Inca ruins in Choquequirao are considerably larger than those in Machu Picchu. Currently, Choquequirao is believed to be a hidden and not simply accessible archaelogical jewel. Only about 30% of the ruins are uncovered. The administration considers to build a cableway that will shorten the journey from 2 days to just 20 minutes. This will make it accessible to the public, and this archaeological complex will be at least as well known as Machu Picchu. Before this happens, we offer to visit the site of Choquequirao somewhat more adventurous, in the form of a 5-day trek in the Andean nature and without hordes of tourists. This trek is one of the most challenging ones due to steep ascents and descents and significantly warm climate.

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DAY 1: CUSCO - CACHORA - CHIKISKA

 

Early in the morning we leave Cusco and after 4 hours we arrive at Cachora. Here we meet a group of professionals (guides, chefs, berears) who will accompany us during our trip. After a short break we start the trek. Our first camp will be in Chikiska.

 

Length of trek: 6h

 

 

DAY 2: CHIKISKA - SANTA ROSA

 

The next day will be full of sharp descents and ascents. The climate may be very warm. To minimize fatigue, we recommend the lowest weight possible of your personal backpack. After the breakfast, we descend into the impressive canyon of the Apurimac River. We'll stop and have lunch at Playa Rosalina. After the lunch and a little rest, there will be a 2.5 hour walk to Santa Rosa, where we will spend the night in the camp.

 

Length of trek: 5h

 

 

DAY 3: SANTA ROSA - CHOQUEQUIRAO

 

Today's trek will start early in the morning to take advantage of morning pleasant temperatures and avoid afternoon heats. For lunch we stop at Marampata. In the afternoon, after two-hor walk we arrive at the Choquequirao archaeological complex. Here we spend the night at a local camp located directly on the Inca terraces.

 

Length of trek: 4h

 

 

DAY 4: CHOQUEQUIRAO - CHIKISKA

 

We spend the morning exploring the Choquequirao archaeological site and visiting the local museum with the objects found during the site's excavations. When we're lucky, we'll also see Andean condors. Then we set off back to Santa Rosa, where we will have lunch. Later we arrive at Chikiska, where we will stay overnight at the local camp.

 

Trek length: 7hrs

 

 

DAY 5: CHIKISKA - CACHORA - CUSCO

 

We will wake up very soon and after the breakfast we ascend to our starting point of the trek, to Chachora. Here we will have lunch and board the bus back to Cusco. We arrive in Cusco at around 6 pm.