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Day by day…
Choquequirau means the "The Golden Cradle" – what an evocative name for this once abandoned city that was one of the last Inca sanctuaries! Choquequirau’s incredible location, in the crook of a mountain high above the canyon that surrounds the wild waters of the Apurimac River, is not a randomly chosen spot. In fact, this place is a strategic passage between the mountains and the jungle. Choquequirao deserves to be seen and is worth the effort that this long and strenuous hike requires. At the end of the trek, travellers will be compensated by the great beauty of this place that was forgotten until 1834, when the Other Lost City of the Incas was discovered by the Frenchman Eugène de Sartiges.
A little travelled path to something new and still unexplored…
Day 1: CUSCO - CACHORA - CHIQUISCA
At sunrise, we will depart the city of Cusco by private bus and travel northwest, toward the snow-capped peaks of Salkantay (6264 m.a.s.l.) and Huamantay (5127 ma.s.l.). The road descends into an area with pleasant weather, and passes by the towns of Limatambó and Curahuasi. On the way there we will see masses of carved granite characteristic of the region. We will quickly make our way to the highest point of our trip, where we will find a small village at 3600 m.a.s.l. as well as the Saywite archeological site, which includes interesting carved stone. From this vantage point, we will take the fork that leads us to Cachora (2850 m.a.s.l.), which will be the departure point for our expedition. There, we meet up with our local team who will be waiting for us. On the way there, we will enjoy the splendid view of Pedrayoc (5771 m.a.s.l.). We will soon arrive at Capuliyoc Pass (2800 m.a.s.l.) and then descend in the direction of Chiquisca where we will make camp for the night (1930 m.a.s.l.).
Duration: 6 hours
Note 1: Sub-tropical climate.
Day 2: CHIQUISCA - SANTA ROSA - CHOQUEQUIRAU
Early in the morning, after a good breakfast, we will descend to the warmest area of the region, passing by the towns of Santa Rosa and Maranpata (2850 m.a.s.l.). From here, there is an excellent lookout spot from where we can spy the citadel of Choquequirau. This amazing archaeological site is surrounded by mountains including the majestic Pedrayoc (5771 m.a.s.l.), Corihuayrachina (5404 m.a.s.l.),) and Ampay (5228 m.a.s.l.), all of which belong to the Vilcabamba mountain range. The surrounding countryside is rich in flora and fauna, and the uniqueness of the region is enhanced by the constant changes in climate. We will make camp for the night directly next to the Choquequirau ruins.
Duration: 7 hours
Note 1: Hot weather during the day and cold at night
Day 3: CHOQUEQUIRAU - SAN IGNACIO - CARMEN
Soon after sunrise we will leave to explore the ruins of Choquequirau. Then, we will follow a little used trail that offers an impressive panorama of the Apurimac Canyon, which is surrounded with lush tropical vegetation. We will make camp at Carmen for the night.
Duration: 6 hours
Note 1: Sub-tropical climate
Day 4: CARMEN – TAMBO BAMBA HACIENDA - HUANIPACA
Near the fruit orchards of Carmen is the Tambo Bamba Hacienda (3150 m.a.s.l.), which during colonial times was governed by landowners and high authorities and was home to a large number of slaves. Nowadays, the region is a rich agricultural area and is also used for raising cattle; the system of agricultural work still follows ancient ancestral traditions. We will continue on our way through different communities including Pacobamba, and then ultimately arrive at the final stop of our hike – Huanipaca (3150 m.a.s.l.), where we will make camp for the night.
Duration: 5 hours
Note 1: Moderate climate
Day 5: HUANIPACA - CUSCO
After breakfast, we will take a private bus to the town of Cconoc, where we will spend the day resting and enjoying the natural hot springs – a well deserved rest after our great efforts of the preceding days. We will return to Cusco after lunch.
Dinner not included
Note 1: Transfer to hotel not included
Included:
Transport and subsequent transfers from your hotel in Cusco, English speaking guide, food during the treks, mountain equipment (tents, camping equipment, ropes), transport of collective equipment (by porters), entrance fees to national parks.
Not Included:
International and domestic flights; Hotels in Cusco; Airport tax ($28 per person); Food purchases in the towns not included in the trek (food costs approximately $8 per person in a good restaurant). Personal equipment is also NOT included, such as a sleeping bag rated to –10˚ C; Mattresses; Hiking/Walking shoes; Helmut with light; Pick; Crampons, etc. These items CAN be rented.
Note: Personal insurance is obligatory.
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