This lost city fascinated 19th century explorers and Hiram Bingham visited it two years before he discovered Machu Picchu. Difficult to reach, the ruins are rarely visited by travellers.
The southern approach to Choquequirao from Cachora requires a steep descent from almost 3200 metres down to the Apurimac river at 1200 metres, followed by an even steeper ascent up to the ruins. The site is perched a magnificent 1150 metres above the Apurimac, surrounded by densely-forested mountain slopes in the shadow of the huge, snowcapped Salkantay massif. In recent years, the ruins have been partially-cleared by Peruvian archaeologists, and can be easily explored by those intrepid enough to undertake the demanding trek required to get there. The Choquequirao Trek is perfect for those looking to get away from the crowds or who are looking for something other than Machu Picchu during their trip. The trek takes you to the sister city of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao (The Cradle of Gold) which sits high above the Apurimac Valley.
We leave Cusco in the early morning to journey by road to the small village of Cachora, but not before to take a delicius breakfast in Curahuasi, on the way we will have an opportunity to visit Saywite, a fascinating and unique Inca site some 47 kilometres from Abancay. Saywite is a limestone outcrop about four metres in diameter on which the Incas carved a model of their empire, Tawantinsuyo. The stone, upon which images of the flora, fauna, topography and customs of the empire of the sun were traced, was used in ceremonies dedicated to the worship of water. Several other similar rock outcrops lie scattered across the surrounding area, along the vestiges of an Inca highway, where we will arrive after four hours.
On arriving in Cachora we will be met by our mule drivers, who will load our gear on the horses and mules before we begin our first day’s hike. With the great Salkantay massif in front of us on the other side of the canyon, we will head along the edge of the Apurimac canyon, with the river almost 2000 metres below us. About half-way through the day we will begin our winding descent to the river. As we descend the s the river, heat becomes intense, and we will arrive hot and tired at the bridge which crosse to Santa Rosa, where we will be able to bathe to refresh ourselves.
Also in this place we´ll have the lunch for then continue till our first campsite in Marampata
MEALS: Lunchs, Dinner
After an early and energetic breakfast on our campsite in Marampata, we´ll climb a relatively steep trail to Choquequiraw, just 2 hours hike from Marampata, Choquequirao waith for us!!! Along the way you will observe many orchids and wild flowers as well as many types of birds from Rayanpata (cradle of Gold) 3035m. Once we´ll arrive at the archaeological site (Choquequirao) We´ll have wholle the day to explore it, after the lunch we´ll continue expluring this enegmatic place and then we´ll be in time to enjoy the sunset and maybe an opportunity to see a Condor flying.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s focus is on exploring Choquequirao. Waking up early you’ll head off on a guided tour of the site during which you’ll be shown the most important and interesting sections of the city and get to learn about the Inca culture and the close relation between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu.
Compared to Machu Picchu little is known about Choquequirao even though it has been known about for much longer. Originally discovered in the 17th century by the Spanish it lay abandoned and forgotten until recent years when tourism raised the profile of the city and exploration began. Even with this increased interest only 25% of the city has been explored and many of its secrets still wait to be discovered.
After your tour you’ll begin the trek back to Cachora along the route we came. Our campsite for tonight is Chiquiska (1800m / 5905ft.) in the base of the valley by the Apurimac River.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
An early start today will help us to avoid the worst of the heat in the canyon and guarantee us some magnificent views of the Apurimac and the surrounding peaks. On our journey we reach the lookout at Capuliyoc one final time where we say goodbye to the fabulous views of the Choquequirao ruins. We will also see the majestic snow-covered peak of Padreyoc overlooking the Apurimac Canyon while surrounded by the flora & forna special to this area. We will then climb to our final destination of San Pedro de Cachora to return to Cusco by bus.
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sleeping bag, back pack and personal items.
To drink coca tea during the day: Helps reduce the effect of altitude (avoid drinking it before going to sleep, as it could be a stimulant and you may not sleep well).
If you consider that you are not in good physical shape and want to be better acclimatized: You can ask for a tour that involves physical activity at high altitudes (trekking, mountain biking, camping, among others). Ask for more information and check our programs.
Wear appropriate clothing for trekking.
Inform us if you have setbacks or delays when arriving in Arequipa City.
Leave your heavy suitcase in Arequipa City, unless you are going to Puno City from the Colca Valley: (Ask for information about transfer to Puno City from the Colca Valley).
Inform us if you need equipment: (walking sticks, bag, boots, headlamp, among others).
Inform us if you have any health conditions.
Inform us if you have any dietary restrictions.
If you like to be out of the ordinary and regular excursions, let us know to send you our secrets trips.
Our group of experts is prepared to develop the trip on the way that you prefer, if there is any special activity that you want to do, contact us that we will kindly answer you.
We are experts in Mountaineering, Rafting, Mountain biking trekking in the deepest canyons in the world Colca and Cotahuasi, we also develop horseback riding, hiking, rock climbing, bird watching, and visits to the largest petroglyph deposit in the world, cave paintings or any other excursion that we can combine to create the best experience that you deserve.
We operate in Lima, Pisco, Paracas, Arequipa, Puno, Cusco Puerto Maldonado among others to obtain an immediate response from our travel agent, contact us at whatsapp number +51939394105 or write to our corporate emails:
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