Choquequirao: From the Cradle of Gold to the New York Times

We kick off the new year on the right foot! As we find ourselves in mid-January, we don’t want to let more days pass without sharing some exciting international news that fills us with great pride. With immense enthusiasm, we are thrilled to inform you that the prestigious newspaper, The New York Times, has included the Archaeological Park of Choquequirao in its list of the 52 best places to visit in 2024.

This distinction represents a significant acknowledgment for Peru and its invaluable cultural heritage. Moreover, it presents a unique opportunity for more people to be encouraged to discover and explore the impressive Inca citadel, a sister to Machu Picchu.

According to The New York Times, Choquequirao emerges as a hidden treasure.

“In the lesser-explored corners of Peru, Choquequirao emerges as a hidden treasure, still not fully unveiled to the world. This spectacular Inca citadel, receiving fewer than 10 thousand visitors annually, confronts the challenge of its remote access.”

Located at the summit of a mountain in the foothills of the Salcantay snow-capped peak, this city remained hidden from man for nearly four centuries, making it a mysterious place for archaeologists, researchers, and curious tourists alike. The construction of this site dates back to approximately 1536, carried out under the rule of the Inca Empire.

This impressive green treasure, situated amidst the convergence of the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon, is completely enveloped in vegetation. It’s not the easiest place to access, but it offers an undeniably breathtaking view. Every moment of the journey connects you deeply with nature, inviting you to reconnect with yourself from start to finish.

Similar but not identical

Machu Picchu and Choquequirao, known as ‘The Sacred Sister,’ share notable structural and architectural similarities. However, they also exhibit differences, such as:

The Path:

While Machu Picchu boasts a path filled with amenities, turning it into a massive tourist destination, Choquequirao invites you to experience adventure through its demanding trail and the challenge it poses to reach it.

Only on Foot:

Unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao lacks a direct transportation route. However, there are two paths to reach this incredible place. If you yearn to discover Choquequirao, you must do so on foot. So, if adventure is your calling, you’re on the right path, as long as you are physically and mentally prepared for this exciting journey.

“The only way to get there is by zigzagging on a steep terrain, covering a distance of 28 kilometers (17.4 miles) and reaching an altitude of 3,048 meters (3,280.84 feet), suspended between the Andes and the jungles stretching beneath your feet,” states the American newspaper in its publication, ‘‘52 Places to Go in 2024’’.

However, both sisters, Machu Picchu and Choquequirao, possess their own charm; exploring each of these wonders is a unique experience. At the end of the journey, you will take away a lot of learning and great satisfaction.

When to Visit Choquequirao?

Certainly, upon reaching this section of the blog, you must be eager to find a date to live this incredible experience. Therefore, we recommend that the best time to explore the archaeological site of Choquequirao is during the dry season, which spans from April to October.

How to Reach Choquequirao?

There are two alternative paths to reach Choquequirao, with the classic route being the preferred choice among travelers. This option provides greater comfort as it is slightly longer, with an additional day of duration. Below, learn more about the classic route:

Day 1:
CUSCO I Cachora – Capuliyoc – Chiquisca
The journey will begin with transportation from Cusco to Cachora, where the hike starts with breathtaking landscapes and views of the Apurímac River and the valley. At the end of the day, you will spend the night in Chiquisca.

Day 2:
CHIQUISCA I Rosalinas Beach – Santa Rosa – Marampata
The day will begin with a hike to Playa Rosalinas, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in its cold waters. Following this, you will walk to Santa Rosa, and to conclude the journey, you will reach Marampata to spend the night.

Day 3:
MARAMPATA I Choquequirao Archaeological Complex – Marampata
After breakfast, you will embark on a hike towards the Choquequirao archaeological complex, where you will have the entire day to explore this marvel. At the end of the day, you will return to Marampata to rest.

Day 4:
MARAMPATA I Santa Rosa – Rosalinas Beach – Chiquisca
The day will begin with a farewell to Choquequirao as you head to Santa Rosa for a delicious lunch. Later, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy Playa Rosalinas once again. In the afternoon, you will walk to the Chiquisca camp, where you can spend time with local families and rest.

Day 5:
CHIQUISCA I Capuliyoc – Saywite Monolith – Conoc Hot Springs – Cusco
The final stretch will begin with a hike to Capuliyoc, where you’ll bid farewell to the trekking team. Afterwards, you will visit the Saywite Monolith. Before returning to the city of Cusco, you can relax in the Conoc hot springs.

Remember that on this journey, you will not only trek but also learn a lot about Inca culture.

What are other alternatives available to explore Choquequirao?

While the classic route is the commonly recommended choice for visiting Choquequirao, it’s worth considering other options that may suit your preferences and abilities. Apart from the traditional route, there are two shorter variants available: one for 3 days and another for 4 days. These shorter routes provide an option for those seeking an intensive experience but have time constraints.

It’s important to note that, although these shorter routes are exciting, they come with an additional level of challenge. They are particularly recommended for experienced trekkers as they may require more physical effort and endurance. However, for those seeking a more challenging and rewarding experience, these shorter variants can be an intriguing option.

Additionally, if your exploration aspirations extend beyond Choquequirao, and you also dream of discovering the wonders of Machu Picchu, there are longer itinerary options that combine both experiences. You can choose from 7, 8, and 9-day programs that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the historical and natural richness of both locations. These longer itineraries provide the opportunity for a more leisurely journey, allowing you to explore in-depth and absorb the magnificence of two exceptional archaeological sites in the region. Ultimately, the options are diverse, enabling you to customize your experience based on your preferences and available time.

What to see in Choquequirao?

Main Plaza: A double-story stone construction that divided the enclosure into two.

Colcas: Used for storing products like food, clothing, among others.

Andenes: Choquequirao has a considerable number of terraces designated for cultivation.

Kallankas: During the Inca era, these buildings served as workshops, administrative centers, meeting spaces, among others.

Ushnu: This oval-shaped construction is located at the top of a mountain and is believed to have had a religious purpose.

Inca Cemetery: 17 funeral bundles and a water channel were discovered.

Things to know before trekking to Choquequirao:

We want you to enjoy every step on the way to Choquequirao, so here are some recommendations to make the most of your trek:

Good Physical Condition and Experience:
To visit Choquequirao, it’s important to maintain a good physical condition and have prior hiking experience.

Provisions and Comfortable Clothing:
We recommend bringing enough water and food for the days you plan to trek, along with suitable clothing and camping equipment.

Best Time of the Year to Visit Choquequirao:

In Cusco, we have two seasons: dry and rainy. If you’re thinking of trekking to Choquequirao, it’s preferable to choose the dry season, as you won’t encounter problems or unexpected issues during this period. Keep in mind that during the rainy season (from December to March), the trail can become risky due to precipitation and landslides.

Can I Do It Alone?

Certainly! You just need to follow the itinerary mentioned above. However, doing it with a local tour operator in Cusco can be very beneficial, as they will ensure you enjoy the trek without worrying about details and setbacks. Of course, this choice is up to you.

Should I travel to Choquequirao with a travel agency or tour operator?

Absolutely! At Salkantay Trekking, we have a group of passionate local guides, all 100% Cusqueñans. They are here to make your experience unique and memorable, providing details about the route and sharing the fascinating Inca history during the journey. We operate in small groups and are delighted to show you the beauty of our culture and the treasures of Peru. Discover unforgettable moments on our Choquequirao excursions, designed to marvel your senses.

To fully enjoy your trek, we recommend getting in touch with our licensed tour operator. We take care of all the details, from transportation to meals and stays in charming locations. This way, you only have to relax and make the most of this experience. We look forward to having you soon on our wonderful journey.

Ready to embark on the Choquequirao experience?