Day 1: Welcome to Choquequirao
You will start this adventure with an early morning transfer heading to the community of Cachora. On arrival, approximately 9:00am, you will have short briefing before commencing the trek. After approx. 9kms of an ascending trek on dirt paths, you will arrive at the first pass of Capulilloq (2800mts / 9180ft). From here, you will have your first glimpse of the Choquequirao Mountain framed by surrounding volcanic peaks, steep cliffs and the coil of the Apurimac River as it snakes its way, carving out the valley floor. Then, you will begin a short zig zagging descent before heading back up again to the second pass, Cocamasama at 2100mts / 6890ft where soon after you will arrive at the first camp of Playa Rosalina (Gateway Bridge) at 1750mts / 5740ft.
Meals included: Lunch and Dinner.
Day 2: Choquequirao Ruins
Good morning! Today begins with another early departure, approximately 5:00am, which will allow you avoid the heat of the midday sun as you walk. You will pass through the small town of Santa Rosa at 2100mts / 6890ft, where there you will take a quick break and enjoy some locally produced sugar cane juice or some refreshing cool water. If you get lucky, you may even spot the elusive Andean Bear or the imposing Condors flying overhead. In the area of Marampata there are numerous and enormous platforms or terraces that its belief has been used for farming and agriculture purposes. After a further 2 hours walking you will reach the main complex of Choquequirao (3085mts / 10120ft). Here, you will have time to wander around the ruins themselves and take beautiful pictures before heading off to your campsite at a nearby archaeological site.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 3: Playa Rosalina
Today you will have free time to explore the ruins by your own. This amazing citadel is thought to have been built by Inca Tupac Yupanqui, who campaigned tirelessly, more than doubling the size of the Inca Empire. Recent studies suggest that Choquequirao was the feminine counterpart of the sacred city of Machu Picchu, fitting within the concept of duality. Hiram Bingham visited these ruins on his search for the Lost City just prior to discovering Machu Picchu. Continuing the trek, you will visit the Usnu, a high point within the ruins with amazing panoramic views. After exploring the area, you will retrace your steps back to Playa Rosalina and your campsite.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 4: Farewell
Today, at dawn, you will head back to the starting point Cachora, where the transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Once there, you will be transferred to your hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.
