The Inca ruins of Choquequirao, often thought of as a “sister site” to Machu Picchu, are only reachable by a difficult hike through the rugged Vilcabamba Mountain Range of the Andes. Because of its remote location, the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex is visited by only around 5,000 people per year (compared to more than 1.5 million visitors for Machu Picchu). For this reason, trekking to Choquequirao is one of the best options available if you want to visit a spectacular and well-conserved Inca city without all the crowds of Machu Picchu.
The dusty and winding footpath to Choquequirao first descends into the Apurímac Canyon before crossing the river and then ascending steeply up the other side of the canyon. Once at the top, the trail enters a lush green forest before emerging at the majestic Choquequirao ruins. While the trail to Choquequirao is considered difficult because of its steep climbs, it does have the advantage of being located at a lower altitude than some of the more famous treks in the area such as the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. The path to Choquequirao is also kept in great condition, and there are many communities located along the way where you will be able to buy supplies, get a prepared meal, or camp for the night. These factors make Choquequirao a rather hassle-free and easy trekking experience aside from the steep climbs. And don’t worry–the gorgeous Andean vistas coupled with the chance to explore a majestic Inca citadel free of crowds will more than make up for the hard work of getting there.
If you’re ready to see Choquequirao for yourself, keep reading our guide to find out everything you know about visiting this remarkable hidden gem located outside of Cusco.
Choquequirao History
The name Choquequirao is of unknown origin but may be derived from a phrase which roughly translates as “cradle of gold” in the Quechua language. The site was built during the 15th century, possibly as a personal estate by the Inca Pachacuti, the leader who first transformed the Kingdom of Cusco into the mighty Inca Empire. The site’s ownership would’ve later passed to his son, Tupac Inca Yupanqui.
Many historians also consider the site to have been one of the last refuges of Manco Inca Yupanqui following his failed siege of Cusco in 1535. Choquequirao would have later served as an entrance checkpoint for the neo-Inca state in Vilcabamba which was founded by the remnants of the empire after their abandonment of the highlands and flight into the jungle.
Rediscovery
Like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao was never found by Spanish conquistadors. The first non-Inca visitor to the site was the explorer Juan Arias Diaz in 1710, and it was visited occasionally over the following two centuries by an assortment of other treasure hunters and adventurers.
In 1909, Choquequirao was visited by Hiram Bingham, the famous American “discoverer” of Machu Picchu, who was searching for the location of the final Inca capital. While there, Bingham explored several buildings and recorded his findings, but moved on after ultimately determining that it was not “lost city” of Vilcabamba.
Because of its remote location, formal excavation of Choquequirao did not begin until the 1970s. To this day, only around one-third of the site has been excavated, and many fascinating discoveries likely still remain hidden.
Choquequirao Campsites
The typical starting point for the Choquequirao Trek is the small village of San Pedro de Cachora, located in the mountains outside the city of Abancay about 3 hours from Cusco. From there you will head to the Capuliyoc Mirador, the last point on the trail which is accessible by car. From here you will begin the steep descent into the Apurimac Canyon.
The principal campsites along the way from Capuliyoc to the Choquequirao ruins are as follows:
- Chiquisca
- Playa Rosalina
- Santa Rosa Baja
- Santa Rosa Alta
- Marampata
There is also a campsite located at the actual Choquequirao site for those who would like to spend a night in the shadow of these incredible ruins.
Typical Itinerary
Day 1: Cachora to Santa Rosa Alta
Day 2: Santa Rosa Alta to Choquequirao Ruins
Day 3: Choquequirao Ruins to Playa Rosalina
Day 4: Playa Rosalina to Cachora
What to Bring
Essentials for camping such as tents and sleeping bags as well as food are typically provided by your tour operator (if there are any doubts, make sure to verify what you need to bring). Aside from these items, it’s a good idea to bring the following:
- Good hiking boots
- Lightweight hiking clothes
- Hiking pole
- Some warm layers
- Extra socks
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Shorts
- Sandals
- A good daypack
- Water bottle & purification tablets
- Trail mix and other snacks
Note that there are places to buy food, water and refreshments as well as toiletries at the various campsites and communities along the trail, but that your choices get more limited and prices get more expensive the further you are on the trail, so it’s a good idea to bring as many of the essentials as you can.
Best Time to Go
Choquequirao is located in Peru’s highland region, which has two primary weather seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season typically lasts from December until March, with cold temperatures and frequent heavy rain during this period. The dry season lasts from April until November, with sunnier days and less precipitation. It is highly recommended to visit Choquequirao during the dry season months lasting from April until November, since heavy rainfall during the wet season can cause the trail to become muddy and slippery. In addition, it will be more difficult to purchase supplies since many of the small stores located at campsites close down for this slow season.
