TOUR INFORMATION

The Manco Inca dynasty resisted the Spanish conquerors during 40 years (1536 to 1572) from this fortress in the Vilcabamaba area. The Spanish conquerors were never able to expel them from it.

The building of Chocquequirao is the work of Inca Pachacutec successors Tupac Inca Yupanqui (1471-1 493) and Wayna Capac (1493-1527). Household and ceremonial pottery has been found here that bears both the classic Cusco style and also from other populations who came to live here to build and permanently populate the area. Most likely, they were experienced farmers who knew how to build and use farming terraces in high Amazon forest areas. Located at 3 050 masl on the border with department of Apurímac, the Choquequirao archeological compound was not built to be a place of easy access. Reaching it demands two days of disciplined march, largely compensated by the beauty of the landscape that wayfarers cross from the beginning of their expedition.

The road starts at Cachora (2300 masl), a small town in the Apurímac department, after traveling four hours on the mostly paved road from Cusco (145 km paved and 10 km of dirt road). Mule packers can be contacted there who can also act as guides. Approximately 40% of the Choquequirao Inca ceremonial center has been cleared of vegetation. The remaining area is formed by a complex terrace system built on extremely steep slopes. A very impressive stairway of 180 terraces has been recently spotted. It descends from one of the ceremonial center flanks and reaches the river open to swimming.

WHAT TO BRING

TOUR INCLUDES

* Collection from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private bus to km.82 (starting point of the trail).
* Private transportation From Cusco to Cachora. (4 hrs.)
* Entrance fee and authorizations for Chokekiraw Park
* Recommended and professional bilingual guides ( 1 Guide for 8 people).
* Meals during the trip (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
* Special and new Camping equipment (triple tent for two people, dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, toilet tent etc.)
* Others: hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time if requested with enough time ahead
* Accommodation for our guides, cook and horsemen
* First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
* Pack mules for the company equipment & your personal staff..
* mules for emergencies.
* Horsemen ( 1 for 3 mules )
* Specialized cook.
* Optional visit to hot springs in Conoq
* Private transportation from Cachora to Cusco, including transfer to your hotel in Cusco

WHATS IS NOT INCLUDED.

* Break fast on the first day, Dinner on the last day
* Private mule for your personal transportation.
* Sleeping bag.
* Entrance fee to hot springs.
* Tips: please beware that our agency staff is well paid so please feel free to tip or not according to your wish

FAQs ABOUT THIS TOUR

What will the weather be like on a Choquequirao trek?

The Andean weather can be unpredictable, despite the sharp divide between dry and wet seasons. The dry season runs from May to October or November; the rainy season goes from December through April. Nevertheless, Choquequirao lies in the forested fringes of the Amazon basin, where showers can occur at any time of year.
Therefore, even in the “dry” season, your daypack should always include full rain gear (both jacket AND trousers).
Daytime temperatures can vary greatly, with daytime highs ranging from 10ºC/50ºF to 32ºC/90ºF and nighttime lows ranging from 10ºC/50ºF to a cold 4ºC/40ºF, though seldom much lower. The floor of the Apurimac Canyon gets very hot during the day. Bring your swimsuit for a delicious dip in the river

What's the most difficult section?

We expected the 1800+m (ft) climb from the Apurimac River up to Choquequirao to be excruciating. Yet for us it did not seem difficult. (Perhaps it was the excitement of finally arriving at the ruins.)
If you hike one of the longer routes, the day following your visit to Choquequirao may well be the most difficult.

Can I bring children?

For sure. But only if they have multi-day hiking experience.

What footwear is best for Choquequirao?

Most experts recommend hiking boots. Modern boots are remarkably light & comfortable. A pair of good boots & gaiters makes you feel invincible during the trekking..

Do I need a water filter?

You definitely must treat water. Much of the trek is in grazing land.
Please take with you some water purifier which can use to remove protozoa, bacteria and deactivates viruses; this just in case you don’t have any mineral water. Along the road of Choquequirao there are like five places where you can buy some mineral water bottles.

How difficulty degree is this hike?

Hard/Challenging: The route has steep ups and downs, with changes of altitude in one day of over 1600m/5200ft and usually warm weather during the day due to the lower altitude vs Cusco. We recommend allowing one-day acclimatization in Cusco prior to the trek departure.

What about the altitude sickness?

Cusco is located at 3350 meters over sea level; therefore, some travelers might have problems with the altitude. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, eat light food and take breaks often times a day. Coca tea, which is good for the altitude sickness, is available at most hotels and grocery shops.

Is travel insurance recommended?

Yes, we recommend that you get a Vacation Insurance (for cancelled trips, lost baggage and delays) and International Medical Insurance (for medical expenses, medical assessments, etc).

If I travel alone who I will share the tent with?

If you travel alone we'll team you up with another group member but if you feel more comfortable having your own tent we will provide you a 1 person tent (There is no single tent supplement).

Where do I leave my extra luggage during the trek?

Your hotel has storage to keep your luggage safe till you return to Cusco. Do not leave any valuables in your hotel room, use a safety deposit box!

What will the meals on the trek will be like?

• Your high-energy meals will be cooked just right on the spot! You will have a variety of freshly-prepared meals during your once in a life time experience.
• Breakfast includes tea, coffee, hot chocolate, mate de coca, along with scrambled eggs, bread, butter, jam.
• For lunch and dinner you will have a bowl of soup followed by a main course (stews, chicken, beef or fish with rice or pasta) and dessert. Snacks include a piece of fruit, a chocolate bar, candies, hot drinks, popcorn, bread and jam.
• Vegetarian dietary needs are available; just mention it at the time of booking and we will ensure you have them prepared during the trek.

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