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If you’re planning an adventure to Choquequirao, it’s essential to know how many days of hiking you will need to fully enjoy this hidden gem. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to prepare for your trip, from travel times to the best tips to make your experience unforgettable.
How Many Days Are Needed to Hike to Choquequirao?
Trip Duration
The hike to Choquequirao is an incredible experience that takes you through stunning landscapes and challenging trails. Typically, it takes 4 days of hiking to Choquequirao. This time includes the round trip and a day to explore the archaeological site.
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: Departure from Cachora
Distance: 19 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Description: The first day begins in the town of Cachora. From here, you’ll walk through mountainous landscapes until you reach the Chiquisca camp.
Day 2: Chiquisca to Marampata
Distance: 13 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Description: On this stretch, you’ll face a steep climb until you reach Marampata, where you can rest and prepare for the next day.
Day 3: Marampata to Choquequirao and Return to Marampata
Distance: 10 km (round trip)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Description: This is the day to explore Choquequirao. After enjoying the archaeological site, you’ll return to Marampata to spend the night.
Day 4: Return to Cachora
Distance: 32 km
Duration: 9-10 hours
Description: The last day consists of returning to Cachora, completing your hiking days to Choquequirao.
Recommendations
It’s important to be well-prepared for this hike. Bring enough water, food, and appropriate hiking gear. It is also advisable to hire a guide to make the most of the experience and learn more about the history and culture of Choquequirao.
What is the Best Season to Hike to Choquequirao?
Seasons and Climate
To fully enjoy your hiking days to Choquequirao trek, it is crucial to choose the right season. The best time for this adventure is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, the weather is more predictable, and rains are minimal, making the hike easier and offering better views.
Advantages of the Dry Season
Stable Weather: During the dry season, the weather is more stable, with less chance of rain, making the trails safer and less slippery.
Clear Views: Clear skies allow for stunning panoramic views of the Andes and the Choquequirao archaeological site without the interference of clouds or fog.
Trail Conditions: The paths are in better condition during this time, reducing the difficulty of the hiking days to Choquequirao.
Considerations for the Wet Season
If you decide to hike during the wet season, from November to April, it is important to be prepared for the rains. Although the landscape is greener and more lush, the rains can make the trails more challenging and dangerous.
Risk of Rain: The rains can be intense, especially in January and February, which can cause landslides and slippery trails.
Proper Equipment: It is essential to carry waterproof gear and be prepared for changing conditions.
What is the Recommended Route to Reach Choquequirao?
Classic Route from Cachora
The most recommended route to reach Choquequirao is the one that starts from the town of Cachora, in the department of Apurímac. This route is the most popular among hikers due to its accessibility and the impressive views it offers along the way. Here is the detailed itinerary:
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cachora to Chiquisca
Distance: 19 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Description: The first day begins in Cachora, where you will start a downhill hike until you reach the Chiquisca camp. Along this stretch, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Apurímac canyon and snow-capped peaks.
Day 2: Chiquisca to Marampata
Distance: 13 km
Duration: 6-7 hours
Description: On the second day, you’ll face a challenging climb from Chiquisca to Marampata. This stretch is known for its steep incline, but the panoramic views of the Apurímac River make the effort worthwhile.
Day 3: Marampata to Choquequirao
Distance: 5 km (one way) + 5 km (return)
Duration: 5-6 hours
Description: The third day is dedicated to exploring Choquequirao. After an early breakfast, you’ll walk from Marampata to the archaeological site, where you’ll spend the day exploring the terraces, plazas, and temples before returning to Marampata to spend the night.
Day 4: Marampata to Cachora
Distance: 32 km
Duration: 9-10 hours
Description: The last day involves a long but rewarding hike back to Cachora. This stretch completes your adventure, finishing the hiking days to Choquequirao.
Recommendations
Physical Preparation: The route from Cachora is demanding and requires good physical preparation. It’s advisable to train beforehand to handle the long ascents and descents.
Proper Equipment: Bring suitable hiking clothing and footwear, as well as enough water and energy-rich food.
Hire a Guide: To make the most of your experience, consider hiring a local guide who can provide historical and cultural information about Choquequirao.
What is the Difficulty Level of the Hike to Choquequirao?
Difficulty Assessment
The hike to Choquequirao trekking is considered to be of high difficulty due to factors such as altitude, terrain, and the duration of the journey. This adventure is not for beginners as it requires good physical condition and adequate preparation. Here we break down the main aspects that contribute to its level of difficulty.
Factors Influencing Difficulty
Rugged Terrain
The route includes steep paths and sharp descents. Particularly, the climb from Chiquisca to Marampata is very challenging, with slopes reaching up to 45%. This type of terrain demands endurance and leg strength.
Altitude
The altitude ranges from 1,600 meters at the Apurímac River to 3,050 meters at Choquequirao. The altitude variation can cause altitude sickness in some people, making the hike more difficult. Proper acclimatization before starting the hiking days to Choquequirao is important.
Duration of the Journey
The typical hike takes around 4 days to reach Choquequirao, with hiking days ranging from 6 to 10 hours. The combination of long hiking hours and rugged terrain can be exhausting.
Recommendations to Handle the Difficulty
Pre-Trip Training
Engage in regular hikes and strength exercises before your trip to improve your endurance and physical condition.
Proper Equipment
Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions, and bring trekking poles to help with the climbs and descents.
Hydration and Nutrition
Stay well-hydrated and bring enough energy snacks to maintain your energy levels during the hiking days to Choquequirao.
Regular Breaks
Take frequent breaks to avoid exhaustion and allow your body to recover, especially during the more difficult climbs.
What Equipment and Preparation are Needed for the Hike to Choquequirao?
Essential Equipment for the Hike
For the hiking days to Choquequirao, having the right equipment is crucial. Here are the essential items you need to bring:
Adequate Backpack: A 40-50 liter backpack is ideal for carrying all necessities without being too heavy.
Proper Clothing: Include quick-dry shirts, lightweight pants, a waterproof jacket, and a warm jacket. Don’t forget a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Trekking Footwear: A good pair of trekking boots that you’ve worn previously to avoid blisters is fundamental. Ensure they are waterproof and provide good ankle support.
Camping Gear: Include a lightweight tent, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures (minimum -5°C), and an insulating sleeping pad.
Trekking Poles: These are very useful for reducing impact on the knees and providing stability on uneven terrain.
Water Bottles and Purification System: Carry at least 2 liters of water and a purification system, such as tablets or a portable filter.
First Aid Kit: Include bandages, disinfectants, painkillers, and any personal medication you may need.
Sun Protection: High-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and UV-protective lip balm.
Physical and Mental Preparation
- Preparing physically is just as important as having the right equipment. Here are some tips to be in shape for the hiking days to Choquequirao:
- Endurance Training
- Engage in long and regular hikes with a loaded backpack to simulate hiking conditions. Gradually increase the distance and load.
- Strengthening Exercises
- Include exercises to strengthen your legs, such as squats, lunges, and balance exercises.
- Acclimatization to Altitude
- If possible, hike at higher altitudes to help your body adapt to the lack of oxygen.
Nutrition and Hydration
Maintain a balanced diet and ensure you are well-hydrated before and during the hike. Bring energy snacks like nuts, cereal bars, and dried fruits.
Mental Preparation
The hike to Choquequirao can be challenging. Mentally prepare to face difficult sections and maintain a positive attitude.
What Landscapes and Attractions Can Be Seen on the Way to Choquequirao?
Natural and Cultural Attractions Along the Way
During the hiking days to Choquequirao, travelers can enjoy a variety of stunning landscapes and unique attractions that make this route an unforgettable experience. Here are the main points of interest you’ll encounter on your adventure:
Deep Valleys and Rivers
The journey begins in the town of Cachora and descends towards the Apurímac River. This section offers spectacular views of the deep valley and the imposing Apurímac River, whose turquoise waters and fast currents are an impressive natural sight.
Capuliyoc Viewpoint
After a few hours of hiking, you’ll reach the Capuliyoc viewpoint. From here, you’ll have a panoramic view of the Apurímac Valley, and on clear days, you can see the snow-capped mountains of the Vilcabamba range. It’s an excellent place to rest and take photos.
Flora and Fauna
Along the way, the biodiversity is astonishing. You can observe different types of orchids, bromeliads, and other native plants. The fauna includes birds like the Andean condor, hummingbirds, and if you’re lucky, you might even see spectacled bears in their natural habitat.
Marampata Archaeological Site
On the third day of hiking to Choquequirao, you’ll pass through Marampata, a small archaeological site that offers a preview of the grandeur that awaits you at Choquequirao. This place is also an excellent rest point before the final stretch.
The Destination: Choquequirao
Finally, after several days of hiking to Choquequirao, you’ll arrive at this majestic archaeological site known as the “sacred brother of Machu Picchu.” The main attractions of Choquequirao include:
Agricultural Terraces
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by impressive agricultural terraces that demonstrate the Incas’ skill in construction and agriculture management on steep terrain.
Main Plaza
The central plaza of Choquequirao is a large space that was once the heart of ceremonial and social life. Here, you can feel the energy of the history and ceremonies that took place in this sacred place.
Enclosures and Temples
Among the most notable buildings are temples and ceremonial enclosures that reveal the religious importance of Choquequirao. The carvings and architecture are a testament to the sophistication of the Inca civilization.
Panoramic Views
From Choquequirao, you can get spectacular views of the surroundings, including the Apurímac canyon and the surrounding mountains. These views are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
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