Choquequirao, an archaeological site of stunning beauty, is renowned for its magnificent terraces, plazas, ceremonial platforms, and remarkably preserved stone structures. This remarkable site features diverse sectors, including residential areas, agricultural terraces, temples, and intricate water channels. As explorers venture through its corners, they are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valleys and majestic snow-capped mountains, such as the awe-inspiring Salkantay and Vilcabamba ranges.
In contrast to Machu Picchu, Choquequirao stands as a hidden treasure, relatively unexplored and attracting fewer visitors. Its remote location and the challenging hike required to reach it add to its mysterious charm. Trekking to Choquequirao involves embarking on a multi-day expedition along steep and rugged trails, adding an extra layer of adventure and a profound sense of isolation for intrepid travelers.
The treks to Choquequirao transport you to the picturesque Apurímac Valley, where snow-capped peaks harmoniously meet the lush expanse of the high jungle. Nestled atop cloud forest-covered mountains, “The Sister of Machu Picchu” boasts extraordinary architectural marvels such as Llamayoc, known as “the walls of Llama,” and Pacchayoc, aptly named “the sector of the waterfall.” Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through these remarkable structures as you immerse yourself in the wealth of flora and fauna. From Peruvian bamboos and majestic ferns to enchanting orchids, vibrant butterflies, elusive spectacled bears, and soaring eagles, the natural wonders abound. Keep your eyes peeled for the awe-inspiring Caracara Mountain and, of course, the majestic Condor, the revered King of Heaven. This trekking experience not only offers an encounter with nature’s cultural tapestry but also promises to be the most exhilarating and challenging adventure of your lifetime. Throughout your journey, you will enjoy comfortable accommodations, delightful cuisine, and expert guidance.
Get ready to embark on this unparalleled adventure that awaits you.
We will kick off our adventure with an early morning pick-up from your hotel. Following that, we will embark on a 4½-hour journey to Capuliyoc (2,915 meters/9,564 feet). Along the way, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of villages, valleys, and snow-capped mountains. Upon reaching Capuliyoc, we will enjoy a delicious brunch and meet our horsemen and horses to load all our gear.
After brunch, we’ll descend for three to four hours to our first campsite at Chiquisca (1,900 m/6,270 ft), where we will spend the night.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll head down to the Apurímac River (1,550 m/5,117 ft) for an hour. We will cross the bridge over the river and then begin a switchback ascent that will take about 5 hours to reach the village of Maranpata (2,850 m/9,350 ft), where we will enjoy lunch with a view of the Choquequirao archaeological site (3,150 m/10,397 ft).
After lunch, we will hike for an hour over undulating terrain to reach Choquequirao. We anticipate arriving at camp around 4 PM, allowing time to relax, enjoy happy hour, and have dinner.
This day will be dedicated to exploring the incredible Inca site of Choquequirao. We will embark on a guided walking tour where we will discover all the key sections, including palaces, a temple, ritual water fountains, the amazing Usno (ceremonial platform), agricultural terraces, and much more. All this will be accompanied by stunning views of valleys and snow-capped mountains from the upper jungle.
After a full day of exploration, we will return to our second campsite located just 45 minutes from the Choquequirao ruins, where we will have dinner.
After breakfast, we will head back to our first evening’s campsite. As we make our way, the vegetation will become more abundant, and the weather will warm up. We will continue towards the Chiquisca sector for camping.
After breakfast at Capuliyoc, we will begin our ascent for 3 to 4 hours through the dry forest to the Capuliyoc viewpoint. This ascent will take us from an altitude of 6,270 feet to 9,564 feet! We’ll take a short rest here to admire our final view of the Apurimac Canyon before boarding the van back to Cusco.
Emergency horse in case we need it.
Heaters every night (bags filled with hot water).
Emergency oxygen bottle.
Sleeping Bag.
Trekking Stick
× Sleeping bag (can be rented from us $20)
× First breakfast and last meals
× Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide) fell free to tip
× Hiking poles (can be rented from us $20)
Important Reminders: Program changes may occur due to weather or other uncontrollable circumstances.
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
