Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

Whispers of the Past

Today was a day of living history, a chance to walk in the footsteps of the Incas and feel the weight of centuries. Choquequirao, the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu, unveiled its secrets, and I was there to listen. The air was filled with the echoes of a civilization long gone, yet vibrantly present in the stones beneath my feet.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Choquequirao, the lesser-known Inca site in the heart of the Andes, perfect for adventurous travelers.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Chullos Restaurant & Craft Beer in Cusco. Fuelled up, we set off towards Choquequirao, eager to delve into its mysteries. The journey itself was an experience, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building with every turn in the road. Lena, ever the artist, was captivated by the scenery, already planning how she'd capture the essence of these mountains in her next graphic design project. As a software developer, I appreciated the ingenuity it must have taken for the Incas to construct a city in such a remote and challenging location. The blend of our perspectives always enriches our travels.

Our primary focus for the day was, of course, Choquequirao itself [i]. We spent hours exploring the site, wandering through its terraces and plazas, imagining what life must have been like within these ancient walls. The scale of the place is truly impressive, and the fact that it's still only partially excavated adds to the sense of discovery. You can feel the weight of history with every step, a palpable connection to the past that's hard to find anywhere else. We even joined one of the Choquequirao Expeditions to delve deeper into the history and significance of the site [i]. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable, sharing stories and insights that brought the ruins to life. It's amazing to think that this city, once a thriving center of Incan life, was never discovered by the Spanish during their conquest. That fact alone gives Choquequirao a unique aura of resilience and mystery.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Choquequirao with expert guidance and immersive trekking experiences tailored to your adventure in Peru.

The stones of Choquequirao whisper tales of a civilization that defied the odds, a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.

Lunch at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Cusco was a welcome break, a chance to refuel and reflect on the morning's adventures. We savored traditional Peruvian dishes, each bite a burst of flavor that invigorated our senses. As we ate, we discussed our favorite moments from the morning, marveling at the intricate stonework and the panoramic views. Lena was particularly fascinated by the llama terraces, a series of agricultural terraces adorned with white stones forming the shape of llamas. I was more drawn to the complex irrigation systems, a testament to the Incas' advanced engineering skills.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Inka Wasi Restaurant in Cusco's vibrant Plaza Regocijo.

In the afternoon, we ventured into the heart of Choquequirao, exploring its lesser-known corners and hidden pathways. The site is vast, much larger than I had anticipated, and it's easy to get lost in its labyrinthine layout. But that's part of the fun, isn't it? Discovering a hidden niche or a forgotten shrine, feeling like you're the first person to set foot there in centuries. The views from the upper terraces were simply breathtaking, a sweeping panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. I could see why the Incas chose this location, a place of both strategic importance and unparalleled beauty.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was simply sitting on a stone wall, gazing out at the landscape, and letting the silence wash over me. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the ancient past. I closed my eyes and imagined what it must have been like to live here centuries ago, to be a part of this vibrant civilization. The sounds of the wind, the rustling of leaves, the distant cries of birds – they all seemed to carry echoes of the past, whispers of stories waiting to be told.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the ruins, we made our way back to Cusco. But before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by Artesanias Maki to pick up a few souvenirs. Lena found a beautiful hand-woven tapestry, while I opted for a small replica of one of the llama stones. We wanted something to remind us of this incredible day, a tangible connection to the history and culture we had experienced.


Discover the essence of Peru at Artesanias Maki, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern style in Aguas Calientes.

Dinner at Hacienda Huayoccari was the perfect end to a perfect day. The restaurant, nestled in a beautifully restored hacienda, offered a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine in an elegant setting. We savored every bite, relishing the flavors and aromas of the Andes. As we ate, we reminisced about our adventures, sharing stories and laughter. Lena was already planning our next trip, dreaming of exploring other ancient sites around the world. I, on the other hand, was content to simply soak in the moment, grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and enriching journey.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Hacienda Huayoccari, where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking views in Huycho.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our itinerary includes visits to Choquesuysuy and Cerro Choquequirao. I'm excited to see what other wonders these sites hold, what other stories they have to tell. And after another day of exploration, we'll be treating ourselves to dinner at Chicha por Gaston Acurio, a restaurant that promises to be a culinary delight. I'm particularly looking forward to trying some traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, to prepare for another day of adventure in this magical land.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our planned itinerary, but the memories and experiences we've gained on this trek will last a lifetime. This journey has been more than just a vacation; it's been a transformative experience, a chance to connect with history, culture, and nature in a profound way. As we prepare to leave Peru, I know that we'll be taking a piece of it with us, a piece of its spirit, its beauty, and its ancient wisdom. And who knows, maybe we'll even be back someday to explore more of its hidden treasures. After all, there's still so much to discover, so many stories to uncover. As the sun sets over the Andes, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey, for the opportunity to explore the hidden Incan treasure of Choquequirao.

This trek has been a reminder that the world is full of wonders, waiting to be explored. It's also reinforced the importance of traveling with someone you love, someone who shares your passion for adventure and discovery. Lena's presence has made this experience even more special, her artistic eye and her infectious enthusiasm adding a unique dimension to every moment. As we embark on our final day of exploration, I know that we'll be cherishing every moment, every sight, every sound. For this is more than just a trip; it's a memory in the making, a story that we'll be telling for years to come.