Exploring the Hidden Incan Treasure: Choquequirao Trek

Echoes of the Past

Today was a day of living history, a day where the stones whispered stories of an empire long gone. The air was filled with a palpable sense of mystery and wonder as we explored the magnificent ruins of Choquequirao. It’s hard to describe the feeling of standing in a place that has stood the test of time, a place where the echoes of the past resonate with every step you take. It was a challenging day, physically, but the rewards were immeasurable.

The day began, as most do on a trek, with an early start. We fueled up at Mapacho Craft Beer Restaurant in Cusco, grabbing a hearty breakfast to prepare us for the day's adventures. I know, craft beer for breakfast sounds odd, but they had some great breakfast options!


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

After breakfast, we set off to fully experience Choquequirao Travel and Ruinas de Choquechurco. The weather in October is mild and dry, making it ideal for hiking. The sun was shining, and a gentle breeze kept us cool as we made our way up the mountain. Lena, ever the enthusiastic explorer, was practically bouncing with excitement. Her energy is infectious, and it always makes these adventures even more special.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Choquequirao with Choquequirao Travel, your gateway to Peru's hidden Incan treasures.

As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking. The Andean landscapes unfolded before us in all their glory – towering mountains, deep valleys, and lush cloud forests. It was a reminder of the sheer beauty and majesty of this part of the world. The Choquequirao Trek is known for its rugged terrain. The trek itself is considered moderate to difficult, demanding a good level of fitness due to steep ascents and descents. I’m glad I’ve kept up my hiking back in Berlin; it definitely helped!

Finally, after a few hours of trekking, we arrived at Choquequirao. The first glimpse of the ruins was simply awe-inspiring. Spread across a mountain ridge, the stone structures and agricultural terraces seemed to cling to the landscape, a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Inca people. It’s easy to see why Choquequirao is often referred to as the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu.

We spent the morning exploring the main plaza and ceremonial sites. The precision and artistry of the stonework were remarkable. It’s incredible to think that these structures were built without modern tools or technology. The Incas were true masters of their craft. I couldn't help but think about my background and interests, pondering how the Incas would have approached software development.

To walk through Choquequirao is to walk through the heart of the Inca spirit, a reminder of their enduring legacy.

One of the most striking features of Choquequirao is the series of llama terraces. These agricultural terraces are adorned with white llama figures carved into the stone, a unique and captivating sight. It’s believed that Choquequirao was an important agricultural hub , and these terraces would have been used to cultivate crops to sustain the city's population. As someone who grew up in a rural village in Cyprus, I felt a particular connection to this aspect of Choquequirao. My yiayia (grandmother) would have loved this place!

After exploring the main areas of Choquequirao, we ventured to Ruinas de Choquechurco, a set of lesser-known ruins located a bit further afield. This required a bit more hiking, but it was well worth the effort. These ruins were more overgrown and less restored than the main site, giving them an even greater sense of mystery and discovery. We practically had the place to ourselves, allowing us to soak in the atmosphere and imagine what life might have been like here centuries ago.


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

For lunch, we enjoyed a well-deserved meal at SUMAQCHA RESTAURANT. The cozy atmosphere made us feel relaxed and the traditional Peruvian cuisine was delicious. Lena tried the ají de gallina and I opted for a hearty steak. We washed it all down with some fresh juice – the perfect way to re-energize after a morning of exploring.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Sumaqcha Restaurant in Cusco's historic Plaza de Armas - a culinary delight amidst stunning views.

In the afternoon, we continued our exploration of Choquequirao, delving deeper into its history and significance. It’s believed that Choquequirao was built in the 15th century, possibly under the rule of the Inca Pachacutec. Its strategic location suggests that it may have served as a checkpoint or administrative center, controlling trade routes between Cusco and the Amazon jungle. Some historians even speculate that it may have been a refuge for the Inca elite during the Spanish conquest. Whatever its exact purpose, there’s no doubt that Choquequirao played a crucial role in the Inca Empire.

As the sun began to set, we found a quiet spot to sit and reflect on the day. The golden light bathed the ruins in a warm glow, creating a magical and unforgettable scene. It was a moment of profound peace and connection, a reminder of the power of history and the enduring spirit of the Inca people. The temperature oscillated between 25ºC and 4ºC.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a nice meal at Inka Grill in Cusco. The restaurant is known for its excellent Peruvian cuisine and its location in the beautiful Plaza de Armas. We enjoyed some delicious vegetarian soup and risotto. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Inka Grill in Cusco – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

After dinner, we decided to check out Republica Del Pisco - Cusco, a local bar known for its pisco cocktails and lively atmosphere. We enjoyed a couple of pisco sours while listening to live music and soaking in the local vibe. It was a fun and festive way to celebrate our day of exploration.


Experience the authentic taste of Peru at Republica Del Pisco, Cusco's premier destination for delectable cuisine and refreshing drinks.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're excited to continue our trek and explore more of the stunning Andean landscapes. According to our itinerary, we will be visiting Puyupatamarca and Intipata. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing Intipata, as I've heard it offers incredible views of the surrounding valleys. We also need to visit Speedy Gonzalo Camping Equipment to replace the portable power bank and extra socks that we forgot. Hopefully, tomorrow will be another day filled with adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

The Choquequirao Trek is challenging , but it’s an experience that will stay with me forever. It’s a chance to connect with history, immerse yourself in nature, and discover the hidden treasures of the Inca Empire. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru, I highly recommend adding the Choquequirao Trek to your list. Just be sure to pack your hiking boots, camera, and a sense of adventure!