Choquequirao Inca Site, Cuzco, Peru is an exciting trip for those adventure fans. On the outskirts of Cusco, you will immerse yourself in this place of which only 40% has really been exposed. Also, for history lovers, this trip will be perfect.
Things to do
This is a place not reached by anyone in the comfort of an airplane. Contrarily, here come the real adventurers. Right now there are many projects to exploit its touristic potential. Therefore, you should take advantage of being the first to have this true contact with the historical past.
First, you will begin your journey in the small town of Cachora, where you will cross the Apurimac Canyon and reach the ruins of Choquequirao. Straight ahead you will descend 1 kilometer of slope on which you will take about 5 hours. After a camping break, you can go up and down again. All the effort you make will be rewarded with the stunning views you will have in the canyon.
On the other hand, this will be one of the coolest experiences in your life. I recommend you to undertake the full 9-day Choquequirao Trek to also explore Machu Picchu. High climbs, passes, and dipping into lowland basins will be part of the most exciting experiences of your trip.
Finally, around every corner, you pass you will have new views and landscapes. If adventure runs through your veins, you can’t miss one of the finest treks and South America.
How to get there
To get to Choquequirao you need to arrive in Cusco, you can get to the Cusco Airport (CUZ) and there is a 5 minutes journey from there to the Cuzco city. You can start the Choquequirao trek in Cachora, a small village about 3 hours outside Cusco.
There are three main ways to get to Cachora:
- By bus: it’s a long journey of about 5 hours to Abancay. Over there, you’ll have to take a taxi to Cachora. You’re going to need around $49 to 89 USD.
- By taxi: in about 3 hours and 49 minutes you’ll be in Cachora $120 to 150 USD.
- By drive: in Cusco you can rent a car and drive 3 hours and 49 minutes to Cachora. The estimated prize is from $16 to 24 USD.
The Choquequirao Archeological Complex is only accessible by foot.
When to go
You can visit Choquequirao all year-round. However, the best time to visit it is in Peru’s dry season, from May to October.
How long
In order to be able to make your entire excursion, it is best to stay between 4 and 9 days. If you stay for 4 days, you will be able to go back and forth to Cusco. If you want to explore further, take advantage of the 9 days trek and have the courage to get to Machu Picchu.
Opening and Closing Hours
There’s no specific schedule here. However, I recommend you to start your trip in the early morning so you can enjoy the whole tour.
Planning
Unlike other trips in Peru, in this one, you will not have to book in advance. Over there, there aren’t so many exploration requests.
However, be very well aware of the heights you will have to travel and the physical demands of the trip. Also, be sure to bring any items that will help guide you along the way. It’s best to join a tour group.
Inside Information
This trip will require excellent physical condition. Above all do not forget to be prepared for that and bring plenty of water and snacks. Unlike Machu Picchu, here you won’t have to fight with other tourists to take pictures. Take your camera with you to capture the best landscapes.
If you want to alleviate the load a little, you can pay for carriers. In fact, they will help you with your equipment and your backpack with their mules.
Keep in mind that the Choquequirao trek difficulty level is high. Also, guides on this trek are there just to make logistics easier, but the exploration runs on you.
History
Choquericao began its history as a city supposedly used to connect the jungle with the city centers like Pisac and Machu Picchu. At the same time, it was an important link between the Amazon jungle and the imperial city of Cusco.
Similarly, the Incas used this city as their bastion of resistance and refuge when they were placed by the Spaniards.
Although their maps had disappeared, in 1909 archaeologists visited it, made new maps and illustrated this amazing location.
Today, it is one of the places where a very important political and religious center stands out and you will love to explore it.
Websites
www.peru.info
Other nearby attractions
Places also full of adventures with their guided tours and a lot of history on your excursion. Take advantage of the wonderful trips in Peru to discover the history of the captivating Incas.
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