The Enigmatic Choquequirao Trek: Peru's Hidden Gem

• HelloKausay
  [Kow-sigh]
• GoodbyeAllinllachu
  [A-yin-ya-chu]
• YesArí
  [Ah-ree]
• NoManan
  [Ma-nan]
• Please/You're welcomeSulpayki
  [Sool-pai-kee]
• Thank youSulpay
  [Sool-pie]
• Excuse me/SorryPiedade
  [Pee-eh-dah-deh]
• How are you?Ima kachkanki?
  [Ee-ma kach-kan-kee]
• Fine. And you?Allin. Suti?
  [A-yin. Soo-tee]
• Do you speak English?Inglis simikunanki?
  [Ing-lees see-mee-koo-nan-kee]
• I don't understandManammi yachaychu
  [Ma-nam-mee yah-chai-chu]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenuyta qawaykuychi, sulpayki
  [Men-oo-ee-ta ka-wai-kooi-chee, sool-pie-kee]
• I don't eat meatKarnirqa mikhuy
  [Kar-nee-rka meek-way]
• Cheers!Kanpai!
  [Kan-pie]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHarqunkichi, sulpayki
  [Har-koon-kee-chee, sool-pai-kee]

• Help!Yanapanachiy!
  [Yah-na-pa-na-chee]
• Go away!Llaqta
  [Yak-ta]
• Call the Police!Puliñata llamanki!
  [Poo-lee-nyaa-ta yam-an-kee]
• Call a doctor!Yachachiq llamanki!
  [Yah-cha-cheek yam-an-kee]
• I'm lostUqayku
  [Oo-kai-koo]
• I'm illManan kani
  [Ma-nan ka-nee]

• I'd like to buy...Imarunakuy...
  [Ee-ma-roo-na-kooi]
• I'm just lookingRikurikuchkan
  [Ree-koo-ree-kooch-kan]
• How much is it?Ima suyayki?
  [Ee-ma soo-yai-kee]
• That's too expensiveKaykunapura
  [Kai-koo-na-poo-ra]
• Can you lower the price?Suyayta kichayki?
  [Soo-yai-ta kee-chai-kee]

• What time is it?Maypi ñawin?
  [My-pee nyaa-ween]
• It's one o'clockJujuy
  [Hoo-hooi]
• Half past (10)Iskay y media
  [Iss-kai ee me-dee-a]
• MorningPunchaw
  [Poon-chow]
• AfternoonInti chaski
  [In-tee chas-kee]
• EveningTuta
  [Too-ta]
• YesterdayQayna
  [Kai-na]
• TodayKuyay
  [Koo-yai]
• TomorrowKachun
  [Kach-oon]
• 1Huk
  [Hoo-k]
• 2Iskay
  [Iss-kai]
• 3Kinsa
  [Keen-sa]
• 4Tawa
  [Ta-wa]
• 5Pichqa
  [Peech-ka]
• 6Soqta
  [Sok-ta]
• 7Qanchis
  [Kan-chees]
• 8Pusaq
  [Poo-sak]
• 9Isqun
  [Iss-koon]
• 10Chunka
  [Choon-ka]

• Where's a/the...?Maypi...
  [My-pee]
• What's the address?Maypi sutiyki?
  [My-pee soo-tee-kee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mapawan rikunanki?
  [Map-a-wan ree-koo-nan-kee]
• When's the next (bus)?Qamri...
  [Kam-ree]
• A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (....manta)
  [Tee-kee-tee (manta)]

Choquequirao, often referred to as the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu, was constructed by the Inca civilization in the 15th century. It served as an important cultural and religious center, strategically located on the edge of the Andes. The site showcases the sophisticated engineering and architectural prowess of the Inca, with its terraced fields, ceremonial plazas, and intricate stonework.

The ninth Inca emperor, Pachacuti, is believed to have commissioned the construction of Choquequirao. Under his rule, the Inca Empire expanded significantly, and Choquequirao was part of his grand vision to consolidate power and demonstrate Inca ingenuity. The city’s layout and construction techniques reflect Pachacuti's influence and his emphasis on integrating natural landscapes with urban development.

During the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, Choquequirao played a crucial role as a refuge for Inca resistance. Many Inca nobles and warriors retreated to this remote site to escape the Spanish forces. The difficult terrain and strategic location made it a formidable stronghold for the Incas during this tumultuous period.

Despite its historical significance, Choquequirao remained largely unknown to the outside world until the 18th and 19th centuries. European explorers and historians began documenting the site, but it wasn't until the 20th century that significant archaeological efforts were made to uncover and restore it. The Peruvian government and international archaeologists have worked together to study and preserve Choquequirao, revealing its rich history and cultural legacy.

Today, Choquequirao is a symbol of Inca heritage and resilience. Though less visited than Machu Picchu, it offers a more secluded and immersive experience for trekkers and history enthusiasts. The trek to Choquequirao is challenging, taking visitors through diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes, allowing them to connect deeply with the region's natural beauty and historical context.

Choquequirao is located in the Vilcabamba mountain range in the Cusco region of Peru. The nearest city with an airport is Cusco, which is well-connected to Lima and other major cities by frequent flights. From Cusco, you can take a bus or taxi to the town of Cachora, the starting point for the Choquequirao Trek. The journey from Cusco to Cachora typically takes around 4 to 5 hours by road.

Once you reach Cachora, the only way to get to Choquequirao is by trekking. The trek usually takes 4 to 5 days round trip. You can hire a local guide and muleteers to assist with carrying your gear. In Cusco and other cities, taxis, buses, and colectivos (shared vans) are common means of transportation. Renting a car is also an option, but be prepared for challenging road conditions.

The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While credit cards are accepted in larger cities like Cusco, it is advisable to carry cash for your trek, as ATMs are not available in remote areas like Choquequirao. Make sure to withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Cusco. Local vendors along the trek usually accept only cash.

Choquequirao is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Ensure you are physically prepared for the demanding trek. Avoid trekking alone and always stay on marked paths. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas of Cusco, so keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Choquequirao, but being vigilant is always advisable.

In case of emergency during your trek, contact your guide immediately. It is advisable to carry a satellite phone, as mobile coverage is limited. For emergencies in Cusco, dial 105 for police assistance and 116 for medical emergencies. Always have travel insurance that covers trekking activities and medical evacuations. Pharmacies and medical facilities are available in Cusco.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and durable trekking gear, including good hiking boots. Avoid wearing flashy or expensive jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites in Cusco. Public Transport: Do be patient and polite. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and coca tea, which helps with altitude sickness. Don't drink tap water; always use purified or bottled water.

To experience Choquequirao like a local, consider hiring a local Andean guide who can share insights about the history and culture of the area. Engage with locals in the small villages along the trek and try traditional foods. Don't miss the sunset at the Choquequirao ruins; the view is breathtaking. Also, take your time to acclimatize in Cusco before starting the trek to avoid altitude sickness.