Considered the last Inca refuge, the complete Archaeological site of Choquequirao is located on a mountain slope that is part of the Cordillerano del Vilcabamba and resisted for decades against the Spanish conquistadors. Its perfect architecture allows one to appreciate the beautiful flora and fauna of the high jungle, with animals like the Andean condor. Step into a well-preserved piece of history, as this archaeological complex was declared Cultural Heritage by both France and Peru.
The tour begin in Cusco (3,350 m) around 5:30 a.m. The first destination is down to the town of Cachora (2,850 m) to pick up the mules who will carry all our camping equipment during the expedition. After that, we will continue to Capuliyoc (2,800 m).
This first stretch of the walk offers a beautiful view of the mythical Padreyoc mountain and the deep canyon crossed by the Apurímac river, which means “río que habla” (river that speaks). Then, we will descend down to the Chiquisca canyon (1,930 m), where we will spend the night.
Walking time: 7 hours
After breakfast, we will descend to La Playa Rosalina (1,550 m). From there, we will continue to Marampata (2,850 m), where we will be able to enjoy a beautiful view of the Choquequirao archaeological complex (3,033 m.). We will walk another half hour until we reach our base camp.
Walking time: 7 hours
At sunrise we will have a spectacular view of the Choquequirao archaeological complex. As of now only 30% of “la Cuna de oro” (golden cradle) is exposed. After that, we will descend to the deepest part of the Apurímac canyon called San Ignacio (1,500 m) to have lunch. Finally, we will go to our camp site in los bellos jardines del Carmen (2,000 m).
Walking time: 6 hours
Los jardines del Carmen is located close to the Tambo Bamba farm (2,500 m.), a region ruled by landowners during the 19th and 20th centuries, and considered as one of the most fertile valleys for growing corn and a variety of potatoes. We will also cross small towns such as Pacobamba and Huanipaca (3,150 m) to be picked up by the bus that will take us back to Cusco.
Walking time: 5 hours
Transportation duration: 5 hours
Additional details of the Choquequirao 4 days tour are as follows:
Cusco
5:30 am
