The Choquequirao Trek offers adventurous travelers an exclusive opportunity to explore one of Peru’s most enigmatic Inca sites. This 5-day trek through the Andes immerses participants in a world of rich history and natural wonder, with expert guides providing insights into the ongoing archaeological discoveries at Choquequirao. With flexible booking options and a generous cancellation policy, trekkers can confidently plan their journey to this remarkable location, which remains largely untouched, preserving the allure of its historical mysteries and the beauty of its untamed landscapes. Those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Andes won’t want to miss the chance to uncover the secrets of Choquequirao.
Key Points
- The Choquequiraw trek is a 5-day exploration of the remote Inca citadel, with a starting price of $1,850 per person.
- The trek offers diverse ecosystems, ongoing archaeological discoveries, and guided tours in multiple languages to enhance the historical context.
- The daily itinerary includes hiking to the Choquequiraw site, with opportunities to explore the partially restored ruins and witness ongoing excavations.
- The trek package includes private transportation, entry fees, meals, and comprehensive camping equipment, ensuring a seamless trekking experience.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, with a full refund available up to 24 hours before the trek, provide peace of mind for adventurers.
Trek Overview and Pricing
Spanning 5 days, the Choquequiraw Trek takes adventurers on a captivating journey through the remote and enigmatic Inca citadel of Choquequirao.
Priced from $1,850 per person, this flexible trek allows travelers to reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
Offered in English, French, and Spanish, the Choquequiraw Trek immerses participants in the rich cultural heritage of this last refuge against Spanish conquest.
With ongoing archaeological discoveries, only 30% of the site has been restored, offering a unique and exploratory experience for trekkers.
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Trek Experience and Highlights
The Choquequiraw Trek offers adventurers a chance to explore Choquequirao, a remote Inca city that served as one of the last refuges against Spanish conquest.
Trekkers will experience diverse ecosystems, from high Andean landscapes to deep canyons and cloud forests.
Daily guided tours provide insight into the archaeological wonders, including temples, terraces, and palaces.
Ongoing excavations have unearthed new discoveries, with only 30% of the site restored since the 1990s.
Hikers will witness the majesty of this lost Inca stronghold, seeing the history and natural beauty of this captivating destination.
Daily Itinerary
The Choquequiraw Trek commences with a journey from Cusco to Capuliyoc, a 4-hour drive that culminates in a 3-hour hike down to the first campsite at Playa.
The next day, trekkers embark on a 4-hour hike up to Maranpata and then on to the second camp at Choquequirao.
The third day is dedicated to a guided exploration of the Choquequirao archaeological site.
On the fourth day, the trek descends and ascends along the trail to the campsite at Chiquisca.
The final day involves a 3 to 4-hour climb back up to Capuliyoc, followed by the return drive to Cusco.
Included Services and Equipment
Although the Choquequiraw Trek is a challenging undertaking, the included services and equipment help ensure a well-supported and comfortable journey.
Travelers receive an informative briefing before the trek, as well as private transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back. The entry fee to Choquequiraw is included, and meals with vegetarian options are provided throughout the trek.
Campers can rely on tents, a dining tent, a kitchen tent, and a toilet tent, while personal items are carried by mules. On top of that, an emergency horse is available if necessary, and a first aid kit and travel insurance are provided.
- Informative briefing before the trek
- Private transportation to/from trailhead
- Choquequiraw entry fee included
- Meals with vegetarian options
- Comprehensive camping gear and equipment
Important Information
Preparing for the Choquequiraw Trek requires a few essential items.
Travelers must bring their passport or ID, as well as a student card if applicable. Personal medication and a passport-sized photo are also necessary.
Plus, while not required, trekkers may want to rent a sleeping bag rated for temperatures down to -10°C and trekking poles.
Tips for the crew, guides, cooks, and porters are appreciated, as these hardworking individuals play a crucial role in ensuring a successful and enjoyable expedition.
With the right preparation, adventurers can embark on this remarkable journey through the remote and awe-inspiring Inca ruins of Choquequiraw.
Packing List
For a successful Choquequiraw trek, travelers should ensure they pack the essential items. This includes a passport or ID, student card if applicable, personal medication, and a passport-sized photo.
Optional rentals like a sleeping bag rated for -10°C temperatures and trekking poles can also be arranged.
Tipping the crew, guides, cooks, and porters is appreciated, as they work hard to ensure a memorable experience.
By packing the right gear and being prepared, hikers can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins of Choquequiraw.
- Passport or ID
- Student card (if applicable)
- Personal medication
- Passport-sized photo
- Optional rentals: sleeping bag, trekking poles
Flexible Booking and Cancellation
The Choquequiraw Trek offers flexible booking and cancellation options, allowing travelers to reserve their spot now and pay later. Guests can cancel their trek up to 24 hours before the start date for a full refund. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility in planning.
To highlight the booking and cancellation terms, here is a table:
Booking | Cancellation |
---|---|
Reserve now | Up to 24 hours before |
Pay later | Full refund |
Flexible scheduling | No penalties |
This hassle-free approach empowers adventurers to book their Choquequiraw experience with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. The flexible terms ensure a seamless trekking journey.
Languages and Guided Tours
The Choquequiraw Trek offers guided tours in a variety of languages, including English, French, and Spanish. This allows travelers from around the world to fully enjoy the rich cultural and historical significance of this remote Inca site.
The guided tours provide in-depth exploration of the archaeological wonders, including:
- Temples, terraces, and palaces that offer a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced architectural prowess
- Ongoing excavations that continue to uncover new artifacts and insights
- Diverse ecosystems, from high Andean landscapes to cloud forests, that showcase the region’s natural beauty
- The site’s role as a final refuge against Spanish conquest, adding to its historical significance
- Opportunities to witness the site’s gradual restoration and preservation efforts over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Do the Choquequiraw Trek?
The best time to do the Choquequiraw Trek is during the dry season, typically from May to September. This ensures drier weather and clearer views, though it may be more crowded during peak tourist months.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Cooking Equipment on the Trek?
Hikers can bring their own food and cooking equipment on the trek, but it’s not necessary. The trek includes all meals and camping gear, so self-catering isn’t required. However, hikers have the option to bring their own supplies if they prefer.
Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Personal Belongings?
Yes, the trek includes porters to carry personal items up to 7 kg per person. Guests can also opt to hire an additional porter to carry more of their belongings during the hike.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Fitness Requirements for the Trek?
The trek doesn’t have any age restrictions, but participants should be physically fit enough to hike 12-14 km per day with a moderate incline. Porters are available to carry personal belongings, though a maximum weight limit applies.
Can I Extend the Trek or Add Extra Days to Explore the Site Further?
Absolutely, travelers can extend their Choquequiraw Trek or add extra days to explore the site further. The tour operator offers flexibility, allowing hikers to customize their itinerary and spend more time immersed in the archaeological wonders of this remote Inca citadel.
Recap
The Choquequirao Trek offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore an Inca citadel that remains largely untouched, immersing trekkers in a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and ongoing archaeological discovery. With flexible booking options, generous cancellation policies, and guided tours, adventurers can confidently embark on this 5-day journey through the Andes, making the most of the site’s allure and the chance to witness its gradual restoration.
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