Tucked away in the remote Andes of Peru, the ancient Inca stronghold of Choquequirao beckons adventurous travelers. This 4-day expedition promises an immersive journey through the breathtaking landscapes that once sheltered the Inca civilization. Led by knowledgeable guides, you will trek past lush cloud forests and rugged terrains to uncover the secrets of this "Forgotten Inca City." With essential services provided and a small group size, the journey offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the impressive engineering and stunning vistas that have captivated explorers for centuries. For those seeking a truly remarkable adventure, this expedition holds the promise of an unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- 4-day expedition exploring the remote and well-preserved Inca citadel of Choquequirao, also known as the "Forgotten Inca City".
- Includes guided tours of the archaeological site, featuring monumental stone structures and intricate carvings, as well as trekking through scenic landscapes.
- Priced from €352.91 per person, with a maximum of 15 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Pickup from Cusco hotel, local lodging, meals, entrance fees, and bilingual guide services provided as part of the included services.
- Suitable for experienced trekkers with appropriate fitness level; not recommended for certain medical conditions or mobility limitations.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Expedition Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Included Services
- Preparation and Gear
- Important Considerations
- Trek to Choquequirao
- Exploring the Lost City
- Returning to Cusco
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Average Hiking Distance per Day?
- Can I Bring My Own Horse or Mule?
- Are There Any Health Requirements for This Expedition?
- Will There Be Any Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs?
- How Strenuous Is the Trek to Choquequirao?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Peru
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Expedition Overview
The expedition to Choquequirao, titled "Expedition to Choquequirao: the Forgotten Inca City", offers a 4-day adventure exploring this enigmatic lost city of the Incas.
Priced from €352.91 per person, the tour has a limited group size of 15 participants and is available in Spanish and English.
Pickup is included, with participants meeting in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
The expedition can be freely canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and bookings can be made with a reserve now, pay later option.
This comprehensive expedition provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, witness breathtaking landscapes, and uncover the mysteries of Choquequirao.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Peru.
Itinerary Highlights
The expedition’s itinerary highlights a carefully curated journey that immerses participants in the natural wonders and historic significance of the region.
On the first day, travelers will visit the Saywite stone and trek to the village of Chikiska.
The second day involves descending to the Apurimac River, crossing to Santa Rosa, and reaching the village of Marampata.
An early trek on the third day leads to the archaeological center of Choquequirao for a guided tour.
The final day concludes the adventure with a return trek to Capuliyoc and transport back to Cusco or Abancay.
- Visit the Saywite stone
- Trek to the Apurimac River and cross to Santa Rosa
- Guided tour of the Choquequirao archaeological center
- Return trek to Capuliyoc and transportation to Cusco or Abancay
Included Services
Alongside the expedition’s highlights, the included services provide a comprehensive package tailored to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Participants will be picked up from their Cusco hotel and transported to the starting point in Cachora, as well as back to Cusco or Abancay at the end of the trek.
The package includes 3 nights of local lodging, the first breakfast, the last dinner, and a boxed lunch on Day 3.
Entrance fees to Choquequirao and Saywite stone are covered, and a bilingual guide will lead the group.
Plus, pack horses and muleteers are provided to carry up to 5kg per person, with the option to rent horses for an additional fee.
Preparation and Gear
Participants should come prepared with essential items for the trek to Choquequirao. This includes a valid passport, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for any additional purchases.
Trekking gear like comfortable hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and a biodegradable insect repellent are also recommended. Avoid packing weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, or drugs, as these aren’t permitted.
Travelers should also consider bringing a water filter bottle or purification tablets to save on higher camp prices. With the right gear and preparation, adventurers can fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and enigmatic lost city of the Incas.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Considerations
This expedition to Choquequirao is not suitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired persons, and those with high blood pressure. The trek involves traversing challenging terrain and altitudes that could pose risks for these groups. However, for those with the appropriate fitness and experience, the journey offers an opportunity to connect with nature, marvel at breathtaking landscapes, and unravel the enigmatic mysteries of the lost Inca city.
| Suitability | Not Suitable | Suitable |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnant Women | ✓ | |
| Wheelchair Users | ✓ | |
| Visually Impaired | ✓ | |
| High Blood Pressure | ✓ |
Trek to Choquequirao
Trekkers embark on a captivating journey to the remote and enigmatic Inca citadel of Choquequirao. The trek begins with an early ascent, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes.
The path winds through lush cloud forests and past stunning vistas, challenging hikers with steep inclines and rugged terrain. Upon reaching the ancient ruins, trekkers are rewarded with a guided tour of the archaeological wonders, including:
- Remnants of monumental stone structures
- Intricate stone carvings and terraced farming platforms
- Panoramic vistas of the Apurimac River canyon
- Insights into the mysterious Inca civilization that once thrived here
The return trek retraces the arduous but scenic route, culminating in a triumphant conclusion to this unforgettable expedition.
Exploring the Lost City
The ancient Inca citadel of Choquequirao stands as a testament to the engineering prowess and architectural brilliance of its creators. Perched atop a remote mountain ridge, this "twin" of Machu Picchu offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its well-preserved ruins and uncover the mysteries of the Inca Empire.
As you wander through the site, you’ll be awed by the intricate stone structures, terraced farming platforms, and ritual plazas that once bustled with activity. The sheer scale and complexity of Choquequirao are a humbling reminder of the Incas’ remarkable achievements.
With its stunning vistas and immersive cultural experience, this lost city promises to captivate and inspire all who venture to its remote, yet enchanting, realm.
Returning to Cusco
After spending a captivating day exploring the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the expedition group now prepares to make their way back to the city of Cusco.
The return trek follows the same route, with the group ascending back to Capuliyoc and then continuing to Cachora. Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to:
- Take in the stunning vistas of the Apurimac River canyon
- Enjoy a final box lunch before the journey’s end
- Marvel at the impressive Saywite stone once more
- Reflect on the remarkable experience of discovering Choquequirao
Once back in Cusco, participants can savor the memories of their remarkable adventure and begin planning their next expedition to uncover more of Peru’s hidden Inca wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Hiking Distance per Day?
The average hiking distance per day is not explicitly stated. However, based on the itinerary highlights, the trek involves descending to the Apurimac River, crossing to Santa Rosa, and reaching Marampata on day 2.
Can I Bring My Own Horse or Mule?
Yes, participants can bring their own horse or mule for an additional fee of 230 soles. However, the tour also provides pack horses and a muleteer to carry up to 5kg per person.
Are There Any Health Requirements for This Expedition?
This trek is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or people with high blood pressure. Participants should be in good physical condition to handle the challenging terrain and high altitudes.
Will There Be Any Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs?
There may be opportunities to purchase souvenirs during the expedition. However, the itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention any scheduled stops at marketplaces or shops. Participants can ask the guide about purchasing options along the way.
How Strenuous Is the Trek to Choquequirao?
The trek to Choquequirao is quite strenuous, involving steep descents and ascents over challenging terrain. It requires a good level of fitness and hiking experience, as the journey can be physically demanding. Proper preparation and gear are essential for a successful trek.
Expedition to Choquequirao: the Forgotten Inca City| 4D/3N
Recap
The Expedition to Choquequirao offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the Inca’s forgotten citadel. This immersive trek through breathtaking landscapes and rich history is a must-experience for adventurous travelers. With essential services and experienced guides, participants can explore the remote ruins and soak in the stunning vistas, creating unforgettable memories of this Inca engineering marvel.
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