CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Choquequirao Trek is one of the most challenging hiking routes in Peru, due to its high complexity and difficulty, representing a true challenge for those travelers who love long hikes. It offers the reward of discovering a very unique archaeological site at the top of a mountain known as “Choquequirao.”

Choquequirao is a Quechua word that means “Cradle of Gold.”

According to history and chronics, it could have been built during the period of the Inca Pachacútec (15th century), whose main function would have been for climate measurements and astronomical control which are extremely important for the Inca cosmovision.

The climate in the Inca citadel of Choquequirao changes swiftly, as the clouds rise from the valley to cover upper zonas in the morning. However, it has two seasons, the rainy and dry seasons.
The temperature has annual variations between 10°C / 50°F and 20°C / 68°F, and at higher elevations, it drops to 5°C / 41°F in the early hours.

No, however, it is very important to be in shape as the route is tough due to its ups, downs, and winding trails. This hike takes place through diverse geography, which allows you to face various challenges that require great endurance along the trip.

The hike is a true adventure in every sense of the word, also it is arduous but worth it. The trail has an approximate descent of 1500 m. and an approximate ascent of 1800 m to face in just 3 days.

The hike to make it to Choquequirao is relatively more challenging than other hiking routes in Cusco, but don’t let that discourage you because it’s a trail suitable for everyone and the best alternative besides the Inca Trail. Go and enjoy the experience and adventure before the cable car is built.

Choquequirao Trek has a challenging difficulty, so before going up against this trek, it is very important to train and be in shape, which will be vital to cut through the hiking activity. Also, it is very important that in the days before your trip, you can do some tours that include trekking activities of a lower level to familiarize yourself with the activity and thus avoid future injuries or pain.

The Choquequirao Archaeological Complex is located roughly at 3,033 m / 9,950 ft ASL, on the east slope of the Andes mountain that bears the same name.

The ideal time to do the Choquequirao trek and most other trails in Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, the weather tends to be more stable, with less rain and warmer temperatures during the day, making trekking and exploring the Inca citadel more comfortable.

The weather varies along the 62 km of the total hike’s length, depending on how high you are, you can enjoy different microclimates, scents, and lookouts. In general, the Choquequirao trek route has a warm climate due to its location in an intermountain valley and proximity to the Apurímac Canyon.

Although, indeed, the trail isn’t traced at high altitudes above 4,000 m.a.s.l., it is recommended that before venturing on this fantastic hike, you should acclimatize a few days earlier in the city of Cusco (2 to 3 days). We recommend joining up in small tours and always staying hydrated. On the other hand, we also recommend avoiding heavy meals, as these could cause tiredness and, in the worst case, jeopardize your Choquequirao trek adventure.

1. Sun protection items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
2. Light and comfortable trekking clothes.
3. Trekking, hiking, or trail running shoes.
4. Water bottle (reusable) + water filters or purification tablets if you go independent.
5. Toiletries.
6. Insect repellent.
7. Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
8. Passport.
9. Cash.

Although it is true that to visit the Choquequirao archaeological complex, it is not necessary to book months in advance, as its influx is minimal, planning it will help you have everything optimal for its attempting, in the same way, you can receive updates from the agency about the hike.

The cancellation and refund policies at Waman Adventures vary depending on the proximity of your trip. Upon receiving written notification that you wish to cancel your trip, the following fees will be charged.