Welcome to the Choquequirao Trek in Peru, an unforgettable journey that takes you through the stunning Andean landscapes. This less-traveled alternative to the famous Inca Trail leads you to the enigmatic Choquequirao ruins. Also known as the “Cradle of Gold,” these ruins are a hidden gem in the heart of the sacred Vilcabamba mountain range.
On this adventure, you’ll witness awe-inspiring vistas, including snow-capped peaks and lush cloud forests. As you hike through varied terrain, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna native to the region. Keep an eye out for the Andean condor, a majestic bird symbolizing power and freedom.
The trek typically spans five days, covering approximately 64 kilometers (40 miles). Along the way, you’ll experience challenging climbs and steep descents, making it a physically demanding yet rewarding experience. Be prepared to tackle high altitudes, with the highest point at 3,050 meters (10,006 feet) above sea level.
Throughout your journey, you’ll camp in beautiful, secluded spots, offering a chance to connect with nature and savor the tranquility of the Andean wilderness. Local guides and porters will accompany you, sharing invaluable insights into the region’s history and culture.
As you reach the remote Choquequirao archaeological site, you’ll be captivated by its breathtaking beauty and intricate stonework. Often compared to Machu Picchu, Choquequirao remains a relatively undiscovered treasure, allowing you to explore its wonders in peace and solitude.
Embark on this extraordinary trek to uncover the mysteries of the ancient Inca civilization and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Andes. Your Choquequirao adventure awaits!
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The Choquequirao trek is a multi-day trek in the Peruvian Andes that takes you to the ancient Inca site of Choquequirao, which is often referred to as the “Cusco’s Machu Picchu.”
On the Choquequirao Trek, you can expect a challenging yet unforgettable experience through the stunning Andean landscapes of Peru. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect during your journey:
Day One of the Choquequirao Trek promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with stunning natural landscapes and fascinating historical insights. As one of the most impressive Inca sites in Peru, the Choquequirao ruins are often referred to as the “sister” of the famed Machu Picchu.
The first day of this exhilarating trek will take intrepid explorers through a variety of environments, starting from the quaint village of Cachora and ending at the first campsite in Santa Rosa.
The journey begins early in the morning at the picturesque village of Cachora, nestled in the heart of the Apurimac Valley. Trekkers will gather at the village center and meet their experienced guides, who will provide a thorough briefing on the day’s itinerary and safety precautions.
After loading up on supplies and adjusting their gear, the group will set off on a moderate descent towards the Apurimac River, following a well-trodden path that offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys of the Andes.
As the trail snakes along the mountainside, hikers will be treated to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including vibrant orchids, towering cacti, and an array of bird species.
The path gradually becomes steeper and more challenging as it descends into the Apurimac Canyon, a dramatic gorge carved by the powerful river below.
Upon reaching the suspension bridge at the base of the canyon, trekkers will have the opportunity to rest and refuel before beginning the arduous ascent to the Santa Rosa campsite.
The final stretch of the first day’s itinerary is undoubtedly the most demanding, but the rewards are well worth the effort. As trekkers ascend the steep switchbacks, they will be greeted with breathtaking views of the river and canyon below.
Upon arrival at the Santa Rosa campsite, hikers can relax and unwind, reflecting on the day’s achievements and anticipating the adventure that lies ahead. With the first day complete, trekkers will have already experienced a small taste of the wonder and excitement that awaits them on the Choquequirao Trek.
The second day of the Choquequirao Trek is filled with excitement and challenge. As trekkers awake at the Santa Rosa campsite, they prepare for the day ahead. The goal is to reach the Choquequirao ruins, the heart of this thrilling expedition.
The day starts with a hearty breakfast. Energized, the group embarks on a steady climb towards Marampata. The path is steep and narrow. As they gain altitude, hikers witness striking vistas of the Apurimac Valley. At Marampata, trekkers can rest and grab a quick snack.
Continuing onward, the trail leads through lush cloud forests. Hikers traverse a unique ecosystem, filled with colorful flowers and hummingbirds. After several hours, the group reaches the highlight of the trek: the Choquequirao ruins. These Inca structures, perched on a remote mountaintop, evoke a sense of awe and mystery.
With ample time to explore, trekkers can wander among the ruins, taking in the impressive stonework and terraces. Guides provide historical context and share captivating stories. As the sun sets, the group heads to the nearby campsite. After an exhilarating day, trekkers rest up for the adventures that lie ahead.
On the third day of our Choquequirao Trek, we wake up early, ready to explore more of the remarkable ruins. With our guide leading the way, we delve deeper into the archaeological site. We marvel at the intricate stonework and learn about the Inca civilization that once thrived here.
After thoroughly exploring Choquequirao, we begin our descent back to the Apurimac River. The trail is steep, but we take our time, enjoying the breathtaking views of the valley below. Along the way, we spot exotic wildlife, including the Andean condor soaring above us. We stop at Marampata for a well-deserved lunch break and to rest our legs.
Following lunch, we continue our trek down the canyon, retracing our steps from the first day. The route is familiar, yet we still appreciate the stunning landscapes as we make our way back towards the Apurimac River. Once we reach the river, we cross the suspension bridge and set up camp at Chiquisca for the night. As we settle in, we reflect on the incredible journey so far and look forward to the final day of our unforgettable Choquequirao Trek.
On the fourth and final day of our Choquequirao Trek, we rise early, eager to complete our adventure. We enjoy a delicious breakfast and pack up our camp at Chiquisca. With mixed emotions, we prepare to bid farewell to the stunning landscapes that have captivated us over the past few days.
The morning’s trek involves a challenging ascent back to the village of Cachora. We pace ourselves, taking breaks to catch our breath and admire the surrounding beauty. The path is steep, but our determination and sense of accomplishment keep us moving forward. As we climb, we reminisce about our favorite moments from the journey and the friendships forged along the way.
Upon reaching Cachora, we are greeted with a sense of pride and achievement. We have conquered the Choquequirao Trek, explored the ancient ruins, and witnessed the breathtaking wonders of the Peruvian Andes.
As we say our goodbyes to our guides and fellow trekkers, we know that we will carry these memories with us for a lifetime. Although our trek has come to an end, the spirit of adventure and the bonds we have formed will remain in our hearts forever.
The Choquequirao Trek is considered a challenging and physically demanding trek. The difficulty arises from various factors:
Distance: The trek covers approximately 64 kilometers (40 miles) over 5 days, with daily hiking distances ranging from 13 to 19 kilometers (8 to 12 miles).
Elevation changes: The trail involves significant elevation changes, with steep ascents and descents. The highest point reaches 3,050 meters (10,006 feet) above sea level, and the lowest point is around 1,500 meters (4,921 feet).
Altitude: The trek reaches high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness for some individuals. Acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the trek is crucial, and it’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
Terrain: The trail traverses diverse terrain, including rugged mountain paths, steep inclines, and descents through lush cloud forests. Some sections may be slippery or muddy, especially during the rainy season.
Physical fitness: Due to the challenging nature of the trek, it’s essential to be in good physical shape and have prior hiking experience. Adequate preparation and training can help ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.
Despite the challenges, the Choquequirao Trek offers a rewarding experience, with breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to explore the lesser-known Choquequirao archaeological site. With proper preparation and acclimatization, the trek is achievable for those with a good fitness level and hiking experience.
It is not fair to say that Choquequirao is better or worse than Machu Picchu, as both sites offer unique experiences and hold different historical and cultural significance. However, there are some factors that may influence your preference:
Popularity: Machu Picchu is significantly more popular and visited than Choquequirao. This means that while visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll likely encounter crowds, whereas at Choquequirao, you’ll experience more solitude and a sense of discovery.
Accessibility: Machu Picchu is more accessible, with options like the train to Aguas Calientes, buses to the site, and multiple trekking routes. Choquequirao is only accessible through a challenging multi-day trek, making it a more remote and off-the-beaten-path destination.
Preservation: Due to its remote location and fewer visitors, Choquequirao is less impacted by tourism, resulting in better preservation of the site. Machu Picchu, on the other hand, faces issues related to overtourism and the resulting strain on its infrastructure.
Historical significance: Machu Picchu is known as the “Lost City of the Incas” and holds immense historical significance. Choquequirao, while often compared to Machu Picchu, has its unique cultural and historical value and is believed to have been an important religious, cultural, and military site for the Inca civilization.
Ultimately, the decision to visit Choquequirao or Machu Picchu depends on your preferences, interests, and the type of experience you seek. Some travelers opt to visit both sites to get a comprehensive understanding of the Inca civilization.
