From Cusco: Landscapes and Archaeological Mysteries in Choquequirao
ID: GYG961644-1506581
Category:
Country: Peru
Duration:
10:00 hours
Description
We will embark on a unique adventure, exploring ancient archaeological complexes, crossing breathtaking landscapes and hiking to the mystical Choquequirao and the majestic Apurimac Canyon.
Day 1: In the morning, we will begin the journey to the village of Cachora (2,900 m / 9,514 ft.). On the way, we will pass through the villages of Izcuchaca, Zurite and Limatambo, stopping at key points to explore the Tarawasi Archaeological Complex, one of the best examples of Inca architecture, and the Saywite Archaeological Complex, famous for the Saywite Stone, a 2.5-meter monolith featuring a carved map believed to represent the Inca Empire. In the afternoon, we will arrive at Capuliyoc, where we will set up our camp, and from there enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped Salkantay, the mountains of the Vilcabamba Range and a first view of the Apurimac Canyon. The maximum altitude reached will be 3,400m/10,170 ft approx.
Day 2: We will begin our trek to the Apurimac River Canyon, observing along the way agricultural activities and, with luck, the flight of some condors. We will descend into the depths of the Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest and most beautiful in the world, while appreciating the changes in climate and vegetation. Santa Rosa Camp. The maximum altitude reached will be 2,900m/7,513 ft approx. 8-9 hours trekking.
Day 3: Very early in the morning, we start an ascending hike to Marampata (2,850 masl), noticing as we go along the increase of vegetation and the warmer climate. Upon arrival, we will have a panoramic view of the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex, nestled in the mountains. We will continue to the Raqyapata sector, where we will camp. Before lunch, we will have a guided visit to the complex, and in the afternoon we will explore the sector of the llamas. The maximum altitude reached will be 3,100m/ 10,170 ft approx, trekking of 3-4 hours.
Day 4: The day will be dedicated to explore the high and low areas of Choquequirao, where we will see around 50 cultivation terraces covered by vegetation and the irrigation channel coming from the top of the mountain. After this unique experience, we will return to camp. The maximum altitude reached will be 3,100m/10,170 ft approx, trekking 7- 7.30 hours.
Day 5: On the last day of our trek, we will start earlier than usual. We will head back to the village of Capuliyoc, where along the way we will enjoy views of the imposing snow-capped Salkantay, the mountains of the Vilcabamba Range and the Apurimac Canyon. From Capuliyoc, we will take the bus back to Cusco. This day will be divided into two sections:
1: The maximum altitude reached will be 2,900m/9,514 ft approx and trekking of 4-5 hours.
2: The maximum altitude reached will be 3,400/11,155 ft approx and trekking of 4-5 hours.
Highlights
- Visit to Tarawasi and Saywite archaeological complexes
- Hike to Choquequirao, overlooking the Apurimac Canyon.
- Exploration of the terraces and canals of Choquequirao
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The months of December to February are not recommended due to the rainy season.
Supplement for private single tent
High difficulty level
INCLUDED
- Bilingual tour guide (Spanish, English), ask for additional languages.
- Assistant tour guide for groups of more than 9 passengers.
- Private transfer Cusco - Capulliyoc
- Entry to the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex.
- Food during the trekking.
- Camping equipment: 4-season sleeping tent, kitchen tent, kitchenware, dining tent, bathroom tent, tables and benches.
- Sleeping bag.
- Hot water in sinks for personal hygiene.
- Boiled and chlorinated water for the canteens.
- Cook.
- Satellite telephone.
- Support personnel (muleteers).
- Pack horses for personal belongings (10 kgs).
- Saddle horses.
- Communication radios.
- Oxygen.
- First aid kit.
- Air mattress or mats thermarest.
- Private transfer Cachora - Cusco.
NOT INCLUDED
- Lodging in Cusco
- Dinner (day 5)
- Services and items not mentioned
- Additional expenses and tips
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.