The lost sister city of Machu Picchu: Choquequirao Trek 5d/4n

Although Machu Picchu receives all the fame and notoriety, it is not the only Inca ruin perched in the Peruvian Andes. Recently gaining in popularity is the majestic ruins of Chokequirau with its unparalleled vistas overlooking the Apurimac River canyon. Recent restoration of this fascinating archaeological site has brought the world’s attention to this other lost city of the Incas. Its remote location has kept most people from visiting this spectacular site, but a bit of determination and a spirit of adventure will make it possible to conquer this challenge and enjoy what many consider to be the next Machu Picchu.

Day 1: Cusco - Cachora - Chiquisca
After an early morning pick up from your hotel we go by bus to the village of Cachora (a 5 hour drive). Upon arriving in the village we will have time to grab lunch at a local restaurant and prepare for the afternoon hike. After lunch we begin hiking on an easy trail that descends sharply down the canyon until reaching our campsite at Chiquisca (about 4 hours). Upon arriving at the campsite you will find the tents pitched and light snack of crackers and cookies with tea or coffee waiting for you. Later in the evening dinner will be served before everyone retires for the evening. Meals Included: L, D.

Day 2: Chiquisca - Apurimac River - Maranpata
An early morning wake-up call and a hearty breakfast will prepare us for this challenging full day of hiking. The trekking begins with a 2 hour descent eventually reaching the Apurimac River. Here the weather will be almost tropical as we cross a small bridge toward the other side to begin climbing out of the canyon. The climbing over the next couple of hours is steep and uphill and we will take a break at the small village of Santa Rosa where we will have lunch. Having rested we will continue ascending for the remainder of the afternoon until we reach our campsite at Maranpata. You will know that you have arrived as the campsite will be set up with tea,coffee, and a snack will be your reward after a long day of challenging hiking. While you relax make sure to take a moment to enjoy the views of Choquekirau off in the distance. After dinner it is off to bed to get some sleep. Meals Included: B, L, D.

Day 3: Full day visit Choquequirao
After breakfast it is a short 1 hour hike before arriving at the ruins of Choquekirau. Our guide will provide a tour of the site but you will also have plenty of time to wander off and explore on your own this site that is just now getting recognized as one of the best preserved Incan ruins, right up there with Machu Picchu. A picnic lunch will be served in the afternoon before we begin heading back to the campsite at Maranpata. Dinner will be served and then it is time to check in for a good night’s rest. Meals Included: B, L, D.

Day 4: Maranpata - Chiquisca
Today, we begin retracing our footprints following the trail that we traversed during Day 2. We hike mostly downhill until crossing the Apurimac River and reaching our campsite at Chiquisca. A picnic lunch will be served along the way and a special farewell dinner will be served in the as this is the last night of camping. Meals Included: B, L, D.

Day 5: Chiquisca - Cusco
This last day on the trail is a strenuous uphill climb so a nutritious breakfast is in order before we head out from Chiquisca to Cachora. Lunch will be waiting for us at a small restaurant in the village. After lunch we board the vehicles and make the 5 hour journey back to Cusco where you will be dropped off at your hotel. Meals Included: B, L.

Prices are per person and in US Dollar. Prices are subject to change around holidays such as Easter, Christmas, New Year and other local festivities.

Price Includes:
• Accomodation in double tent
• Daily breakfast
• Lunch on day 1-5
• Dinner on day 1-4
• Transfer Cusco-Cachora-Cusco
• Support staff: Cook, assistants and mule skinners
• English speaking guides
• Dining tent with chairs and tables
• Comprehensive first-aid kid including oxygen bottles
• Biodegradable chemical toilet

Price Does Not Include:
• Meals not specified
• Sleeping bags (can be hired at an extra cost of USD 6.00 per day)
• Travel insurance
• Extras, tips and personal expenses

"Choquequirao is perhaps the most impressive ruins I saw on my trip to Cuzco. Machu Picchu is incredible, but Choquequirao gives you that 'undiscovered' feeling that Machu Picchu just cannot offer. At times we were trekking all by our selves in the middle of the Andes, can't describe a more amazing feeling."

Rory Thomas, US