Choquequirao (CH5)

5 days / 4 nights
Starts and ends Cusco

Choquequirao

The dazzling Inca city of Choquequirao is just one reward of many for those who choose to visit this ‘new’ and undiscovered Machu Picchu of Peru.

Dense forest covered this Inca site for many years, and only now are Choquequirao’s treasures being revealed to trekkers keen to explore.

The dramatically situated ruins, according to the historians, were the refuge for the last Inca rebels of Vilcabamba. To reach them, we must pass through an immense range of vegetation types and temperatures and with a variety of views to match.

Because the only way to get to the ruins is by foot, if we are lucky, we will be the only people visiting Choquequirao’s ruins, which are still being uncovered.

Cradle of Gold

Choquequirao, a Quechua name meaning “Cradle of Gold,”, formed part of the complex system of Andean towns in the Vilcabamba Valley.

In the time of the Incas, it was united and in communication with Machu Picchu by a complex network of trails.

The ruins are dramatically situated on the spur of the mountain range of Salkantay at 3,035 metres above sea level. It is surrounded by the snow capped peaks of Yanama, Ampay, Choquetacarpo, Pumasillo and Panta.

According to historians, Choquequirao was the dwelling of the last rebel Incas of Vilcabamba, and like Machu Picchu, the Spanish were thought never to have discovered it.

This is an archaeological site not to miss, especially if you want to see some amazing Inca ruins while staying away from the group tours of the Machu Picchu ruins.

You could extend your trip by visiting the Amazon.

Check out our Peru group trips, or our many tailor made Peru options.

You can always contact the office for more information on tailor made and group options.