Choquequirao
Address:
, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru
NileGuide Expert tip:
Try to visit this impressive archaeological site before the government makes it accessible to all!
Description:
Though ´discovered´ before Machu Picchu, the immense archaeological site of Choquequirao remains a lesser known and seldom frequented Incan archaeological site. Located above the roaring Apurímac River, Choquequirao is believed to have been an important Incan administrative hub and check point between Cusco and the Amazon jungle as well as one of the ´lost´ cities where the last remaining Incas took refuge after Spanish conquest. The site itself features large terraces, an impressive aqueduct system, a leveled hilltop and artistic representations of llamas sculpted from white rocks. Located at an altitude of 3100m, the site is fairly isolated and is only accessible by a grueling two day hike. The trail starts in the lazy town of Cachora and can be done with one of the many tour agencies based out of Cuscoor alone (though preferably with a donkey and donkey-driver to guarantee safety). Deemed by some to be the next Machu Picchu, it is highly recommended to visit the site before the Peruvian government builds a cable car or railway to better access the ruins.
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