Peru is a land of wonder, with its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and ancient ruins. One of the most breathtaking experiences is trekking the Inca Trail to Choquequirao, an ancient Inca ruin that sits high in the Andes mountains. This trek is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to take on the challenge, the rewards are beyond measure.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through time as we explore the Inca Trail to Choquequirao. We’ll cover everything from the history of the trail and the Choquequirao ruins to the trek itself, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Key Points:
- The Inca Trail to Choquequirao is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you through the Andes mountains to an ancient Inca ruin.
- The Choquequirao ruins are believed to have been built during the 15th century, around the same time as Machu Picchu.
- The trek is approximately 60 km (37 miles) roundtrip and takes 4-5 days to complete.
- The best time to do the trek is during the dry season from April to October.
- Proper preparation is essential, including physical training, packing the right gear, and acclimatizing to the altitude.
The History of the Inca Trail and Choquequirao Ruins
The Inca Trail was a network of roads built by the Inca civilization, which stretched over 40,000 km (25,000 miles) across South America. The Inca Trail to Choquequirao is one of the lesser-known routes but is just as impressive as its more famous counterpart, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trail was built during the 15th century, around the same time as Machu Picchu, and was used as a trade and transportation route between the highlands and the jungle.
Choquequirao, meaning “Cradle of Gold” in Quechua, is an Inca ruin located on a mountaintop at an altitude of 3,085 meters (10,120 feet). It is believed to have been built around the same time as Machu Picchu and was likely used as a ceremonial center and administrative hub. The ruins were rediscovered in the 20th century and have since become a popular destination for trekkers.
The Trek Itself: What to Expect
The Inca Trail to Choquequirao is a challenging trek that requires a good level of physical fitness and endurance. The trail starts in Cachora, a small town located about 5 hours from Cusco, and takes you through rugged terrain, steep ascents and descents, and high-altitude passes. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of snow-capped mountains, valleys, and waterfalls.
The trek is approximately 60 km (37 miles) roundtrip and takes 4-5 days to complete, depending on your pace. Unlike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the trail to Choquequirao is less crowded and offers a more authentic experience.
