Choquequirao Wonderful

The name “Choquequirao” comes from the Quechua language. Where “Choque” means “gold” and “quirao” means “cradle”, so the name is translated into Spanish as “cradle of gold”.

It is believed that the name refers to the importance that Choquequirao had in the production of gold for the Inca Empire, since it was located in an area rich in minerals and natural resources. In addition, the name can also refer to the spiritual and religious importance that the city had, since gold was considered a sacred metal for the Incas and was used in many of their rituals and ceremonies.

The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging between 18°C and 22°C. The nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping around 5°C, especially in June and July.

The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. The rains can be intense and can cause disruptions in transport and tourist activities.

Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of climate, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.

Choquequirao has several Inca constructions, among the most important we have:

• Main Square: There are several squares in Choquequirao, including the Main Square and the Sunken Square, which are open spaces surrounded by buildings and structures.
• Colcas: These platforms with internal subdivisions were common in the main Inca centers, and in Choquequirao they were used to store food products, clothing and other goods.
• Agricultural terraces: Choquequirao has numerous agricultural terraces that were used to grow food. These terraces are an impressive display of Inca skill and engineering.
• Houses: In the highest part of Choquequirao you can find up to five buildings that probably served as housing for the priests of the place.
• The Ushnu: This oval platform-shaped construction is located on top of a hill. Due to the wall that surrounds it and its privileged view of the snow-capped mountains, the river and the entire enclosure, it is believed that it had an important religious function.

In addition, you can see the stunning landscapes. Choquequirao is located in an impressive natural environment, surrounded by mountains and vegetation. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surroundings while exploring the archaeological site.

The climate in Cusco varies according to the times of the year.

• The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. The nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping up to 5° C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as the weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and doing outdoor activities such as hiking and excursions.
• Rainy Season (November to March): During this time, Cusco experiences frequent rains and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. The nights can be colder, with temperatures dropping up to 3° C. The rain can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make it difficult to carry out outdoor activities.

It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear clothes suitable for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.

Choquequirao is an Inca archaeological site located in the Cusco region, near the Vilcabamba mountain range. It is often called the “younger sister” of Machu Picchu due to their similarities in architecture and design, and is a popular destination for those interested in Inca history and culture.

Choquequirao is an Inca citadel that is believed to have been built in the fifteenth century. It is located on a ridge high up in the Apurimac River valley, at an altitude of about 3,050 meters above sea level. The archaeological site covers a large area, with numerous buildings, agricultural terraces and aqueduct systems, and it is believed that at its peak, it may have been home to up to 10,000 people.

If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items that you should take with you to make sure that you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider carrying are:

1. Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the weather in Cusco, it is important that you bring appropriate clothing for different weather conditions. It includes warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking and comfortable and sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
2. Sunscreen: The altitude of Cusco means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to carry sunscreen to protect your skin.
3. Water bottle: Altitude can also cause dehydration, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
4. Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure to bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to carry some basic medicines for headaches, upset stomach and colds.
5. Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles to make purchases at local markets, pay for taxis and tips.
6. Plug Adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
7. Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.

The route to Choquequirao is considered a challenging trekking route. Due to its length and steep terrain. The walk usually lasts between 4 days, and a good physical condition is required to complete it. The trekking includes long uphill and downhill hikes, so it is recommended that walkers have previous trekking experience and be in good physical shape before attempting this route.

In addition, the trek to Choquequirao requires camping in remote places and carrying all the necessary equipment and supplies, so it is important to be prepared to carry a heavy backpack and be willing to camp in basic conditions. Although the hike is challenging, the natural beauty of the landscape and the cultural richness of the archaeological site of Choquequirao make the experience worthwhile.

• Rosalina Beach Camp: The camp is located in the canyon of the Apurimac River. This camp is the first rest point on the trekking route to Choquequirao, and is about a 3-4 hour hike from Cachora. Rosalina Beach Campground is a popular place for overnight camping. It offers basic facilities such as toilets and showers, as well as tents for rent.
• Maranpata Campground: Maranpata is another popular camping spot located on the trekking route to Choquequirao. This camp is located about a 7-8 hour walk from the village of Cachora, after passing through Rosalina Beach and the Apurimac River crossing. What makes the Maranpata campground an attractive place to camp is its location on the side of a mountain with stunning views of the canyon and the Apurimac River. It is an ideal place to rest after a long day of hiking and to prepare for the last leg of the hike to Choquequirao.
• Chiquisca Campground: Chiquisca is a basic campground that offers toilet facilities and showers, as well as space for camping. What makes the Chiquisca campground an attractive place to camp are its amazing views of the canyon and the Apurimac River.