Cusco, Cuzco or Qosqo are the names by which the ancient capital of the Inca Empire is known. It is a center for archaeological scholars from all over the world who come to Peru to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and the other ruins scattered throughout the valley.
It was an important administrative center for the Spanish Empire (Viceroyalty of Peru), and can be seen in the large number of manifestations of colonial art and architecture that can be found throughout the city and especially its Plaza de Armas. Today, Cusco is the largest tourist center in the country, receiving more than one million visitors a year.
Cusco is the oldest urban settlement in all of the Americas, more than 3,000 years old, but pre-ceramic samples have been found as old as 5,000 years. The origins of the first inhabitants of the city are lost in legend. Inca legends say that the founders of the city were Manko Qhapaq and Pachakuteq.
At the top of the mountain, large and impressive stone blocks joined together, the most important political and religious center of the Inca empire: Machu Picchu.
Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the sacred Inca citadel built around 1450 and discovered in 1911, still hides enigmas and mysteries about its real purpose that remain hidden to this day and arouse the interest of both visitors and archaeologists from around the world.
Due to its strategic location on top of a high mountain, there are several theories about what it could have meant to the Incas. Some argue that it was built as a great mausoleum for the Inca Pachacutec, while others claim that it was an important administrative and agricultural center whose cultivated areas were used for the sustenance of its inhabitants. However, it is also considered that it was used as a necessary link between the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon or as a resting place for the Inca governor.
The truth is that Machu Picchu is one of the greatest symbols behind the impressive architecture and engineering of the Inca Empire. Although its origin is still under study, the value and transcendence it represented in its time, as well as its imposing design, have earned it to be considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
The tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, is one of the most classic and incredible tours, where you can explore small villages outside the city of Cusco and also its archaeological sites.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located 15 km (9 miles) north of the Inca capital of Cusco at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). The Sacred Valley was once the Inca empire’s main point for the extraction of natural wealth, and one of the most important areas for corn production in Peru.
We have to admire the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas and their system of andenería (terraces): system of platforms composed of small groups of farmland, arranged in the form of tiers on the hills, where crops are planted. The valleys were also a place of worship to the Pachamama (mother earth).
The Sacred Valley is a must-see destination in Peru and has become one of the most important tourist centers in the country. There are numerous impressive Inca ruins, such as Ollantaytambo, Pisaq and Moray. The Sacred Valley also has two of the most important handicraft markets in the Cusco region: Pisaq and Chinchero.
The great adventure of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is for those who live passionately, always looking for a new experience!
The Inca Trail is a fascinating dream to fulfill and is the most famous trek in all of South America. The beauty of the views and the archaeological sites surrounding the Inca Trail are unsurpassed.
This tour is ideal for those who are full of energy to hike to Machu Picchu on the trip of a lifetime with the Classic Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights.
The Inca Trail Peru is a well established trek that takes travelers from km. 82 (the starting point 40 minutes from the town of Ollantaytambo) to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (also called Inti Punku).
Also known as the “Hill of 7 colors”, vinicunca, and colorful mountain, gift of nature for the enjoyment of our eyes. This unique mountain is located more than 100 km from the Imperial City of Cusco, belonging to the town of Pitumarca, is one of the main tourist attractions of Peru recently discovered and made known in 2016.
Vinicunca means “mountain of colors”. It is also known as Rainbow Mountain, Cerro Colorado or in English as Rainbow Mountain. It is located at 5200 meters above sea level and belongs to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain in the Vilcanota mountain range, it is the fifth highest mountain in Peru.
Its coloration is natural due to the large amount of sedimentary stones in erosion, what makes it so beautiful and impressive is how these stones are formed to give it the appearance of a rainbow (7 colors).
Although it is commonly called Rainbow Mountain (Cerro Colorado or Seven Colors Mountain), its real name is Vinicunca, which comes from Quechua.
In Cusco you will find countless activities and tourist routes that you can explore; many of them include a visit to Machu Picchu, whether you are looking for a quiet and classic tour or adventure experiences with a touch of immersion with the coexistence with local people.
Live exciting moments in real contact with nature that remains untouched by the hand of man, all well preserved; walk in contact with nature, and the local fauna; if you are patient you will see many animals that come out to walk trusting; since each one is prohibited.
Enjoy hikes of 2 to more days; enjoy good food along the route; professional local guides and discover the magic of visiting this beautiful country that awaits you.
Peru has become in recent years the most fashionable destination in South America. There is no shortage of reasons: an impressive variety of ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful cities full of history, culture, traditions, beaches, fauna, flora… and, of course, its delicious and famous gastronomy.
From the Amazon to the desert, from the high peaks of the Andes to the Pacific, passing through the valleys and high plateaus, the country enchants with its incredible contrasts. Although the reasons to visit the country are really endless, we want to show you some compelling arguments for you to embark on the exciting adventure of discovering it. Are you up for it?
Every place on Earth is fascinating and unique, but Peru is one of those countries that manages to be above average. This place has so many natural and cultural treasures that have fascinated people for hundreds of years, and still fascinate them today. There are thousands of reasons to go to this great destination, here are just some of the reasons why you should visit Peru.
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Choquequirao Trek 5 days 4 nights
5 days from $ USD
Choquequirao Trek 5 days 4 nights
Choquequitao Hike
43 Reviews | Min Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl) | Max Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl) | 5 Days from $ 1 900.00
Price From
$ USD 0.00
Duration
5 days
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 10
Physical Level
Demanding
Style
Campsite
Introduction
Assisted by a fantastic team of guides, muleteers and cooks, the Choquequirao Tour is truly a spectacular tour to discover the pages of the ancient history of the Inca Empire.
Choquequirao, impressive not only for its archaeological complex but also for the panoramas it offers when visiting the city of Cusco. The vegetation, the view of the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in America, make this excursion an unforgettable experience.
Built on a mountain in the Peruvian Andes, the Choquequirao archaeological complex can only be compared to the majesty of Machu Picchu in beauty, architectural splendor and craftsmanship. At 3,050 meters above sea level, the ruins of this Inca city are a marvel of ancient stone walls that protect palaces and temples. The fountain, canal and aqueduct systems that feed the adjacent farm are intact and visible for miles.
The route to Choquequirao is one of the best alternatives for adventurers. In addition, it is one of the few routes where you can enjoy nature. So far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Take advantage of the low influx of travelers and network with the region. Indeed, you will feel this sensation of tranquility accompanied by the pleasant aromas of the countryside, the flowers and the fresh air.
In addition, during the 5 days and 4 nights of the Choquequirao Trek, you will be able to show that you are in excellent physical shape. You can take long walks, on flat and steep paths. You can also climb mountains and descend places, plunge into the icy waters of snowy mountains and find yourself in a dream place. In fact, it is a real godsend, because few explorers make it to the end of the journey.
A trip to Choquequirao is not boring. On the contrary, it is fascinating to know what awaits you at the end of the route “The Holy Sister of Machu Picchu”; another Inca city hidden from the eyes of the world in the tropical jungle.
Trip Details
Itinerary type: Trekking, Culture and Adventure.
Length: 32 kilometers
Maximum Altitude: 3,100m / 10,170ft.
Minimum altitude: 1600 m / 5249 ft.
Companion: English speaking guide.
Difficulty level: Very difficult.
Please note that the trek does not go to Machu Picchu.
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When booking with us, you’ll benefit from a low refundable deposit payment option, flexible cancellation options and personal Customer Support. T&Cs apply.
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Our uniquely curated trips offer you the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation. Join us and see the world with other like-minded travellers who will feel like friends from day 1.
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And let’s start the adventure! This day starts very early with a pick up from your accommodation around 05:00 by appointment with your guide. It takes an average of 4 hours to get to the town of San Pedro de Cachora, in the department of Apurímac; You are in the right place for a nutritious breakfast for the workday. In this place we will also meet the helpers of the agency, such as the cacique and the muleteers, who will accompany us with the mules.
The transport usually leaves them in the area called Capuliyoc. From this point the 2-hour walk begins towards the Cocamasana sector (2,300m) where we will have lunch. Also on this route we have spectacular views of towns, valleys and snow-capped mountains.
After having lunch and resting a bit, we begin our walk with a descent of about 3 hours. in the Chiquisca area (1930 m asl). Finally we arrive at the first camp where you will enjoy a delicious cooked dinner prepared with natural products from the region. Here we rest for another pleasant day.
Lodging: Chiquisca Camp
Minimum altitude: Chiquisca 1,900 m – 6,270 feet
Maximum Altitude: Cachora 2,902 m – 9,521 ft
Distance: 7 km – 4.34 miles
Physical Level
1, Easy
DAY 2
Chiquisca - Rosalinas Beach - Choquequirao
Enjoy a nutritious breakfast early in the morning. Then you should be ready to walk another hour until you reach Playa Rosalinas. Then begins the 5 hour climb to Marampata (2850 m elevation / 9350 ft). Lunch is provided and it is also possible to visit the archaeological complex of Choquequirao.
After lunch and a short rest, it is necessary to continue walking for another 2 hours to observe different species of flora and fauna to finally reach the archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3100m above sea level). Here at the end of the complex is a campsite where you can camp and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the mountains at sunset. Knowing that you are very close to the Inca monuments, you will enjoy your dinner. Finally it is time to rest and prepare for the next day to finally visit Choquequirao.
The purpose of this day is to discover, tour and tour the entire archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3100m above sea level / 10170ft). You can also explore some places covered in lush rainforest vegetation.
There are many sectors that make up Choquequirao, some are isolated so it takes most of the day to see them, some correspond to the religious sector, the administrative sector, the granaries, the platforms of the llamas and other buildings near the religious center.
It is worth learning more about the site, its history and importance in the past, and having some free time to explore the complex on your own. Then we will have lunch and then we will continue the visit. Finally at night we enjoy dinner, after the night we rest in the same place as the day before.
Lodging: Choquequirao Camp
Minimum Altitude: Choquequirao Field 2,950m/9,676ft
Maximum Altitude: Choquequirao 3,150m/10,397ft
Physical Level
1, Easy
DAY 4
Choquequirao - Cocamasana
At dawn, after breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to Choquequirao and begin the long descent to Playa Rosalina, located on the banks of the Apurimac River (1450m), where lunch is usually served.
This stretch of road offers spectacular views of waterfalls and the impressive Grand Canyon of the Apurímac, as well as some of the fruits that are grown in the area.
From Playa Rosalinas begins a gradual ascent of 3-4 hours to the last camp of Cocamasana (2,300m above sea level). Then dinner is prepared in this place, then a break is taken.
In the morning, after a delicious breakfast, we have to continue the ascent and walk around 2 hours to reach the Capuliyoc viewpoint and take beautiful photos of our trip. Finally, continue a few meters until the entrance of cars, where the walk ends and where the horseshoe welcomes the group.
From this point, board the bus to Cusco. If the weather is good, you can stop along the way to see the enormous Saywite Stone (2684m). Certainly this stone is considered the center of religious worship, carved by the Incas to represent their empire, there are also geometric and zoomorphic figures such as reptiles, frogs, cats, flukes, etc.
After a 2-hour bus ride, take a break to enjoy the Cconoc hot springs (1826 m above sea level). After an exhausting 5-day trip, nothing better than these hot springs to relax. Return between 06:00 and 20:00 and transfer to your accommodation in Cusco.
Maximum Altitude: Cusco 3,350m – 10,990ft
Minimum Altitude: Cconoc 1,500 m – 4,921 ft
Distance: 2 km – 1.24 miles
Physical Level
1, Easy
Booking Note
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
To climb the mountain of Huayna Picchu or the Mountain of Machupicchu there are a limited number of places per day. Please check availability with us and book in advance.
The pick-up, arrival and train times are approximate and depend on the availability of the train company.
We always do our best to follow the indicated route, but it may change from time to time based on weather conditions and temporary parking restrictions, availability, weather conditions, road closures, number of guests/injuries, and natural events such as fires and floods.
ABOUT THE SERVICE
Prices are per person in US dollars USD
Program prices are based on a minimum of 2 programs in shared and private service. In case of being a single person, check if we have a confirmed group to play in the shared service.
Train, ticket and hotel reservations are subject to seat availability.
DISCOUNTS
Foreign tourists under the age of 25 get a $25 discount with a one-year student card.
Some additional services
Entrances to Huayna Picchu Mountain in $25.00
Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain for $25.00
Sleeping bag $40.00
Inflatable air mattress $40.00
Poles (walking) $40.00
Category upgrade in 4* and 5* hotels in Machu Picchu Town (Contact us)
$70.00 round trip upgrade to Scenic Rail class
Upgrade to Deluxe Rail class for $450.00 back
Pick up at their respective hotels.
Tourist transport Cusco / Cachora (departure on foot)
Entrance to Choquequirao and entrance to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
Muleteers to carry all your equipment, tents, food, kitchen utensils, restaurants and tents, passenger equipment (maximum 5kg).
All these meals are prepared by our chef and his assistant.
Equipment: kitchen and dining tent.
Tents for 2 people
First aid kit with oxygen cylinder.
Horse for emergencies.
Executive Tourist Train: Machu Picchu Town / Ollantaytambo or Poroy (subject to availability)
Roundtrip Transportation: Train Station / Hotel in Cusco.
04 nights of camping
01 night in a 3* hotel in Machu Picchu Town
24/7 support from our offices in Cusco
Sleeping bag
square or square
What to Bring
Backpack between 10 and 15 liters (that the backpack has a chest and lumbar strap that helps distribute the weight and that it has side pockets for small objects).
Waterproof layer for backpack.
Loose and preferably long pants.
Feather house and waterproof jacket.
gloves and hats.
Shoe with a thick sole and good breathability and slip resistance.
Microfiber or wool socks.
Trekking poles are very useful due to the constant up and down.
Sunscreen for face and eyes (glasses).
Insect repellent.
original passport.
wet wipes and sachets for cleaning the skin and teeth.
Flashlight with spare battery.
Extra money for guide tips and extra expenses.
Recomendations
OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS
Original passport and migration card.
Student card (valid for one year)
travel insurance
SLEEPING IMPLEMENTS
Sleeping bag (you can rent it at our agency)
Thermo-Rest mattress (rental)
CLOTHES AND ACCESSORIES
Warm clothing: layers of different temperatures, especially at night.
Thermos/gloves/scarves: socks/wool hat for cold nights, t-shirts for the whole trip.
Rain gear: a good raincoat and rain pants and a plastic rain poncho.
long hiking pants
hiking shorts
Tshirts
casual underwear and socks
hiking socks
Small towel.
waterproof gloves
Bathing suit for the spa (optional).
SHOE
Resistant, waterproof and light mountain shoe.
High heels such as sneakers or sandals or other footwear worn on our courts
TRAVEL ACCESSORIES
30-50L light backpack, easy for hiking
Walking sticks (rental at the agency)
Camel “bottle” or water bottle
personal medical kit
Personal hygiene items
Insect repellent
cleaning gel
toilet paper
Flashlight (very important)
Spare camera and batteries
additional charger
Sunscreen / cap and sunglasses
Ear protector (due to altitude changes)
EXTRA MONEY
extra money for drinks
Gratitude tips for your travel assistants (The amount you decide)
Money to buy handicrafts and/or souvenirs (soles or dollars)
Pricing List
What to Bring
Backpack between 10 and 15 liters (that the backpack has a chest and lumbar strap that helps distribute the weight and that it has side pockets for small objects).
Waterproof layer for backpack.
Loose and preferably long pants.
Feather house and waterproof jacket.
gloves and hats.
Shoe with a thick sole and good breathability and slip resistance.
Microfiber or wool socks.
Trekking poles are very useful due to the constant up and down.
Sunscreen for face and eyes (glasses).
Insect repellent.
original passport.
wet wipes and sachets for cleaning the skin and teeth.
Flashlight with spare battery.
Extra money for guide tips and extra expenses.
Travel Guide
Located in the Vilcabamba Valley in the province of La Convención (Cusco), and on the waters of the Apurímac River, is the archaeological complex of Choquequirao (3,035 meters above sea level).
This lavish Inca citadel – although less publicized than Machu Picchu due to the difficulty in reaching it – has become the region’s new and best tourist destination to visit this 2017, according to the ranking of the prestigious travel guide Lonely Planet.
It is thanks to its majestic ruins and lush vegetation that covers almost 80% of its surface, that Choquequirao has been considered the “sister city of Machu Picchu”. Undoubtedly a tourist destination that we can not miss while in Cusco.
Choquequirao, Choquequirao trek, Choquequirao Peru, Choquequirao Trek
The growing demand for visits in recent months has been the reason for the development of a technical file that would aim to build a cable car to Choquequirao, a work that in addition to reducing the time and the walk it takes to reach the complex, would increase the number of tourists per year by 150,000.
The cable car will connect the 5.4 km from the Choquequirao archeological site to the town of Kiuñalla, crossing the Apurimac River at 1,400 meters above it, in only 15 minutes. The initial station will be in Kiuñalla, the intermediate station in El Pajonal and the final station near Choquequirao.
The time it takes for this trek to Choquequirao may depend on the physical condition in which we find ourselves, although agencies usually offer journeys of 4 D/3 N. The distance from Cachora to Choquequirao is 31 km of steep roads and climbs to great heights. The total round trip is 62 Km.
Faqs Choquequirao Trek 5 days 4 nights
What will I see on the way to Choquequirao?
During this incredible excursion, we will see a lot of nature on the way, such as orchids and many species of birds, and if we are lucky, we will be able to see the fabulous bear, and when we reach the archaeological remains, we will be able to see impressive Inca constructions, which are also the peaks Taller. Machu’s beauty peaks are comparable.
How far in advance should I reserve the trek to Choquequirao?
As in all the excursions that we organize, we advise you to book at least 1 month in advance so that everything is organized when you arrive, but we can also organize it at least 2 days in advance if you make a last-minute reservation. Prior agreement and confirmation of availability.
How many groups will I see on the way to Choquequirao?
The Choquequirao road is not well known by many visitors, so there are not many groups per day. It also depends on the season. In high season from April to November you will find 2 or 3 groups per day and in low season from December to March we can be the only group excursion, so it is the most interesting excursion for our passengers because Choquequirao is comparable to a citadel to Machu Picchu in beauty and grandeur and since there are not many visitors, it is best to take pictures and connect with nature.
Can I find bathrooms on the way to Choquequirao?
In all the camps that we offer we provide you with a bathroom, don’t worry about the necessary implements, South Winds Peru provides you with everything
Do I need trekking poles?
The poles are essential, they help in the ascent and especially in the descent and lighten the knees. If you don’t have one, don’t worry, we’ll lend you a pair for 50.00 soles or $18.00.
Where can I leave my luggage?
The day before the start of the visit, our guide will give you a briefcase to store your equipment, including a sleeping bag, he will take you on horseback and you will only bring a small backpack for your ride. Personal items like camera, water, rain cover, snacks
Mario Ordoñes Quispe Salvida
In Cusco, I am your travel specialist, with more than 10 years of experience organizing adventure trips.
Book Now
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by South Winds Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.
43 Reviews | Min Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl) | Max Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl) | 5 Days from $ 1 900.00
