A trip to Peru is undoubtedly a visit to one of its major attractions. Who hasn't dreamed of visiting the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu? We've dreamed so many times that it would be impossible to count them. And Peru is always a good idea when thinking of our next big trip.
What we didn't know is that Peru has another Machu Picchu, a gem that crowns one of the peaks of the Andes and whose access is not as easy (nor as touristy) as the great Peruvian attraction. We are talking about Choquequirao, which demands its place with its own story to tell.
It is located in a unique space: at the intersection of two worlds as distinct as the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon, surrounded by lush vegetation that offers truly stunning panoramas. A luxurious location that makes it one of the wonders of Peru (and the world), but which complicates access significantly.
In fact, a staggering 3 days of hiking are needed to reach Choquequirao, which is not accessible by any means of transportation other than our own legs. Indeed, the ascent takes you to the highest point of the Salcantay branch.
A place of worship
Choquequirao is not without intrigue, like any other peculiar place in our world worth mentioning. The greatest curiosity about this place is that it has been hidden from mankind for over four centuries until discovered by a few archaeologists and researchers.
The construction dates back to around 1536 and was built under the rule of the Inca Empire. This little-known but absolutely essential destination has become a favored spot for adventure lovers in recent years. Getting there is a true challenge for which we must be thoroughly prepared.
What is known about Choquequirao? There is no complete certainty about its true function, but researchers have concluded a theory that might fit: this place was a sacred center that connected Pisac and Machu Picchu with the Peruvian Amazon. Other theories suggest that this area served as a refuge for the Incas after the invasion by the Spanish Empire.
The historical legacy of Choquequirao is undeniable for what is known, but also for what is unknown about this remote place on the globe. Research conducted in the area has determined that only 30% of this Inca city has been restored, leaving the other 70% a complete mystery that could reveal new details about its origin or its purpose.
What is certainly known is that this area is divided into nine sectors, which include a political-religious center, an upper main plaza, buildings, fountains, giant stairs, sacred corrals, two temples, and various monuments.
The 'sister' of Machu Picchu
It is not far from the well-known Machu Picchu, as both are located in the Cusco region, in the district of Santa Teresa, whose province is Convención, in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Locals say that accessing this gem requires physical and mental preparation.
Physically due to the arduous hikes that take 2 to 3 days. Mentally because, according to those who have dared to visit it, the altitude complicates the climb, requiring caution with the dizziness that occurs while climbing high mountains.
How to get there?
To reach Choquequirao, you must first take a flight to Lima, the capital of Peru. From there, you will need to take another flight to Cusco.
Once in Cusco, you can drive for approximately 3 hours to Cachora, in Apurímac, where you will embark on a 2-3 day hike.