Choquequirao Trekking Challenge 3 Days

TREKKING HIGHLIGHTS:

• Enjoy 3 days of amazing trekking through the Apurimac Canyon and the iconic Choquequirao.
• Experience breathtaking views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the majestic Apurimac River.
• Discover & explore a VX century Inca settlement in Cusco – Peru, with incredible archaeological sites & ruins.
• Trek year-round with suitable weather conditions throughout every season guaranteeing an unforgettable journey.
• Benefit from safe and professional guides who will help you make the most of your adventure and get closer to nature & local culture

TREKKING FACTS

• LOCATION: About 4 hours drive west of the city of Cusco in Peru
• ALTITUDE: Min. 1,500 masl – Max. 3,300 masl
• TIMING: 3 days and 2 nights
• STARTING AND ENDING POINT : Cusco hotel
• LEVEL: Difficult, but not at high altitude. Challenging due to steep ascents and descents.
• ADVENTURE RATING: Choquequirao trek is one of the better known adventure hikes around Cusco.
• DEPARTURE DATES: Any day with two people. Not available during the rainy season. (December through March)
• GROUP SIZE: Minimum 2 people average 8 people
• DAILY WALK: Approximately 7-8 hours

BRIEF ITINERARY FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKKING CHALLENGE

Day 01: First walking day

We start Choquequirao Trekking Challenge early in the morning with a car ride from Cusco to the zone of Capuliyoc. This is the beginning of an 8-9 hour trekking journey that proves to be exciting and challenging, as participants traverse through dense vegetation and rugged terrain. Throughout the day, participants will have the opportunity to view breathtaking views of Choquequirao and its vast expanse. At the end of the day, participants will arrive at Santa Rosa camp, where they can rest and prepare for the next days of trekking.

Day 02: Explore Choquequirao

On our second day trek, we will Explore Choquequirao, a stunning Inca settlement located high in the Andes Mountains. Our journey will begin early in the morning, as we ascend through the beautiful mountain terrain. We will have plenty of time to marvel at the majestic ruins and learn about the history and archaeology of this ancient site. After our guided tour and free time for exploration, we will return to Santa Rosa Camp.

Day 03: Return to Cusco

We will leave early in the morning and make our way to Capuliyoc, where our car will be waiting for us. The trek is considered challenging, but you will feel great knowing that you accomplished the wonderful trek. After arriving in Capuliyoc, we will make our way back to Cusco, where we will arrive in the evening. Return to Cusco after your amazing trek and get ready for a well-deserved rest!

 DETAILED ITINERARY FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKKING CHALLENGE

Our three-day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge itinerary has been carefully chosen to include the best night stops and highlights. However, as local and operational conditions may vary and unforeseen circumstances can arise, the following itinerary should be used as a guideline.

Day 1: Drive from Cusco to Capuliyoc and trek to Santa Rosa Camp:

Today we’ll Pick-up you from your hotel in Cusco at 04:00 a.m; then, we’ll drive our private car for four hours approx. to the town of Cachora where we’ll stop for a quick breakfast and also purchase some items for the trek (Water, snacks, etc.); then, we’ll continue 30 minutes more to the zone of Capuliyoc (the starting point of the trek). Here, after we arrange the equipment on mules and horses, we’ll start the trek downward. The trail goes zigzag down until the place of «Playa Rosalina» where will be served our lunch and you can rest your knees that will be tired from walking down.

After a deserved lunch in the middle of exotic views of the Apurimac river/Valley and the scenic mountains, we continue a few minutes down to the border of the Apurimac River, which will cross by a bridge; after that we’ll start the climb up by a zigzag trail to the campsite of «Santa Rosa» where you can take a deserve cold shower (the place is very nice and warm). And enjoy the views of the Apurimac Canyon. Here, there is a small village and you can also find a place if you want to buy some water, snacks or sodas.

The approximate time of the hike is about 8-9 hours (Including the stops for lunch, resting and drink water). On this day, we will pass the small village, Capuliyoc (2,915 m.a.s.l.) impressive lookout point from where we can see the Apurimac Valley, Huayhuacalle (2,970 masl), Tinajayoc (2,630 masl), Mirador (2,370 m.a.s.l.), Cocamasana (2,330m.a.s.l.), Torowisqana (2,285 masl), Chiquiska (1,950 m.a.s.l.) grove place where we can find water, Playa Rosalina (1,550 m.a.s.l.), La Huerta (2,705 m.a.s.l.) and finally, we’ll arrive to Santa Rosa camp (2,115 m.a.s.l.).

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Acomodation: Campig tents
• Climate : warm and sunny
• Distance Travelled: Approximately 15km
• Hiking time : 8 hour

Day 02: Trekking up to Choquequirao explore it and return to Santa Rosa camp.

After an early breakfast, we’ll continue another hard section of the Choquequirao Trekking Challenge so, an early morning wake up is needed, where delicious breakfast will be waiting for you; the trail provides some clear water spring inviting to get it; we recommend do not drink water from the spring because the bacteria of the water are not good for your health. At around 9:30a.m, we’ll arrive to the archaeological site of Choquequirao where you’ll receive a guided tour; after which you’ll have free time for further exploration and also enough time to rest. While you are exploring the Inca settlement of Choquequirao you kitchen team will prepare your lunch which you will enjoy after you finish explore the extraordinary Inca settlement.

During the tour, we will observe the three levels of the excavated Inca settlement, where you’ll see the houses, terraces and other parts of this late Inca-town, like the ruin in progress of excavation and finally the areas unexplored that can tell us about this last refuge of the oppressed Inca Empire. After all, we start the walking down to the camp of Santa Rosa and enjoy your last dinner.

The Inca ruins of Choquequirao are considered as “The Last Refuge of the Inca Empire”. The oldest reports assign to Juan Arias Diaz as one of the first people that explored the zone in 1710. Our bilingual guide will explain the history and importance of the site.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Acomodación: Camping tents
• Climate : warm and windy
• Distance Travelled: Approximately 12km
• Hiking time : 7 hour

Day 3: Trek from Santa Rosa Camp to Capuliyoc and drive to Cusco.

After an early breakfast, we’ll pack all camping gear and start walking down to “Playa Rosalina” It is the lowest point of the trek. On the way, we can observe one more time the Apurimac Canyon; if we are lucky, we’ll see Andean Condors flying over the Canyon. We also will see the exuberant vegetation and its variety of flowers and orchids. From “Playa Santa Rosa”, we’ll continue walking up to Chiquiska where we’ll stop for our last lunch and also you can rest; this is a very hot place so that we recommend drinking enough water.

From the zone of Chiquiska, we’ll continue the trail zigzag up to Capuliyoc where our private car will be waiting for us and return to Cusco. Here in Capuliyoc you’ll have last choice to take pictures of the route, and see the trail that took us to Choqeuquirao. After all, we’ll take the car and return to the village of Cachora where the car will stop for going to the toilets and  you also can purchase some items for your car trip to Cusco. We’ll arrive to Cusco at approx. 08:00 p.m and you’ll be transfer you to your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Climate : warm and sunny
• Distance Travelled: Approximately 11km
• Hiking time : 7 hour

ITINERARY NOTES

The times cited in this itinerary are approximate. Walking times depend on the group and the guide can change lunch spots and campsites, depending on the progress of the group.

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKKING CHALLENGE INCLUDES:

• Pre-trek briefing one night before the trek
• Pick-up from your hotel in the morning of trek departure
• Transport from Cusco to Capuliyoc, the trailhead in private car and the returning way
• Entrance fee to Choquequirao Inca archaeological site
• English-Quechua-Spanish speaking professional guide (you will have an assistant guide for groups over 8 people)
• Tents – 2 people in a 4-person capacity tent which allows for greater comfort, and also storage of backpacks.
• Air mattress for a greater comfort during the trek
• Chef and cooking equipment (Assistants are provided for large groups)
• Toilet tent
• Meals as specified in the program (optional vegetarian food). Our professional Chefs prepare meals that incorporate elements of the western diet and also traditional Peruvian delicacies (Please communicate with your guide/chef during the trek if you have a preference for certain types of dishes). Salads, if served, are washed in boiled water.
• Horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen. They carry camping gear, food and  kitchen gears. We provide duffel bags at your briefing for your personal items and sleeping bag (up to 6 kg per person).
• Dining tent with camp tables and chairs & kitchen tent for the chef to prepare meals
  Tents for our staff to sleep in
• First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle

EXCLUDED

• Breakfast on the first morning in the town of Cachora
• Dinner on the last night upon your arrival to Cusco
• Sleeping bags – if you haven’t got a sleeping bag or you don’t want the hassle of bringing one all the way to Peru with you, then we have sleeping bags for hire.
• Tips for the guide, chef and horseman

YOU SHOULD BRING FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKKING CHALLENGE

• A light daypack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek – prepare for a vast range of changes in temperatures.
• Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho. Plastic ponchos can be bought for about $1 in Cusco.
• Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended. Extra socks are a must.
• Sandals or plastic slip on thongs are also good to give your feet a chance to breath in the evenings if you wish to carry them.
• Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces, gloves, scarf.
• Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping.
• It you get hot in the Apurimac Canyon; you should also be prepared for hot conditions on this trek.
• Sleeping bag (we can hire these to you)
• Torch/ Flashlight and spare batteries
• Camera, films and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions).
• Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
• Sunblock
• After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
• Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – although no malaria risk has been reported.
• Toilet paper, pack in & pack out
• Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.
• Non-disposable canteen (Nalgene type) and water for the first morning
• We advise you to bring water sterilizing tablets in case you collect water from streams.
• Your own medical kit with special medications that you might require, paracetamol, second skin for blisters and more
• Small towel or sarong
• Cash – sufficient for tips and souvenirs, or any drinks or snacks you might want to buy along the way.
• Original passport & ISIC (International Student Identity Card) if you have one
• Walking sticks or poles (we can hire these to you).
• Binoculars (if you have them)

PRICE OF THE TOUR

• US$ 490 Group service / minimum two persons are required.
• If you are solo traveller then, you’ll be charged an additional US$ 120.

ABOUT PAYMENTS:

We require pre-payment to secure your booking. Pre-payment should be made in the amount of 40% of the total cost. We accept payment via PayPal, Western Union and bank transfer to our account in the name of “SUNRISE PERU TREK TOUR OPERATOR E.I.R.L”.

PayPal is the easiest and most secure form of payment available in Peru, so we highly recommend using this method when making pre-payment. For help with setting up a PayPal account and making payments, please contact us. We will be more than happy to provide you with more information on how to make payment.

THE REMAINING BALANCE:

Once you have booked your trip with us, the REMAINING BALANCE will be due when you arrive in Cusco. We offer various payment options to make handling the balance as easy and convenient as possible. You can choose to pay with US Dollars or Peruvian Soles, using the prevailing exchange rate. Alternatively, you can pay via PayPal with a 7% service fee or use your Visa credit card (with an additional 5% service charge). We look forward to welcoming you in Cusco and please let us know the method of payment you would like to use.

Welcome to Cusco.

Welcome to Cusco! We are so glad you chose us for your vacation destination. At the airport, our representative will be waiting for you with a board that shows your name and welcomes you to Cusco. Please make sure to provide us with your full flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival in order to ensure we can greet you at the airport. We look forward to making your stay in Cusco memorable and enjoyable! Welcome again!

The briefing for the trek.

The briefing for the Choquequirao trekking is a crucial preparation step. It will take place the night before the trek at 6pm in our office. The purpose of the briefing is to get our clients acquainted with the basics of trekking, as well as provide them with all necessary information about their upcoming adventure. The topics covered during the briefing include safety and emergency procedures, equipment and clothing requirements, food preparation, and other important tips for trekking in the Peruvian Andes. At the end of the briefing, we will answer any questions our clients may have before they head off on their journey! The briefing is an essential part of preparing for a successful Choquequirao trek, and we look forward to seeing you there!

About Altitud:

The Choquequirao trek is a great way to experience the beauty of Peru, but it does involve navigating some higher altitudes. The starting point for the trek is Cusco, which has an altitude of 3,399m (11,152ft) – already over twice as high as most other cities around the world. From there, trekkers continue along the trail and reach an altitude of 4,050m (13,287ft) at the ruins of Choquequirao. Although this altitude is still not as high as some other treks in Peru, it can still cause problems with Altitude Sickness if you don’t take the proper precautions. We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning the trek to give your body time to adjust. Altitude can also cause other problems such as dehydration, so it’s important that you stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout your journey. Taking these steps will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience on your trek to Choquequirao.

About weather for Choquequirao Trekking Challenge.

No matter when you choose to do the Choquequirao trek, it’s important to be prepared for all four seasons. Weather in this area of the Andes Mountains can change quickly and unexpectedly, so it’s essential that you bring the proper gear. Rain jackets, pants, ponchos, and waterproof gloves are all necessary items to keep you comfortable and safe during your trek. Don’t forget the gloves, as they are often left behind! Although the dry season in Cusco normally runs from April-October, it’s possible for rain to fall any time of year. So be sure to come prepared for whatever weather comes your way. With the right gear, you’ll be sure to have an enjoyable trek no matter when in the year you go. Plus, if it does rain, you can just embrace the adventure and embrace what comes your way. Good luck!

Weather aside, the Choquequirao trek is an amazing experience that offers breathtaking views of the lush Andes Mountains and stunning Inca ruins. With a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to high-altitude passes and deep valleys, it’s sure to be an unforgettable journey. So don’t let the weather stop you from exploring this amazing region, just be sure to come prepared! Happy trekking!

About Trekking first aid.

At SPT Travel & Tours, safety is our top priority. All of our Choquequirao Trekking guides are fully trained in first aid and carry a comprehensive C kit for basic medical needs such as traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes and more. In the event of an emergency or if you feel unable to continue on the trek, our experienced guides will find a safe and quick way to get you to treatment or a clinic. Choquequirao Trekking with SPT Travel & Tours is not only an unforgettable experience but also a safe one. We prioritize your safety and wellbeing, so that you can enjoy this beautiful journey without worry. Book your Choquequirao Trek today with SPT Travel & Tours for a safe and unforgettable experience.

About your Travel Insurance for Choquequirao Trekking Challenge.

Choquequirao trek is an amazing experience. But, before you plan and embark on it, there are certain things that need to be taken into consideration. Travel Insurance is one them and we cannot emphasize enough why it’s very important to have one when going on Choquequirao trek.

Travel Insurance can protect the money you have spent when booking Choquequirao trek. In case something unexpected happens, your Travel Insurance will cover the costs incurred as long as it’s within the terms of coverage. We strongly recommend that all Choquequirao trekkers obtain travel insurance prior to departure to ensure their financial protection in case of any unforeseen circumstances. If the Choquequirao trek is cancelled due to any reason, we will provide you with a letter and your invoice to submit to your insurance company which should help expedite your processing.

To ensure you are fully protected, please read the terms and conditions of Travel Insurance carefully before booking Choquequirao trek. Choquequirao trekking is an amazing experience, and having the right Travel Insurance will mean you can enjoy it in complete confidence.

About the environmental impact.

For those looking to experience Choquequirao trek, rest assured knowing that your journey will have minimal environmental impact. Our guides use biodegradable soap and make sure all our garbage is transported back to Cusco for safe disposal. Additionally, our porters are trained to keep the trails clean by picking up any waste from other groups that may have been left behind. As an extra measure, we use chemical portable toilets to ensure no waste is left behind. At Choquequirao trek, we understand the importance of leaving no footprint behind and strive to protect the environment while you enjoy your journey. We are committed to providing a quality experience while also helping maintain the beauty of Choquequirao trek. With Choquequirao trek, you can have peace of mind knowing your journey is both enjoyable and sustainable.

By Choosing Choquequirao trek for your journey, you will be part of a responsible and respectful experience that minimizes environmental impact. Our commitment to sustainability and environmental protection ensures Choquequirao trek will remain a beautiful destination for years to come. We invite you to join us in our mission to preserving Choquequirao trek for future generations. Choquequirao Trek – your adventure with a conscience!

Our camping equipment.

The Choquequirao trek is a challenging journey through Peru’s highlands, and having the right camping equipment can make all the difference in making your trip enjoyable. We have carefully selected the best camping equipment for Choquequirao trekking that will ensure you have everything you need to make your journey successful. Our collection of camping equipment includes lightweight tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, cooking supplies and other essential items. We have all the necessary gear to ensure you have a comfortable and safe night’s sleep on the Choquequirao trek. Our range of camping items also includes food rations, water containers, fire starters, and other key items needed for a successful trek. With our selection of camping gear, you can be sure that your journey will be an enjoyable one. So don’t wait any longer – get the best camping equipment for Choquequirao trek with us today!

Our Tents.

Enjoy a good night’s sleep in our spacious Eureka tents. All our tents are 4-man tents, but you’ll only have to share with one other trekker leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffels. They’re an A-frame design with entrances on both sides of the tent. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt. We are proud to be the only company to use these tents.

Our Toilet Tents.

The Choquequirao Trekking experience is much more enjoyable and comfortable with Our Toilet Tents! Our tents are set up in the perfect location at your camping sites and lunch sites, so you don’t have to worry about trekking long distances just to use the restroom. Our environmentally friendly toilet tents offer a convenient and luxurious private bathroom experience that makes the Choquequirao Trekking even more enjoyable. Our Toilet Tents are spotless and easy to use, ensuring that you leave no visible trace of your passing on the environment. With Our Toilet Tents, you can enjoy a convenient and luxurious restroom experience during your trekking adventure without having to worry about unsight.

Our Mats.

For Choquequirao Trekking, SUNRISE PERU TREK TRAVEL & TOURS provides a foam mat for comfortable sleeping during your trip. The foam mat helps isolate and insulate you from the ground so that you can rest and relax in comfort each night in the Andes. If you’re looking for added comfort, consider upgrading to an inflatable sleeping pad. We provide Thermarest and Eureka inflatable air mattresses to give you an extra 3 inches of cushioning between you and the ground, ensuring that you sleep better each night on Choquequirao Trekking. Our mats are designed to keep you comfortable throughout your journey.

Our Sleeping Bags.

SUNRISE PERU TREK travel & Tours offers you our mummy style sleeping bags that’re 100% down for -15°C/5°F. So, you can be sure of having a comfortable, warm nights sleep on your Choquequirao trek. If you happen to be over 1.95 meters / 6´4″ tall you won’t be able to find a sleeping bag rental in Cusco, so it is recommended that you bring your own for the Choquequirao trek. To ensure that your Choquequirao Trek is as comfortable and hygienic as possible, we provide linen bags to every person which are machine washed between each use. Please note that the liner will need to be included in your duffel weight and weighs 2 kg. With SUNRISE PERU TREK you can be sure of having a great Choquequirao Trekking experience with the help of our 100% down mummy style sleeping bags and liners.

About our team.

Choquequirao Trekking offers the best trekking experience with our team of experienced and knowledgeable guides. Our staff are dedicated to providing you with an adventure that you will never forget. Our trekking team is highly skilled in navigating Choquequirao, ensuring a safe journey while exploring the ancient ruins of Choquequirao. With years of experience in Choquequirao trekking, our team are the best and will ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable journey. Our guides provide invaluable information about Choquequirao’s history, culture, and wildlife to make sure that your trek is as informative and enjoyable as it is thrilling. From the beginning of your trip to the very end, Choquequirao Trekking is dedicated to making sure that you experience the best Choquequirao trek possible. Let us take you on a journey of discovery and explore Choquequirao with our team today!

Tipping

When it comes to tipping for your Choquequirao trekking experience, it is important to remember that tips are not mandatory but highly appreciated. For those who wish to show their appreciation for the service provided by the trekking team, a tip can be an excellent way to do so. It’s important to note that tipping is not customary in all countries, but it is a common practice in many places that offer trekking experiences. For the Choquequirao trekking experience, tipping is considered an important part of the tourism industry and can be seen as a way to show your appreciation for the quality of service provided by your team.

When deciding how much to tip for your Choquequirao trekking experience, it is important to consider the quality of service provided and the length of your trip. For example, if you felt that the service was exceptional and you had an excellent time on the trek, then a larger tip would be more appropriate. Likewise, if you were only trekking for a short period of time and felt that the service was adequate, then a smaller tip would be more suitable. In any case, it is important to remember that tipping is not mandatory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.