Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes Mountains in Peru with this exhilarating 4-day trek that promises a unique blend of adventure, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. This expedition is ideal for those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience, away from the crowds, while exploring ancient ruins and immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Your adventure begins as you set foot on the legendary Inca Trail, a historic route that winds through rugged terrain, lush valleys, and towering peaks. As you traverse the challenging yet rewarding paths, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Andean landscape, with snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys stretching out before you.
The highlight of your trek is the exploration of the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, a hidden gem often referred to as the "sister city" of Machu Picchu. This lesser-known archaeological site is a true marvel, with its terraced fields, ceremonial plazas, and intricate stone structures that offer a glimpse into the fascinating Inca civilization.
As you hike through the remote and pristine wilderness surrounding Choquequirao, you will have the opportunity to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region, from rare orchids and hummingbirds to elusive Andean condors soaring high above. Your experienced guides will share their knowledge of the local ecosystem, history, and culture, providing you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this unique environment.
After days of exploration and discovery, your journey culminates in the majestic Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you approach the ancient citadel, nestled high in the clouds, you will be struck by its grandeur and mystique, with its intricate stone buildings, terraced fields, and panoramic views that will leave you speechless.
Throughout your trek, you will be supported by a team of experienced guides, porters, and cooks who will ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment every step of the way. From delicious meals prepared with fresh local ingredients to comfortable campsites set against stunning backdrops, every detail is taken care of so you can focus on immersing yourself in the adventure.
Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a first-time hiker, this 4-day expedition offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the magic of the Andes Mountains, uncover the secrets of ancient civilizations, and create lasting memories that will stay with you long after you return home. Join us on this unforgettable journey and let the spirit of the Andes guide you on a path of discovery and wonder.
Day 1: From Cusco to Santa Rosa via Choquequirao Trek
Starting at 4:30AM from your Cusco hotel, we drive for 4.5 hours to the remote village of Capuliyoc, located 2915 meters above sea level. Here, after breakfast, we meet our team - the chef, horsemen, and support crew. As they prepare our gear on horseback, a local expert offers invaluable hiking advice for the Andean journey. The trek begins with a hike to the Capuliyoc viewpoint, passing through highland communities and farms. At the viewpoint, marvel at the snow-capped Padereyoc peak and immerse yourself in Andean myths. From here, we descend for three hours to the oasis of Chiquisqa, then to Playa Rosalinas for lunch, with our crew ensuring everything's ready upon our arrival. The afternoon entails a scenic hike up, offering captivating views of the Apurimac Canyon, ending at the Santa Rosa Baja campsite at 1900 meters. Once there, enjoy hot drinks and appetizers. Tents are pre-set for you. As night falls, savor a traditional Andean meal beneath the stars.
Day 2: Journey to Choquequirao - From Santa Rosa to Ancient Echoes
Begin the day with a reviving cup of Peruvian coffee and a classic Andean breakfast. The journey kicks off with an ascent to Marampata, elevated at 2925 meters. From this vantage point, the first sights of the majestic Choquequirao come into view, with the main archaeological complex just two hours away. Navigating through the lush tropical jungle, our guide shares insights about the diverse plants. You might even spot alpacas and llamas roaming freely. Upon reaching Choquequirao's campsite, a traditional lunch awaits. Post-meal, we delve deep into the Inca complex. Our expert deciphers the history, the reasons behind its construction, the Spanish conquest's effects, and its subsequent abandonment. Our tour spans the Pikawasi sector, the main plaza, ceremonial remnants, Inca temples, and the priest's dwelling. The journey further unfolds at the Llama Sector, revealing the Incan appreciation for llamas, their transport lifelines. Their gratitude is etched on gray stones adorned with llama images and interspersed with white stones. End the day by absorbing Choquequirao's panoramic views, crowned by a golden sunset, before retreating to the campsite for a restful evening and delicious dinner.
Day 3: From Choquequirao to Chiquisqa: A Journey through Nature and Agriculture
Awaken to the soothing chirps of birds and sunlit glimpses of the grand Choquequirao. As you soak in the view with a warm coffee in hand, we prepare a hearty breakfast for the day ahead.
Our descent begins towards Cocamasana, with a significant stopover at Maranpata. Here, we explore local farms cultivating potatoes, quinoa, and more. Guided by both our expert and the farm's chief, we'll learn about these traditional agricultural practices. The journey continues through a blackberry farm leading to Santa Rosa, famed for its lush avocado plantations. Witness rows upon rows of avocado trees and get a taste of the local culture with the fermented drink, Chicha de Cambray. Post-lunch at Playa Rosalinas, our trek ventures through a thick tropical terrain, concluding the day at the Chiquisqa campsite, our resting place for the night.
Day 4: Chiquisca – Capuliyoc – Cusco
After an early morning breakfast, we will be hiking for four hours, up the hill to Capuliyoc, where we started the trek. Our support staff will be parting ways here. We will be meeting our driver for our journey back to Cusco. Along the way, we will be having a couple of stops and also have lunch before reaching Cusco. We will be reaching Cusco by 0500 PM.