Choquequirao Trek (5 Days)

The Choquequirao Trek offers adventurous travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy Peru’s stunning landscapes and uncover the secrets of a lesser-known Inca site. This 5-day journey promises breathtaking vistas, cultural insights, and the thrill of exploration, all while traversing rugged terrain and enjoying comfortable camping accommodations. With professional guides, nourishing meals, and support staff, the trek caters to those with strong physical fitness. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that showcases the incredible diversity of Peru, the Choquequirao Trek is a must-consider adventure.

About Your Stay

• A 5-day excursion to the lesser-known Inca site of Choquequirao, translating to "Cradle of Gold" in Quechua, through diverse landscapes.
• The trek features a small-group experience with professional guides, camping equipment, and a team including a cook and horsemen with mules.
• Comfortable campsite accommodations with North Face or Eureka tents, high-quality mattresses, and an eating tent for meals prepared by a professional cook.
• Included meals and snacks throughout the trek, with vegetarian options available, to ensure nourishing sustenance during the exploration.
• A high level of physical fitness is required due to the challenging ascents, descents, and rugged terrain, with a risk of altitude sickness at high altitudes.

Overview of the Trek

The Choquequirao Trek is a 5-day excursion that takes adventurous travelers to one of Peru’s least-known Inca sites, Choquequirao, nestled high in the Andes mountains.

Meaning "Cradle of Gold" in Quechua, this remote ruin offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from arid slopes to dense cloud forests.

With a 5.0 rating based on 1 review, the trek is sure to impress those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru.

Travelers can expect a small-group experience, professional guides, and all necessary camping equipment provided to ensure a comfortable and memorable journey to this hidden Inca gem.

Detailed Itinerary

On the first day of the Choquequirao Trek, travelers start their journey with a hearty breakfast included in the tour.

Hiking poles are available to rent, and sleeping bags are provided. Over the next four days, the trek takes hikers through diverse landscapes, from arid slopes to dense cloud forests.

Lunch and dinner are also included each day. The tour includes a small group of no more than 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

A professional bilingual guide, cook, horseman, and mules for camping gear and luggage up to 8 kg are provided. An emergency horse is available for groups over 6 people, and a first-aid kit and oxygen bottle are included for safety.

Campsite Accommodations

Providing comfortable accommodations throughout the trek, the tour includes North Face or Eureka tents, designed to comfortably house two people.

High-quality mattresses ensure a good night’s rest after a day of hiking. An eating tent with a table and chairs offers a cozy space for meals.

For convenience, a bathroom tent is also provided. The tour includes all necessary camping equipment, allowing trekkers to focus on the stunning landscapes and Inca ruins rather than logistical details.

With these amenities, the Choquequirao Trek offers an enjoyable and well-supported wilderness experience.

Included Meals and Snacks

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included on the Choquequirao Trek, with vegetarian options available for those with dietary restrictions.

The tour provides 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, along with snacks throughout the day. Meals are prepared by a professional cook and served in the provided eating tent, which has tables and chairs for a comfortable dining experience.

The inclusion of meals ensures trekkers can focus on the adventure without worrying about food. With varied menu options, everyone can enjoy nourishing meals to fuel their exploration of the incredible Choquequirao ruins and surrounding landscapes.

Support Staff and Gear

To ensure a seamless and well-supported trek, the Choquequirao tour includes a team of experienced professionals. A professional bilingual guide leads the group, providing expertise on the Inca ruins and the local environment.

A dedicated cook prepares the included meals, while a horseman and mules handle the camping gear and luggage, carrying up to 8 kg per person. For larger groups, an emergency horse is available if needed.

The tour also provides essential equipment like North Face or Eureka tents, high-quality mattresses, and a comfortable eating tent with tables and chairs. Plus, a first-aid kit and oxygen bottle are on hand for any emergencies.

Meeting and Pickup

The Choquequirao trek begins with pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historic center, not private residences or locations outside the city center.

The tour departs at 6:00 am sharp, so prompt arrival is essential. The logistics are straightforward:

1. Pickup location: Hotels in Cusco’s historic center.
2. Pickup time: 6:00 am.
3. Departure point: Cachora trailhead.
4. Duration of the trek: 5 days.

This arrangement ensures a seamless start to the unforgettable Choquequirao adventure.

Travelers are advised to be ready and waiting at their hotel lobby to maximize the trekking experience.

Physical Fitness Requirements

Strong physical fitness is required for the Choquequirao trek. This multi-day hike involves challenging ascents and descents through rugged Andean terrain.

Participants should be able to trek for 6-8 hours per day while carrying a daypack. The trail includes steep, rocky sections that require good balance and stability.

Trekkers must be prepared for high altitudes, which can cause altitude sickness. Those with any serious medical conditions or mobility issues should avoid this trek.

It’s not suitable for pregnant travelers or those who aren’t physically active. Proper training and preparation are essential for successfully completing the Choquequirao trek.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Choquequirao trek.

The policy for this tour is clear and straightforward. There are no refunds available for cancellations. Plus, the trek isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Strong physical fitness is required, as the hike can be quite challenging. The pricing starts from $538.47 per person.

To summarize the key booking and cancellation details:

1. Confirmation provided at time of booking
2. No refunds for cancellations
3. Not wheelchair accessible
4. Strong physical fitness required

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do the Trek?

The best time to do this trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. Hikers can expect clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and fewer rain interruptions during this period.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear?

You can bring your own camping gear, but the tour provides high-quality equipment that’s included in the price. Using the provided gear ensures a comfortable experience and streamlines the trek’s logistics.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no specific age restrictions, but the trek is not recommended for young children or the elderly due to its physically demanding nature. Participants should be in good physical condition to complete the trek safely.

What Is the Cell Phone Coverage Like During the Trek?

Cell phone coverage is limited during the trek due to the remote and rugged mountain terrain. Travelers should expect sporadic or no coverage for most of the hike, so they should plan accordingly.

Can I Extend the Trek to More Than 5 Days?

Yes, the trek can be extended beyond the standard 5-day itinerary. Travelers can opt for a longer trek that includes more time to explore Choquequirao and the surrounding region. Additional days can be added for a more immersive experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Choquequirao Trek offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Peru’s hidden Inca wonder. With skilled guides, comfortable camping, and delectable meals, adventurers can enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. However, the physically demanding nature of the trek requires participants to be in excellent shape. For those up for the challenge, this 5-day journey promises an unforgettable experience of discovery and wonder.