ESSENTIAL INFORMATION ABOUT HOW TO PREPARE FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Ultima actualización en 5 November, 2024 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 5 November, 2024 by Waman Adventures

How to prepare for Choquequirao Trek? If you dream of reaching Choquequirao, one of Peru’s archaeological jewels nestled in the Apurimac Valley, we invite you to prepare for this adventure with us. Choquequirao was an Inca citadel located in the Andes Mountains, at 3,150 m/10,334 ft. Its remote location and natural beauty make it a very popular, but also challenging, tourist destination. Therefore, we give you some essential tips about how to prepare for the Choquequirao Trek in this blog. Join us!

Learn how to prepare for Choquequirao Hike with Waman Adventures.

SPECIFICATIONS ABOUT CHOQUEQUIRAO

The archaeological site of Choquequirao is located at 3,150 m/10,334 ft, in the Vilcabamba mountain range, Santa Teresa district, La Convencion, Cusco, Peru. It is the perfect place for nature and adventure lovers as it is hidden in a valley between mountains and native forests. Also, the route offers breathtaking views of mountains and rivers surrounding the aforementioned tourist destination.

The Choquequirao Archaeological Complex is surrounded to the north by Kimbiri, Echarate, Santa Ana and Maranura (La Convención); to the south, its borders are the Huanipaca, San Pedro de Cachora, Curahuasi (Apurimac), Mollepata and Limatambo (Anta) districts; to the east, Huayopata, Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo; and to the west, it borders the districts of Chungui and Pacobamba in Apurimac.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

The Choquequirao Hike is one of the world’s favourite treks for trekking enthusiasts, especially for Europeans. Reaching this beautiful tourist attraction demands a 4, 5 or 7-day hike, so you need good physical stamina. This training should start at least 3 to 4 months before your hike. Below, I will share the best tips on how to prepare for Choquequirao Trail:

CARDIOVASCULAR TRAINING FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TRAIL

The first essential tip on how to prepare for Choquequirao Hike is cardiovascular training, as it improves the lungs and heart to transport oxygen to the muscles. This is essential for trekking for long periods of time without fatigue. Remember, the route proposes drastic changes in terrain, altitudes and ecosystems.

To tackle this trek, you must start training 3 to 4 months before your trip. So, you can train yourself with your own routine accompanied by a trainer.

SELF-STUDY CARDIO WORKOUTS

In case you train on your own, we suggest setting up a schedule of activities like the one below:

EXERCISES FOR CARDIOVASCULAR TRAINING:

• Running: Running is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular endurance.
• Swimming: Swimming is low-impact exercise good for your joints.
• Cycling: Cycling is a fun way to exercise.
• Dancing: Dance is a fun and social form of cardio exercise.

CARDIO WITH A TRAINER

This is the most effective option if you feel you lack continuity on your own. As a trainer will help you to implement a routine tailored to your needs, in this case being physically prepared to hike to Choquequirao, Machu Picchu’s “twin sister”.

In addition to cardiovascular training, it is also imperative to prepare for altitude. Choquequirao is located at 3,150 m.a.s.l./10,334 ft, so it is wise to acclimatise before the trek arriving in Cusco 2 or 3 days before your start.

Choquequirao enclosing structures.

ENDURANCE TRAINING TO REACH CHOQUEQUIRAO

The journey to Choquequirao involves walking through different terrains and altitudes. Therefore, it requires good physical shape and endurance to face this difficult challenge. Do you know how often to exercise? It is advisable to do it 2 or 3 days a week together with your cardiovascular activities.

In order to achieve the best results, we suggest you include these exercises in your activity plan if you are training on your own. If you are working out with a trainer, we suggest walking routines.

RESISTANCE TRAINING TIPS:

• Start training early: The earlier you start training, the more time you will have to develop your endurance.
• Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Don’t try to do too much all at once, as this can hurt.
• Listen to your body: If you feel tired or sore, rest.
• Recommended exercises to increase endurance:
• Walking: Short walks will be your most helpful partner as you prepare for Choquequirao Hike.
• Running: It’s an excellent exercise to develop cardiovascular and physical endurance. Start running gradually and increase the distance and intensity as you strengthen.
• Swimming: Swimming is a low-impact exercise good for your joints. Swimming for at least 30 minutes, three times a week is healthy.
• Cycling: Cycling is a fun way to get cardiovascular exercise. Cycle for at least 30 minutes, three times a week.
• Mountain biking: Mountain biking is an excellent exercise for endurance and strength. Start with easy routes and increase difficulty as you strengthen.

MENTALLY PREPARE FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Considering the altitude at which Choquequirao is located and the level of trekking, it is also important to prepare mentally. This way we will be ready and motivated to face physical and psychological challenges. Among some of the activities you can do to prepare yourself mentally, we recommend the following:

• Visualise yourself contemplating the hike: It is important to project yourself positively to enjoy the hiking towards the archaeological complex.
• Set realistic goals: Do not compare yourself with others, just focus on yourself and your goals.
• Practice conscious breathing: Mindful breathing is an effective technique for managing stress and fatigue. Learning to breathe deeply and consciously can help you stay calm and recover faster during your trek.
• Be positive and optimistic: Hiking through the Andean terrain can be tough. However, don’t forget how capable you are of facing challenges that fuel your desire for new experiences.
• Practice relaxation techniques: It is natural that during your hike you may feel that you cannot continue. However, remember that relaxation techniques help you to overcome this moment and continue your adventure to Choquequirao, the “twin sister of Machu Picchu”.
• Learn about the route to Choquequirao: This will help you familiarise yourself with the trek and the challenges that may arise.
• Watch documentaries or videos related to the Choquequirao and other treks: This will help you visualise the trek and feel more confident about doing it.
• Listen to motivational music: It is essential to have motivational music during your trip, so don’t wait and organise your favourite playlist. Nevertheless, nature songs are one of the most pleasant sounds you will hear.

Choquequirao from “Ushnu”.

HOW TO ACCLIMATISE FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

Acclimatisation prevents some symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, vomiting and difficulty breathing. In order to cope with and overcome some of the symptoms of altitude sickness we recommend the following:

• It is necessary to arrive in Cusco days before your trip, 2 or 3 days, allowing your body to adapt easily to climate and temperature variations. Best of all, symptoms of altitude sickness will be minimal.
• Avoid climbing too high or too fast. When acclimatising, start climbing gradually and increase the altitude as your body acclimatises.
• Stay hydrated because it will help you to oxygenate better and not suffer from altitude sickness.
• Avoiding alcoholic beverages or too much caffeine because they dehydrate you easily.
• Take frequent breaks, make sure your acclimatisation is not rushed, be patient and give your body time to adjust to its pace.

SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS:

• Headache.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Insomnia

OVERCOME ALTITUDE SICKNESS IN 5 STEPS!

If during your arrival in Cusco, acclimatization or hiking you experience altitude sickness symptoms, you should first calm down and ask your guide for help. Here are the five steps you must follow to overcome altitude sickness as you learn how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek:

1. Acclimatise properly.
2. Sleep well (minimum 8 hours).
3. Avoid eating too much (prior to the trek).
4. Consume coca leaves and derivatives (candies and teas).
5. Stay hydrated.

Overcome altitude sickness in 5 steps with Waman Adventures.

PACKING LIST TO CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Considering the 3 options we have to get to Choquequirao, here is a general list of the things you should bring; although, we recommend you visit the page for each option: Choquequirao Trek 4 days, Choquequirao 5 days and Choquequirao + Machu Picchu 7 days.

• Personal documents.
• Comfortable trekking clothes (trousers, shoes).
• Waterproof jacket.
• Sunblock.
• Trekking poles.
• Medium-size backpack.
• Cash (preferably Peruvian soles).
• Camera.

WHICH TRAVEL AGENCY TO CHOOSE?

Before booking your trip, check that the agency you have chosen has the corresponding MINCETUR authorisation. If you are not sure if the agency is legal, you can consult the register of authorised agencies on the MINCETUR website. Here you will find a list of all the agencies that meet the requirements to operate legally, and with which you can enjoy your next adventure with peace of mind. You can also check platforms such as:

• TripAdvisor.com.pe
• Tourradar.com
• Getyourguide.es

Based on the comments of travellers, these platforms provide an excellent source of verification of good service.

HOW TO BOOK THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Booking the Choquequirao Trek is really easy. First of all, contact our sales staff, who will help planning your itinerary. If you have any dietary requirements, you should inform our sales staff in advance, so that we can coordinate and provide you with a quality service.

• Enter the WAMAN ADVENTURES website.
• Take the cursor to the menu item “ALTERNATIVE TREK”.
• Click on “TREK CHOQUEQUIRAO“.
• Choose the tour that perfectly suits your priorities.
• On the left side of the screen, you will find the offer price for the tour. Click on it and that’s it. Then, fill in your details and we will contact you as soon as possible.

WHEN TO HIKE TOWARDS CHOQUEQUIRAO?

The best time to do the Choquequirao Trek is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, we have better weather and the trail is in better condition, which makes the trek easier. To prepare for the Choquequirao Trek, it is important to be physically fit and acclimatised to the altitude.

YOU CAN WATCH THE FOLLOWING VIDEO| CHOQUEQUIRAO, TWIN SISTER OF MACHU PICCHU

Our essential tips on how to prepare for Choquequirao Hike. I hope you find it helpful on your next adventure. Don’t wait longer and book your next adventure to enjoy every single place trekking to Choquequirao. Remember, conquering mountains, snow-capped mountains, and experiencing its diversity of flora and fauna could change your life.

Waman Adventures is here to ensure and provide high-quality services!

Get ready for a life changing adventure, book your trip now!

RELATED ARTICLES:

• 50 facts about Choquequirao Trek.
• Choquequirao, the second wonder of Peru.
• Learn more about Choquequirao.
• Choquequirao, twin sister of Machu Picchu.
• Common questions about Choquequirao.