Choquequirao Trek 5 Days

HIGHLIGHTS

• Embark on a journey to Choquequirao, known as the “Cradle of Gold,” often referred to as Machu Picchu’s “sister city.”
• Conquer a physically demanding challenge through steep ascents and descents in the breathtaking Apurimac Canyon.
• Revel in the dramatic landscapes and diverse flora and fauna found along the way.
• Witness majestic condors soaring through the skies over Choquequirao in the afternoon.
• Experience a more secluded and authentic trek, distinct from the crowded classic Inca Trail.
• Trek through remote villages, gaining insight into the lives of the Peruvian people living in these less-traveled regions.
• Delight in vistas of snow-capped mountains and awe-inspiring Incan ruins.

Why Choose the Choquequirao Trek 5 Days with Us?

• Our horsemen are treated with utmost respect, ensuring they receive fair wages, comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and proper equipment. We prioritize their well-being and support social projects to enhance their lives.
• We are a practical, punctual, and reliable travel company, extending a warm welcome to both individuals and groups. Our reputation can be validated through our reviews on TripAdvisor.
• At Inca Trail Specialist, our team of horsemen, guides, drivers, and cooks receive their salaries promptly upon completing their duties.
• We exclusively lead our Choquequirao trek 4 days groups, avoiding the merging of groups with other companies.
• Our trekking groups are intentionally kept small, with a maximum size of 2 to 8 people. This sets us apart from companies that accommodate larger groups. However, for families or groups exceeding 8 people, we can seamlessly tailor your Choquequirao journey as well.
• Inca Trail Specialist is a 100% locally owned travel company, fully licensed to operate the Choquequirao trek.
• Our tour guides are committed to staying updated with the latest knowledge and have an extensive professional development program. We take immense pride in showcasing the captivating and astonishing Choquequirao experience.

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 5-DAY ITINERARY

Day 1: Cachora – Coca Masana – Playa Rosalina

We’ll pick you up at your hotel around 5:00 am and embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Cachora. During the bus ride, you’ll be treated to views of the majestic, snow-capped peaks of Salkantay and Veronica, revered as the Holy Gods of the Incas. As we continue our journey, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes of the upper and lower valleys, painted in vibrant hues. After reaching Cachora (2,900m above sea level), a quintessential Andean town, we proceed for an hour to Capulliyuc, where our horsemen await. Here, our skilled cook will prepare a delightful meal to fuel us for a two-hour trek to Chikiska (2,115m). Along the way, you’ll be greeted with your first panoramic views of the Apurimac Valley and the snow-clad summits of Padreyoc and Wayna Cachora (5,482m). As we descend through the eastern Andean slopes to Coca Masana (2,330m), the temperature rises, and you’ll notice a shift in flora and fauna. We eventually reach Playa Rosalina (Rosalina Beach) at 1,550m, where we’ll set up our tents beside the roaring Apurimac River.

Day 2: Playa Rosalina – Maranpata or Choquequirao

An early wake-up call at 5:00 am starts your day with a cup of coca tea delivered to your tent. After packing up and indulging in a wholesome breakfast, we embark on a hike towards Maranpata or Choquequirao, arriving around mid-day. Here, we encounter the archaeological site and explore it, uncovering the incredible skill and intelligence of those who built these ruins. The site offers us a glimpse into the golden age of the Inca civilization. While admiring the site’s beauty, condors grace the skies, typically appearing around 3 p.m. in the Choquequirao area, soaring to higher altitudes. Later, we follow a path to Raqaypata, where we establish our campsite. After dinner, we rest for the night.

Day 3: Choquequirao All Day

Day three is the climax of our journey, as we dedicate the day to soaking in the historical and architectural marvels of Choquequirao. Your guide will spend around 5 hours narrating the highlights of Choquequirao, acquainting you with the eight sectors of this remarkable site, including granaries, residences, temples, and terraces. We’ll observe three levels of excavated ruins of this late Inca town, ranging from those under current excavation to yet-unexplored areas that hold clues about the final sanctuary of the oppressed Inca empire. The afternoon brings another chance to witness the majestic flight of condors, and, with a stroke of luck, you’ll see them up close. In the evening, we return to our campsite, enjoy a well-deserved meal, and spend the night amidst the serenity of Choquequirao.

Day 4: Choquequirao – Santa Rosa – Chiquiska

After an early breakfast, we prepare for our journey back to Cusco, bidding farewell to the awe-inspiring Choquequirao Inca site. We start the hike by descending towards the town of Santa Rosa. Here, the landscape becomes increasingly lush, and the weather turns warmer. We continue our journey, reaching Playa Rosalina. From here, we make our way to Chiquiska, where we’ll enjoy lunch and spend the night.

Day 5: Chiquiska – Cachora – Cusco

A 5:00 am wake-up call greets you with a cup of coca tea delivered to your tent. After packing up and savoring a delicious breakfast, we undertake a challenging climb that takes around 4 hours, eventually leading us to Mirador Capuliyoq. Here, our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, and we anticipate arriving by 5:00 to 6:00 pm.

Inclusions

• Entrance fee to Choquequirao.
• English speaking guide, plus an assistant guide for big groups.
• Professional cook and an assistant cook for a big group and horseman for the mules and horses.
• Mules which carry group gear and large duffels provided by the company, for personal belongings.
• All food on the trek, which incorporates traditional Peruvian cuisine as well as modern fusion cuisine and specific dietary needs.
• Boiled water and snacks.
• Large Dining tent, table, stools, all cutlery, and kitchen tent.
• Tents to overnight, and Thermarest. Two-person tents are provided for a single person and three-person tents for double people to provide plenty of space for personal gear.
• Additional horses for riding can be provided for an additional cost.
• First aid kit, including oxygen.
• A pre-trek briefing.

Not Included

• tips
• Snacks and drinks during the tour.

What To Bring To Tour Maras, Moray and Sacred Valley

• Valid passport.
• Sneakers or running shoes.
• Long, comfortable trousers and a windbreaker.
• Sweater and a lightweight shirt.
• Raincoat or poncho – as it can rain at any time of the year.
• Camera with a fully charged battery and ample memory.
• Insect repellent (for sandflies).
• Sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Personal first aid kit (personal medications).
• Water bottle with 1-2 liters of water.
• Compact backpack.
• Snacks (prices are higher in Aguas Calientes!).
• Padlock for a locker at the hostel.
• Towel.

Aditional Info

The operator strives to offer tours and activities with a low level of risk and difficulty, ensuring the safety of the participants. However, it is important to take into account the following considerations:

•  Client’s Responsibility: Any loss of personal belongings or accident occurring during the tour is the sole responsibility of the client. It is recommended to take adequate precautions to protect your belongings and personal safety.
• Variations in the Service: The service is subject to variations without prior notice due to adverse weather conditions (rains, floods, floods, etc.), strikes, demonstrations or other unforeseen events that may affect the planned itinerary. In case of cancellation for these reasons, no refunds will be made. The operator will endeavor to offer a contingency plan with an alternative tour.
•  Itinerary Flexibility: The itinerary may be modified by the operator, always prioritizing the safety of the travelers and the optimal development of the service as a whole. These modifications will be made according to the operator’s criteria and in order to guarantee the best possible experience.
• Early Withdrawal: If a participant decides to withdraw before the end of the service, no refund will be made for the unused portion of the tour.
• Recommended Snacks: If you choose to bring or purchase snacks during the tours, we recommend that they be light, such as dried fruits, cookies and water, to maintain comfort during the activity.
•  Attendance on the Day of the Service: If a client does not attend the day of the service without prior notice, the service will be considered to have been carried out and there will be no room for claims, postponements or refunds.

Please be aware of these conditions when participating in tours and activities with this operator. The safety and well-being of travelers are a priority, but it is important to be prepared and understand the company’s policies in order to enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions

what is the 5 day Choquequirao trek?

The 5-day Choquequirao trek is an exciting adventure that takes you to one of the last refuges of the Inca civilization, the archaeological site of Choquequirao. During this trek, you will hike steep slopes, cross the impressive Apurimac Canyon and explore the archaeological site of Choquequirao, which is known as the “Cradle of Gold”.

How do I get to the starting point of the trek?

Usually, the starting point of the Choquequirao trek is Cachora. From Cusco, it can be reached in a car ride of approximately 4 hours.

What is the best time to do the Choquequirao trek?

The best time to trek Choquequirao is during the dry season from April to October. The months of July and August are especially popular due to the more stable weather conditions.

What should I bring for the trek?

You should bring appropriate clothing and equipment, such as hiking boots, warm clothing and insect repellent. Also, be sure to bring a backpack, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a flashlight, among other essentials.

How difficult is the Choquequirao trek?

The Choquequirao trek is considered of moderate to high difficulty due to the steep ascents and descents, as well as the altitude. It is important to be in good physical condition and acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.

Is it necessary to hire a guide for the trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a local guide or tour operator for the Choquequirao trek. The guides know the area well and can provide you with historical and cultural information, as well as ensure your safety.

Are there camping options during the trek?

Yes, during the Choquequirao trek, you will camp at designated campsites. Your support team will provide tents and camping equipment.

What can I expect to see during the trek?

During the trek, you will enjoy breathtaking scenery, observe wildlife, and explore the archaeological site of Choquequirao. You will also have the opportunity to see the majestic flight of condors at certain times.

How much time is spent at the Choquequirao site?

Generally, you will spend approximately half a day exploring the Choquequirao archaeological site. This includes time to visit the main structures and learn about its history.