Group
2 or more people
4 Days
Choquequirao, meaning “Cradle of Gold”, is an impressive archaeological complex located in the Vilcabamba mountain range in the Cusco region. This area is believed to have been the last refuge of the Incas during the resistance led by Manco Inca II.
Likely built by Túpac Yupanqui, Choquequirao is renowned for its terraces adorned with llamas and a shepherd in the Llamachayoc sector. These terraces are notable for the use of vertically placed stones. Additionally, in the Pacchayoq sector, you can observe an advanced water channel system irrigating a complex of agricultural terraces. The steep inclination of the slopes where these terraces are located is truly remarkable.
During the trek, you will enjoy spectacular geography as well as the native flora and fauna of the region, which includes inter-Andean valleys and tropical jungle. Temperatures can range from a minimum of 5ºC (41ºF) at night to a maximum of 23ºC (73ºF) during the day.
It is recommended to follow ecotourism principles, respecting and protecting the environment, archaeological sites, and local customs.
We leave early from Cusco heading northwest, crossing the famous Pampas de Anta or Yawar Pampa, the site of a fierce battle between the Incas and the Chankas. We pass through the warm town of Limatambo (2600 m), where the archaeological site of Tarawasi is located. Next, we cross the Cunyac Bridge over the Apurímac River and continue to San Pedro de Cachora (2909 m), where we will have lunch and begin our trek.
The trail leads us to the Capuliyoq viewpoint (2941 m), offering spectacular views of the Apurímac River and Choquequirao. From there, we descend via a zigzagging path to Chikiska (1836 m), where we will camp. The total walking time for the day is approximately 6 hours, covering a distance of 19 km (12 miles).
After breakfast, we descend to Playa Rosalina (1800 m) and cross the bridge over the Apurímac River. Then, we ascend to Santa Rosa (2095 m) and Marampata (2913 m), where we will rest and enjoy splendid views of Choquequirao. We continue to the INC campsite in Choquequirao (2847 m).
In the afternoon, we visit the Pacchayoq sector, which includes terraces, water channels, and a spectacular setting. The total walking time for the day is 8 hours, covering a distance of 14 km (8 miles).
We explore the Urin, Llamachayoc, and Hanan sectors, returning to the campsite for lunch. Afterward, we descend along the same path to Chikiska, where we can enjoy a refreshing rustic shower. The total walking time for the day is approximately 9 hours.
We start early to climb to the Capuliyoq viewpoint, a journey of about 5 hours. We then walk along a flat section toward San Pedro de Cachora, arriving in 2.5 hours. We have lunch and return to Cusco, with the option to visit the sites highlighted on the first day. We arrive in Cusco around 8:00 PM. The total walking time for the day is 8 hours.
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
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