This walk is a great alternative for those people who love to enjoy nature, culture and Inca architecture. In addition to being considered a strenuous hike and only recommended for people in good physical condition, there is the possibility of renting a saddle horse to get to this important architectural complex. Choquequirao, also called the sacred sister of Machu Picchu, is an important Inca archaeological site located at 3,500 meters above sea level in the district of Santa Teresa, Province of La Convencion, department of Cusco. This tourist attraction is currently being highly visited since it has a large area and consists of several architectural enclosures. In addition, because it is located in a mountainous area, it has a variety of wild flora and fauna. Don’t hesitate and get to know this place that is different from the traditional route.
4:00 – 04:30 am we will pass by our clients’ respective hotels to begin this great adventure. We will drive along the main road Cusco – Abancay, on the way we will take a detour towards the town of Cachora where we will arrive in approximately 4 hours. It is here where we will have our breakfast and then continue on our transportation for about 30 more minutes to Capuliyoc. It is in this place that we will begin our walk of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes to Chiquisca. It is here where we can have lunch and have some free time before continuing our descent to Rosalina beach, which is located at 1500 meters above sea level and where the Apurímac River is, which is the division between 2 departments: Apurímac and Cusco. We will cross the Rosalina bridge then we enter the department of Cusco again, from here we begin an ascent to our camp in Santa Rosa (1915 meters above sea level).
After a comforting breakfast, we will continue the ascent, this day we ascend to the community of Marampata (2870 meters above sea level), this is where we will leave all our things since our camping night will be here. We will continue for 2 more hours until we reach Choquequirao and make a full-day visit. We will enjoy a picnic lunch and continue our exploration.
In the afternoon, we will return to the town of Marampata, where we will camp.
After breakfast, we begin our return walk and descent to Rosalina beach, it is here where we will have lunch and enjoy a rest before beginning the ascent to Chiquisca (1910 meters above sea level) where we will camp.
After breakfast, although this time it will be a little earlier, we begin our approximately 3-hour ascent to Capuliyoc. Our idea is to leave early and thus avoid the intense sun on the walk. We will arrive at Capuliyoc and here we will say goodbye to the support staff and muleteers to board our return transportation to Cusco, we will be arriving at approximately 1:00 pm.
Keep in mind that the total route of this walk is approximately 55 KM.
A group tour means that it is open for other hikers to join.
2 Travelers: $ 0 per person
3 Travelers: $ 0 per person
4 Travelers: $ 0 per person
5 Travelers: $ 0 per person
6 Travelers: $ 0 per person
7 Travelers: $ 0 per person
8 more Travelers: $ 0 per person
Private tours are available and the price depends on the size of the group.
It is essential to know the level of difficulty to prepare properly. The hike has a medium-high level of difficulty, so good physical preparation and previous experience on long-duration hikes is recommended.
It is important to know what services are included in the tour price to plan the budget appropriately. The price of the tour includes pick-up from the hotel by private bus, entrance tickets to the archaeological complex, professional guide, food, camping equipment, first aid kit, muleteers and mules, return transportation to Cusco and transfer to the hotel. However, there are additional expenses such as breakfast on the first day, dinner on the last day, entrance to the thermal baths, extra horse to carry personal equipment, sleeping bag and extra services such as tips.
Knowing the total duration of the tour and the daily itinerary is essential to properly plan your trip. The tour lasts 4 days and each day has specific activities that include hiking, visits to archaeological sites and breaks.
It is essential to know what items are necessary to carry during the hike to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. It is recommended to bring a backpack, original passport, change of clothes, warm clothes, hiking shoes, small towel, bathing clothes (in case of going to the hot springs), rain poncho, water bottle, camera, repellent, sunscreen, hat, flashlight, toilet paper and water bottle with purifying pills. Additionally, there are optional items such as rubber-covered canes, snacks, and energy bars.
Knowing the maximum altitude is important to properly prepare and prevent altitude sickness. During the hike, the altitude reaches 3500 meters above sea level. It is recommended to acclimatize properly before the hike, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and tobacco consumption, and consult a doctor if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.