The Choquequirao ruins are situated at an elevation of about 3,050 meters (10,010 feet) above sea level and cover an area of approximately 1,800 hectares (4,450 acres). The site consists of terraces, plazas, residential buildings, agricultural areas, and religious structures, including temples and ceremonial platforms.
Choquequirao remained hidden and largely unknown to the outside world until the 20th century, when it was rediscovered by archaeologists. The remote location and difficult terrain contribute to its lesser-known status compared to the famous Machu Picchu. The site is accessed via a challenging hike that typically takes several days, offering a more secluded and off the beaten path experience for adventurous travelers.
Visiting Choquequirao allows visitors to explore an authentic and relatively intact Inca site. The ruins are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including deep canyons and snow-capped peaks. The lack of crowds compared to Machu Picchu also adds to the appeal for those looking for a quieter, more intimate archaeological experience.
Overall, Choquequirao offers a unique opportunity to explore an ancient Inca site in a remote and picturesque setting. It attracts travelers looking for a more challenging and less crowded alternative to Machu Picchu, providing an enriching experience for those interested in Inca history and archaeology.
Day 1: Cusco-Capuliyoc- Chiquisca.
Day 2: Chiquisca- Marampata – Choquequirao.
Day 3: Choquequirao-Chiquisca.
Day 4: Chiquisca- Capuliyoc- Cusco.
We pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco and drive four hours to Cachora, the start of our hike on the edge of an expansive and deep canyon. The trek begins with a 4-hour descent, which brings us closer to the roaring Apurimic river. Hikers will immediately notice the peace and quiet of this Inca trail alternative, as well as a night sky studded with twinkling stars.
We start the day early with a short descent along the river, followed by a three-hour uphill stretch as the sun rises over the canyon. The tough climb proves rewarding as we catch our first glimpses of the ruins. We will pause at the rural village of Maranpata, before continuing to the ruins. Upon arrival, we will explore the ancient, pre-Incan civilization, pondering how and why the ancient city was built, and in what way the Incans and later, Spaniards, used the walls and buildings. We will spend the night at a campsite just 20 minutes from the ruins.
After breakfast, we will have more opportunity to explore the ruins, before we retrace our steps toward Maranpata and the Apurimac River. Not far from the river, we will set up camp for the third and final night of the trek.
On our final day, we repeat the steep climb up the walls of the canyon and toward the pass of Capuliyoc, absorbing the stunning mountain views. The remainder of the trail travels among rolling farmlands until we reach the small town of Cachora. On the ride back to Cusco, we will stop at another archeological site to explore before arriving back at the hotel around dinner time.
Note: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other events which are beyond our control. We will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.
Please Inquire if you would like to add on the Machu Picchu extension!
×Trekking poles (Available to rent in Cusco)
× Tips for Guide, Driver and Cook-(Please keep in mind that tipping is common in Latin America and would be greatly appreciated)
× Travelers Insurance/ Medical Insurance
REMINDERS: It’s possible that any part of the program might change due to circumstances out of our control such as weather conditions, flight schedules, etc.
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.