READY FOR THIS TOUGH CHALLENGE: ESSENTIAL TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Hello, are you ready to embark on this journey that blends history, nature and personal achievements? If you are ready to venture into the Peruvian Andes and live an experience that will be etched in your heart and memories forever. Let’s start with this blog guide in order to learn how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek!

Remember, the real magic of the Choquequirao trail lies neither in the reward of reaching the lost citadel, but in the trekking journey itself. Every challenge overcome, every step taken and every glance at the horizon will teach you something new about yourself and the unexplored world around you.

SOME OF THE CHOQUEQUIRAO’S FACTS

1. Choquequirao is an unexplored Inca city in southern Peru, whose name means Cradle of Gold.
2. It is believed that it may have been the last bastion and effort of the Inca civilisation to recover the Inca empire’s power.
3. It is currently considered a National Heritage Site of Peru.
4. In 2017 it was declared “Best in Travel” according to the “Lonely Planet” travel guide.
5. There are plans to increase tourism.
6. It is believed to be the “Lost City of the Incas“.
7. It has the potential to become as significant as Machu Picchu.

Choquequirao: Machu Picchu’s sacred sister

THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK OF CHOQUEQUIRAO’S AREA

Before travelling, prepare for Choquequirao and its 18 km extension. Travellers say that it takes a full day to explore it properly and entirely. During exploration, you will hike up and down through different areas. Therefore, it is necessary to be in good physical condition.

WHERE IS THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF CHOQUEQUIRAO?

It’s located at the foothills of Quiriwayrachina mountain, beside the Apurimac Valley in Santa Teresa province. The location of Choquequirao is important because it allows you and get an idea of how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek better.

Choquequirao Regional Conservation Area Map

ALTITUDE OF CHOQUEQUIRAO

You will get up to 3033 m.a.s.l. / 9950 ft ASL along the Choquequirao Trek. The trek is done at lower elevations than Salkantay Trek, Ausangate Trek, and even the Inca Trail.

WEATHER IN CHOQUEQUIRAO

DURING THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

You have to be prepared for the Choquequirao trek and its climate. The climate is a changing and determining factor whilst trekking, as it is varied and depends on the altitude at which you find yourself.

In the lower valleys, the climate is between 25°C and 40°C and at higher altitudes, the temperature ranges from 0°C to 19°C.

Different weather on Choquequirao Trek

CLIMATE IN THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL COMPLEX OF CHOQUEQUIRAO

In contrast to the changing climates during the trek, the archaeological complex climate is temperate during the day and cold at night. On average, it ranges from 0°C/32°F to 19°C/66°F. We recommend preparing for Choquequirao with warm clothes and adequate gear equipment for the night.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR HIKING CHOQUEQUIRAO PERU IN THE RAINY SEASON?

The rainy season officially starts in November and ends in April, but rainfall is more frequent in December, January and February (closed). You can still do the Choquequirao Trek in November, March, or April if you bring proper equipment.

Here are some recommendations to help you plan and prepare for Choquequirao at this time of year:

• Waterproof clothes.
• Rain ponchos (up to you).
• Synthetic and quick-drying clothing.
• Trekking, hiking or trail running shoes.
• Camping equipment for 4 seasons.
• Trekking poles.

What trekking under rain is like.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR HIKING CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK IN THE DRY SEASON?

This season officially begins in May and ends in September. It is the most awaited season to travel to Peru, and thus the most crowded and busy too. But don’t let this discourage you because the Choquequirao Trek is an exceptional destination all around the year.

The weather is sunny with random rain showers. Remember that preparing for Choquequirao is still important, so follow these tips for a rewarding experience:

• Waterproof clothes.
• Waterproof and breathable trekking shoes.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
• Camping gear for all seasons.
• Trekking poles.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Buff (for dust).

RECOMMENDED SEASON TO VISIT CHOQUEQUIRAO

You just have to get ready for Choquequirao and enjoy one of the most impressive treks in South America.

I must tell you that INKAYNI PERU TOURS does not have the best season because we arrange treks all year. Some tourists like to trek under heavy rain conditions to face and conquer tough challenges, as well as people who prefer sunny or cloudy weather.

The best season to hike to Choquequirao

HOW LONG IS THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK ON ITS DIFFERENT VERSIONS?

Knowing the option you are planning to do will help you prepare for Choquequirao Peru adequately and optimally, as each one has its own elevations and distances that will test your endurance and stamina.

• Classic Trek 4 days: The classic Choquequirao Trek begins and ends in Cachora. It has a 64-kilometre length.
• Classic Trek 5 days: This is the most recommended option, as it allows you to have 1 full day to explore the archaeological park of Choquequirao. This option also starts in Cachora and ends in Cconoc (hot springs).
• Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu Trek 9 days: This incredible trek starts in Cachora like the classic one, but from the fourth day onwards you take another route towards Machu Picchu. It has an approximate distance of 115 kilometres.

ALTITUDES DURING THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK:

Knowing the trek altitudes will help you prepare for Choquequirao properly.

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK CLASSIC ALTITUDES – 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS

You should prepare for Choquequirao and its altitudes which range from 2900 m.a.s.l. in Cachora, the lowest point is 1520 m in Playa Rosalina and the highest point at 3050 m.a.s.l. in Choquequirao Archaeological Park.

Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N altitudes

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK ALTIDUDES – 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS

This Choquequirao Trek option has similar altitude variations as the previous trek, as the challenges are relatively the same.

Choquequirao 5D/4N trek altitudes

CHOQUEQUIRAO – MACHU PICCHU TREK 9 DAYS/8 NIGHTS

This is the most challenging and longest trek. The highest elevation you’ll reach is Yanama Pass at 4660 m / 15288 ft ASL. Owing to its challenges, you must prepare properly before starting off trekking. We also recommend hiring a travel agency, as supplies and equipment requirements are higher and almost impossible to carry by yourself.

Choquequirao 9D/8N trek altitudes

CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK CHALLENGES

TERRAIN: LOTS OF UPS AND DOWNS

Andean terrain is tough at least that you are in the Altiplano, you are going to face steep mountains as well as rocky, dry or humid areas. It happens on the Choquequirao trail too. The route is extremely difficult to hike owing to its ups and downs, as well as its winding paths.

Preparing for Choquequirao beforehand will help you overcome the challenges. Packing the necessary and appropriate (light) equipment will make a big difference when trekking.

We recommend good trekking poles to make the trek easier.

Proper gear to hike with no worries.

CLIMATE: HOT, SEMI-DRY AND HUMID

Because during the trek you will be hiking deeper into the Apurimac canyon you will notice that the weather will get hotter and semi-dry and a bit more humid near Choquequirao Peru. Remember to prepare for Choquequirao and its changing weather.

To avoid this, we recommend hiking earlier in the day (before sunrise), so you will have a cooler and more protected stretch.

Nothing like cloudy or cool hikes

DURATION: ONE OF THE LONGEST AND MOST IMPRESSIVE TREKS IN CUSCO

Embark on a trek to Choquequirao Peru to test your endurance. This trek is an option for the bravest adventurers and even more so if you take the Choqeuquirao Trek to Machu Picchu.

When we mention treks in Cusco, perhaps the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu comes to mind which is an unmissable trek when you travel to the Andes.

However, the Choquequirao trek has more adventure, nature and landscapes to see along the way. In addition, the amount of visitors it receives is lower than Machu Picchu or almost zero, so during the whole trek, it will be you and nature alone.

The most incredible trails leading to Choquequirao

CAMPING AREAS

Just as we talked about how to prepare for Choquequirao and its challenges, there are many areas where you can spend the night and relax properly. Many campsites have basic toilets and small tents. Mostly trekkers use these places to spend the night and see the sunrise before starting trekking.

CACHORA

It is a village located at km 0, the starting point of the trek. Here, you will find shops, restaurants and even small hotels ideal for acclimating one day before the Choquequirao trek.

COCAMASANA

Located at km 16, this place offers relaxing camping areas and incredible views of the valley landscape.

CHIQUISKA

Located at km 19, it is a paid camping area. It offers toilets, cold showers and some food.

ROSALINA BEACH

It is a paid camping area located very close to the river at km 21, where you will find a basic products shop, showers, toilets, campfire areas and simple kitchens to prepare your food.

ALFONSO

Located at km 22, this is a more basic camping area than the others, as there are no toilets and kitchens and it can flood in case of rain.

SANTA ROSA BAJA

It has toilets and showers and is very close to a ranch where you can find a small shop with food and simple meals. There is a local family who offers mules and horses to lighten the hike.

SANTA ROSA ALTA

It is a free camp located at km 25, it has basic facilities such as toilets and a small food shop.

MARAMPATA

A small village is located at km 28, it has several camping areas, a small hotel and shops to buy food.

Camping areas

HOW TO PREPARE FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK?

CARDIOVASCULAR EXERCISES

These exercises will help you prepare for the Choquequirao Hike. They focus on improving the function of the heart, lungs and circulatory system, which together with muscular exercises, will put you in great condition for this trek.

You can do activities like:

• Running
• Swimming
• Walking

Commit yourself and push your limits

TRAINING ACTIVITIES BEFORE FACING THE CHOQUEQUIRAO HIKE

MOUNTAINEERING

This is one of the best activities you can do before hiking to Choquequirao Peru. They will help you to be better prepared physically, mentally and to adapt to the Andean terrain while doing outdoor activities.

How to prepare for Choquequirao Trek?

HIKES

It’s also a great activity to prepare for the Choquequirao Peru. No matter if the terrain is flat or uneven, they will adapt your body for walking or hiking hours per day to gain endurance or stamina.

Hiking for few hours per day

GYM

From my point of view, this is maybe the borest option to prepare for Choquequirao Hike. However, it’s available to everyone around the world and also it’s the cheapest option.

Become stronger at the gym

HOW TO PREPARE FOR CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK MENTALLY?

DEVELOPING MENTAL STRENGTH

Knowing how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek physically is okay, but if you train your mind, it will be much better. Perhaps, mental training remains unnoticed by almost all people.

NOTE: Maybe you feel that trekking towards Choquequirao Peru is just for experts, but not. This trek is suitable for everyone who has been preparing properly weeks before trekking. Also, even if they don’t prepare, they have great chances of achieving it.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR HIKING CHOQUEQUIRAO: DO YOU KNOW HOW TO PACK?

You will soon know how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek completely! This part focuses on gear or trekking equipment you should pack for this trek and others generally.

• Complete: This is very critical if you want to make the trip by yourself. Remember to take all the necessary clothing, implements, food and first aid.
• Lightweight: Carrying non-suitable gear for trekking is disadvantageous. The trip is challenging and adding extra weight is not desirable.
• Adequate: Whether you’re travelling on the rainy or dry season, you have to pack properly. Waterproof, windproof, gore-tex, vibrant among others are recommended.

PACKING LIST FOR THE CHOQUEQUIRAO HIKE

CLOTHING:

• Sandals.
• Trekking, hiking or trail running shoes.
• Waterproof jacket.
• Rain poncho (non-plastic).
• Trekking shirts.
• Trekking trousers.
• Light clothes for sleeping.
• Fleece jacket
• Trekking socks.
• Buff.
• Underwear.
• Hat
• Sunglasses.

FOR WOMEN

• Sports bra (2-3 pairs).

Basic Trek clothing

HIKING EQUIPMENT:

• Backpack of 50 l or 70 l for each person.
• Pack Rain Cover
• Trekking poles
• Water bottles
• Water purification tablets or water filters
• Mosquito repellent
• Sunscreen
• Camelback.
• Zinc oxide.

CAMPING AND COOKING EQUIPMENT:

• Camping tent
• Sleeping bag.
• Inflatable pillow.
• Headlamp.
• Portable cooker.
• Camping gas.
• Matches / lighter.
• Cooking pot.
• Camping plates.
• Fork and spoon.
• Mug.
• Knife.
• Rubbish bag

Hiking equipment

ELECTRONIC DEVICES:

• Phone
• Camera / GoPro / Drone
• SD card
• GPS (optional)
• Power bank.
• Extra batteries.

Electronic devices to enhance the trek experience

TOILETRIES:

• Quick dry towel
• Soap
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Hand sanitiser
• Babe wipes.

Personal Care Items

FIRST AID KIT:

• Paracetamol
• Anti-inflammatories
• Band-aids
• Antiseptic cream
• Gauze
• Medications for nausea and vomiting
• Imodium (stomach problems).
• Painkillers.

Basic elements of a first aid kit

DOCUMENTS:

• Passport
• Entrance ticket to Choquequirao

ACCLIMATIZING AS PART OF CHOQUQUIRAO TRAINING OR PREPARATION

Yes, although many people think it is not, you have to consider that the Choquequirao trek is between 1800 m and 3033 m or 5905 ft / 9950 ft ASL.

This is not a race… Acclimatise and trek at your own pace because only you know how much time you need to be optimal before starting the Choquequirao trekking adventure.

A minimum of 2 days is recommended for good and complete acclimatisation. As part of preparing for Choquequirao, you should stay in Cusco because it’s located at a much higher altitude than Choquequirao Peru and during these days you could:

• Enjoy Cusco: Walking or being part of the city tour.
• Full-day tours: There are several activities to do below the altitude of Cusco. Sacred Valley and Southern Valley are some of these options.

NUTRITION BEFORE THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

BEFORE STARTING THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

Eating correctly also means adequately preparing for Choquequirao. Avoid fried and spicy food, which could endanger your health and therefore your tour. Remember that you are in the process of acclimatization and your body needs to adapt to its rhythm.

DURING THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

While trekking, it is highly recommended to eat high-energy, fibre-filled and nutritious food. If you hire an agency, you won’t have any problem with this topic as they are going to supply enough food along the trek.

Recommended food during the Choquequirao Trek

HYDRATION AS PART OF TRAINING BEFORE THE CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK

BEFORE THE TREK

This topic is important because almost 50% to 70% of our body is water. So, drinking plenty of water is one of the best training strategies. Furthermore, avoid alcohol and food which dehydrate you.

Hydration is one training strategy

DURING THE CHOQUEQUIRA TREK

If you travel on your own, we recommend carrying a refillable water bottle with a filter, because although you can find water in the different shops along the way, this does not guarantee that it will be enough.

On the trail, you will find water from natural sources, but we suggest the use of tablets or filters that purify the water and make it suitable for consumption.

Natural springs will help you stay hydrated.

HOW TO BOOK THE TREK TO CHOQUEQUIRAO?

You can contact INKAYNI PERU TOURS if you have any doubts! Our team will be very happy to give and teach you the necessary information about how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek. In addition, we will provide offers and special promotions for you and your friends.

If you want to know more about prices, click here.

WHY BOOK?

Booking this tour will allow you to control any inconveniences such as weather, social/political problems or personal health issues. This way you can prepare for Choquequirao safely. For this, we recommend you hire INKAYNI PERU TOURS.

WHEN TO BOOK?

The season in which you book should be 3 months prior (January, February and March) to the beginning of the dry season. It will also allow us to know the process and offer you the best advice for your adventure.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK?

The best time to book your Choquequirao tour is between May and August, as the weather is the most favourable, with hot days, clear skies and cool nights. Booking your Choquequirao tour during these days guarantees the best experience.

WHICH OPERATOR TO CHOOSE?

INKAYNI PERU TOURS is your best option, as we are the only ones to offer the Choquequirao 5 days/4 nights trek, the most recommended because it allows you to have 1 full day to explore the Choquequirao Archaeological Complex and finish the tour in the relaxing thermal baths of Conoc.

WHY US?

Get to know us! INKAYNI PERU TOURS knows that tourism is dynamic, therefore, we are in constant renovation and training to offer you the best in all our trips.

We support the communities. For us tourism benefits must be shared by all, so we employ Peruvian guides (all bilingual) and local porters.

EXPERT GUIDES

All our guides are certified professionals with an undisputed passion for travel, the same energy is transmitted to all our travellers and adventurers. Discover and learn everything as you move forward.

OUR CHEFS

At INKAYNI PERU TOURS, we work with professional chefs who love to cook. A mix of passion and talent is captured in the finest Andean dishes for your delight.

THE BEST TREKKING FOOD

Enjoy! We know that adventure is also experienced by tasting Peruvian food. Our food professionals have the knowledge and experience to adapt to your needs and offer dishes balanced with nutrients and flavour.

THE BEST CAMPING EQUIPMENT

Relax! In our all-weather and all-terrain tents, with comfortable and private spaces, we have everything for every trip.

Choquequirao camping at its best

RESPONSIBLE

Make a difference! INKAYNI PERU TOURS has protocols and policies to protect and care for the fauna and flora.

SAFETY

No worries! Adventure is only surpassed by safety, so be prepared for Choquequirao. You will have the experience of all our professionals at your service, the constant training prepares them for any unforeseen event. You just live and enjoy this trip.

SMALL GROUP TOURS AND GREAT ADVENTURES

Exclusivity! In INKAYNI PERU TOURS the most significant thing is you. That’s why we work with small groups of between 02 and 15 people, to guarantee your unique experience with personalized attention at all times.

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:

• CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU.
• LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU.
• INKA JUNGLE TO MACHU PICCHU.
• THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK.
• 50 FACTS ABOUT CHOQUEQUIRAO.
• HOW TO GET TO CHOQUEQUIRAO.

The Choquequirao Trek awaits you, intrepid travellers! This lost city awaits your arrival right now. Every day is a missed opportunity to experience this unforgettable adventure with INKAYNI PERU TOURS. Don’t let it happen! You now know how to prepare for Choquequirao Trek!