Family Adventure on the Choquequirao Trek

Whispers of the Past

Today was nothing short of extraordinary. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I'm used to piecing together stories from fragments of the past. But today, I walked through one, touched it, breathed it. The stones of Choquequirao whispered tales of the Inca Empire, their resilience, and their profound connection to the land. It was a day of physical challenge, historical immersion, and family bonding, a blend that perfectly captures the essence of why we chose this adventure.

The day began early, with a hearty breakfast at the Green House. The anticipation was palpable as we prepared to tackle the Choquequirao Trail. Sophie was particularly excited, her youthful energy a stark contrast to my more measured enthusiasm. Hans, ever the pragmatist, checked our gear one last time, ensuring we had everything we needed for the day's trek. I must admit, even with my meticulous planning, I had a slight pang of regret about forgetting the portable charger. But the allure of the trail quickly overshadowed any minor inconveniences. The weather in November is mild, but humid, with average temperatures around 22°C.

As we set off, the trail unfolded before us, a winding path through the Andes. The landscape was breathtaking, a tapestry of green mountains, and deep canyons. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of it all. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of eucalyptus and damp earth. The trail to Choquequirao is known for its challenging ascents and descents.

We made our way towards the Choquequirao Archaeological Park. The park, known as the Last Refuge of the Incas, holds immense historical and cultural significance. It is believed to have been an important administrative and religious center and a key outpost during the rebellion against Spanish forces.

Choquequirao is more than just ruins; it's a testament to the ingenuity, resilience, and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization.

Reaching the Choquequirao Archaeological Park was like stepping into another world. The site, perched high on a ridge overlooking the Apurimac River Valley, is a testament to Inca engineering and architectural prowess. As we explored the terraces, plazas, and temples, I could almost hear the echoes of the past. Our guide recounted tales of Inca rulers, religious ceremonies, and the daily life of the people who once called this place home. It was fascinating to learn about the site's history, its role as a strategic center, and its connection to Machu Picchu.

I was particularly moved by the llama terraces, a series of agricultural platforms adorned with intricate stone carvings of llamas. These terraces not only served a practical purpose, providing food for the city, but also showcased the Inca's artistic talent and their deep respect for nature. Sophie was captivated by the sheer size of the site, running from one terrace to another, her laughter echoing through the ancient walls. Hans, with his carpenter's eye, marveled at the precision of the stonework, noting the seamless fit of each stone, a testament to Inca craftsmanship.

Lunch was a simple affair at the Choquequirao craft restaurant peruvian cuisine, but the flavors were anything but ordinary. We savored traditional Peruvian dishes, fueling up for the afternoon's exploration. The restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, a perfect backdrop for our meal.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip behind the mountains, casting long shadows across the site, we made our way back down the trail. The descent was challenging, but the stunning scenery kept our spirits high. We took our time, stopping to admire the views and reflect on the day's experiences.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at LIMBUS RESTOBAR. I had heard about its reputation for offering the best view of Cusco, and it certainly lived up to its promise. As we sipped our drinks, we watched the city lights twinkle below, a magical end to a magical day. The bar itself was very lively. It is known for its eclectic style and impressive cocktails. It also functions as an art gallery.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our trek, venturing further into the Andes. According to our itinerary, we will visit Abra Choquequirao and Choquequirao Puquio. I am eager to see what new wonders await us, what other stories the mountains have to tell. But for now, I am content to savor the memories of today, the whispers of the past, and the joy of sharing this incredible journey with my family. I am also glad that the weather has been so pleasant, even though November is considered the beginning of the rainy season. The trek itself has been challenging, as expected.

Back at our accommodation, tired but content, I journaled about the day's adventures. Sophie, already asleep, dreamt of llamas and Inca princesses. Hans, ever practical, was planning our route for tomorrow. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore, to learn, and to connect with my family in such a meaningful way. I did however make a mental note to buy a travel pillow, as I had forgotten to pack it.

It's amazing to think that Choquequirao, so rich in history and beauty, remains relatively unknown compared to Machu Picchu. It makes the experience all the more special, a feeling of discovering a hidden gem. But I also wonder how long this will last. I read that there are plans to build a cable car to the site, which would undoubtedly bring more tourists but also potentially detract from its unique charm. I feel fortunate to have experienced it in its current state, a place where the past still feels palpable, where the whispers of the Incas can still be heard.

As I reflect on our day exploring the Choquequirao Trail and Archaeological Park, I'm struck by the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization. Their ability to construct such impressive structures in such a challenging environment is a testament to their ingenuity and resilience. And their deep connection to the land, their respect for nature, is something we can all learn from. This trek is not just a physical journey; it's a journey through time, a chance to connect with the past, and a reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit. We will need that spirit for tomorrow's trek!