Choquequirao Trek Information

About the Site: Choquequirao Trek Background

Known as Machu Picchu´s “sister”, Choquequirao is the ruins of an ancient Inca city.  It is similar in both structure and architecture to the better-known Machu Picchu.  In addition, Choquequirao served as a citadel and religious site, creating an important link between Cusco and the Amazon.

Recovery and restoration of Choquequirao has begun only recently, and the site has yet to gain the popularity of Machu Picchu. The primary reason  is accessibility: deep canyons the surround Choquequirao making for a challenging hike from any direction. However, for trekkers and  lovers of solitude, this is a blessing!

While at Machu Picchu you may be surrounded by 3,000 other tourists, Choquequirao hosts this number in a year. Today, you can visit the spectacular ruins, admire the Vilcabamba mountain range and Apurimac River Valley all in relative seclusion. Another major highlight is the “llama terraces”; an area with the forms of llamas built into the expansive terracing system that surrounds the main structures.

In addition to rich Inca history, Choquequirao also hosts some of the richest biodiversity in all of Peru. Located at an elevation of roughly 9,800 feet, the area is characterized by mountain topography.  However, it  hosts Amazonian flora and fauna. It is not uncommon to see giant ferns and a wide variety of orchids, as well as condors, vizcachas (similar to chinchillas), and vicuñas.

Because of it´s beautiful scenery, history, and skillful construction, Choquequirao clearly makes an incredible tourist attraction. For years, the Peruvian government and other stakeholders have sought to draw visitors with an ambitious cable car system.  At this point construction on this project has not begun, but it is likely it will move forward soon. In the time being, we recommend taking the opportunity to explore this amazing site and beautiful surroundings in solitude. It´s an unforgettable experience that may not be possible in a couple of years!

Choquequirao Trek Elevations and Route Locations

The most popular Choquequirao trek begins with a drive from Cusco, to the town of Cachora. From the trailhead, trekkers descend to the floor of the Apurimac Canyon. This leg features stunning views of snowcapped peaks, breathtaking drops and possibly a soaring condor.

Early the next morning, you´ll begin the steep ascent to the ruins of Choquequirao.  Because the floor of the canyon can be  hot, the goal is to ascend early.   Next, spend the afternoon exploring the spacious ruins.  In the evening, enjoy the opportunity to camp just below the ruins.

After a full afternoon to explore, many hikers choose to return to Cachora.   However,  a second option is to continue trekking along several remote routes. One option is to continue to the high jungle, in the direction of Vilcabamba. This is a beautiful, challenging, and varied trek.  It offers the opportunity to hike along original Inca-constructed trails and visit the ruins of Vitcos, “last refuge of the Incas”. From there, many trekkers choose to continue to Machu Picchu. While this isn´t necessary, it is a lovely ending to a trek that highlights major Inca ruins.

While there are other paths that can be followed after Choquequirao, this is the route that Ayni Peru recommends.  Indeed, it is the most popular of  our Choquequirao treks. Including Machu Picchu, this is normally an 8D/7N route, covering approximately 90 kilometers (until arrival in Huancacalle).

Here are some approximate key altitudes along the route:

• Cachora: 2,915 m
• Chiccisca: 1,836 m
• Choquequirao: 3,050 m
• Choqetacarpo Pass: 4,600 m
• Huancacalle: 2,900 m
• Machu Picchu: 2,430 m

Important Choquequirao Trekking Considerations

• This is a physically challenging trek, perhaps the most challenging in the area! Choquequirao is for fit, adventurous trekkers; training prior to departure is recommended, as is multiple days at altitude before beginning.
• The Choquequirao trek begins at a low elevation, but you will climb higher, finally ending in the high jungle. Most days should be warm, but some nights and early mornings will be cold.   Prepare for changing weather conditions by packing in layers, with the expectation of varied weather conditions.
• Because of the high elevations reached along the trek, we recommend spending a minimum of two full days at altitude prior to departure. This will allow you to get acclimatized to the higher altitude and will help make your trekking adventure both safer and more enjoyable.
• The best time for a Choquequirao trek is usually between May and September. This is Peru’s winter, known as the dry season. Once the wet season begins, the deep canyons and powerful rivers that characterize the route can become unsafe due to landslides.