SUMMARY
Classic Tours Choquequirao Walk 4 Days
Choquequirao, known as “The Last Refuge of the Inca Empire”, is a hidden gem among the Peruvian Andes, surrounded by natural landscapes that will leave you breathless. Its privileged location in the majestic Salkantay mountain range, more than 3,030 meters above sea level, places it in a mystical environment, protected by the Apus (mountain gods) such as Yamana, Ampay, Chokecarpu, Pumasiyo and Panta. From its heights, you can see the impressive Apurímac River, which flows imposingly as it did in the time of the Incas, when everything was connected through a vast network of roads that linked Choquequirao with Machu Picchu and other sacred centers.
Classic Tours Choquequirao Walk 4 Days
Classic Tours Choquequirao Walk 4-day trek to Choquequirao offers an incredible journey to a hidden gem of the
Andes. Though some describe the hike as challenging, the effort is always worth it. This archaeological site, nestled
in the Cusco region of Peru, is a fascinating wonder often compared to Machu Picchu due to its historical importance
and natural beauty. If you’re dreaming of exploring majestic Andean landscapes and dense jungle while visiting the lost Inca city in Cusco, Choquequirao is an exceptional choice.
Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Chiquisca – Classic Tours Choquequirao Walk
We depart from Cusco at 6:00 a.m. in our private transportation, heading toward Cachora, an Andean community
located 4-5 hours from Cusco at 2800 m (9184 ft). This is where we’ll meet our muleteers and horses before starting our trek.
Day 2: Chiquisca – Playa Rosalina – Santa Rosa –
Classic Tours Choquequirao Walk
Leaving Chiquisca, we’ll head towards Playa Rosalina, which will take about an hour. After crossing the Apurímac
River, we begin the climb toward Santa Rosa, following a steep, zigzagging path. The ascent takes about 2 hours, and
starting early is essential to avoid the heat, which can make the hike more challenging.
Day 3: Choquequirao Exploration
This morning, we will enjoy a fully guided tour of the Choquequirao complex, visiting both the upper sections
(Hanan) and lower sections (Urin), along with areas still covered in wild vegetation, awaiting restoration to their original Inca-era splendor.
Day 4: Choquequirao – Playa Rosalina – Cachora – Cusco
After breakfast, we leave camp and start the 2-3 hour ascent to Chiquisca, followed by our return journey to
Capuliyoc Pass, where we’ll stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we continue for another 2 hours back to Cachora, where
our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.
This 4-day adventure offers an incredible immersion into Inca history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences in one of Peru’s hidden treasures
ITINERARY
Classic Tours Choquequirao Walk 4 Days
Day 1: Adventure to Choquequirao – From Cusco to Chiquisca/La Playa
Distance: 18 km / 11.2 miles
Climate:Warm
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Get ready for an unforgettable experience. We will pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco, and your journey will begin with a scenic ride to San Pedro de Cachora (2800 masl), a charming Andean village and the starting point of our trek. This adventure promises stunning landscapes and a journey full of nature and excitement.
The Route: The hike begins with a 4-hour trek towards the spectacular viewpoint of Kapuliyoq, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Padriyoc, along with the incredible biodiversity of the Andean flora and fauna along the trail. With each step, you’ll get closer to one of Peru’s best-kept secrets.
Apurímac Canyon and Views of Choquequirao: From Kapuliyoq, you’ll be amazed by the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest in the world, and the first majestic views of Choquequirao, an ancient Inca citadel hidden among the mountains, often referred to as the “sacred sister of Machu Picchu.”
Descent to Chiquisca: After a break for a delicious lunch surrounded by nature, we’ll begin our descent to Chiquisca, a small haven where you’ll rest before continuing to La Playa, located at 1800 masl.
This peaceful spot next to the Apurímac River, the Incas’ sacred river, offers a night of relaxation under the starry sky, preparing you for the adventures to come.
Day 2: From La Playa to the Lost City – Marampata and Choquequirao
Distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles
Climate: Warm
Duration: Approximately 6 hours of trekking
After a rejuvenating breakfast with local organic products, we will begin our exciting ascent into the mountains. Our first goal is the picturesque village of Santa Rosa, about 2 hours away. The effort of the climb will be rewarded with impressive views of the Apurímac Canyon, where majestic condors and other animals may be seen soaring in the sky.
Ascent to Marampata: From Santa Rosa, the hike becomes more challenging but equally rewarding, as we climb for about 3 hours to Marampata, where we’ll stop for lunch. Here, you can relax while taking in the imposing landscape: steep mountains and the mysterious Choquequirao citadel in the distance, making you feel connected to the ancient Incas.
Trek to Choquequirao: After recharging, the hike becomes gentler as we approach our final goal: the majestic Choquequirao, a hidden archaeological gem nestled in the mountains. Known as the “sacred sister of Machu Picchu,” Choquequirao is a site where time seems to stand still, preserving its Incan essence.
Sunset and Condors: Upon arrival, we’ll set up camp just outside the Inca site. Here, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to watch the sunset over the mountains, with condors gliding through the sky, creating an unparalleled natural spectacle. The magical atmosphere of this place will envelop you as you prepare to explore Choquequirao in depth the next day.
Day 3: Exploring the Inca Citadel – From Choquequirao to La Playa
Distance: 22 km / 13.7 miles
Climate: Warm during the day, cold at night
Duration: Approximately 8 hours of trekking
The third day begins with an energizing organic breakfast, preparing you to immerse yourself in the mysterious Choquequirao citadel. Known as the “Cradle of Gold,” this ancient Incan city is an archaeological treasure often compared to Machu Picchu, though it remains much more hidden and less explored.
Guided Exploration of Choquequirao: For about 2 hours, we’ll explore its ancient sectors, such as the Llama Sector, the Ceremonial Ushnu, and the enigmatic Religious Zone. Although only one-third of Choquequirao has been excavated to date, each corner of this city hidden in the mountains holds a story. Imagine walking through ruins perched 1500 meters above the majestic Apurímac Canyon, a place steeped in mysticism and history. After our guided exploration, you’ll have free time to wander and absorb the magical atmosphere of this unique site.
Descent to La Playa: After this immersion into Incan history, we’ll pause for a picnic lunch at Choquequirao, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Then, we’ll begin our descent to Pajchayoc, a natural haven of remarkable beauty, before continuing on to La Playa. As we descend, you’ll notice the environment changing once again as we approach the Apurímac River.
Night at La Playa: Finally, we’ll arrive at La Playa, where we’ll spend our last night by the river at a campsite under the starry Andean sky. This peaceful and magical place near the Apurímac River provides the perfect rest after a day full of discoveries.
Day 4: The Return – From La Playa to Capuliyoc and Final Journey to Cusco
Distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles
Climate: Warm
Duration: Approximately 7 hours of trekking
The final day of this thrilling adventure begins early. After a revitalizing breakfast at camp, we’ll start our uphill trek, leaving behind the tranquil landscape of La Playa. The trail will lead us through the last of the Andean mountain scenery, offering one final chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Apurímac Canyon and its surroundings.
Ascent to Capuliyoc: The first part of the day involves a 4-hour ascent to Capuliyoc, a natural viewpoint offering spectacular views of the trail you’ve trekked and the impressive canyon. Here, you’ll enjoy your last meal with the expedition team, savoring the final moments amidst this epic landscape.
Hike to Cachora: After lunch, the trek continues for about 2 more hours until we reach the charming Andean village of Cachora, where our journey began four days ago. This final stretch allows for reflection on the incredible experiences of the trip, passing through changing vistas and the natural beauty that makes this route so special.
Return to Cusco: Once we arrive in Cachora, we’ll take transportation back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon. You’ll have time to relax and reminisce about the wonderful experiences from these four days of immersion in nature, Incan history, and culture.
INCLUDED (NOT)
INCLUYE:
- Sesión informativa previa a la partida.
- Recogida en el hotel por la mañana y transporte privado a Cachora, punto de partida de la caminata.
- Boleto de ingreso a Choquequirao para visitantes y personal de la agencia.
- Tiendas de campaña.
- Guía profesional (español e inglés).
- Cocinero y equipo de cocina.
- Arrieros y caballos (para llevar tiendas de campaña, alimentos y la cocina).
- Comidas (03D, 04A, 03C). Menús vegetarianos o especiales disponibles sin costo adicional.
- Botiquín de primeros auxilios.
- Transporte privado desde Cusco a Cachora.
NO INCLUYE:
- Desayuno el primer día.
- Cena el último día.
- Impuesto IGV.
- Otros servicios no mencionados en el programa.
QUE NECESITAS LLEVAR CON TIGO AL TOUR.
- Asegúrate de llevar tu pasaporte o documento de identidad.
- Es recomendable llevar dinero en efectivo en soles (la moneda peruana).
- En una pequeña mochila, lleva una cámara de fotos, un gorro para protegerte del sol, bloqueador solar, repelente para mosquitos y una botella de agua.
- Ten en cuenta que en CHOQUEQUIRAO habrá escalones, así que utiliza zapatos adecuados para caminar que sean antideslizantes y resistentes.
- Para prevenir el mal de altura, puedes probar el té de hojas de coca, que es efectivo en esta región.
- Lleva algunos snacks adicionales y agua embotellada, ya que en el camino los precios suelen ser más altos.
- Durante nuestro recorrido en el tour guiado por CHOQUEQUIRAO, aprovecha los mágicos momentos, abre los brazos y recarga tu energía.
- En cuanto al equipaje, ten en cuenta que puedes llevar hasta 7 kilos.
GALLERY LODGE
FREE INFO
Tour Trekking Choquequirao
Conocida como la ‘Hermana de Machu Picchu’, Choquequirao ostenta su propia cautivadora ciudadela de piedra y una rica historia. Enclavada en la confluencia de dos mundos radicalmente diferentes, los Andes peruanos y la selva amazónica, está completamente rodeada por exuberante vegetación, convirtiéndola en un lugar de difícil acceso.
Su ubicación en la cima de una montaña en la cordillera del Salcantay añade a su grandeza. Esta antigua ciudad permaneció oculta a los ojos humanos durante casi cuatro siglos, conservando un aire de misterio que intriga a arqueólogos, investigadores y viajeros curiosos por igual. Su construcción data de alrededor de 1536, durante el reinado del Imperio Inca.
Lo que es seguro es que este destino se ha convertido en el favorito de los entusiastas de la aventura debido al desafío que representa llegar a él, así como de los apasionados por la historia atraídos por los secretos milenarios ocultos en cada rincón de su ciudadela. Si estás buscando una experiencia verdaderamente única, es hora de marcar en tu calendario una visita a Choquequirao.
A menudo apodada la ‘Hermana de Machu Picchu’, Choquequirao .
no está lejos de su familia; se encuentra en la región de Cusco, precisamente en el distrito de Santa Teresa, dentro de la provincia de la Convención, en el sur de los Andes peruanos. Muchos se preguntan por qué llegar a Choquequirao se considera un desafío. La respuesta es bastante simple: solo aquellos que están física y mentalmente preparados pueden acceder a este territorio.
Ningún vehículo se adentra en su dominio. Todas las rutas hacia Choquequirao se realizan a pie, típicamente en excursiones guiadas que toman de 2 a 3 días. La preparación física es esencial debido a las largas caminatas involucradas, y la disposición mental es igualmente crucial, ya que el clima y la altitud de la región de Cusco hacen que este sendero, apreciado por los amantes del senderismo, sea un poco más exigente que recorrer terrenos menos agrestes.
La Joya de los Andes
La función exacta de Choquequirao sigue siendo objeto de especulación, pero se cree que pudo haber sido un centro sagrado, posiblemente conectando Pisac y Machu Picchu con la Amazonía peruana. Debido a su difícil acceso, también existe la hipótesis de que esta área sirvió de refugio para los incas después de la conquista del Imperio Español. En cualquier caso, su legado histórico es inestimable, ya que gran parte del sitio permanece inexplorado (se estima que solo se ha restaurado un 70%), ofreciendo una riqueza de evidencia para futuros estudios.
Sus nueve sectores, que incluyen un centro político-religioso, una prominente plaza principal superior, edificios, fuentes, almacenes, escalinatas colosales, recintos sagrados, casas de gobernantes, un templo del muro triunfal y un templo de sacerdotes, entre otras estructuras, contribuyen todos a la grandeza de Choquequirao. Con tanto por descubrir, ¿dudarás en embarcarte en una aventura a Choquequirao?