Peru offers an unparalleled journey into history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. One of its crown jewels, Machu Picchu, stands as a testament to the ancient Incan civilization, inviting travelers to explore mysterious ruins nestled high in the Andes. Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, enchants visitors with its vibrant blend of colonial and indigenous traditions, cobblestone streets, and lively markets that showcase exquisite crafts and local cuisine.
Beyond these iconic sites, Peru boasts a diverse range of attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests. The Sacred Valley, with its fertile terraces and stunning mountain vistas, provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Lima, the bustling capital, offers a dynamic culinary scene where world-class chefs reinvent traditional recipes, blending local ingredients with modern techniques.
Further south, the desert landscapes of Paracas and the unique formations of the Nazca Lines invite mystery and exploration, while the high-altitude beauty of Lake Titicaca offers serene views and the chance to experience life on floating islands. Each destination in Peru presents its own unique charm, making the country a versatile destination for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural tapestry.
The advantages of visiting Peru are numerous: from the opportunity to experience ancient history firsthand and indulge in exquisite culinary delights, to enjoying some of the most stunning natural landscapes on the planet. Whether wandering through the ruins of Machu Picchu, exploring the cobbled streets of Cusco, or discovering the hidden treasures scattered throughout the country, every moment in Peru is an invitation to explore, learn, and appreciate the beauty of a nation steeped in heritage and natural wonder.
Historical Marvels:
Explore ancient ruins like Machu Picchu, a breathtaking testament to the Incan civilization.
Cultural Richness:
Visit Cusco to experience a unique blend of colonial history and indigenous traditions through vibrant markets and local crafts.
Diverse Landscapes:
Enjoy the varied scenery of Peru, from the lush Sacred Valley and high Andean peaks to the mysterious Nazca Lines and desert landscapes.
Culinary Delights:
Discover Lima’s dynamic food scene where traditional recipes meet innovative culinary techniques.
Unique Destinations:
Experience tranquil moments at Lake Titicaca and explore other hidden treasures across the country, each offering its own distinct charm.
These highlights illustrate why Peru is an exceptional destination for travelers seeking history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty.
We will leave Cusco at around 7.00 am in our own private bus, and drive towards Cachora. After driving for two and a half hours, we will stop in Tarawasi, where we will visit archaeological remains of an Inca Usno, a place were ceremonies and celebrations to mother earth were conducted. We leave Tarawasi and continue along the road, across the Apurimac River and up again through Curawasi and to Saywite, our second stop an hour and a half later. Here we will visit the famous Inca rock that was believed to be the construction plan for the Tahuantinsuyo Empire, with carvings of animals representing the main deities. (Saywite forms part of the so called route of Wiracocha). From Saywite, we will continue on to Cachora only 30 minutes away and at 2800 masl. Here we will have our box lunch. In the afternoon we will climb for two and a half hours towards the Abra Capuliyoc at 2750 masl, where we will enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the Apurimac river canyon. Finally, we will then descend two more hours towards our campsite in Chiquisca.
We leave Chiquisca as early as 6.00am to go down to the Rosalina Beach, which will take one hour. We will cross the Apurimac river and start climbing towards Santa Rosa, zigzagging up a steep slope. This climb will take an approximated 2h, and it is important that we leave early so that the heat does not make it more difficult than it has to be. During a half an hour break, those who wish may try Cambray, a local sugar cane extract. Afterwards, we will climb slowly for two and a half hours until we reach our lunch spot in Marampata. From here we will walk two more hours to reach the Choquequirao archaeological complex, at about 3:30 in the afternoon. We will set up camp and enjoy some free time to explore the terraces and buildings. When the sun starts to set, you might want to sit and contemplate the canyon, where condors are sometimes spotted.
During the morning, we will enjoy a complete guided tour of the Choquequirao complex. We will visit the high parts (Hanan), and the lower parts (Urin), and some areas that are still covered in wild foliage and ready to be restored into the way it was when the Incas owned it. After the tour we will start our walk back towards Santa Rosa, where we will have lunch. Then we will continue on to Rosalina Beach at 1450 masl. After the 2h descent, we might have time to take a refreshing dip in the waters of the Apurimac River. We will camp and dine here.
We will leave as early as 6.00am to start the two to three hour climb to Chiquisca to then make our way back to the Abra Capuliyoc. After lunch, we will continue on our two hour return route to Cachora, where there will be a private bus waiting to take us back to Cusco. Estimated arrival time around 9.00pm.
Standard Choquequirao Trek Includes
– Round trip transportation Private bus from Cusco to Cachora
– Professional Guide English speaking.
– Cook In charge of meal preparation
– Horses for carry tents and cooking equipment (including horsemen)
– Meals 4 Breakfasts/ 4 Lunches/ 4 Dinners/ Snacks
– Double occupancy tents (Doite)
– Rolling mattress
– Dinner tent
– Toilet tent
– Kitchen tent
– Tables, seats, table set and fist aids kit.
Things to bring
– Large duffel bag, Daypack, 2000-2500 cu. in. to carry your camera, water bottles, sweater, etc.
– Sleeping bag minimum -5°C
– Clothing midweight fleece or wool sweater, fleece pants or tights, midweight thermal underwear tops and bottom, synthetic or wool, hiking pants, hiking shorts, long-sleeve shirts, T-shirts, underwear and casual socks, hiking socks, liner socks, swimsuit, sun hat, bandana, wool or fleece gloves, rain poncho.
– Sturdy hiking boots, sandals for use in town or campsites
– Water bottle(s) or hydration system, flashlight, pocket knife or multi-tool, 1 roll of toilet paper, sunglasses and retainer strap, sun block and lip balm, toiletry kit, personal first-aid kit (personal medication), insect repellent, several Ziploc plastic bags to put all your clothing and accessories
– Camera, film and spare batteries, reading and writing materials, binoculars