Discovering the Lost City: Choquequirao Trek Adventure

Whispers of the Past
Today, as our penultimate day on the Choquequirao trek, was nothing short of magical. We delved deep into the heart of the lost city, allowing its ancient stones to whisper stories of a civilization long past. It was a day of exploration, reflection, and profound connection with the history etched into every corner of this magnificent site.

The morning began, as most mornings on the trail do, with the sun gently coaxing us from our tents. PERUCHO Restaurant Craft Beer was a distant memory, but the promise of discovery fueled our steps. Liam and I shared a quick breakfast of granola bars and instant coffee, a far cry from the craft beers we enjoyed in Cusco, but perfectly adequate for the adventure ahead. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and the faint aroma of distant woodsmoke.

As we set off, the trail led us higher into the mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The landscape was a tapestry of greens and browns, painted with the strokes of the Apurimac River snaking its way through the depths below. The scale of everything was immense, dwarfing us and reminding us of the sheer power of nature. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and humility as we made our way towards Choquequirao.

Reaching the entrance to the site felt like stepping through a portal into another world. Choquequirao, even more extensive than I had imagined, sprawled across the mountaintop. The stonework was exquisite, a testament to the skill and artistry of the Inca people. Terraces cascaded down the mountainside, hinting at the agricultural ingenuity that sustained this civilization.

Liam and I spent hours exploring the various sectors of the city. We wandered through the main plaza, imagining the bustling activity that once filled this space. We climbed the steep steps of the usnu, the ceremonial platform, where priests would have made offerings to the gods. We marveled at the intricate carvings of llamas on the walls, a unique feature of Choquequirao that sets it apart from other Inca sites.

One of the most striking aspects of Choquequirao was its isolation. Unlike Machu Picchu, which draws massive crowds, we encountered very few other trekkers. This allowed us to experience the site in a much more intimate and personal way. We could wander at our own pace, soaking in the atmosphere and feeling a deep connection to the past. The silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird or the rustling of leaves in the wind.

As a photographer, I was in my element. Every corner of Choquequirao offered a new perspective, a new composition, a new story to tell. I spent hours capturing the play of light and shadow on the ancient stones, trying to convey the sense of mystery and grandeur that permeated the site. Liam, ever the patient companion, explored alongside me, occasionally offering suggestions or pointing out interesting details that I might have missed. He even managed to capture a few shots of me in action, which I knew would become treasured memories of this adventure.

For lunch, we found a quiet spot overlooking the valley and enjoyed a simple meal of sandwiches and fruit. Inti House was calling our name, but we were happy to eat our simple meal amongst the ruins. As we ate, we discussed our impressions of Choquequirao. We were both struck by the sophistication of the Inca civilization and their ability to create such a complex and beautiful city in such a challenging environment. We also marveled at their deep understanding of astronomy and their connection to the natural world.

The true voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

In the afternoon, we ventured further afield, exploring some of the less-visited areas of Choquequirao. We discovered hidden temples, overgrown with vegetation, and crumbling walls that seemed to whisper secrets from centuries past. We felt like true explorers, uncovering the mysteries of a lost civilization. It was during this time that I felt a profound sense of connection to the people who had once lived here. I could almost imagine them walking the same paths, tending the same terraces, and gazing at the same mountains that we were seeing today.

One particular moment stands out in my mind. We were standing on the edge of a precipice, looking out over the vast expanse of the Andes. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace and gratitude. I was grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible place, to learn about its history, and to connect with its spirit. I was also grateful for the companionship of Liam, who shared my passion for adventure and my love for the natural world.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to our campsite, tired but exhilarated. We joined our fellow trekkers for dinner, sharing stories and laughter around the campfire. Chull's - Peruvian Cuisine & Craft Beer was a world away, but we had each other and the memories of the day's explorations. The stars began to emerge, blanketing the sky in a dazzling display of celestial beauty. We sat in silence, gazing at the heavens and feeling a sense of wonder at the vastness of the universe.

Before retreating to our tent, Liam and I took one last look at Choquequirao. The city was bathed in moonlight, its stones glowing with an ethereal light. It felt like the spirits of the Inca people were watching over us, welcoming us to their ancient home.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our trek, a day of reflection and descent. We plan to visit Choquequirao Expeditions and Choquequirao Travel, hoping to gain even more insight into this incredible site. Breakfast will be at Aqllawasi Chichería - Museo, lunch at El museo de la papa rest, and hopefully a celebratory dinner at Ponchos Machupicchu Restaurant. And perhaps, if we have the energy, we'll end the day with a drink at Ukukus Music Club - Bar.

As I drift off to sleep tonight, I carry with me the echoes of Choquequirao. The whispers of the past, the beauty of the present, and the promise of future adventures. This trek has been more than just a physical challenge; it has been a journey of the soul. And I know that the memories of this lost city will stay with me forever. Before we leave tomorrow, I'm hoping to pick up a few souvenirs at Mercado Central de San Pedro to remind me of our time here. I've heard they have some amazing local crafts and goods. I'm particularly interested in finding some textiles or pottery that reflect the culture and history of the region. I'm also hoping to sample some of the local cuisine. I've heard that the market is a great place to try traditional Peruvian dishes at affordable prices. Maybe I'll even pick up some spices or ingredients to bring home and experiment with in my own kitchen. It would be a great way to keep the flavors of Peru alive long after we've left. I'm especially keen on trying some authentic Peruvian ceviche.

The Choquequirao trek has been an incredible journey, and I'm so grateful to have shared it with Liam. His support and companionship have made the experience even more meaningful. As we prepare to descend tomorrow, I know that we'll carry the memories of this lost city with us, forever etched in our hearts.