The Choquequirao Trek is an exhilarating 4-day, 3-night adventure that unveils the lost Inca citadel, often dubbed the ‘twin sister of Machu Picchu.’ Trekkers can enjoy the region’s rich history and stunning Andean landscapes, with the chance to spot captivating wildlife along the way. With free cancellation and a range of inclusions, this transformative experience offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most intriguing archaeological sites. As the trek winds through the remote Andes, the promise of uncovering the secrets of this long-forgotten Inca stronghold beckons.
Key Points
- The Choquequirao Trek is a 4-day, 3-night trekking adventure that visits the lost Inca city of Choquequirao, referred to as the ‘twin sister of Machu Picchu’.
- The trek includes a guided tour of the Choquequirao ruins, showcasing the architectural prowess and strategic placement of the ancient site.
- Participants will traverse picturesque Andean landscapes, with opportunities to spot Andean wildlife, such as condors, during the descent.
- The trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.
- Restrictions and guidelines, such as no wheelchair access and no pregnant women, ensure a responsible and fulfilling trekking experience.
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Tour Description
The Choquequirao Trek is a 4-day, 3-night trekking adventure that takes travelers to the lost Inca city of Choquequirao, often referred to as the ‘twin sister of Machu Picchu.’
This trek offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
The itinerary includes a guided tour of the Choquequirao ruins, showcasing the main esplanade, Usno, workshops, and platform sector. Hikers will also have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking Apurimac canyon along the way.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a professional Spanish guide, meals, camping equipment, and the entrance fee to Choquequirao. Certain restrictions apply, making this trek unsuitable for wheelchair users and pregnant women.
Itinerary Overview
The Choquequirao Trek spans 4 days and 3 nights, taking adventurers on a journey to the lost Inca city of Choquequirao.
On the first day, trekkers depart Cusco at 4:30 am and make their way to Cachora, where they’ll commence the hike through Andean landscapes. They’ll arrive at Chiquisca for lunch before descending to Rosalina beach and ascending to the Santa Rosa camp.
The second day involves a trek to Marampata, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the Choquequirao ruins, including the main esplanade, Usno, Workshops, and Platform Sector, before returning to the Marampata camp.
The trek continues with a descent from Choquequirao, lunch at Rosalina beach, and an ascent to the Chikiska camp on the third day.
Day 1: Capulilloc to Rosalina Beach
Trekkers depart Cusco at 4:30 am, heading to Cachora where they’ll commence the hike through Andean landscapes.
The first day’s journey takes them to the Chiquisca campsite for lunch, followed by a descent to the Rosalina beach.
From there, they’ll ascend to the Santa Rosa camp for the night.
Traverse through picturesque Andean scenery.
Enjoy views of the majestic Padreyoc and Wayna peaks.
Stop for lunch at the Chiquisca campsite.
Descend to Rosalina beach before ascending to Santa Rosa camp.
Day 2: Santa Rosa to Choquequirao
From the Santa Rosa camp, trekkers will next make their way up to Marampata, affording them sweeping vistas of the Apurimac canyon below.
Upon reaching Marampata, they’ll embark on a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Choquequirao ruins, exploring its main esplanade, Usno, workshops, and platform sector.
This lost Inca citadel, often referred to as the ‘twin sister of Machu Picchu,’ offers a glimpse into the empire’s architectural prowess and its strategic placement overlooking the Apurimac River.
After the guided tour, trekkers will return to the Marampata camp to rest and prepare for the next day’s descent back down to the Rosalina beach.
Day 3: Choquequirao to Chikiska
In an article titled ‘Choquequirao Trek 4 Days 3 Nights’, it’s now time to discuss the CURRENT SUBTOPIC ‘Day 3: Choquequirao to Chikiska’.
After a restful night at the Marampata camp, trekkers now descend from Choquequirao, afforded sweeping vistas of the Apurimac canyon below as they make their way to Rosalina beach for lunch.
The descent offers:
- Breathtaking panoramas of the remote Inca citadel
- Opportunities to spot Andean wildlife like condors
- A chance to reflect on the scale and isolation of this ancient site
- Respite from the higher elevations at the tranquil Rosalina beach
From here, trekkers begin their ascent to the Chikiska camp, ending another rewarding day of this iconic Peruvian adventure.
Day 4: Chikiska to Capuliyoc
After packing up camp at Chikiska, the return walk to Capuliyoc pass affords trekkers one final chance to soak in the dramatic vistas of the Apurimac canyon. From this high vantage point, they’ll savor panoramic views before beginning the descent back to the trailhead at Capuliyoc. The descent offers ample opportunities to reflect on the journey and take in the diverse Andean landscapes one last time. Upon reaching Capuliyoc, trekkers will bid farewell to this ancient Inca citadel and board the transport back to Cusco, cherishing memories of their transformative experience in the heart of the Andes.
| Ascent | Descent | |
|---|---|---|
| Steady | Rewarding | Gradual |
| Scenic | Reflective | Relaxed |
| Challenging | Invigorating | Enjoyable |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Choquequirao trek package includes several key elements to ensure a comfortable and immersive experience for trekkers. This includes:
- Hotel pickup and transport to/from the starting and ending points of the trek
- The services of a professional Spanish-speaking guide to provide in-depth commentary on the Inca ruins and the surrounding landscape
- All meals during the trek, with 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners provided
- Camping equipment such as tents, sleeping pads, and cooking gear
However, the package does exclude a few items, such as the sleeping bag, trekking poles, and the first breakfast and last lunch. Trekkers should also note that the trek isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, and certain restricted items aren’t allowed.
Restrictions and Guidelines
Certain restrictions and guidelines apply for the Choquequirao trek to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. The trek isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, and trekkers can’t bring alcohol, drugs, litter, electronic devices, fireworks, or explosives. To further understand the guidelines, consider the following table:
| Guideline | Rationale |
|---|---|
| No Wheelchair Access | Rugged terrain unsuitable |
| No Pregnant Women | Safety concerns for mother and baby |
| No Alcohol or Drugs | Maintain focus and awareness |
| No Electronics | Preserve nature experience |
| No Hazardous Items | Prevent safety risks |
Following these guidelines helps create a responsible and fulfilling trekking experience for everyone involved.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for the Trek?
The average group size for this trek is typically small, usually between 4 to 8 participants. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as the group navigates the challenging terrain and remote location together.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Trek?
The trek has no age restrictions, but it may not be suitable for young children or elderly travelers. The challenging hike requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility for all participants.
Can I Hire a Porter to Carry My Personal Belongings?
Yes, you can hire a porter to carry your personal belongings during the trek. Most tour operators offer this service for an additional fee. This can be a convenient option if you don’t want to carry all your gear yourself.
Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Trek?
The tour operator offers private treks for an additional fee. Private treks allow travelers to personalize their experience and have a guide dedicated solely to their group. Upgrades can be booked at the time of reservation.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This provides flexibility for travelers, as they can reserve the tour and pay later without penalty if their plans change.
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Recap
The Choquequirao Trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the lost Inca city and take in the breathtaking Andean landscapes.
With a well-structured itinerary, reliable inclusions, and flexible cancellation policies, this trek provides a transformative experience for travelers seeking to discover the rich history and natural beauty of the region.