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Choquequirao Trek 4 Days.

(1 Review)
Price
From$320
Price
From$320
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Length

4 days, 3 nights
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Group

Min 6, Max 12
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Trip Style

Inca treks
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Grading

3, 4
Tour Details

Embark on the Choquequirao Trek, a 4-day journey to the awe-inspiring “Cradle of Gold.” This hidden gem, often referred to as Machu Picchu’s sister city, sits majestically on a ridge overlooking the Apurimac River, encased by the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay.

On this trek, you’ll enjoy Peru’s natural beauty and explore an archaeological site that’s less crowded than Machu Picchu

Experience the fascinating views of the inter-Andean valleys and discover the rich flora and fauna that inhabit these sacred lands. You’ll appreciate the majestic fortress perched on a ridge overlooking the Apurímac River and surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Humantay.

Short history

Constructed during the twilight years of the Inca Empire under the reign of Inca Pachacutec and further expanded by Tupac Inca Yupanqui, Choquequirao is a testament to the Incan resistance against Spanish conquest, remaining a stronghold until the late 16th century.

The site is an architectural marvel, with various levels showcasing temples, palaces, canals, and aqueducts, dedicated to the worship of Pachamama, Apus, and other Andean deities. Despite being officially rediscovered in the 20th century, much of Choquequirao remains enveloped by the forest, with only about 25% currently excavated and conserved, revealing over 280 terraces adorned with white stone llamas.

Choquequirao stands as the largest Inca city on the continent, surpassing even Machu Picchu in scale. Its existence was first documented in 1710, with the earliest detailed studies conducted in the 19th century. This trek is not just a physical journey but a voyage back in time, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated civilization of the Incas and their deep connection with nature.

CHOQEQUIRAO WEATHER
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Dry season

(April – November)
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Day temperature

20ºC / 35ºC
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Night temperature

5 ºC / 10ºC
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Wet season

(December – March)
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Day temperature

17ºC / 22ºC
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Night temperature

0 ºC / 7ºC

Inclusions

  • Safety Briefing Before the Trek: A mandatory briefing will be conducted by your guide the evening prior to the excursion, at approximately 7:00 p.m. Kindly provide the name of the hotel where you will be staying in Cusco to ensure proper coordination.
  • Hotel Pickup: We will collect you from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m.
  • Entrance tickets to Choquequirao : We handle the purchase and secure your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu in advance. During peak seasons, tickets can be in high demand and sometimes difficult to obtain. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the process and help ensure you get your ticket to this iconic site.
  • Experienced and licensed tour guides, fluent in Spanish, English, and Quechua, will accompany you throughout the excursion, immersing you in the history and culture
  • Transportation: Private Tourist bus transfer from your hotel in Cusco to Cachora - capuliyoq , “start of the excursion”, and return to Cusco after completing the hike. We will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Expert Local Chefs: Our team includes highly skilled cooks specialized in adventure and mountain cuisine. We utilize modern kitchen equipment and utensils.
  • Accommodations: Spend the 3 nights in spacious panoramic cabin for 2 people, Each place to sleep has comfortable mattresses to have a peaceful sleep. but dont forget to bring or rent a sleeping bag.
  • Meals: Enjoy nutritious meals during the excursion (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners). The food is balanced to keep you energized along the way, with a free vegetarian option upon request in advance.
  • Duffel Bag: At briefing or meeting one day before the trekking, you will be given a duffle bag in which you can put up to 5 kilos of your belongings. Our team will carry these duffels on horses during the trek, and you can get them at the campsites. This means you can hike comfy with just your daypack. When your trek ends and you return to Cusco, you must return them to our office or leave at hostel.

Excludes

  • Breakfast on the first morning and lunch on the last day after Machu Picchu
  • Sleeping bag: If you don't have a sleeping bag, you can rent one from us. The sleeping bags we have are specially designed to keep you warm during the trek, where temperatures can be as low as -10°C. The rental cost is 40 soles (10 dollars) for the whole trip.
  • Trekking poles: if you dont have them, you can rent from us for the rental cost 10 dollars, the trekking poles are very useful on steep and rough ground. which improves your performance during the excursion.
  • Toilets and showers along the way: toilets are free at each camp site, but during the trek locals may charge 1 sol for using theirs, as well 10 soles for hot showers at the second camp site. while cold showers are free at each camp site. you can take a hot shower at the Aguas calientes hostel on the third day for free.
  • Drinking water: we dont provide water for refilling cannteen or bottles, but will provide cold/hot at each meal, but you can buy a long the way for cost between 5 to 12 soles per 2.5 litres or you can take a purification tablets for mountain wate
  • Travel Insurance and things of a personal nature – laundry and telephone calls, personal taxis, souvenirs etc.
  • Tips for our team: You can choose whether or not to tip. The people who work along the trek expect tips in the tourism industry, so our company paid them fairly for the work they did. We want to make it clear that tipping is optional, not mandatory.

Recommended to carry

  • Original passport: you can't use a copy of your passport; you need to make sure your original passport is valid for at least six months to enter and leave Peru. Also, make sure your passport has two blank pages for the stamps when you come in and out.
  • Student ID: This is only required if you have booked the Salkantay Trek as a student. You must have a student card issued by your university (up to the age of 25). It should contain the following details: university information, personal information, a student photo and a valid date no later than 31 December of the year of travel.
  • Good-quality daypack: It's really important to find a good backpack that's comfortable, light and small, to fill in and carry all your belonging
  • Botle water or Camel Bag: The bottle needs to hold 2 litres of water. It is important to choose a water bottle that can keep your water cold.
  • Trekking poles: We really recommend them for the Salkantay Trek and they are very useful. You can rent them from us.
  • Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors)
  • Sleeping bag: when you buy a sleeping bag find one that is big enough for you. and put it in a waterproof bag so it doesn't get wet on the hike. also we recommend sleeping bags that can keep you warm down to -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
  • Head lamp: This equipment is essential for anyone taking the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. You can also bring a torch.
  • Emergency money: Please remember to bring extra money for any emergencies that might happen on the trip. is ideal to bring 300 soles/90 dollars and in cash
Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Cachora – Chiquisca

Pick up at 5:00 AM, heading to San Pedro de Cachora for breakfast and to meet our horsemen and mules. Begin your adventure by venturing through the winding roads from Cusco to the quaint village of San Pedro de Cachora. As the gateway to the Apurímac Valley, this village serves as the starting point for many treks to the ancient ruins.

Begin the trek towards Capuliyoc pass, where you’re greeted with panoramic views of the Pedroyoc snow capped mountain and the stunning vistas of the Apurímac canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the Americas. The region’s rich history is palpable, with the canyon serving as a natural barrier protecting the lesser-known Inca sites from Spanish invaders.

Descend to Chiquisca to camp. As you make your descent, imagine the ancient travelers who once traversed these paths. Camping in Chiquisca offers a serene end to an exhilarating day, under the stars of the southern Peruvian sky.

  • Meals: Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (2 per tent)
  • Altitudes: Start at 2850m, highest at Capuliyoc 3000m, camp at Chiquisca 1750m
  • Distance: 16 Km
  • Walking Time: 6-7 hours

Day 2Chiquisca – Maranpata – Choquekirao Ruins

From Chiquisca, descend to Rosalina Beach, where you’ll cross the mighty Apurímac River. This area is a splendid mix of geography and history, once serving as a crucial crossing for ancient messengers and local tribes.

Climb to Marampata for views of Choquequirao. Ascending to Marampata, you’re rewarded with your first glimpse of Choquequirao, often referred to as the ‘sister city’ of Machu Picchu. This lesser-known ruin offers a more intimate glimpse into Inca architecture and civilization.

Guided tour of Choquequirao, where you will explore vast plazas, sacred temples, and royal residences, all steeped in centuries of Andean history. Camping near the site allows you to ponder the lives of those who walked these grounds centuries ago.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (2 per tent)
  • Altitudes: Lowest at Rosalina 1550m, Marampata 2850m, Choquequirao 3033m
  • Distance: 15 km
  • Walking Time: 7-8 hours

Day 3Choquekirao Ruins – Maranpata – Chiquisca

After enjoying sunrise over Choquequirao, spend a moment to appreciate the peace and beauty of this ancient place. As the sun rises, it casts light over the stonework, highlighting the precision and skill of Inca builders.

Trek back down the same path to camp at Chiquisca. Reflect on the enduring nature of the Inca civilization as you retrace your steps through these historical landscapes.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping (2 per tent)
  • Altitudes: Start at Choquequirao 3200m, end at Chiquisca 1500m
  • Distance: 17 km
  • Walking Time: 8-9 hours

Day 4Cchiquisca – Cachora – Cusco

Depart Chiquisca to Cachora, enjoying the early morning tranquility. The journey back is a time to reflect on your experiences and the historical wonders you’ve witnessed.

Meet our transport in Cachora for the drive back to Cusco, arriving by 7-8 PM. As you return, carry with you not just memories but also a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of Peru.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation: Camping (2 per tent)
  • Altitudes: Highest at Capuliyoc 3000m
  • Distance: 15 km
  • Walking Time: 7-8 hours
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FAQs

1.What level of physical fitness is required for this trek?

This trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness. While the terrain can be challenging with steep ascents and descents, it is manageable for individuals with a regular exercise routine. However, it’s essential to be prepared for long days of walking, ranging from 6 to 9 hours, and to acclimate to the altitude in advance.

2.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?

Accommodation during the trek is camping in shared tents, with two people per tent. The campsites are set up in scenic locations along the route, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Peruvian landscape.

3.What meals are included, and are there vegetarian/vegan options available?

The trek includes three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian options are available, and if you have specific dietary requirements, please inform us in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

 

4.What should I pack for the trek?

Recommended items to pack include sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing suitable for layering, a daypack, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a refillable water bottle, personal toiletries, a sleeping bag, and any necessary medications. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.

 

5.Is there a minimum age requirement for participation in this trek?

There is no strict minimum age requirement for this trek, but participants should be in good physical health and capable of hiking for extended periods over varied terrain. Families with children should consider whether their kids are accustomed to such activities and consult with us for further guidance.

1 Review
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Sarah M.

Solo Traveller

Embarking on the Choquequirao trek was truly a journey of a lifetime. From the moment we were picked up in Cusco, the organization and professionalism of the team were evident. The trek itself was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The first day’s hike to Chiquisca offered breathtaking views of the Apurímac canyon, and camping under the starlit sky was a magical experience.

The highlight, of course, was reaching Choquequirao on the second day. The sight of the ancient ruins emerging from the mist was awe-inspiring. Our guide provided insightful commentary, and exploring the ruins felt like stepping back in time. Camping near Choquequirao allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in its history and ambiance.

January 10, 2022