+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$560

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Length

5 Days, 4 Nights

Group

Min 6, Max 12

Trip Style

Trekking Tours

Grading

3, 4

Tour Details

Locations Visited: Choquequirao citadel

Frequency : Upon request

Choquequirao, The sister of Machupicchu means “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua “Inca´s language”, although this is probably not its original name. It is another “Lost City of the Incas” rediscovered officially late in 20th century located high on a ridge spur almost 1750mts above the raging glacier-fed Apurimac River and surrounded by towering Salkantay and Humantay snow-capped peaks.

Choquequirao was build during the last days of the Inca empire in the government of the Inca Pachacutec 1490, by Tupac Inca Yapanqui, and probably after the Spanish invasion in 1532. Almost 40 years the Inca’s held stand against the spanish conquerors (between 1536 – 1572). The construction of the different levels of temples, palaces, canals and aqueducts is really fantastic. “Choquequirao is the city which demonstrates the inspiring example of an elite Inca ceremonial center. A city dedicated to worship the “Pachamama” the andean mother earth “the Apus” mountain gods and divinities, the river and the elements of nature.” Choquequirao finally burned down and left deserted. This happened probably after the execution of the last Inca, Tupac Amaru I in 1572.

By this occasion, the plaster covering the walls, carbonized and disappeared for the most part. At the east side of the complex more then 110 terraces with houses and squares are being revealed. At the west side another 170 terraces are hidden and covered by the forest, in some of these terraces can be seen now an amazing in straight line white color llamas in symetrical order, Until now only 25% is put to overdraft and conserved. With this Choquequirao is the largest Inca-town of the continent and much larger then Macchu Pichu. For the first time in 1710 they mentioned the existence of Choquequirao. The first drawings of the structure of the ruins were made about 1836 by the Frenchmen Léonce Angrand and them by Eugine Sartigues.

USEFUL INFO

Choquequirao Weather.

Dry season (April – November)

Day temperature 20ºC/35ºC
Night temperature 5 ºC/10ºC
Wet season (December – March)
Day temperature 17ºC/22ºC
Night temperature 0 ºC/7ºC

Advice for Hikers.

Is recommendable have yellow fiber vaccination (malaria) because you will be 3 days in the high jungle. We never hear news about problems with malaria in this zone but are better to be prepared.
It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude for that try to spend 2 nights in Cusco (3400m) prior to do the trek.

Local kids and adults .

Along the way you will met many people, specially kids walking long distance to arrive at school and study 5 hours and they back home after maybe 30 minutes or 2 – 4 hours depending how far they live from the school. Normally they are son or daughter of poor farmers living on the mountains. We strongly recommend help us to give some present to them like pencils, notebook, dictionaries, toys, clothes (socks, gloves, hat, t-shirt, etc) and something to eat. We don’t recommend giving them things like candies, chew gun, soda, camping knife or money. If you really like to make picture of them, especially of adults we strongly advise you to ask first. If you don’t speak any word of Spanish language (español) coordinate with your guide to see if is possible to have picture of them. Local people don’t permit take picture of them, because they believe you taking their spirit on your camera.

Hire Horse and Horseman.

Horses can carry up to 120 Kg = $140 USD for the full duration of the tour ( $35 USD per day). Each horse comes equipped with saddle and assistant who will provide food and care the horse every day.
Riding a horse you will need to carry a daypack with your Camera, bottle of water, snacks, a fleece or something warm and a poncho in case of rain (unlikely in Dry season but as a precaution). Your bag will be waiting for you in your tent at campsites.

Inclusions

Briefing at Hotel or Office
Professional Bilingual Tour guide
Collection from hotel
Bus from Cusco to Cachora (Trailhead) – Cusco
Entrance fees to Choquequirao Citadel (one time)
Cook Horseman , Mules
5 breakfast, 5 Lunches,5 Dinners
Water supply (boiled) after every dinner or breakfast
Doble occupancy tents
4 nights Camping and 1 night hostel in aguas calientes
Dining tent , Kitchen tent
Foam sleeping mattresses note (if you want hire a comfortable air mattresses it also can be hired from us)
First aid kit
Vegetarian Option or special diet-Free available.

Excludes

First Breakfast , last lunch and dinner
Mineral water (boiled water provided with food but you can buy it along the way )
Personal Horse US$ 65
Sleeping bag ( you can hire from us US$25 )
Walking poles (you can hire from us US$15)
45 Lt back pack US$ 10.
Tips for the guide,cook, horseman (arrieros) is a custom but not mandatory.
PERU TRAVEL COMPANY provides a duffle bag to transport your belongings.

Recommended to carry

Original Passport
Travel Insurance card is essential
Hiking water proof boots ( with ankle protectors )
Trekking poles metal tips are not allowed on the trail
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Warm jacket
Sun hat and gloves
T-shirts / shirts
Comfortable hiking zip off trousers
Rain pants
Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Sun protection cream ( factor 35 recommended ) sun is strong
Insect Repellent ( for mosquitos )15 % of deet at least
Water bottle
Toilet paper and wet wipes
Personal medication
Camera and films
Torch with spare batteries (flashlight) we recommend headlights
Emergency money at least 200- 300 extra soles (USD$ 120)
Short pants , Plaster and bandages
Walking poles (with rubber tips) they can also be hired from us (they can be used on the Inca Trail if they have rubber tips)

Itinerary

DAY 01 :Cusco – Cachora – Playa Rosalina

(Apurimac River) At 5am we will pick up our customers from their hotels, and then we will transfer by our private van to Cachora (4 hours), once we will meet the rest of team (Arrieros and horses). Then we will begin trek go uphill, passing through the high pass of Capuliyoc, where we might see condors and great view of the Apurimac Canyon. Finally we descend through Cactus forest to playa Rosalina on the banks of the Apurimac River, the main tributary of the Amazon River. Camping at playa Rosalina (1550m) .

Meals: L, D
Accommodation: Camping 4 people tents for 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:3000 masl Capulichayoc
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl chiquisca
Distance Travelled:16 Km
Approximate Walking Time:6 – 7 Hours

DAY 02 : Playa Rosalina – Marampata – Choquequirao

(Golden Cradle) After early breakfast strenuous 5 hours of uphill trek through a long and narrow trail, surrounded by beautiful vegetation with several varieties of orchids. Half way up stop for lunch at Maranpata, then continue hiking to more hours to Chokekirao (Golden Cradle), is considered the sister city of Machu Picchu, because of several similarities, it hangs 1500m above the Apurimac Canyon, and Machu Picchu hang above the Urubamba canyon. The view of the canyon is spectacular; it is also possible to see Andean Condors soaring in the mountains. Camping near of Chokekirao (3050m).

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:2800 masl Marampata
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl chiquisca
Distance Travelled:15 km
Approximate Walking Time:7- 8 Hours

DAY 03 : Choquequirao Pass – Rio Blanco – Maizal

Breakfast will at 7am and then start our trek passing the Choquequirao ruins, up hill through cloud forest, Mountains and valleys to reach the Choquequirao pass. After 5 hours trekking the trail continue through agricultural terraces called Pinchinoyoc which means (water jumping forward – 2750m). There will observe different species of birds, different varieties of orchids, and local coca plantations. We will have our lunch near the Rio Blanco, we use the brake here to get a refreshing bath in the cold and clear river water. We cross walking through the river, since there are no bridges. After our brake we start the long and steep climb to our camp in Maizal, high over the river close to the sacred Apus of the Incas. From Rio Blanco we climb up to Maizal for about 3 hrs. Camping at 3000m .

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:3000 masl Choquequirao
Minimum Altitude: 2750 masl chiquisca
Distance Travelled:12 km
Approximate Walking Time:7- 8 Hours

DAY 04 : Maizal – Minas Victoria – Yanama

Early morning trek around the Corihuarachina glacier, important due to some archaeological remains such as Inca channels. From here we start walking uphill passing by the impressive Inca mines called Minas Victoria and towards the Victoria Pass. Again a long climb, but we walk in amazingly beautiful area – first with cloud forest and then over Andean Puna with the well known Ichu grass. Then we pass through Minas Victoria, a place that during the colony, silver was extracted from a mine. Almost on the top we can apreciate original paved Inca trails. We take our box lunch at the pass in 4200m with view of the mountain Choquetakarpo, while we had lunch we will be able to appreciate the flight of the condors depending on the climate, and finally descend to our campsite at Yamana, a small isolated settlement at the bottom of a long valley surrounded by mountains (3800m) .

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:3000 masl Maizal – Minas Victoria
Minimum Altitude:3800 masl Yanama
Distance Travelled:14 km
Approximate Walking Time: 8 – 9 Hours

DAY 05: Yanama – Totoral Mountain Range

After early breakfast trekking uphill to the highest pas in this trek, named Yamana. Again the view will be amazing from here we will be surrounded by mountain range of Saqsarayoc and Pedreyoc. Once again we have the chance to see condors, and this mornings smooth climb bring us through new landscapes – especially the wet grass fields under the snowline that distinguish from everything else seen on the tour. In the pass we might walk in snow, and the descent is a long foggy hike through grassy fields- and bush areas and crossing small poor wood bridges on the way towards the community of Totoral, where we spend the in tents in a indescribable beauty, surrounded by pure nature .

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:4250 masl Yanama
Minimum Altitude:3850 masl totorayoc
Distance Travelled:14 km
Approximate Walking Time: 8 – 9 Hours

DAY 06 : Totoral – Cloud Forest – La Playa

Today the trekking will be 7 hours, descending 2000m into Totora River. We will observe the natural wildlife, such as hummingbirds, woodpeckers, many species of orchids and begonias. Then we descend the trail on the left side of the Santa Teresa River where we will see small plantations of bananas, passion fruit, and coffee. On the way will stop at small waterfalls and get a refreshing natural bath. The area also has a big variation of bird the climate and vegetations have changed totally. The Playa is the biggest village on the way, where we can find some small shops to buy snack etc. In this area we can see small plantations of coffee and bananas. Campsite at 2125m .

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude: 3850 masl Totoral
Minimum Altitude:2125 masl La Playa.
Distance Travelled:13 km
Approximate Walking Time:7- 8 Hours

DAY 07: La Playa – Santa Teresa – Hodrolectrica – Aguas Calientes

Alter a good breakfast will took a transport that takes us until the town of Santa Teresa, we cross a river of the Vilcanota. Where we will take a transport to Planta de Hidroeléctrica, place where we will have an excellent view of a different angle of Machu Picchu and the Aobamba canyon, where another Inca trail can be seen, also here we will have our last lunch. After good rest and walk 3 hours to reach Aguas Calientes. Optional visit the hot spring located next to the town. We will spend the night in Hostel.

Meals: B, L, D
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:2800 masl La Playa.
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl Aguas Calientes Pueblo.
Distance Travelled:11 km
Approximate Walking Time:7- 8 Hours

DAY 08: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast from Aguas Calientes we walk or take bus to Machu Picchu, there, we will have a guided tour for all the Archaeological Site, then we will have free time to be on our own in Machu Picchu, maybe to climb the Wayna Picchu or visit the moon temple. At mentioned time you will meet the guide and then come back to Aguas Calientes (3pm) to catch the train back to Cusco arriving at 8pm aprox

Meals: B, L.
Accommodation:Camping 2 people per tents
Maximum Altitude:2100 masl Aguas Calientes.
Minimum Altitude:1750 masl Machu picchu citadel.
Distance Travelled:15 km
Approximate Walking Time:7- 8 Hours

Photos

Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek 6 Days Unique

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FAQs

1.What is Choquequirao, and where is it located?

Choquequirao is an ancient Inca city often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu. It is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range in the Cusco region of Peru, at an altitude of around 3,050 meters (10,010 feet) above sea level. The site is known for its remote location and stunning archaeological remains.

2.How difficult is the hike to Choquequirao?

The hike to Choquequirao is considered challenging, requiring a good level of physical fitness. The trek typically takes 4 to 5 days round-trip and involves steep ascents and descents, crossing valleys and rivers. The journey is demanding but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the Andes and a unique experience at the less-crowded archaeological site.

3.Is Choquequirao similar to Machu Picchu?

While Choquequirao shares some similarities with Machu Picchu, such as its Inca architecture and mountain location, it is less excavated and much less visited. This gives Choquequirao a more authentic and serene atmosphere. The site is also larger than Machu Picchu, with many of its structures still covered by jungle, adding to its sense of mystery.

4.What is the best time of year to visit Choquequirao?

The best time to visit Choquequirao is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more predictable, with clear skies and less rain, making the trek safer and more enjoyable. The rainy season, from October to April, can make the trails muddy and more difficult to navigate.

5.What wildlife can I expect to see during the Choquequirao trek?

The trek to Choquequirao offers the chance to see a variety of wildlife, especially birds. You might spot Andean condors soaring above the valleys, as well as other bird species like hummingbirds and toucans. Mammals such as spectacled bears, deer, and foxes may also be seen, though they are more elusive. The diverse ecosystems you pass through, from cloud forests to high-altitude grasslands, are home to a rich array of flora and fauna.

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Javier M.

Solo Traveller

Embark on the 8-Day Choquequirao & Machu Picchu Trek for a truly unique adventure, exploring the remote ruins of Choquequirao and the iconic Machu Picchu in a breathtaking journey.

February 1, 2024

Choquequirao & Machu picchu Trek 8 Days Unique