Choquequirao Guide
Choquequirao: The Inca's Sacred Sister City to Machu Picchu Guide
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to Choquequirao, often referred to as Machu Picchu's "sacred sister." This remote and stunning Inca city offers a challenging but rewarding trek through breathtaking mountain scenery. Less crowded than Machu Picchu, Choquequirao provides a more intimate and authentic experience of Inca history and culture. Prepare to be amazed by the impressive architecture, the panoramic views, and the sense of discovery that comes with exploring this hidden gem. Choquequirao, meaning "cradle of gold" in Quechua, is believed to have been built during the reign of the Inca ruler Pachacuti in the 15th century. It served as a royal estate, a religious center, and a strategic outpost, similar to Machu Picchu. The city was abandoned after the Spanish conquest and remained largely forgotten until the 20th century. Due to its remote location, Choquequirao has been less affected by tourism and retains a sense of mystery and authenticity. The main activity at Choquequirao is trekking. The trek to Choquequirao is a challenging multi-day hike that requires a good level of fitness. However, the rewards are well worth the effort. Along the way, you'll pass through diverse landscapes, from lush cloud forests to rugged mountain peaks. At Choquequirao, you can explore the impressive ruins, including temples, palaces, terraces, and water channels. The site is known for its unique llama figures made of white stones embedded in the terraces. Due to the remote location, there are no restaurants at the site. Trekkers typically bring their own food or hire a cook to prepare meals.
Transportation
The trek to Choquequirao typically starts from the village of Cachora, which is about a 4-hour bus ride from Cusco. Buses to Cachora depart from the Terminal Terrestre in Cusco. From Cachora, you can hire mules and porters to carry your gear for the trek.