Adventurous Trek to Choquequirao with Friends

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a beautiful blend of history, culture, and, of course, delicious food. The crisp mountain air and the vibrant energy of Cusco made it a day to remember. After eight days on the Choquequirao Trek, my friends and I were eager to explore more of what this region has to offer.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at KUSYKAY Peruvian Craft Food. After a recommendation from a fellow traveller, we decided to give it a try. KUSYKAY is known for its modern take on traditional Peruvian dishes. I ordered the Lomo Saltado, and it was absolutely divine. The alpaca was tender, and the blend of flavors was a perfect start to the day. My friends tried the Alpaca burger and trout, and everyone loved their meal. The staff was incredibly friendly, offering us complimentary teas for altitude sickness and sharing insights into the local ingredients. It felt like a warm welcome to Cusco. As someone who enjoys trying new recipes, I was inspired by the innovative use of local ingredients.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at KUSYKAY in Cusco—where tradition meets modern craft in every delicious dish.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Ruinas de Choquechurco. The ruins are located in the Mollepata district, high in the mountains. The trek to the site was an adventure in itself, with scenic trails offering breathtaking views of the Peruvian landscape. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city bustle. As we hiked, we encountered local wildlife, adding to the allure of this ancient site.

Reaching the Ruinas de Choquechurco felt like stepping back in time. These ancient ruins, believed to be part of the Inca Empire, provided a fascinating insight into Andean culture and history. The intricate stonework and the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys were simply breathtaking. It was easy to imagine the Incas performing their rituals on these very grounds. The site exuded a sense of serenity, making it an ideal escape from modern life. Exploring the structures, each stone seemed to tell a story of the past.


Discover the ancient Incan heritage at the breathtaking Ruinas de Choquechurco, a must-visit historical landmark in Peru's stunning Andes mountains.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

The name 'Choquechurco' likely comes from the Aymara word 'CHOQUE,' meaning gold, and the Quechua word 'CHURCO,' meaning a place to put or deposit something. So, 'Choquechurco' would be the place where gold was placed. The complex is located in the buffer zone of the Machu Picchu archaeological site, in the Markahuaylla sector. The ruins feature two platforms that were likely used for ceremonial events. Inca walls, affected by the native trees, are also visible.

After immersing ourselves in history, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant. While Mapacho has a location in Ollantaytambo, we opted to visit the restaurant in Cusco. The menu offered a variety of Peruvian dishes, and of course, craft beer. I decided on a hearty stew, while my friends opted for the burgers. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. I also enjoyed trying some of the local craft beers, a refreshing change from the usual lagers.


Experience the rich flavors of Peru at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant with exquisite cuisine and locally brewed craft beers in Cusco.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Rock House Cafe for an evening of music and relaxation. The cafe had a lively atmosphere, with live music and a friendly crowd. It was the perfect place to unwind and share stories from our trek. Sipping on local beers and enjoying the music, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had so far. It’s moments like these, surrounded by friends and immersed in a new culture, that make travel so rewarding. The Rock House Cafe has a well-stocked bar and a spacious layout with different areas to suit everyone's taste. The service was good, and the staff was attentive. The music was great, and the overall vibe was very welcoming.


Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious gastropub cuisine at Rock House Cafe, a top destination in Cusco's historic center.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Choquequirao Travel, hoping to learn more about the region's history and culture. We're also planning to have breakfast at Aqllawasi Chichería - Museo, lunch at El museo de la papa rest, and dinner at Hacienda Huayoccari. I am particularly excited about visiting TEXTILES POMATAYLLA, a local shop. I am hoping to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Toronto and my family. Eglė would love a traditionally woven scarf, and I am sure James would appreciate a piece of local art. I am always on the lookout for new culinary inspiration, and I am hoping to find some unique spices or ingredients to bring back to my kitchen.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and connecting with different cultures. It's these moments of discovery that make travel so enriching and memorable. And who knows what tomorrow will bring? I am excited to find out.

The Choquequirao trek has been an incredible journey so far, and I am looking forward to sharing more of my experiences with you. Stay tuned for more updates from Peru!

The trek itself is considered challenging, and is recommended for experienced trekkers or people in good physical shape who are used to trekking or running frequently. Choquequirao means Cradle of Gold. The Inca archaeological site is considered the sister to Machu Picchu, but it is less known and three times larger. It was one of the last refuges for the Incas who continued to resist Spanish occupation after the conquest. The site was eventually abandoned and became covered by dense cloud forest vegetation. To this day, archaeologists continue to discover new sectors of the city.

The trek to Choquequirao is an amazing experience to hike down to the depths of the Apurimac Canyon and then up to the site in the clouds. The trek will take us through remote villages, lush forests, and high mountain passes while taking in stunning views of the surrounding peaks. We will have the opportunity to see multiple coffee plantations, banana plantations, and fields of passion fruit. Along this path, you will also see the most beautiful waterfall along the Choquequirao trek. The most difficult section of the whole Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu is the climb to Maizal.

The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most challenging, breathtaking, and rewarding treks in the Cusco region. This epic journey takes you along little-visited Inca trails, across dramatic Andean landscapes, through lush cloud forests, and into two of the most remarkable Inca sites in Peru: Choquequirao, known as the sister city of Machu Picchu, and the world wonder itself, Machu Picchu.

Unlike the shorter Choquequirao route, this 9-day itinerary continues deep into the Andes, connecting with the final stretch of the famous Salkantay Trail before reaching Machu Picchu. The trek is challenging, and is suitable for experienced trekkers in good physical condition. It is recommended to spend 2–3 days of acclimatization in Cusco prior to the trek.

The Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu in 9 Days allows you to hike to what many consider to be sister Inca cities of Choquequirao and Machu Picchu. Both ruins were once lost cities of the Incas that are believed to never have been discovered by the Spaniards and are still very well preserved. We will visit Capuliyoc, a great a view point at 2800 meters where we'll be able to see the surrounding area. The Choquequirao trek allows you to see parts of an original Inca trail.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country and share my experiences with you. The people of Peru are warm and welcoming, and the culture is rich and fascinating. I am excited to continue my journey and discover more of what this amazing country has to offer. As a budget-conscious traveller, I am always on the lookout for affordable and authentic experiences. Peru has not disappointed. From the delicious street food to the stunning landscapes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. I am also grateful for the opportunity to travel with my friends. Sharing these experiences with loved ones makes them even more special. We have laughed, learned, and grown together, and I know that these memories will last a lifetime.

As I prepare for another day of adventure, I am filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. I am eager to see what tomorrow will bring and to continue exploring the wonders of Peru. Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope that my stories inspire you to embark on your own adventures and discover the beauty and richness of our world.