Day 01: Cusco - Cachora - Chiquisca
In the early morning we are leaving Cusco heading towards the Apurimac valley in our private vehicle. Three hours later we reach Cachora (2.900 m/ 9.514 feet). In this typical and quite Andean village we arrange the equipment on mules and horses. After a delicious breakfast we start our trek. On the route we will pass the lookout points Capuliyoc (2.915 m/ 9.564 feet) and Cocamasana (2.330 m/ 7.644 feet), where we get our first beautiful view of the Apurimac canyon stretching below as well as sights from the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba range. In the late afternoon we arrive at Chiquisca (1.800 m/ 5.906 feet) above the Apurimac river where we will spend our first night in camp.
Day 02: Chiquisca - Choquequirao
After an invigorating breakfast we will begin with the descent to the bottom of the canyon (1.550 m/ 5.085 feet) and continue with a steep ascent. After a six hour hike, passing small settlements like Maranpata, you will reach the archeological site of Choquequirao (3.085 m/ 10.121 feet), which is situated on a spectacular plateau above the Apurimac canyon. In the afternoon sunlight of the you will have a first visit of these majestic Inca-ruins by your own. Camp inside the archeological site of Choquequirao.
Day 03: Choquequirao - Santa Rosa
During the morning we will explore with our guide the Inca ruins of Choquequirao. After an abundant lunch we will leave Choquequirao. We will go downstairs to the camp of Santa Rosa, where we will spend the last night of our hike.
Day 04: Santa Rosa - Cachora - Cusco
After breakfast we will take the last ascent of our trekking tour back to Cachora. On this easy upward hike you will pass the two lookout points from the first day again, which offer the last fantastic views of the glacial peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba and into the Apurimac canyon. At midday you will arrive at Cachora, where we can enjoy a delicious lunch. Our bus is already waiting for you in order to bring you back to Cusco after these impressive days. Arrival in the early evening.
Service includes:
Private transport, 3 nights in camp, camping equipment, pack animals, porters, food, and guide.
Recommended equipment:
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Binoculars
- Camera + extra batteries
- Flash-light + extra batteries
- Sunscreen lotion (SPF at least 30)
- Insect repellent
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Sunglasses
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- Hat
- Long-sleeved shirts
- Long pants
- Hiking boots
- Sneakers/ sandals
- Rain suit
- Light Sleeping bag
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This trek is an alternative to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Choquequirao is three times bigger than the famous area of Machu Picchu and is still not completely explored. You will hike through the majestic Apurimac Canyon passing different vegetation zones along the eastern slopes of the Andes including views of snow-caped mountains of the Cordillera Vilcabamba. This trekking tour requires good physical condition.
