Claire Dean
Claire Dean

Claire Dean

Travel in South America is a joy to behold. The rich variety of destinations, experiences, landscapes and geography fascinated me so much, that I chose to relocate here, over 20 years ago! The best thing I ever did! Allow me to share my knowledge and passion for Central and South America with you and help you plan your holiday of a lifetime!

The 9 Day Choquequirao Trek

The 9 Day Choquequirao Trek

4MINREAD

Written by:Claire Dean

Published: 2022-07-01

Found within the Quriwayrachina mountain range of Peru is the Choquequirao Archaeological Site and the only way to reach this impressive Inca site, is hiking there. Offering sweeping views of the Andes and opportunities to observe local plant and wild life, including the sacred Andean condor, this trek is a must for any serious hiker in Peru. With 9 days of ascents and descents, in and out of one of Peru´s deepest canyons, plus 2 massive mountain passes to cross, as well as the magnificent 60% excavated Choquequirao Archaeological site to marvel at, The 9 day Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu trek has the ultimate destination at the end of it, with numerous unparalleled experiences along the way.

 

The Choquequirao route takes you through the steep Apurimac Canyon. You will descend down into this plunging valley, and hike back out the steep other side, you will pass through several microclimates that vary with the altitude along the Choquiquirao Trek and it is one of the most difficult treks technically even though it is at lower elevation.

Arriving at Choqueqirao Archaeological  Site

 

When to go


The best time to trek Choquequirao is in dry season, which runs from May to August.  There is little rain and the trail should be firm underfoot. It can be very cold at night at the higher campsites on the trek, with temperatures dropping below freezing, so go prepared! Contrastingly, the lower part of the canyon can get really hot, especially while trekking, reaching 37’C or 98/F. 

 

The llama terraces are accessible through a clambering jungle path that opens out into awe-inspiring views. Below the main site, are the iconic animal-shaped terraces, thought to mirror the shape of a guinea pig. The Choquequirao Archaeological Park shows how important these animals were in Inca culture.

Llama Terraces

 

Choquequirao Peru trek is dangerous to hike from December through March due to the way the heavy wet season rains affects the sides of the Apurimac canyon. This includes rock falls from above and super slippery conditions. the Choquequirao trail has steep ascents and descents, and the slopes near the trail are highly inclined, dropping hundreds of meters down the Apurimac Canyon. Avoid any company that offers this trek in the wet season.

 

Surrounded by lush cloud forests and snow-capped peaks, the Choquequirao Trail has different vistas at every turn. It should come as no surprise that this mountain-top city is being hailed as the “new Machu Picchu” and is widely considered one of the finest treks in all of South America.

Cloudy Choquequirao Trail

 

Why Trek the 9 Day Choquequirao Trek?

 

This 9 day trek is challenging to say the least but the impressive views are second to none in this region. A decent level of fitness is necessary of course but if you think 9 days may be too difficult you may prefer the 4 day Choquequirao option with a train connection to Machu Picchu.

 

If you are looking for an even more challenging trek, the Choquequirao trail can be hiked over 9 days. The Coquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is 100km long with a much greater range in altitude, starting at 2,900m and reaching 4,668m at its highest peak.

Choquequirao Campsite

 

This Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek is the ultimate adventure for those looking to experience an “Intrepid expedition” hike to the lost city. The trek is intense, but for those who crave an adrenalin -filled adventure will be rewarded with an incredible journey. Explore untouched Inca ruin sites, climb two major Andean Mountain passes, marvel at epic viewpoints and hike in total solitude.  The Choquequirao Archaeological site is one of Peru’s least visited sites, but is one of the most spectacular.

 


On the 9 day Choquequirao Hike, you will climb up to Victoria Mines (4,200m) involves trekking along a section of originally paved Inca Road. After the Abra San Juan pass, you will start a long descent to Yanama (3,800m).

Mountain Pass on Choquequirao Trek

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