Trekking the Choquequirao Hike is a privilege. We will begin at the trail head, eager to reach this increasingly well-known archaeological site. Along the way, we will not see many visitors, which makes this trail something very special. We will be amazed at the impressive biodiversity and the landscape that accompanies us along the trek, that will impulse us for the challenge of reaching the Cradle of Gold. This memorable experience, will allow us to reach Choquequirao after hours of a challenging ascent, is simply indescribable. We will walk through this archaeological jewel where the Spanish never arrived, and where the architectural structure, its square, platforms, and enclosures are truly fascinating. It will be an honour to visit this magical Inca archaeological site.
Leaving approximately 5:30 am, we’ll leave the city of Cusco (3,350 m / 10,991f) for the village Cachora (2,850 m / 9,350f) to meet our horsemen and the mules that will transport all our camping equipment during the expedition. Afterward, we’ll continue to the pass of Capuliyoq (2,800 m / 9,186f).
This trek offers a stunning view of the mythical mountain Padreyoc, of the deep canyon and of the river Apurímac, meaning “speaking river”. Thereupon, we will descend towards the canyon’s interior named Chiquisca (1930m/6332f), which will lie at the bottom of the canyon for the night.
After breakfast, we will descend to La Playa Rosalina (settled at 1,550 meters/ 5,085 feet) . From there, we will continue heading for Marampata (2,850m/9,350f), where we will have a beautiful view of the archeological complex of Choquequirao (3033m/9951f). Our camping site is located 25 minutes from the settlement.
At sunrise, we will first visit the archeological site of Choquequirao. By now, only 30% of this “golden cradle” has been exposed. Thereafter, we will descend to the Apurímac canyon’s deepest part called San Ignacio at 1,500m/4,921f and have lunch. After that, we will ascend to our camping site in the beautiful gardens of Carmen (2,000m/6,562f).
Note: Because of this special region’s frequent weather changes, this day is frequently regarded as the most beautiful one. Nonetheless, some parts are slippery due to the route between Choquequirao and San Ignacio, and as such, we ask you to watch your steps carefully. It’s also recommended that you carry plenty of water with you.
The gardens of Carmen are situated close to the manor of Tambo bamba (2,500m/8,202f), a region having been governed by landowners during the 19th and 20th century and considered to be one of the most fertile valleys to cultivate maize and a variety of potatoes. We will pass little villages such as Pacobamba and Huanipaca (3,150m/10,335f) and will return to Cusco by bus.
| Service | Travelers | Prices (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Group | 1 person | US$ 650.00 |
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Cusco
Moderate difficulty
Total distance 3 Km
Maximum altitude 5.200 m
Up to 16 people
Daily departures
Cusco
Moderate difficulty
Total distance 2 Km
Maximum altitude 4.900 m
Up to 16 people
Daily departures
Cusco
Moderate difficulty
Total distance 2 Km
Maximum altitude 4.200 m
Up to 16 people
Daily departures
Cusco
Moderate to high difficulty
Total distance 33 Km
Maximum altitude 4.700 m
Up to 12 people
Daily departures
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