Choquequirao is an ancient Inca site tucked away in the Andes Mountains. People often call it the "sister city" of Machu Picchu because both were important cities for the Inca. But unlike Machu Picchu, Choquequirao is much quieter, giving visitors a more peaceful and less crowded experience. It’s also got incredible terraces, temples, and plazas, but archaeologists are still uncovering a lot of it, so it feels like you’re discovering something special.

The trek to Choquequirao can be pretty tough. It involves steep climbs, long hours of walking, and hiking at high altitudes. So, you’ll need to be in decent shape to handle it, especially if you’re not used to hiking in the mountains. Most people take 3 to 4 days to do the trek, with each day involving 6-8 hours of hiking. If you’re used to hiking and can manage the altitude, you should be fine.

Usually, the Choquequirao trek takes about 3 or 4 days. If you’re up for more adventure and want to combine it with Machu Picchu, it can take anywhere from 7 to 9 days. The longer trek is quite the journey, as you’ll be crossing valleys and mountain passes on your way from Choquequirao to Machu Picchu.

The big highlights of this trek are, of course, visiting both Choquequirao and Machu Picchu—two of the most iconic Inca sites. Along the way, you’ll hike through the stunning Apurimac Canyon, walk through cloud forests, and cross rivers. The scenery is just breathtaking, and the trek offers a perfect mix of wilderness, history, and remote landscapes that most tourists never get to see.

Yes, absolutely! You can combine Choquequirao with a visit to Machu Picchu on a single trek. This adventure usually takes 7 to 9 days, and you’ll cross some amazing landscapes as you make your way through the Vilcabamba region before arriving at Machu Picchu. It’s the ultimate trek if you’re up for a challenge and want to experience two incredible sites.

The best time to visit Choquequirao and Vilcabamba is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is more stable, and you won’t have to deal with too much rain. But even in the dry season, it can get cold at night, and there might still be a little rain here and there. The rainy season (November to April) makes the trail muddy and a lot harder to hike.

To get ready for the high altitude, it’s a good idea to spend a couple of days in Cusco or another high-altitude place before starting your trek. Drink lots of water, avoid alcohol, and keep your meals light. Some people bring altitude sickness medication, but it’s best to just take it easy on the first day or two of the trek and let your body adjust.

Camping on the Choquequirao trek is pretty basic. You’ll be setting up camp at spots along the trail, usually in valleys or near rivers. Most treks provide all the necessary equipment like tents and sleeping bags. Be ready for cold nights, especially when you’re at higher altitudes. Even though the camping is simple, the views are absolutely stunning.

You can hike to Choquequirao without a guide, but it’s not recommended unless you really know the area. The trails can be tricky to follow, and a guide helps with navigation and safety. Plus, if you book a guided trek, they’ll take care of the transportation, meals, and gear, making it a much smoother experience.

For this trek, you’ll want to pack lightweight, quick-drying clothes, a warm jacket for the chilly nights, and a pair of good hiking boots. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a small daypack. You’ll also need a sleeping bag, a headlamp, and plenty of snacks and water. Most guided treks provide meals, but it’s always good to have some extra snacks.

The Choquequirao trek is tougher than the Classic Inca Trail, mainly because it has steeper climbs and longer days of hiking. But in terms of scenery, both are equally stunning, though the Choquequirao trek feels more wild and remote. The Inca Trail is famous for its history and iconic ruins, while Choquequirao is perfect for those who want a quieter, more adventurous experience.

As of now, you don’t need any special permits to hike to Choquequirao or Vilcabamba, unlike the Classic Inca Trail. However, there may be an entrance fee to visit the Choquequirao site. It’s a good idea to check with your tour company ahead of time for the latest rules and fees.

During the Choquequirao trek, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, from deep canyons to cloud forests and high-altitude meadows. You might spot Andean condors soaring overhead, spectacled bears, and plenty of unique bird species. The plant life is equally beautiful, with lush forests and snow-capped peaks forming a spectacular backdrop.

Because the trek is so challenging, it’s not ideal for very young children or families without hiking experience. The long days, steep paths, and altitude can be tough for kids. However, if you have older children who are physically fit and enjoy hiking, they could manage it with some preparation.

Vilcabamba is where the last Inca rulers retreated after the fall of Cusco. Manco Inca and his descendants continued to resist the Spanish from this area for several decades. It’s a historically rich region, filled with ruins and stories of the Inca’s last stand, which makes it a fascinating place to visit for history lovers.

The best way to acclimate to the altitude is to spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude place before your trek. During this time, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol. If you’re feeling the effects of altitude, it’s a good idea to walk slowly, take your time, and listen to your body.

Most of the accommodation on this trek will be in tents at designated campsites. Some tours might offer more rustic lodges or homestays in small villages, but these are very basic. While it’s not luxurious, the experience of camping under the stars in such a beautiful landscape is something you’ll never forget.

Yes, you’ll pass through small villages along the trail where you can meet local people and experience traditional Andean life. Some treks even include a stop at a local community where you can learn about their customs, farming techniques, and maybe even try some traditional food.

The Choquequirao trek is all about visiting the Choquequirao citadel, while the Vilcabamba trek takes you through the region where the Incas retreated after the Spanish invasion. Both treks are challenging, but the Vilcabamba route covers more ground and dives deeper into the history of the Inca resistance.

Most tour companies arrange transportation to the starting point of the Choquequirao trek, which usually starts in the village of Cachora. After you finish the trek, you can either take the train from Aguas Calientes near Machu Picchu or arrange transport from Vilcabamba back to Cusco. If you book with a tour operator, they’ll handle these logistics for you.