With impressive rock walls sheltering it, a green cloak spread open to its fabulous patios, and an atmosphere charged with an energy that perhaps finds it source in the ancient sun ceremonies, Choquequirao counts these sights among its many nuances. Spectacular and remote, solitary and forgotten, Choquequirao (3,085 meters) was erected on a mountain summit almost impregnable by the people of the La Convención province in the department of Cusco, for which reason it became --for more than 40 years—the final bastion of resistance for the children of the Sun. This group sought refuge in the stone walls of Choquequirao when Manco Inca, the Inca rebel, was defeated.
With palaces and two-story temples, intricate systems of fountains, canals, aqueducts, and admirable “adeneria” patios covered with profuse vegetation, the marvelous Choquequirao was constructed, presumably, during Pachacutec’s reign (14th century). The only comparable ruin is Machu Picchu, the archeological monument most visited in Peru. The true magnificence of Choquequirao (from the Quechua word “chuqui k’iraw,” or golden cradle), is that it is still waiting to reveal itself. Only 30% of the complex’s 1,810 hectares have been “rescued” from the threatening grip of the vegetation that through the years – not to say centuries – have covered this authentic Incan jewel.
The archeological and historical value of Choquequirao, the “Golden Cradle” of the Incas, is complemented by its beautiful setting. The surrounding nature presents geographical characteristics and its own biodiversity unique to “la ceja de selva,” which constitutes an additional attraction for visitors, who can observe everything from the majestic flight of the condor to the powerful gait of the spectacled bear.
06 Days / 05 Nights
Regular and Private Departure Services / Minimum 02 Travelers
Level: Moderate |
Day 01: Cusco.- Arrival, reception and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay.
Day 02: Cusco – Cachora – Coca Masana – Playa Rosalina.- Early morning departure from Cusco to Cachora (2,900 meters), a traditional and pleasant Andean village. Here we will pick up the rest of the trekking equipment, eat breakfast and start a 2-hour hike to Capuliyoc (2,915 meters). On the way, we’ll have the first views of the Apurimac Valley and the snowy peaks of Padrayoc and Wayna Cachora (5,482 meters). We will then go down the eastern slope of the Andes in order to arrive at Coca Masana (2,330 meters). The hike will end at Playa Rosalina where we will camp on a riverbank.
Day 03: Playa Rosalina – Choquequirao.- This day is, without a doubt, the most strenuous leg of the journey. After breakfast, we’ll start a steep ascent of approximately 5 hours to Raqaypata, located on the banks of the Chunchullumay River. The land is covered with terraces still used for farming today. On the way we’ll be able to see diverse types of orchids, bromedalias and colorful birds. Lunch will be served in Raqaypata before continuing 2 more hours to Choquequirao (3,035m). We’ll set up camp near the archeological center.
Day 04 Choquequirao – Raqaypata.- Breakfast. All day exploring the Incan citadel. Our guide will explain the history and relevance of the complex as well as the different theories about its construction and role during the Incan reign and later during the Spanish colonization. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Raqaypata to camp.
Day 5: Raqaypata – Chikisca.- After breakfast we’ll hike down to 1,463 meters and arrive again at the bank of Apurímac river. On the way, we’ll cross a bridge over the fast-flowing Apurímac River, which joins the Apurímac province with the Cusco province. Our hike will last approximately 4 hours. Arrival at Coca Masana. Camping.
Day 6: Chikisca – Cachora – Cusco.- Breakfast. We’ll take a different trail to return to Cachora. On the way, it is possible that we’ll see the stunning Apurímac Cañón, one of the deepest in the world (3,000m). Arrival in Cachora and departure in bus to Cusco. Transfer to hotel. Lodging.
Includes:
One night lodging in Cusco at a 3-star hotel, transfer to airport/hotel, local guide speaking English and Spanish, cook, muleteers, mules to carry the equipment during the hike, transportation to departure point (Cachora), tents and high quality camping equipment (sleeping bag, dining tent, cooking tent, bathroom tent), food mentioned above, snacks (two times a day).
Does Not Included:
Entrance fee to Choquequirao (US $10.00), personal trekking equipment, tip for guide and porters.
IMPORTANT INDICATIONS ABOUT OUR CIRCUITS:
RATES IN AMERICAN DOLLARS PER PASSENGER
PROGRAMS MINIMUM 02 PASSENGERS
CIRCUITS INCLUDE:
LODGING WITH BREAKFAST
REGULAR SERVICES WITH SPANISH AND ENGLISH GUIDE ACCORDING TO THE ITINERARY
DO NOT INCLUDE:
NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL AIR TICKETS
AIRPORT TAXES (TUAAS US$ 5.84 NATIONAL FLIGHT, US$ 31.00 INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT)
EXTRAS (TIPS, ALCOHOLIC DRINKS, PHONE CALLS, ETC.)
INSURANCE SECURE (IT COULD BE TAKEN UPON REQUEST)
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