Cusco 4-Day Choquequirao Tour: An Honest Review

Thinking about swapping the crowds of Machu Picchu for something a bit more secluded? You could consider the Cusco 4-Day Choquequirao tour, which takes you to what some people call Machu Picchu’s “sister city.” Choquequirao is thought to be another fascinating Inca site and is seen to sit way up in the mountains. You should know, though, getting there takes some effort! I am going to tell you what it’s like, point out any issues, and hopefully help you figure out if it suits you.

What Makes Choquequirao Unique?

Okay, so, that thing that makes Choquequirao so different is how remote it feels. The site sits high above the Apurimac River canyon, so that basically means that it’s way off the beaten track. To get there, too, you have to commit to days of pretty strenuous hiking. Many people consider this difficulty is actually part of what makes it cool, that, very few tourists make their way out here. This helps it to feel like you’re properly discovering something. That remoteness, too, really lets you get a sense of what the Inca civilization may have been all about, well, far from crowds and noise.

Choquequirao is thought to have had multiple uses. Some folks seem to think it had a bit of religious meaning while acting as a control point linking Machu Picchu and other areas. Unlike Machu Picchu, which actually gets a lot of maintenance, that’s because Choquequirao is still being excavated, in some respects it has this air of mystery. That, as well as how massive the terraces are, along with how well the stonework is crafted. That should give you something to think about too.

What’s the 4-Day Trek Like?

Right then, a good thing to be sure of is that this trek isn’t for the faint of heart. Expect long days on steep trails, just a bit. This whole deal can be summed up pretty easily: down into the canyon, then up the other side! You might think about all of this when you get here. Your lungs will certainly feel it, and your knees will get some use for sure.

Day 1 is normally all about beginning in Cusco, next to that, you head to Capuliyoc where, too, the trek properly starts. From that place, you go down into the Apurimac Canyon, towards Playa Rosalina. Just walking down isn’t particularly easy, but that also gives you a hint of just what the trip back up is going to entail.

Day 2 is generally seen as the most intense. After Playa Rosalina, too, there is a super steep ascent up to Marampata, somewhere not too far from Choquequirao. This part actually gains you well over a kilometer in elevation, that means that you should be ready for a pretty grueling morning. As a matter of fact you will probably see some superb views of the canyon. That, basically, may help distract you a bit from your burning thighs!

You will likely spend day 3 exploring the Choquequirao location properly. You might expect guided tours that tell you a little about the site’s history. What they don’t tell you can sometimes be the more enjoyable parts to discuss with the tour guides, it can certainly change how the conversation develops. After you take the morning for the site, well you can only go back to Marampata for your stay at night. It’s pretty amazing actually.

That final day means beginning early again, getting to grips with what turns out to be a descent back down to the canyon and back up the other side to Capuliyoc. You will find it slightly tough on your joints if you did not get used to it at the start. If this is so, well, there is an easier walk.

What Should You Expect from a Tour Operator?

You should consider checking thoroughly the Tour Operators’ Credentials before booking anything, it is not really advisable just showing up and choosing anyone. I would recommend comparing and contrasting what their offer involves, what equipment they will make available, as well as what safety nets are in situ should you struggle physically or just require some assistance. Here are some expectations that would likely be well received from the consumer end:

Knowledgeable Guides: The best guides will certainly offer local insight to the tour. They generally share information on Incan history, and they may be pretty helpful. Some insight might prove fairly revealing if your looking to unearth secrets of Incan times!
Quality Equipment: A tour usually gets better with appropriate gear, the same can be said of camping equipment. Verify tent size and ensure you have hiking poles to greatly reduce the impact when ascending and descending the slopes. Basically get all of that!
Delicious Food: With trekking it can be pretty tiresome, yet keeping that calorie count high keeps the energy going. Confirm a good mixture is included to keep morale fairly lifted! You could want to eat more of one dish more than the others!
Solid Logistics: All aspects of the tours usually runs without issues. A well-oiled tour can generally avoid disruption. The trek should flow easily! This might just be that.

Is Choquequirao Worth It Compared to Machu Picchu?

People may think “Is Choquequirao better than Machu Picchu?”, that might just depend on what is sought, right? Well Choquequirao just may give more of an intimate experience to somebody or other. On the other hand, that experience demands significantly more effort and grit, kind of. Is that even surprising?

Pick Machu Picchu for these considerations:

It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is very important for history in the world.
Its easily accessible: You will probably appreciate travelling there easier.
Its amenities are very good and suitable for travel: If this makes for a pleasant visit then its something to think about.

Yet pick Choquequirao because:

Crowd Avoidance: Trek through it without others being in your way.
Adventure/Exploration: Challenge yourself with strenuous expeditions and feel fulfilled upon arrival and completion of these routes.
The pure historical nature: If excavation of such locations interests you more than typical tourist sightseeing, consider that it is usually less curated to visitors compared to its Machu Picchu counterpart.

What to Pack for the Choquequirao Trek?

Be mindful when your personal bag is ready for travel. All of this can contribute to your personal wellbeing as much as physical. Its generally more preferred to be better prepared as it will boost your energy levels! So consider the essentials below:

Hiking Boots: Pick those that already are broken in! It probably won’t be an enjoyable experience otherwise. You might not expect too.
Clothing: Basically layers are best. The weather can generally change. It shouldn’t hinder progress as the right apparel can avoid you catching a chill!
Sun protection: Think suncream/sunblock, hat, sunnies! If it’s to avoid feeling rough the next day that will do! Just think you should keep safe and protected.
Insect repellent: You might be at risk! Be cautious when they fly around your face. Just consider how repellent can save that.
Snacks: When trekking a bit can usually make an actual difference in keeping energy levels consistent. A boost from small sugary or salty treat can uplift spirits. You’ll find its fairly awesome actually!
Water: Just consider remaining hydrated can determine an enjoyable trip or complete discomfort! Be wary of local drinking sources – ask if you are unsure and think you will need to purify. Bottled options and sufficient amounts are a must! It is really as simple as that!

Altitude Sickness: Handle with Care

Well it could get pretty difficult if you just start your Cusco journey from an Airport. The elevation is almost certainly high from the start for tourists so it can take some adaptation! I’m sure with a slow climb you’d be good to trek Choquequirao, but, in that case, if it really hits you like a bus then reconsider ascending till properly rested.

Preventative and recovery methods usually involve, yet are not exclusive to:

Taking it Easy: You may want to rest prior. Usually not getting up and out would be a priority. Then your body has an easy adjustment.
Hydration: You should consume plenty of water! Water aids easy breathing. It makes the body tick!
Coca Tea: People often drink Coca tea. People feel a change of breathing and with less laboured efforts. You could actually give this a chance!
Medication: You’ll find talking with a doctor might be extremely vital when on specific requirements! Being extremely cautious is paramount! A slight reaction might take hold and you feel uneasy. That’s always a possibility!

Essential Tips for a Great Experience

Here are some extra helpful tips when looking for an easier, satisfying experience.

Book in Advance: Operators may need some confirmation and with possible high volumes be sure! Be organised in a suitable way and don’t panic at a surge or hold back as things maybe already prepared and booked without delay. This is just a slight thought!
Acclimatise,Acclimatise,Acclimatise!: An essential for enjoying this physical adventure. Otherwise with extreme reactions seek immediate attention and remain at ground level altitude levels. Be sure you feel ready! You always can come another day if needed!
Pace Yourself: Easy steps is better and is easier and doesn’t drain a heap load from the start and can make all the difference in that altitude . Usually not being puffed and fatigued is desired so keeping consistent yet reasonable can take you far and its more suitable overall to keeping yourself relaxed!. Pace and all its perks can make or break you!
Learn key phrases: Its pretty polite and helpful. Locals usually will notice you trying and may ease tension for possible confusion. You know in an extremely polite fashion!. A friendly and positive response in another tongue goes a super long way!.

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