Choquequirao - when the Inca Trail is not enough (or too much)

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WHERE IN THE WORLD?

GO IF….

you’re happy to schlep your camping equipment for four days while applying mosquito repellent.

DON’T GO IF….

walking for days is not your thing.

CHOQUEQUIRAO - WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION?

'The Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu' is an archaeological site in the Choquequirao Archaeological Park and is often considered the best alternative to the famous destination on the Inca Trail.

Choquequirao was likely one of a few check points at the entrance to the Vilcabamba, the ‘lost city of the Incas’. Around the time when it was built in the 15th century, it also served as an administrative hub.

The ruins are larger than Machu Picchu, but due to their remoteness, nowhere near as crowded.

The site is massive – only 30-40% has been excavated – with iconic Incan architectural features like terraces, plazas, and ritual baths. And the ancient Incan ‘graffiti’ - llamas created out of white stones.

The 4-day trek, considered the toughest in the region (although the views more than make up for this), is one of the reasons why the place is still so quiet and unspoilt.

For now at least. The Peruvian Government has plans to build a cable car to the site. But of course.

So go and enjoy the sweeping vistas of the Apurímac Valley that'll make your heart soar higher than an Andean condor.

Pro tip: Pack light, but don't forget the blister plasters. Your feet will thank you later.

And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, there’s an option to see both sites in one go. You may need a few more plasters, though. The trek from Choquequirao to Machhu Picchu takes nine days.

HOW TO GET THERE:

First, get to Cusco. From there, it's a 3-hour drive to the trailhead at San Pedro de Cachora, in the province of Abancay, Apurímac Region.

Then, lace up those hiking boots and prepare for the trek. No trains, no buses, just you and the Andes.

Check current trekking regulations as they can change, and always go with a reputable guide.

CURIOUS? READ ON:

🏔️ The alternative Machu Picchu

🥾 Choquequirao - how to get there

🌍 Remote Inca ruins that rival Machu Picchu