Choquequirao 5 Days

Choquequirao is believed to be one of the last refuges of the Incas.  Situated in a remote location above one of the deepest canyons in the world, the Apurimac, the only way to reach this impressive Inca Site is to make the tough descent and ascent on foot.  Your hard work will be rewarded with superb views of the surrounding snow capped mountains and the Apurimac River rushing below.  We include a day to relax and fully explore this extensive site.

Day 1 - Cusco to Cachora

Leaving Cusco early this morning we drive to Cachora where we begin walking. A two hour walk along an easy undulating path gives us the chance to warm up before descending from Capulilloq (2800m) towards the Apurimac river below. As we descend into the valley you will notice a change in climate and vegetation. We arrive at our campsite, Chiquisca (1750m) later in the afternoon.
(Total 6 hours walking)

Day 2  Chiquisca to Choquequirao

Today we begin the steep climb up to Santa Rosa where we will take a break for a snack before continuing up the zig-zag path to a plateau where the path finally flattens out. From here our hard work will be rewarded with stunning views of the valley and mountains beyond, as well as the Huanpaca waterfall. As we approach Choquequirao you will notice the beginnings of the terraces which would have been used to grow crops. The terracing creates different microclimates so that a larger variety of crops can be grown in the same area. Finally arriving at Choquequirao (3085m) we have time to rest and recuperate, in preparation for exploring the ruins the next day.
(Total 8 hours walking)

Day 3 Explore Choquequirao

A relaxed start to the day today as we have the entire day to explore the site. Built during the reign of Pachactuec Choquequirao means “cradle of gold”.  It is larger than Machu Picchu, although to date it is believed that only 30 % has been uncovered. On the lower terraces you can see white Llamas built into the stonework, a unique feature of the site, yet to be found anywhere else in the Inca Empire. You will have a tour of the site, with plenty of time afterwards to do your own exploring or simply relax and take in the atmosphere, and perhaps the sunset over the Apurimac Canyon.

Day 4 - Choquequirao to Cocamasana

Today we leave Choquequirao early in the morning and descend once again to the Apurimac river where we have lunch.  After lunch we begin the tough climb up to our campsite at Cocamasana (2400m).
(Total 8 hours walking)

Day 5 - Cocamasana to Cusco

This morning we continue upwards to the Capulliyoc pass (2800m) and then onto Cachora where we meet our transport and return to Cusco.
(Total 5 hours walking)