1: Cusco – Abancay – Cachora – Capuliyoc, as it has more public transportation options and ride-sharing services. You can take a bus from Cusco to Abancay for about 30 to 40 soles and then a colectivo to Cachora for an additional 15 to 25 soles. From Cachora, you can negotiate a taxi or even walk to Capuliyoc, which reduces costs if you’re traveling on a budget.

Furthermore, this route has a higher flow of travelers, making it easier to share transportation with others and reducing costs; services such as muleteers and parking are also generally more competitive. In contrast, the route through Huanipaca almost always requires private transportation, which raises the total price if you’re not traveling in a group.

Which option is faster and more comfortable?

The most comfortable and fastest option, especially if you hire private transportation, is also Route 1 to Capuliyoc. Although both routes have mountain roads and winding stretches, the road to Cachora and then Capuliyoc is better maintained and more direct for tourist services.

On the other hand, the route through Huanipaca to Villa Los Loros requires more coordination and vehicle changes, and the road is less traveled. While it may seem shorter, it’s actually slower if you don’t have everything organized in advance. Access to Villa Los Loros is usually done in 4×4 vehicles, which complicates logistics and can make the trip more uncomfortable if you’re not prepared.

What is the best option if I am traveling in a group or with my family?

If you’re traveling in a group or with your family, it’s best to hire private transportation to Capuliyoc via Route 1. By sharing the vehicle, you can split the cost and enjoy a direct and comfortable trip, avoiding setbacks. Plus, there are several places along the way where you can stop to eat, rest, or use the restrooms.

Access to Capuliyoc allows for a gradual start to the hike, with an ideal viewpoint for acclimatizing and enjoying the scenery before descending into the canyon. This logistics is much more manageable for families or large groups, as there are also muleteers, mules, and lodging options that can be easily arranged from Cachora or Capuliyoc.

Is it better to book transportation in advance?

It’s highly recommended to book transportation in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season, in a group, or if you need a private vehicle. This ensures availability, better prices, and avoids wasting time searching for options at the last minute. Several agencies offer transportation-only packages to Capuliyoc or Villa Los Loros, with a return option included.

If you decide to travel by public transport, booking is not mandatory, although it is recommended to be flexible with schedules, as buses to Abancay can be purchased on the day. However, buses to Cachora or Huanipaca do not have regular departures, so if you’re looking for peace of mind and to make the most of your time, booking before you travel will give you greater control and security.

Frequently Asked Questions