Choquequirao Trekking Challenge 3 Days

STANDARD BENEFITS:

– Immerse yourself in unique landscapes of history and nature
– Enjoy access to the Apurimac Canyon and Vilcabamba mountain range
Emotional Benefits:
– Conquer an unforgettable expedition with thrilling views
– Create lifelong memories with friends or family

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 ABOUT 3-DAY CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKKING CHALLENGE

Day 1: A Challenge Day.

Start early from Cusco and head to Capuliyoc. Embark on an exciting 8-9 hour trek through dense vegetation and rugged terrain. Enjoy breathtaking views of Choquequirao along the way. Rest and prepare for the next day at Santa Rosa camp.

Day 2: Explore Choquequirao.

Discover the majestic ruins of Choquequirao, an Inca settlement nestled in the Andes Mountains. Marvel at the archaeological wonders and learn about its rich history. Return to Santa Rosa Camp after the guided tour.

Day 3: Return to Cusco.

Depart early from Santa Rosa Camp and trek back to Capuliyoc. Bid farewell to this incredible hiking adventure and return to Cusco, reaching in the evening. Get ready for a well-deserved rest after completing this amazing trek!

 DETAILED ITINERARY ABOUT 3-DAY CHOQUEQUIRAO TREKKING CHALLENGE.

Embark on our exhilarating 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge, a meticulously curated three-day itinerary that showcases the finest night stops and highlights. Please note that while we have taken great care in selecting our stops, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances may require slight adjustments to the following itinerary, which should be regarded as a helpful guideline.

Day 0: Briefing.

Let’s kick off your adventure with a comprehensive briefing. We warmly invite you to join us in our office, at 6:30 PM. This initial get-together is crucial as it will equip you with vital information and gear for your journey. We’ll outline the trip itinerary, introduce you to your guides, and address any questions or concerns you might have. This is your chance to meet fellow adventurers and set the tone for an unforgettable experience. Trust us; you wouldn’t want to miss this.

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

Embark on an exhilarating trek from Cusco to Capuliyoc, followed by a captivating journey to Santa Rosa Camp. Our adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 04:00 a.m. After a scenic four-hour drive in our private car, we’ll arrive in the town of Cachora. Here, we’ll take a quick breakfast break and gather trekking essentials, such as water and snacks.

Continuing our journey for another 30 minutes, we’ll reach the picturesque starting point of the trek – Capuliyoc. After organizing our equipment on mules and horses, we’ll begin the downward hike, following a zigzag trail that leads us to “Playa Rosalina.” This is where we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch break and give our knees some much-needed rest from walking downhill.

Book Now this Trek

Following a satisfying meal amidst breathtaking views of the Apurimac River and captivating mountains, we’ll hike for a few more minutes until we reach the Apurimac River border. Crossing a bridge, we’ll then commence the uphill climb, conquering the zigzag trail that leads us to the Santa Rosa campsite. At this campsite, you can relish in a refreshing cold shower while savoring the panoramic vistas of the Apurimac Canyon. Additionally, a quaint village nearby offers the opportunity to purchase water, snacks, or sodas.

The approximate duration of the hike is around 8-9 hours, including breaks for lunch, rest, and hydration. Throughout this remarkable excursion, you’ll pass by notable landmarks such as Capuliyoc (2,915 m.a.s.l.), a mesmerizing lookout point offering captivating views of the Apurimac Valley. Other significant landmarks include 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.), a serene grove abundant in water, Playa Rosalina (1,550 m.a.s.l.), La Huerta (2,705 m.a.s.l.), and finally, our destination, the Santa Rosa camp (2,115 m.a.s.l.). Lace up your boots and indulge in this unforgettable trekking experience.

Trekking Facts.

• 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.

Embark on an exhilarating trek up to Choquequirao, allowing you to immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring beauty and rich history. Begin your day with an early breakfast, fueling you for the challenging section of the 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge that lies ahead. As you conquer the trail, be tempted by the crystal-clear water springs along the way, although we kindly advise against drinking from them due to potential health risks. Around 9:30 a.m, you will reach the remarkable archaeological site of Choquequirao, where an informative guided tour awaits. Take your time to explore this captivating Inca settlement, marveling at the intricate terraces, houses, and other preserved remnants that offer a glimpse into the final days of the mighty Inca Empire. Meanwhile, our skilled kitchen team will prepare a delightful lunch for you to enjoy once you have finished your exploration.

After reveling in the wonders of Choquequirao, it is time to descend back to the Santa Rosa camp, where a satisfying dinner awaits to replenish your energy. The renowned Inca ruins of Choquequirao are often referred to as “The Last Refuge of the Inca Empire,” with historical records dating back to Juan Arias Diaz’s exploration of the area in 1710. Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable bilingual guide will enlighten you on the fascinating history and significance of this extraordinary site.

Trekking Facts:

• 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.

Embark on a thrilling trek from Santa Rosa Camp to Capuliyoc and cap off the adventure with a scenic drive to Cusco. After fueling up with an early breakfast, we’ll gather our camping gear and set off on foot towards “Playa Rosalina” – the trek’s lowest point. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic Andean Condors soaring above the Apurimac Canyon, while reveling in the lush vegetation adorned with vibrant flowers and orchids. Continuing onwards from “Playa Santa Rosa,” we’ll ascend to Chiquiska, where we’ll take a well-deserved break for our final lunch and recharge under the sun’s scorching rays. Hydration is key, so remember to drink plenty of water.

From the captivating landscapes of Chiquiska, the trail continues in a zigzag fashion leading us to Capuliyoc, where our private car awaits to transport us back to Cusco. Before bidding farewell to this remarkable journey, take a moment to capture photos of the route and marvel at the trail that led us to Choqeuquirao. Afterward, we’ll hop in the car and make a stop in the village of Cachora, where you’ll have a chance to use the facilities and stock up on supplies for the car ride back to Cusco. Expect to arrive in Cusco by approximately 08:00 p.m., where you’ll be transferred to your hotel, bringing an end to this memorable trekking experience.

Trekking Facts:

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

3-DAY 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:

To secure your 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge booking, we kindly request a pre-payment of 40% of the total cost. Payments can be made through PayPal, Western Union, or bank transfer to our account under the name “SUNRISE PERU TREK TOUR OPERATOR E.I.R.L”.

In Peru, PayPal is the most convenient and secure payment option available. Therefore, we highly recommend using this method for your pre-payment. If you require assistance with setting up a PayPal account and making payments, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are more than happy to provide you with detailed information on how to proceed with the payment.

THE REMAINING BALANCE:

Upon booking your trip with us, you will be required to settle the remaining balance upon your arrival in Cusco. Our aim is to ensure a seamless and convenient payment experience, which is why we provide several options. You can opt to pay using either US Dollars or Peruvian Soles, at the prevailing exchange rate. Alternatively, you may choose to pay through PayPal, with a 7% service fee, or utilize your Visa credit card, with an additional 5% service charge. We eagerly await your arrival in Cusco and kindly inform us of your preferred payment method.

Essential Info About 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge

Welcome to Cusco.

Welcome to the vibrant city of Cusco, the gateway to your unforgettable 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge. With its rich tapestry of history and culture, Cusco serves as the perfect starting point for your journey. It’s of utmost importance to arrive in Cusco at least two days before your trek begins. This gives you ample time to acclimate to the altitude, explore the city’s captivating Inca and Spanish colonial history, and prepare for the adventure that lies ahead. Embarking on the 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge is not just about reaching the destination, it’s about immersing yourself in the journey, and there’s no better place to start than Cusco.

The briefing for the trek.

Join us for the essential 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge briefing! This informative session will be held the night before the trek at 6pm in our office. During the briefing, we will cover crucial topics such as safety and emergency procedures, equipment and clothing requirements, food preparation, and invaluable tips for trekking in the Peruvian Andes. Our goal is to ensure that you feel fully prepared and confident for your upcoming adventure. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have before embarking on your journey.

Store my luggage.

During the exhilarating 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge, you don’t have to worry about the hassle of carrying your main luggage. We have taken care of this concern for you. You have the convenient choice to store your main luggage either at our secure office or at your hotel, depending on what suits your needs best. This allows you to embark on your journey with ease, carrying only what is necessary for the trek itself. Trust us to keep your belongings safe while you immerse yourself in this unforgettable adventure.

About Altitud:

3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Peru. However, it’s important to note that this trek involves navigating higher altitudes. The journey begins in Cusco, which sits at an altitude of 3,399m (11,152ft) – already more than twice as high as most cities worldwide. As you continue along the trail, you’ll reach an altitude of 4,050m (13,287ft) at the awe-inspiring ruins of Choquequirao. While this altitude is not as high as other treks in Peru, it’s still crucial to take precautions to avoid Altitude Sickness. We highly recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before embarking on the trek, allowing your body ample time to adjust. Additionally, it’s essential to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to combat the effects of dehydration caused by altitude. By following these steps, you’ll ensure a safe and enriching experience on your Choquequirao trek.

Trekking to Choquequirao.

Embarking on the exhilarating journey to Choquequirao, one must be prepared with a precise packing strategy. You will be provided with a compact duffel bag on the evening prior to your adventure. This bag, with a weight allowance of up to 7kg or 14lbs, will carry your essentials for the next 3 days. It’s the pack horses’ responsibility to transport this bag, along with the food and camping gear, ensuring a lightweight trek for you. However, bear in mind, you will have access to these items only at day’s end as the pack horses lead the trail. For the trek itself, your companion should be a substantial day backpack, with capacity ranging from 30 to 50L. This bag must secure your personal items like a warm jacket, a rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, and water. Remember, a smart packing strategy is the first step towards a successful and enjoyable hike.

About weather for 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge.

When embarking on the Choquequirao Trekking Challenge, it is crucial to be prepared for all weather conditions. The weather in the Andes Mountains can quickly and unpredictably change throughout the year. Therefore, it is essential to bring the necessary gear to ensure your comfort and safety during the trek. Be sure to pack rain jackets, pants, ponchos, and waterproof gloves, as these items are vital and often overlooked. While the dry season typically spans from April to October in Cusco, rainfall is still possible at any time of the year. To fully enjoy your trek, make sure to come equipped for any weather conditions that may come your way. Regardless of when you undertake this journey, having the right gear will ensure a pleasant experience. And remember, if it does rain, embrace the adventure and embrace whatever comes your way. Best of luck!

Aside from the weather concerns, the Choquequirao trek offers an awe-inspiring experience with its magnificent views of the lush Andes Mountains and stunning Inca ruins. The trail encompasses diverse terrains, ranging from rocky paths to high-altitude passes and deep valleys, guaranteeing an unforgettable journey. So, don’t let the weather deter you from exploring this remarkable region; just ensure you are well-prepared. Happy trekking!

About First Aid.

Your safety and well-being during your 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge is our utmost priority. Our guides are not just experienced trekkers but are also trained in first aid by a physician. We ensure they refresh their skills annually, with mandatory training sessions held every February. Equipped with a first aid kit for dealing with basic medical situations such as traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, and scrapes, and even carrying oxygen, they are adequately prepared to take care of you.

In the unlikely event that you are unable to complete your trek, our guides are trained to respond swiftly and effectively. They will arrange the safest and fastest way off the trail and ensure you reach a clinic for medical attention. Rest assured, you will never be left alone; a team member will be with you every step of the way, right up to when you are safely with a doctor.

About your Travel Insurance for Choquequirao Trekking Challenge.

Travel insurance is an essential component when planning your 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge. It provides financial protection and ensures peace of mind throughout your journey.

By having travel insurance, you safeguard the money you’ve invested in booking the 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge. In case of any unexpected events, such as trip cancellation or unforeseen expenses, your travel insurance will cover the incurred costs within the terms of coverage. We strongly advise all Choquequirao trekkers to obtain travel insurance prior to departure, guaranteeing their financial security in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

In the event of trek cancellation, we will provide you with a letter and invoice to expedite your insurance claim process. It is crucial to carefully review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage before booking the 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge.

About the environmental impact.

When you embark on the 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge, rest assured that we prioritize minimizing our environmental impact. Our guides use biodegradable soap and ensure all garbage is transported back to Cusco for proper disposal. Moreover, our well-trained porters diligently clean the trails, picking up any waste left behind by other groups. As an extra precaution, we utilize chemical portable toilets to eradicate any waste residue. We deeply understand the significance of leaving no trace and strive to safeguard the environment while you relish your journey. We are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience while also upholding the pristine beauty of the trek. Choosing SPT Travel & Tours guarantees both an enjoyable and sustainable adventure. Rest easy, knowing that you are participating in a responsible and respectful journey that actively minimizes environmental impact. Our unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation ensures that we will continue to be a breathtaking destination for years to come.

Our camping equipment.

Having the right camping equipment can enhance your camping experience and make your trip more enjoyable. At our store, we have curated a selection of top-quality camping gear specifically for 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge. Our range includes lightweight tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, cooking supplies, and other essential items. With our camping equipment, you can rest assured that you’ll have a comfortable and safe night’s sleep on the trek. We also offer food rations, water containers, fire starters, and other key items necessary for a successful trek. Get the best camping equipment for your trek and embark on an unforgettable journey with us today.

Our Tents.

Experience a restful night’s sleep in our expansive Eureka camping tents. Designed for four individuals, each tent accommodates only two trekkers, allowing ample space for relaxation and secure storage of personal belongings. These A-frame tents boast dual entrances, ensuring easy access from either side. Additionally, each tent features a convenient vestibule at the front, offering extra outdoor area to keep your boots and walking sticks outside, eliminating the need to bring in dirt. It is worth mentioning that we take pride in being the exclusive provider of these exceptional camping 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 the 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge experience, SUNRISE PERU TREK Travel & Tours offers a foam mat to ensure a comfortable sleep during your trip. This foam mat serves to isolate and insulate you from the ground, providing a relaxing and cozy experience each night in the Andes. For those seeking added comfort, we also provide Thermarest and Eureka inflatable air mattresses which offer an additional 3 inches of cushioning between you and the ground. With these camping mattresses, you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep during your Choquequirao Trekking adventure. Our priority is to keep you comfortable throughout your journey.

Our Sleeping Bags.

Experience the ultimate comfort and warmth on your 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge with SUNRISE PERU TREK’s top-of-the-line mummy style sleeping bags. Our 100% down sleeping bags are designed to withstand temperatures as low as -15°C/5°F, ensuring a cozy night’s sleep. For individuals taller than 1.95 meters / 6’4”, finding a suitable sleeping bag rental in Cusco may prove challenging, which is why we recommend bringing your own. To maintain optimum comfort and hygiene, we provide linen bags to each person, which are meticulously machine washed after every use. Keep in mind that the liner weighs 2 kg and should be included in your duffel weight.

About our team.

Meet the extraordinary team at SPT Travel & Tours, your dedicated companions for a thrilling adventure of a lifetime. Our guides, gifted with comprehensive knowledge and years of experience navigating the Choquequirao terrains, are committed to making your journey safe, informative, and unforgettable. With unwavering dedication, they will lead you through the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, providing a rich tapestry of history, culture, and wildlife along the way. Choquequirao isn’t just about reaching a destination, it’s about experiencing the journey in its fullest, uncovering hidden secrets and marveling at the untouched wildlife. From the first step to the last, we are committed to delivering the most exhilarating and rewarding Choquequirao trekking experience.

Tipping

When embarking on the adventure of a lifetime with our 3-Day Choquequirao Trekking Challenge, remember that your trekking team is committed to ensuring your experience is memorable, safe, and enjoyable. Although tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a way of expressing your gratitude for their exceptional service. In many trekking destinations, including Choquequirao, tipping is a highly appreciated practice, importantly contributing to the local tourism industry. As you consider the amount to tip, reflect on the quality of the service you received and the duration of your trek. An extraordinary service during an extended trek might warrant a larger tip, while a shorter excursion with satisfactory service would necessitate a more modest amount. Remember—tipping isn’t compulsory, but it’s a heartfelt way to recognize the hard work and dedication of your trekking team.