Choquequirao is a scenic Inca archaeological site, generally considered bigger, more remote, and better preserved than Machu Picchu. Its remoteness and a fact that it's only accessible by a challenging 2-day hike one way makes it more than a 100 times less crowded than Machu Picchu.

The classic trek to Choquequirao is quite challenging and typically takes around four to five days roundtrip, covering a distance of approximately 40 miles. The first day you'll descend 5,000 ft into the canyon, and ascend 6,000 ft the following day to reach the site. And then repeat on your way back.

But for those in a great shape – it is an unforgettable experience. Along the way, you'll navigate through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys, deep canyons, and steep mountain passes. The trail offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the dramatic Apurimac River below.  Camping along the route is common, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings and experience the beauty of the Andean wilderness.

Choquequirao was once a significant Inca settlement. It features well-preserved terraces, temples, and ceremonial platforms, providing a glimpse into the Inca civilization's history and architecture. The remote location and the relatively limited number of visitors make Choquequirao an enchanting and peaceful place to explore, with a sense of discovery and solitude.

The Classic Choquequirao Trek is a true adventure that combines physical challenge with cultural and historical exploration. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient Inca civilization while enjoying the rugged beauty of the Peruvian landscape. If you're seeking a less crowded and more remote trekking experience in Peru, the Choquequirao Trek is a fantastic choice.

Detailed Guide

AllTrails

Classic Choquequirao Trek

Cusco City is a vibrant and historic city located in the Peruvian Andes. It was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cusco is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural traditions.

One of the highlights of Cusco is its well-preserved colonial architecture that blends seamlessly with Inca ruins. The city's main square, Plaza de Armas, is a bustling hub surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, including the stunning Cathedral of Santo Domingo. The narrow cobblestone streets of Cusco are lined with colorful markets, shops, and restaurants, offering a mix of traditional Andean crafts, local cuisine, and modern amenities.

Cusco is also the gateway to the iconic ancient site of Machu Picchu, but the city itself is home to impressive Inca sites, such as the Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) and Sacsayhuaman, a massive fortress overlooking the city.

In addition to its historical and archaeological significance, Cusco is a vibrant cultural center. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and costumes. You can immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the San Blas neighborhood, known for its artisan workshops, or attending a traditional Andean ceremony.

With its captivating history, architectural wonders, vibrant culture, and proximity to Machu Picchu, Cusco City is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of ancient wonders and modern Peruvian charm.

Cusco City & Acclimation

The Maras Salt Mines are an extraordinary salt production site located in the Sacred Valley of Peru. This ancient complex consists of thousands of individual salt pools that have been used for salt extraction since Inca times.

The salt mines are situated on a steep mountainside, and the pools are fed by a natural saltwater spring that emerges from the mountains. The saltwater is channeled into the shallow terraced pools, where it evaporates under the sun, leaving behind layers of crystallized salt. The process is carried out by local families who maintain and harvest the salt using traditional methods passed down through generations.

Visiting the Maras Salt Mines allows you to witness this fascinating salt production process and explore the intricate network of salt pools. The sight of the glistening white pools cascading down the mountainside is truly awe-inspiring. You can walk along the narrow paths between the pools, observing the workers as they tend to their salt extraction activities.

Aside from the cultural and historical significance, the Maras Salt Mines also offer a stunning natural setting. The surrounding landscape, with its contrasting colors and panoramic views, creates a picturesque backdrop for your visit. Additionally, the unique salt formations and textures provide excellent photo opportunities.

A visit to the Maras Salt Mines is an opportunity to learn about the traditional salt production techniques of the region and appreciate the important role they have played in the local economy for centuries. It is a remarkable site that showcases the ingenuity of ancient civilizations and the harmonious relationship between humans and nature.

Maras Salt Mines

Moray is an archaeological site with impressive circular agricultural terraces which were constructed by the ancient Incas. The site consists of several concentric rings of terraces that descend deep into the earth, resembling an amphitheater.

The purpose of the Moray terraces is believed to have been experimental agriculture. Each terrace has a different microclimate due to variations in temperature and exposure to sunlight. The Incas used this unique design to study and cultivate different crops, taking advantage of the varying conditions within the terraces. It is considered an engineering marvel and a testament to the advanced knowledge and skills of the Inca civilization.

Visiting Moray allows you to explore the intricate terraces and learn about the agricultural practices of the Incas. The site offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your visit. As you wander through the terraces, you can appreciate the ingenuity of the Incas and their deep connection with the land.

Exploring Moray offers a glimpse into the ancient agricultural practices of the Incas and provides a deeper understanding of their remarkable civilization.

Moray

Ollantaytambo is a charming and historic town located in the Sacred Valley of Peru. It is renowned for its well-preserved Inca ruins and its picturesque setting amidst towering mountains and lush green valleys.

The village is best known for the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, which features ancient stone terraces, temples, and ceremonial platforms. It is considered one of the finest surviving examples of Inca urban planning and architecture. You can explore the site and marvel at the precision and craftsmanship of the Inca stonework.

In addition to its archaeological treasures, Ollantaytambo Village offers a glimpse into traditional Andean culture. The town's narrow cobbled streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, many of which were constructed on top of Inca foundations. The local community still practices many of the traditional customs and crafts that have been passed down through generations.

Ollantaytambo Village is also a popular starting point for the famous Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. Many trekkers spend a night in the village before embarking on their journey. The town's proximity to the train station that connects to Machu Picchu makes it a convenient base for those visiting the iconic ancient citadel.

With its rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant local culture, Ollantaytambo is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Sacred Valley and the wonders of the Inca civilization.

Ollantaytambo

The Salkantay Trail is a popular alternative trek to Machu Picchu, offering a challenging and rewarding adventure for nature enthusiasts and hikers. This trek is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and close encounters with the mighty Salkantay Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the region.

The Salkantay Trail typically spans around 45 miles and takes about five days to complete. It will take you through breathtaking mountain passes, deep valleys, cloud forests, and remote Andean villages. Along the way, you'll witness dramatic scenery, including snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant flora and fauna.

One of the highlights of the Salkantay Trail is reaching the Salkantay Pass, situated at an altitude of 15,091 feet. This challenging ascent offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a true test of endurance and determination. As you descend, the landscape transforms, revealing the lush beauty of the cloud forest and eventually leading to your final destination — Machu Picchu.

Unlike the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trail does not require permits, making it a more flexible option for those who have not secured reservations well in advance, or those who want an independent experience without a guide. However, we still recommended to hike with an experienced guide or as part of a guided tour for safety and support throughout the journey given extreme altitudes.

You can find a few highest-rated providers vetted by Fyno curators in the links section above. There are 4 and 5 day options, all providing an all-inclusive experience with transfers and food throughout the entire trek. If you do go indie, don't forget to pre-book your ticket to Machu Picchu for the last day when you enter the site.

The Salkantay Trail offers a more rugged and less crowded experience compared to the Inca Trail, allowing to connect with nature and experience the raw beauty of the Andes.

Hiking tour

Salkantay Trail

The Inca Trail is a world-renowned trekking route that leads to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. This iconic trail offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing hikers to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas and witness the beauty of the Andean landscapes.

The Inca Trail spans approximately 26 miles and usually takes four days to complete. Along the way, you will pass through diverse ecosystems, including lush cloud forests, high mountain passes, and archaeological sites. The trail showcases the incredible engineering skills of the Incas, with stone pathways, staircases, and terraces that have withstood the test of time.

While it seems like a perfect case for an independent hike, trekking the Inca Trail without a guide has been prohibited since 2001. Permits from licensed guides are required to undertake the trek, ranging from $500 to $1,300 per person for a 4-day trek. It is recommended to book in advance, as there are only 500 spots available each day.

As always, Fyno curators looked through dozens of operators and thousands of reviews, selecting two vetted options for this trek. Both provide hassle-free logistics from Cusco, comfortable camps with hot shower, and scenic train rides included in the price. Check the links section for more details.

During the trek, you have the opportunity to explore several Inca ruins, such as Wiñay Wayna and Intipata, which provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Incas. The highlight of the trail is reaching the Sun Gate, where you are rewarded with the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at sunrise.

Inca Trails offers an unforgettable journey that combines stunning natural landscapes, Inca ruins, and the ultimate reward of reaching Machu Picchu, making it an experience of a lifetime. It offers a profound connection to the ancient Inca civilization and a chance to immerse oneself in the beauty and mystique of the Andes.

The Inca Trail

The Vinicunca Trail, also known as the Rainbow Mountain Trail or Montaña de Siete Colores, is an iconic hike in the Peruvian Andes. This trail is famous for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the vibrant colors of the Vinicunca Mountain itself.

The trail begins in the village of Cusipata and winds its way through the high-altitude Andean landscape, reaching a peak elevation of over 16,400 feet. Along the way, you are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glacial valleys, and expansive Andean plateaus with occasional llama encounters.

The highlight of the Vinicunca Trail is, of course, the Rainbow Mountain. This natural wonder features striations of colorful minerals, creating a unique and vibrant display of hues that range from deep reds to bright yellows and greens. The sight of the Rainbow Mountain is truly awe-inspiring and a photographer's dream.

While the Vinicunca Trail is not as well-known as the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, it has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique geological formations and natural beauty. The trek is challenging, as the high altitude and steep terrain can be physically demanding. However, with proper acclimatization and preparation, you can experience the unforgettable beauty of the Rainbow Mountain.

If you rented a car – just hit that Directions button above and drive all the way to the parking lot at the start of the trail. If not – hire a taxi from Cusco or join a guided tour with transfer included. Beware that most organized transfers include stop at the souvenir shops or restaurants, so we recommend hiring a dedicated driver to the trailhead. We recommend checking the detailed guide in the links section to better prepare for this incredible adventure based on your preferences.

The Vinicunca Trail offers a chance to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Andean landscape and witness one of nature's most incredible spectacles.

Vinikunca Trail

Catherine

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I’d go for Casa Andina Premium if you want a stay with a spa. Being downtown is handy for exploring.

Peru is enormous, as well as its opportunities for adventures. This land of ancient wonders and vibrant culture warrants for visiting over and over to explore all its stunning regions. From the vibrant streets of Lima, through the lush Amazon in Iquitos, to the mystical allure of the Sacred Valley – Peru will ignite a sense of adventure that will stay with you forever.

Casa Andina Premium Cusco is an upscale hotel situated a mere 5-minute walk from Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco. Housed in a stunning 17th-century house, the hotel's colonial courtyards and balconies transport you to the Republican Era of Peru.

Each room is thoughtfully equipped to provide modern comforts while maintaining the hotel's unique character and ambiance.

Indulge in a delightful culinary experience at Alma Restaurant & Bar with an breakfast buffet and a diverse menu. Impeccable service and attention to detail are at the core of their hospitality, ensuring an authentic Cusco experience that is steeped in tradition and history.

Overall, this hotel is an exceptional choice for discerning travelers seeking a high-end and luxurious experience in the enchanting city of Cusco, immersing themselves in the city's rich history while enjoying modern comforts and impeccable service.

Casa Andina Premium

Get immersed in Lima and explore stunning sights of coastal Peru.

Lima and Coastal Peru

Peru long-weekend style: fly in to Cusco, acclimate, Machu Picchu, and fly out.

Machu Picchu Escape

Explore Peru's most stunning regions with top sights and hidden gems.

Peru Highlights

The ultimate trip with the coast, the Amazon, famous mountains, and Titicaca.

Peruvian Adventure

This enchanting city is a mix of Incan majesty and colonial charm. Walking its cobblestone streets, you'll feel the pulse of history, and visiting nearby Sacsayhuamán offers a glimpse into its architectural genius.

Cusco

Peru is enormous, with Lima and Cusco located up to 24 hours drive apart. But it's only a 2-hour flight, so we strongly recommend flying between Lima and Cusco.

Flight

Most flights between Iquitos and Cusco make a connection in Lima, so the total flight time is around 5 hours including a stopover.

Casa Andina Premium

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