Sucre: 3 Days Trek in Inca Trails and the Crater De Maragua

Sucre, the picturesque capital of Bolivia, is a must-visit destination for intrepid travelers seeking to enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage. An exciting 3-day trek through the Inca Trails culminates at the breathtaking Maragua Crater, offering a chance to explore ancient cave paintings, discover dinosaur footprints, and interact with local artisans. With professional bilingual guides and a small group size, this adventure promises a personalized journey through the natural splendor of the Bolivian highlands. But what hidden gems await the curious explorer?

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 3 Day Tours In Sucre.

Key Points

• A 3-day guided trek through the Inca Trails near Sucre, Bolivia, exploring ancient cave paintings, weaving traditions, and the Maragua Crater.
• Priced starting from €115.87 per person, with a group size limited to 12 participants for a personalized experience.
• Includes entry tickets, public transport, overnight accommodation, meals, and a professional hiking guide fluent in Spanish and English.
• Participants should be prepared for high-altitude conditions, with essential gear like hiking shoes, rain gear, and sun protection.
• The trek is not suitable for children under 10, individuals afraid of heights, or those with mobility impairments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

The 3-day trek in the Inca Trails near Sucre offers an immersive experience, with a price range from €115.87 per person.

The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized journey.

Explorers can choose between Spanish or English as the language of the guided hike.

The best part? There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can also reserve their spot without paying today, giving them the flexibility to plan their trip.

With a focus on accessibility and convenience, this trek provides an excellent opportunity to discover the ancient paths and stunning landscapes of the region.

Itinerary Highlights

Exploring the ancient paths of the Inca Trails, the first day’s itinerary takes trekkers from the Estadio Patria in Sucre to the high-altitude vantage point of Chataquila, where they’ll marvel at the sweeping views.

The journey continues with a visit to the Purmamarca cave to view ancient cave paintings, followed by a hike to the Inca Machay cave paintings. The day concludes with a descent to Chaunaca for the night, covering a total distance of 16 km.

On the second day, the trek winds through Chaunaca and Socapampa, culminating in a hike to the Maragua Crater, where trekkers will have the opportunity to visit a local weaver.

The total distance covered on this day is 12 km.

Included Services and Amenities

This three-day trek includes a range of services and amenities to enhance the experience.

Entry tickets, public transport from Sucre, and overnight accommodation in shared rooms are all provided.

Travelers will also benefit from the guidance of a professional hiking guide fluent in both Spanish and English.

Meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included as well. However, any other meals not specified aren’t covered.

To ensure personal hygiene, the tour provides essentials like wet wipes, toilet paper, toothbrush, and soap.

With these inclusions, the trek offers a well-rounded package, allowing participants to focus on the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural discoveries along the way.

Important Preparation and Gear

Travelers must pack essential items for the three-day trek, including a change of clothes, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, and rain gear.

Participants should also bring a passport (a copy is accepted), flashlight, personal medication, a waterproof bag, and a hat.

Littering, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited on the trek.

The trek organizers recommend packing light to help the guide carry food and bringing extra layers for temperature changes.

Waterproof gear is also essential, as the canyon visit may be subject to flooding, and alternative areas will be provided if necessary.

• Pack light to assist the guide

• Bring extra layers for temperature changes

• Waterproof gear is essential

• Avoid bringing prohibited items

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Health and Safety Considerations

The trek takes place at an elevation of 2800 to 3000 meters above sea level, so participants should be aware of the risk of altitude sickness and prepare accordingly. Acclimatization is recommended to help the body adjust to the higher altitude.

Departure times may vary due to weather conditions, and the canyon visit is subject to flooding. In such cases, alternative areas will be provided.

The trek isn’t suitable for children under 10, individuals afraid of heights, those over 95 years old, with mobility impairments, or pregnant women. Participants should prioritize their health and safety throughout the trek and follow the guidance of the professional hiking guide.

Meet at Estadio Patria

Typically, participants gather at Estadio Patria, the local stadium in Sucre, to begin the 3-day trek through the Inca Trails. From here, the group travels by public bus to Chataquila, where the hike commences.

The meeting point at Estadio Patria serves several purposes:

• It allows the guide to check in with each participant and ensure everyone is present and prepared.

• Participants can finalize any last-minute preparations, such as packing extra layers or double-checking their gear.

• The guide provides a brief orientation, covering the day’s itinerary, safety guidelines, and expectations for the trek.

• It’s an opportunity for participants to meet their fellow trekkers and build camaraderie before setting off on the adventure.

Explore Ancient Paths and Caves

From Chataquila, the trail winds its way up into the high mountains, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Participants will explore ancient Inca paths that connect a series of cave dwellings, including the Purmamarca cave where ancient cave paintings can be observed.

The hike then leads to the Inca Machay cave, where more impressive cave paintings are found.

After descending to the village of Chaunaca, trekkers will have the chance to enjoy the local culture and learn about the traditional weaving practices of the region.

Throughout the day, the group will be surrounded by the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Bolivian highlands.

Visit Dinosaur Footprints and Chullpas

After exploring the ancient cave paintings, the trek continues to the Niño Mayo area, where participants can marvel at the well-preserved dinosaur footprints embedded in the rock formations. These remarkable imprints, left by prehistoric creatures millions of years ago, offer a glimpse into the region’s captivating geological history.

Following the dinosaur site, the group will hike to the Chullpas, a series of ancient burial towers that stand as a testament to the ingenuity and reverence of the Inca civilization.

The Chullpas provide a unique opportunity to:

• Admire the intricate stonework and architectural design

• Understand the cultural significance of these revered structures

• Imagine the lives and rituals of the Inca people who once occupied this sacred space

• Reflect on the enduring legacy of this remarkable pre-Columbian society

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trek Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The trek includes meals, so it can accommodate vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. Hikers should notify the tour provider of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their requirements are met during the trek.

Can We Bring Our Own Camping Gear and Food?

Participants can’t bring their own camping gear or food on this guided trek. The tour provides meals, overnight accommodations, and all necessary equipment. Bringing personal camping gear or food is not allowed as it’s not part of the included services.

Is There Any Option to Extend the Trek Beyond 3 Days?

Unfortunately, the standard trek is only 3 days long. However, the tour operator may be able to customize an extended itinerary for an additional fee. Guests would need to inquire about longer trekking options when booking the tour.

Do We Need Special Permits or Licenses to Participate in the Trek?

No, special permits or licenses are not required to participate in this 3-day trek. The tour operator handles all necessary arrangements, and participants only need to bring their passport and follow the provided packing list.

How Can We Ensure Our Safety During the Unpredictable Weather Conditions?

To ensure safety during unpredictable weather, trekkers should pack waterproof gear, monitor forecasts, and follow the guide’s instructions. Flexibility is key, as the itinerary may be modified to avoid dangerous conditions.

Recap

This 3-day trek through the Inca Trails around Sucre promises an unforgettable adventure.

Hikers will marvel at the awe-inspiring Maragua Crater, discover ancient cave paintings and dinosaur footprints, and engage with local artisans.

With a small group size and expert guides, participants can expect a personalized and immersive experience in the stunning Bolivian highlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: