From Cusco: 5-Day In-Depth Choquequirao Exploration
Delve into the depths of Choquequirao, Machu Picchu’s mystical sibling, on an extensive five-day exploration.
From Cusco: 5-Day In-Depth Choquequirao Exploration
Set off on an exclusive journey to one of Peru’s most extraordinary hidden gems with our 5-Day In-Depth Choquequirao Exploration. This adventure is specially curated for those who seek to immerse themselves in the grandeur and intricacy of Incan architecture, far from the well-trodden paths. Choquequirao, larger and less explored than its famous counterpart Machu Picchu, demands time and patience to truly appreciate its vastness and historical significance. Our carefully crafted tour is designed to allow ample time for thorough exploration, enabling you to fully absorb the essence of this magnificent site.
This exploration stands out as an unparalleled experience, offering more than just a glimpse into Incan history. Choquequirao, or the ‘Cradle of Gold,’ remains a bastion of the past, perched high in the Andes and shrouded in mystery. Our extended stay in the area ensures that you don’t just visit but genuinely connect with the site. You’ll have the rare opportunity to explore its expansive plazas, sacred temples, and intricate terraces in depth, each revealing a different story about the Incan civilization. This tour is an invitation to step into a world preserved in time, offering a unique perspective on Peru’s rich heritage, away from the crowds, deep in the embrace of the Andes.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 4:00 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Capuliyoc Viewpoint, Apurimac River, Marampata Camp and Choquequirao |
Setting Out from Cusco to Playa Rosalinas – The Journey Commences
Embark on an unforgettable journey starting at the crack of dawn from Cusco. A 4-hour scenic drive will transport you to Capuliyoc, a breathtaking vantage point sitting at 2,900 meters. Here, at the gateway to adventure, we’ll meet our muleteers and horses, essential companions for our trek.
Your first day on the trail is a descent into beauty, with a 3-hour downhill hike leading you to the charming Chikiska, nestled at 1,900 meters. As you traverse, the awe-inspiring views of the Vilcabamba range and the grand Apurimac canyon unfold before you. In Chikiska, we’ll pause for a lunch made fresh on the spot, giving you time to soak in the panoramic vistas.
The afternoon’s hike, an additional hour-long journey, takes us to our first campsite at Playa Rosalinas, located at 1,500 meters. As the evening sky paints itself with stars, we gather for a warm cup of tea, followed by a sumptuous dinner, setting the stage for the nights under the Andean sky.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 4-5 hours, 8.5 km
From Playa Rosalinas to Marampata – Ascending Toward the Skies
Greet the day with a hearty breakfast at Playa Rosalinas, preparing you for the day’s challenge. The trail ahead is a test of spirit and strength—a 5-hour switchback ascent that leads to the welcoming community of Marampata. As we ascend, keep an eye out for sugar cane farms dotting the valleys and, if fortune favors, the soaring majesty of condors.
Reaching Marampata signals the completion of our uphill trek. Here, at an ideal vantage point, we’ll indulge in another freshly prepared lunch, with the distant Choquequirao Inca ruins in our sight. Settling at Marampata for the night, you’ll have the afternoon to relax. For those desiring a touch of comfort, a hot shower is available for a small fee. As dusk settles in, we come together for an evening tea and a delightful dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5-6 hours, 12 km
Important Notice:
As of 2022, camping on Choquequirao terraces is prohibited to protect this heritage site. We adhere to these rules and have selected Marampata, a beautiful and nearby location, as our new camping site. This change ensures an authentic experience while respecting the site’s integrity. We’re committed to offering a memorable journey while preserving Choquequirao’s legacy.
Unveiling the Secrets of Choquequirao
The adventure intensifies on day three as we delve into the heart of Choquequirao after a nourishing breakfast. The hour-long trek to the park is just a prelude to the day’s revelations. Choquequirao, known as the “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua, is a testament to Inca ingenuity and mystery. Larger than its famed sibling Machu Picchu, this site offers a unique glimpse into Inca history.
We’ll spend the day traversing through the remnants of a once-thriving civilization, exploring temples, terraces, palaces, and the unique llama sector. Each corner of Choquequirao unveils a story, connecting you to the past in a profound way. Our exploration is made even more special with lunch served within the park, allowing us to dine amidst these ancient wonders.
After lunch, we continue to the lower areas of Choquequirao, including the terraced fields of Pacchayoc, witnessing the advanced agricultural methods of the Incas. The day culminates with our return to the campsite at Marampata, where tea and dinner await, along with a sky full of stars.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Moderate exploration of Choquequirao’s vast expanse, approx. 3-4 hours
Retracing Steps with New Perspectives
Day four begins with the breaking dawn over Marampata, as we bid farewell to Choquequirao. The trail today takes us back through the stunning Apurimac Canyon, offering a new perspective on the familiar path. Keep an eye out for the region’s rich flora and fauna, and perhaps another chance to spot the Andean Condors in flight.
This 6-hour hike is a journey back in time, retracing steps and reliving memories from the past days. We’ll pause for lunch at Playa Rosalinas, then continue our descent to Chiquiska. As we set up camp for the night, the serenity of our surroundings provides the perfect backdrop for reflection on the experiences shared and the knowledge gained.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6-7 hours, 14 km
The Final Trek and Return to Cusco
Our final day dawns with a sense of accomplishment as we wake up in Chiquiska. After enjoying our last breakfast together in the midst of the Andes, we prepare for the concluding chapter of our trek. Eager to embrace the day, we start our hike early, aiming to ascend before the midday sun climbs high.
The 3-hour uphill trek to Capuliyoc is not just a physical journey but a time for reflection on the incredible experiences of the past days. At the trail’s end, we come together for a celebratory lunch, sharing gratitude and farewells with our muleteers, cook, and tour guide, who have been integral to our adventure.
The afternoon sees us boarding our private transport for the 5-hour drive back to Cusco. En route, we make a significant stop at Saywite to explore the intriguing Saywite monolith. This granite boulder, adorned with over 200 carved figures, offers a unique insight into Incan cosmology and their reverence for water. After delving into this last piece of history, we continue our journey back to Cusco, marking the end of our extraordinary adventure.
Accommodation: Return to Cusco
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 3-4 hours, 8 km
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Special Discounts
- Adult (12+ Years): Standard rates apply for travelers over 12 years old.
- Student (-25 Years with Student Card): Save USD 20 with a valid Student Card for those younger than 25 years old.
- Child (3 – 11 Years): Save USD 30 for children between 3 and 11 years old.
- Infant (0 – 2 Years): Infants younger than 2 years old are free (must ride on the adult’s lap; for a separate seat, add them as a child).
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
*Please note that the applicable age is considered at the time of completion of the trip.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 30% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 70% of the tour cost is due no later than 48 hours before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Flexible Cancellation Options for Clients
We understand that circumstances can change, sometimes unexpectedly. If you find the need to cancel your booking, you have the flexibility to do so up to 30 days before the tour start date. In this case, you will receive a full refund minus a 10% administration fee, acknowledging the efforts and resources already invested in planning your tour. Any additional balance paid will also be refunded, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Understanding Cancellations Within 30 Days
We wish to draw your attention to our policy for cancellations made within 30 days of the tour departure. Given the advanced stage of preparations and commitments made at this juncture, we are unable to offer refunds. This policy is in place to balance the significant logistical arrangements and reservations made on your behalf.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Strong Advocacy for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
We cannot overstate the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. Such insurance plays a critical role in safeguarding your investment against unforeseen cancellations, emergencies, and other unexpected scenarios. It is a proactive measure to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey. Peru Tripper is not responsible for any expenses arising from incidents not covered by your insurance policy.
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
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Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our essential packing guide. Here’s what you need to bring:
Provided Duffle Bag and Packing Tips
Pack Wisely with Our Essential Packing Tips
We’ll provide a returnable duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing, held 1-2 nights before your tour. Familiarize yourself with the bag, pack efficiently, and get essential trek details, safety guidelines, and updates. It’s a great chance to ask questions, meet fellow trekkers, and prepare for your adventure.
Our Packing Tips:
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