More than 40 Choquequirao Trek Facts on the ultimate guide to conquering this ancient trail!

Ultima actualización en 25 November, 2024 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 25 November, 2024 by Waman Adventures

Choquequirao Trek Facts| Did you know that Choquequirao Trail has now become one of the most visited tourist attractions in Cusco, Peru? Its popularity is growing due to the strong resemblance it has to the modern wonder, and hikers have dubbed it the “twin sister of Machu Picchu”. Would you like to learn more about this incredible archaeological site? Below, I present the top 50 Choquequirao Trek Facts. Let’s go!

DISCOVER THE TOP 50 CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK FACTS!

1. CATALOGED AS THE BEST ADVENTURE TOURISM DESTINATION

The magazine National Geographic has ranked the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex as one of the best adventure tourism destinations in the world. This rating was given due to its vast size and striking resemblance to one of the modern world wonders, Machu Picchu.

50 Choquequirao Trek Facts that you didn’t know.

2. CHOQUEQUIRAO IS TWICE THE SIZE OF MACHU PICCHU

Choquequirao Peru is twice the size of Machu Picchu in terms of area, covering approximately 180 hectares compared to Machu Picchu’s 90 hectares. Although it has not yet been fully excavated, its location on rugged terrain makes access to certain areas a little bit challenging. Despite being less known than Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is an archaeological site of great historical and cultural significance, considered one of the most important Inca centers in the region with crucial political, religious, and economic roles.

Choquequirao Vs Machu Picchu.

3. WHERE IS CHOQUEQUIRAO LOCATED?

• The Choquequirao Archaeological Center is located at 3,500 meters above sea level (11,482 feet), in the Vilcabamba mountain range, in the Santa Teresa district, La Convención, Cusco, Peru.
• It is the perfect spot for nature and adventure lovers, as it is situated in a hidden valley between mountains and forests.
• The trail offers breathtaking views of the mountains and rivers surrounding the mentioned tourist attraction.
• The route crosses different ecosystems, from lush vibrant forests to steep valleys.

4. TERRITORIAL BOUNDARIES

The territorial boundaries of the Choquequirao Archaeological Park primarily span the departments of Cusco and Apurímac. Within its limits, it includes districts in the province of La Convención, Anta, and the Apurímac region, Abancay.

• North: It borders the districts of Quimbiri, Echarate, Santa Ana, and Maranura in the province of La Convención.
• South: It borders the districts of Huanipaca, San Pedro de Cachora, Curahuasi (Apurímac), Mollepata, and Limatambo (Anta).
• East: It borders the districts of Huayopata, Machupicchu, and Ollantaytambo.
• West: It borders the districts of Chungui and Pacombamba in Apurímac.

5. WHAT IS THE ALTITUDE OF CHOQUEQUIRAO?

The Choquequirao Archaeological Park is located at an altitude of 11,482 feet (3,500 meters above sea level).

6. WHAT DOES CHOQUEQUIRAO MEAN?

Among the 50 Choquequirao Trek Facts, it is essential for an informed traveler to know the origin of the name of this incredible archaeological site. In fact, there are still various hypotheses regarding its origin. Some archaeologists believe that Choquequirao hike comes from two Quechua words, where “choque” means cradle and “quirao” means gold; translating to “Cradle of Gold” in Spanish. What is Choquequirao, others think that “Choque” means “Sacred” and “Quirao” means mountain; translating to “Sacred Mountain” in Spanish. Undoubtedly, taking the Choquequirao hike is one of the best decisions you will ever make in your life. We are sure you will be mesmerized by the magic and beauty of the Choquequirao ruins.

Beautiful constructions of the lost city of the Incas, Choquequirao Peru.

7. WHO DISCOVERED CHOQUEQUIRAO?

The Choquequirao Archaeological Site was discovered in 1909 by archaeologist Hiram Bingham. The story goes that the archaeologist was searching for the lost city of Vilcabamba, the last refuge of the Incas after the Spanish conquest, and, without realizing it, he found part of the Incan constructions (Choquequirao Peru), which sparked his curiosity due to the size and beauty of the site. However, during this first contact, Hiram Bingham was unable to explore the site due to a lack of time and resources.

In 1986, the Peruvian government decided to conduct exploratory studies of Choquequirao Ruins for its restoration and maintenance. Currently, Choquequirao hike, the twin sister of Machu Picchu, has become one of the most visited attractions in Peru after Machu Picchu. The frequency of visitors is due to the striking resemblance between Machu Picchu and Choquequirao Peru.

Choquequirao Ruins was discovered in 1909 by archaeologist Hiram Bingham.

8. WHO BUILT CHOQUEQUIRAO?

Choquequirao Trail was built in the 15th century by the Inca Pachacutec and served as a religious and administrative center. It is believed that it was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. The city remained hidden for centuries until it was discovered in 1909 by archaeologist Hiram Bingham. Today, Choquequirao Trek Facts is one of the favorite destinations for many hikers around the world due to its hiking challenge and its striking resemblance to Machu Picchu.

9. TWIN SISTER OF MACHU PICCHU?

Choquequirao Peru is considered the twin sister of Machu Picchu due to its similar architecture, location, and function. Both cities were built by the Inca emperor Pachacutec in the 15th century; they are located on sacred mountains and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. However, Choquequirao Trail is larger than Machu Picchu but is less developed, offering visitors a more authentic experience.

The twin sister of Machu Picchu.

10. DID YOU KNOW THAT CHOQUEQUIRAO IS DIVIDED INTO TWO SECTORS?

The Incan city of Choquequirao Ruins is divided into two sectors: The Hanan (Upper Sector) and the Urin (Lower Sector).

• HANAN SECTOR: This area contains the main plazas, temples, and palaces.
• URIN SECTOR: This area contains the residences and storage areas.

Do not be afraid to experience the Choquequirao Trek.

11. WHAT IS THE WEATHER ON CHOQUEQUIRAO?

The weather on Choquequirao trail varies depending on the season and altitude. What is the altitude of Choquequirao, the valley areas are at a lower altitude, while the higher parts of the trail reach significantly greater elevations. In the valleys, the weather is better, it is a bit warmer, with an average temperature of 14º C. At higher elevations, the weather tends to be colder, with average temperatures of 10ºC.

• RAINY SEASON (NOVEMBER TO MARCH): During the rainy season, Choquequirao Peru experiences intense rainfall, which can make access to the archaeological site difficult. How hard is the Choquequirao trek? The challenging conditions during this season can make the trek even more strenuous and complicated, requiring very careful planning and preparation.

• DRY SEASON (APRIL TO OCTOBER): During the dry season, the weather is warmer, allowing for better movement for hikers. Daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be very cold.

12. BEST SEASON TO VISIT CHOQUEQUIRAO

The best season to visit Choquequirao Hike is during the dry season, from April to October. These months are ideal due to the lower rainfall compared to the rainy season. The weather is generally warm and dry, making the trip more comfortable and safe. Additionally, it allows for better enjoyment of the landscape.

13. ADVANTAGES OF VISITING CHOQUEQUIRAO IN THE DRY SEASON

• Intense sun all day long.
• Safe paths throughout the journey.
• No fog on the path or in Choquequirao Tours.
• With a bit of luck, you may see condors, foxes, vizcachas, hummingbirds, spectacled bears, or the Andean cock-of-the-rock.
• You will be able to fully appreciate each location within the Choquequirao Ruins citadel.

14. DISADVANTAGES OF VISITING CHOQUEQUIRAO IN THE DRY SEASON

• Colder and drier weather.
• Drier and slippery terrain.
• Sparser vegetation.
• Less wildlife availability.
• Greater difficulty in finding professional guides.

15. DO I NEED TO ACCLIMATIZE BEFORE GOING TO CHOQUEQUIRAO?

Yes, you have to. What is the altitude of Choquequirao? Remember that Choquequirao Ruins is located at 11,482 feet (3,500 meters) above sea level, and if you are not well acclimatized, you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Therefore, we always recommend that hikers acclimatize in the city of Cusco for 2 or 3 days before starting this trek. This helps with the adaptation process and reduces symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.

16. SAY NO TO ALTITUDE SICKNESS

Once in the acclimatization process, consider these tips:

• Gradually increase your altitude: You can take short tours within the city of Cusco, such as the marvelous City Tour.
• Drink plenty of water! It will keep you hydrated, thin your blood, and carry more oxygen to your tissues.
• Rest enough: Resting helps the body recover faster from physical effort.
• Say no to alcohol: At least one day before your trip.

17. CHOQUEQUIRAO VS. MACHU PICCHU: WHICH IS LARGER?

While it is true that Choquequirao and Machu Picchu share many similarities, they also have significant differences. For example, in terms of size, according to the experiences of hikers and technical studies on the restoration of the archaeological park, it is believed that Choquequirao Peru could be twice the size of Machu Picchu. Incredible, right?

Now, imagine exploring every corner of Choquequirao just like Machu Picchu. While on your guided tour, you are transported back in time to understand the importance of its construction. Don’t imagine any longer and book your Choquequirao Trek 4, 5, or 7 days now.

Choquequirao Vs Machu Picchu.

18. CHOQUEQUIRAO VS MACHU PICCHU: WHICH IS MORE VISITED? AND WHY?

Although Choquequirao is larger than Machu Picchu, it is less visited compared to the modern wonder of the world. This is because restoration and recovery work is still ongoing. Several areas of the site have not been fully explored, so there is much to learn about this ancient Inca city. How hard is the Choquequirao trek? While the trek is challenging, the increasing frequency of visits to the Choquequirao Archaeological Center shows the growing interest in this remarkable site. For this reason, we recommend not doing the Choquequirao Trek on your own, but instead with a licensed tour agency that can provide quality service.

19. WHAT SECTORS DOES CHOQUEQUIRAO HAVE?

The Choquequirao Archaeological Complex is divided into 9 sectors, each with its own function and characteristics. The most notable part of Choquequirao Peru is the political-religious center, which houses the most important buildings of the site, the system of fountains and canals with aqueducts that supplied water to the city, and the group of porticos, which contain monumental doors.

• Sector I: Upper main plaza, buildings, and fountains (Hanan).
• Sector II: Storage and warehouse areas (Qolqas) and Bingham’s “Giant Stairs.”
• Sector III: Main plaza (Haucaypata) and surrounding buildings (Houses of the rulers and kallankas).
• Sector IV: Temple of the triumphal wall and sacred pens.
• Sector V: Ceremonial Ushnu.
• Sector VI: Temple of the priests.
• Sector VII: Immense terraces or sacred terraces.
• Sector VIII: Terraces of the Sun Llamas.

20. MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF CHOQUEQUIRAO

The Choquequirao Archaeological Center spans 522,878.30 hectares with a perimeter of 367.09 km, and inside the site, you can visit and explore important places such as:

• Main Plaza: The main plaza of Choquequirao trail is a place full of history and culture. Here, Inca warriors celebrated their victories, held religious ceremonies, and gathered with their families. The plaza also served as the backdrop for significant political and social events during the Inca Empire.
• Terraces: A diverse mountain range with a wide range of landscapes, from arid deserts to tropical glaciers. The terraces also host a large variety of flora and fauna.
• Colcas: Structures that served as storage for food and objects. The colcas were distributed throughout the Tahuantinsuyo territory.
• Homes: Some of the Inca buildings that you will observe in Choquequirao ruins were once inhabited by the Incas.
• Inca Cemetery: Burial sites containing the remains of important people during the Inca period.
• Kallankas: Buildings where important meetings took place, affecting the empire. They were also used for the training of soldiers.
• Ushnu: The Inca’s ceremonial space where the most important ceremonies of the Tawantinsuyo were conducted.

21. INCA STAIRS!

The stairways of Choquequirao tours were built in the 15th century and are a testament to the architectural and construction skills of the Incas. In fact, some of the stairways have over 1,000 steps. The steepest stairways are found at the top of the city, leading to the most important temples and palaces in the Inca city. Their main function was to connect various parts of the city.

When visiting the Choquequirao Archaeological Park, don’t forget to check out the stairways, as they are one of the main attractions of the city. It is important to note that the stairways are very steep, and it is recommended to climb them carefully.

Visit the stairways of Choquequirao Trek Facts with Waman Adventures. Terraces in Choquequirao.

22. AGRICULTURAL TERRACES? | LEARN MORE ABOUT CHOQUEQUIRAO

Among the similarities between Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, it is essential to mention the famous agricultural terraces. These spaces served important functions such as growing crops like potatoes, beans, quinoa, wheat, etc. They also helped control irrigation and water drainage, which allowed for greater food production. Another interesting fact about Choquequirao tours and its terraces is that these constructions are a reflection of the agricultural skills of the Incas. In fact, they used various agricultural techniques, some of which are still practiced today by locals who dedicate themselves to farming.

Furthermore, the terraces of Choquequirao Ruins are also a significant part of the cultural and tourist landscape.

23. LLAMA FIGURES IN CHOQUEQUIRAO?

The Llama Sector is one of the most popular attractions in Choquequirao Tours. In this sector, visitors can find llama figures carved into the terraces, which were once used for cultivation. Llamas were very important animals for the Incas, who used them for transportation, food, and wool production. For this reason, the Incas dedicated a special space to llamas in their constructions.

The llama figures found in the Inca constructions of Choquequirao Trek Facts are among the best attractions of the archaeological site tour.

24. ONLY 30% OF CHOQUEQUIRAO HAS BEEN EXCAVATED

Choquequirao Hike is an impressive Inca city, but to this day, only 30% of its area has been excavated. This raises many questions, such as what secrets the mountain holds, how many buildings are buried, and what functions they served. Over time, it is hoped that these questions will be answered. It is believed that, when fully explored, it could be twice as large as Machu Picchu.

25. HOW TO GET TO CHOQUEQUIRAO FROM CUSCO

The only way to reach the Choquequirao Archaeological Park is by land. Currently, the main route is to head to the town of Cachora (9,524 feet / 2,903 meters), which is 3 to 4 hours by road from the city of Cusco and 2 hours from the city of Abancay. In fact, there are two ways to get to Choquequirao Peru: with a tourist agency or on your own.

How to get to Choquequirao Trek Factswith Waman Adventures, the best tips here

26. HOW TO GET TO CHOQUEQUIRAO ON YOUR OWN?

To reach the “twin sister of Machu Picchu,” there are two options: by bus or by walking.

• Reach Choquequirao by bus

This first option is the fastest. To do so, you must take a bus from Cusco to the town of Cachora in Abancay. The average travel time by bus is between 4 and 5 hours. Once in Cachora, you need to take a taxi to Capuliyoc, the starting point of the hike. Do I need to book Choquequirao in advance? The average walking time for this second section by bus is about one hour. Upon reaching Capuliyoc, the trek will begin, with an average duration of 3 days.

• Reach Choquequirao by walking

The second option to reach Choquequirao is to hike. This option offers a rewarding experience because it provides great landscapes and adventures as you enjoy your journey to the Choquequirao Archaeological Park. The hiking time from Cachora to Choquequirao hike will take 4 days, covering around 62 kilometers.

27. HOW TO REACH CHOQUEQUIRAO WITH A TOURIST AGENCY?

Information about Choquequirao Tours suggests that reaching the archaeological park on your own is a good way to save money but can be dangerous. Unfortunately, there are currently shortcomings in signage, as the area is still being explored. Therefore, it is highly recommended to reach Choquequirao Tours through a tourist agency, so you can avoid incidents and enjoy the journey to the fullest.

So, to reach Choquequirao with a tourist agency, consider the following:

• 1. Make a list of potential agencies that offer quality service.
• 2. Research thoroughly about the services your potential agency provides, using platforms like TripAdvisor, TourRadar, Expedia, Airbnb, and others.
• 3. Discard options by considering only agencies that meet your needs.
• 4. Verify and confirm the authorization by visiting the MINCETUR – TOURIST AGENCIES website.
• 5. Book your trip at least 2 weeks in advance. If you plan to visit Choquequirao and Machu Picchu, reserve at least 3 months in advance.

28. TWO ENTRY OPTIONS

Just as we have two options for reaching Choquequirao Ruins, there are also two entry options:

• Huanipaca: The shortest and quickest route is the most efficient to reach the archaeological park, allowing you more time to enjoy its wonders.
• Cachora:The more demanding and longer route offers a unique and memorable experience for adventurers. How long is the Choquequirao trek? During the rainy season, Choquequirao Peru experiences intense rainfall, which can make access to the archaeological site difficult. This trail provides a variety of landscapes, nature, and unique campsites, which can be enjoyed through challenging ascents and descents.

29. WHAT WILL I SEE ON THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TOUR?

• The city of Choquequirao Peru.
• The political and religious center.
• The system of springs and channels with aqueducts.
• A group of gateways.
• The Apurímac River valley.
• The best landscapes, with views of beautiful mountains.
• Diverse flora, such as orchids.
• Diverse fauna, such as the spectacled bear.

30. HOW IS THE HIKE TO CHOQUEQUIRAO?

The hike to Choquequirao is a challenging yet rewarding experience, according to information about Choquequirao. The path varies depending on the day of the trip, but generally, it is steep and rocky, accompanied by mountains and diverse flora and fauna. Some parts of the trail require ascending or descending. However, once you reach the archaeological center, you’ll know it was all worth it.

31. HIKE LEVEL FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

The hiking level to reach Choquequirao trail varies depending on the package you choose. For example: If you choose to do the Choquequirao Trek 4 Days, the hiking level is MODERATE. While the Choquequirao Trek 5 and 7 days have a hiking difficulty of CHALLENGING, how hard is the Choquequirao trek depends on the season, weather conditions, and the hiker’s physical fitness level.

The hiking level of Choquequirao Trek is challenging.

32. PHYSICAL PREPARATION

Should I prepare physically to do the Choquequirao trek? It’s one of the most common questions our trekkers ask, and the answer is yes. Remember that the hiking level to reach Choquequirao trail ranges from MODERATE to CHALLENGING. Therefore, it is necessary to have good physical condition so you can fully enjoy your new adventure.

PHYSICAL PREPARATION TIPS – CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

• Start your physical preparation at least 3 months before your trip.
• Train regularly, at least 3 times per week.
• If possible, train under the supervision of a physical trainer.
• Do exercises based on your individual needs and goals.
• Eat properly.
• Stay well hydrated.
• Acclimate in the city of Cusco, 2 or 3 days before starting the hike to Choquequirao.

33. IS IT NECESSARY TO USE A TREKKING POLE FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

Due to the hiking level for the Choquequirao trail, it is necessary to use trekking poles for the following reasons:

• The terrain is steep and rugged: The Choquequirao trek passes through different terrains, including narrow trails, steep stairs, and loose rocks. Trekking poles can help maintain balance and prevent falls.
• The ascents and descents are steep: The Choquequirao trek has a total elevation gain of approximately 2,000 meters, making it important to have good support for your knees and ankles. Trekking poles can help reduce strain on these joints.
• The route is long and challenging: The Choquequirao trek takes 4 or 5 days to complete, so it is essential to be in good physical condition. Trekking poles can help reduce fatigue and improve performance.

Yes. Keep in mind that the Choquequirao Trek route has a difficulty level of MODERATE to CHALLENGING. Therefore, it is necessary to have a trekking pole to get easier your hike. If you don’t have one, you can buy one in Cusco or rent one from us for $15.

34. MINIMUM AGE FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

To do the demanding hike to Choquequirao trail, it is advised that participants are physically fit. If traveling with children under 13 years old, it is recommended that they are always under the supervision of an adult. However, if the children are younger, it is still possible to undertake the journey if a mule or horse is hired, especially during the second and second-to-last days of the trek. These animals can be very helpful, especially if the children are afraid of them or need to descend steep sections of the route. How long is the Choquequirao trek? This becomes the only option to allow children to participate in this beautiful experience.

35. CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK PACKAGE OPTIONS

Currently, Waman Adventures offers 3 different options to reach Choquequirao:

• Choquequirao Trek 4D /3N
• Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N
• Choquequirao + Machu Picchu 7D/8N

Travelers on the Choquequirao Trek Facts route with Waman Adventures.

• EXPLORE CHOQUEQUIRAO IN 4 DAYS

The Choquequirao hike is a breathtaking experience that combines the exploration of an ancient Inca city with the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes. On the 4-day tour, visitors can explore the Choquequirao ruins, the sacred sister of Machu Picchu. They can also trek through the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Additionally, they can do birdwatching, camp in the wilderness, and learn about Andean culture. How hard is the Choquequirao trek? The trek offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in nature and local traditions.

Choquequirao Trek, the best hiking route after Machu Picchu.

• CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 5 DAYS

In general, with the 5-day Choquequirao trek, we will visit the same locations as the 4-day tour. However, the experience will be completely different, as we will have more time to connect with Mother Nature. We will learn more about the area’s rich flora, such as orchids, muña, ferns, and more.

Additionally, with some luck, we may have the chance to spot Andean bears in their natural habitat, along with the Andean cock-of-the-rock and other significant species in the area. To enjoy this beautiful adventure, we simply ask that you stay curious and observant during the journey. How long is the Choquequirao trek? The trek offers ample opportunities to observe the stunning landscapes and wildlife along the way.

Reach the twin sister of Machu Picchu with the Choquequirao trek 5 days.

• CHOQUEQUIRAO AND MACHU PICCHU: 7 DAYS

The best part of this third tour option with Waman Adventures is that you will get to visit and explore two major archaeological sites in Cusco, each notable for its history, structure, buildings, and culture. Keep in mind that Choquequirao tours, in terms of size, could be twice as large as Machu Picchu. This allows for comparisons, helping us understand the similarities between both iconic tourist attractions that are favorites among trekkers who love hiking worldwide.

Snake figures in Choquequirao constructions.

36. WATER CHANNELS IN CHOQUEQUIRAO

The site features complex water channel systems that are still operational, showcasing the advanced hydraulic engineering of the Incas.

37. ENDANGERED SPECIES

The surrounding area is home to endangered species, including:

• Andean Bears.
• Andean Condor.
• Tegete.
• Ichu.
• Salicornia Ramosissima.

Andean Bear in Choquequirao.

38. BUTTERFLY WORLD

The hike to Choquequirao trail is surrounded by butterflies of various colors and sizes. We suggest that you stay attentive and curious during the journey, as you’ll encounter many species of fauna.

Variety of butterflies on the route to Choquequirao.

39. MEDICATIONS FOR THE TOUR

Creating a list of medications for your hike is essential when preparing for the Choquequirao trek. Below is a possible list of medications, but this may vary depending on your needs:

• Paracetamol or aspirin for headaches and general discomfort.
• Ibuprofen for muscle pain and inflammation.
• Imodium for diarrhea.
• Ciprofloxacin or amoxicillin for bacterial infections.
• Diamox for altitude sickness.
• Loratadine or cetirizine for allergies.
• High SPF sunscreen (50 or higher).
• Insect repellent.
• Bandages and gauze for wound care.
• Hydrogen peroxide and disinfectant for cleaning wounds.

40. FLORA IN CHOQUEQUIRAO

The route to Choquequirao trail lies in a transitional zone between dry and humid forests, offering a rich variety of flora. You can find endemic plants, meaning plants that only exist in this region.

• TREES: Cedar, Laurel, Walnut, Alder, Corn, Coffee, Quinual.
• SHRUBS: Bromeliads, orchids, ferns.
• FLOWERS: Begonias, impatiens, calceolarias, orchids.
• FRUITS: Aguaymanto, pacae, chirimoya, lúcuma.
• MEDICINAL PLANTS: Coca, muña, coca, arnica, plantain.

Flora diversity on the Choquequirao route.

41. FAUNA IN CHOQUEQUIRAO

Did you know that on the route to Choquequirao Tours, you can observe the national bird of Peru, along with other significant species? Here’s a list of animals that can be spotted during your adventure:

• MAMMALS: Vizcacha, Andean fox, wildcat, Andean bear, Andean condor, puma, taruca, vizcachas.
• BIRDS: Andean condor, emerald toucan, hummingbirds, canoe-billed toucan, cock-of-the-rock (national bird of Peru), colibríes, eagles.
• REPTILES: Lizards, snakes.
• AMPHIBIANS: Frogs, toads.
• INSECTS: Butterflies, beetles, bees.

Fauna diversity on the Choquequirao route.

42. IS THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK WORTH IT?

Absolutely! Doing the Choquequirao Trek offers a complete wonderful trek experience with the minimum time needed to enjoy unique landscapes, biodiversity throughout the trail, challenges to overcome, and the reward of reaching Choquequirao. Do I need to book Choquequirao in advance? It’s highly recommended to book in advance because it permits and availability can be limited, especially during peak seasons.

43. WHERE TO CAMP IN CHOQUEQUIRAO?

During the trek to Choquequirao Peru, you’ll also have the experience of camping and connecting with nature. The camping points will vary depending on the tour package you choose; please note that at Waman Adventures, we offer 3 options:

44. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TOURS?

As for the details about Choquequirao tours and, in general, regardless of the option you choose, the tour includes the following:

• Professional tour guide.
• Assistant tour guide for groups of 9+.
• Cook.
• Donkeys to carry the cooking equipment, camping gear, and 7kg of your items.
• Pick-up and transport from the hotel to the start of the trek.
• Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the trek, where you’ll need to carry your own).
• Breakfasts, lunches, snacks (Happy hour), and dinners, according to trekking days.
• Dining tent with tables and chairs.
• Comfortable and spacious 4-person tent, which will be used by only 2 people.
• Inflatable mattresses for sleeping.
• Oxygen bottles.
• First aid kit.
• Entrance tickets to Choquequirao.

45. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TOURS?

To learn more about the services included and not included, we invite you to check each of our options to get to Choquequirao tours. However, in general, here are the services not included in the Choquequirao tours:

• Sleeping bag (can be rented from us).
• Breakfast (check the chosen option).
• Lunch and dinner (check the chosen option).
• Tips
• Entrance to Conoc
• Travel insurance.

46. WHAT TO BRING TO CHOQUEQUIRAO?

• Personal documents
• Personal medication
• Reusable water bottle
• Water filter or pills (Essential for the Choquequirao tours)
• Sunblock
• Insect repellent
• Personal care products
• Trekking shoes
• Convertible trekking pants
• Quick-drying t-shirts
• Windbreaker / waterproof jacket
• Rain poncho
• Waterproof trekking gloves
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
• Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
• Medium-sized trekking backpack (15-25 liters)
• Camera
• Portable charger
• Snacks
• Flashlight

47. OPEN YEAR-ROUND!

The Choquequirao archaeological complex remains open throughout the year. However, there are some restrictions and recommendations that every responsible traveler, like you, should consider. Do I need to book Choquequirao in advance? Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot and ensure a smooth trek, as permits can be limited. First, you should know that IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED to hike to Choquequirao tours during the RAINY SEASON (November to March), especially in February when heavy rainfall throughout the Cusco department makes it almost impossible to reach the “sister of Machu Picchu.”

48. IT WAS A GREAT INCAN GRANARY AND FOOD STORAGE

Choquequirao Peru, located in a strategic area between several regions of Peru, was an important commercial exchange center. The storage area, or qolqas, was a place where food such as grains, tubers, and meats were stored to supply the population in case of droughts or emergencies.

49. A CABLE CAR WILL BE COMING SOON

The Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Transport and Communications are evaluating the implementation of a cable car to connect the cities of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and Choquequirao Trail. This proposal aims to stimulate the flow of visitors between these three major tourist attractions in Peru. The cable car would be an appropriate solution for the steep mountains surrounding Choquequirao Ruins. This transport system would be more efficient and sustainable than the current land transport, which is slow and polluting.

The implementation of the cable car would also improve accessibility to Choquequirao Hike for people with disabilities and visitors of all ages and physical conditions. In addition to the cable car, the proposal includes the improvement of the trekking paths leading to Choquequirao. This measure would allow visitors who prefer to walk to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. The implementation of the cable car and the improvement of the trekking paths would contribute to the preservation of the cultural and natural heritage of the Choquequirao region.

Cable car at Choquequirao trek facts.

50. CHOQUEQUIRAO CABLE CAR WILL BOOST TOURISM AND RELIEVE MACHU PICCHU CONGESTION

The execution of the project “Improvement of Public Tourist Services at Choquequirao Archaeological Park” involves the construction of a cable car, with a design for a single cable system that will run from the south by Apurímac (section 1) and from the north by Cusco (section 2), and includes the improvement of pedestrian paths.

WATCH THE VIDEO: CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

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