Choquequirao Archaeological Park, Peru

Choquequirao Archaeological Park

Peru · Cusco · 3050 m

Description

Choquequirao (Parque Arqueológico de Choquequirao), often referred to as the “sister city of Machu Picchu”, is one of Peru's most impressive Inca archaeological sites. Perched on a remote ridge high above the Apurímac Canyon, the vast complex features extensive terraces, temples, ceremonial plazas, and its famous llama stone mosaics. Once an important religious, administrative, and strategic center of the Inca Empire, much of the site remains unexcavated to this day. Accessible only via a demanding multi-day trek, Choquequirao combines outstanding archaeological significance with spectacular Andean scenery and remarkable solitude. It is widely regarded as one of the last great hidden treasures of the Inca civilization and one of Peru's most rewarding destinations for adventurous and culturally minded travelers.

Length of stay

Recommended length of stay: 3 to 5 days (optimal 4 days)

Travel season

Best time to visit: April – October

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Highlights

  1. Choquequirao Archaeological Complex
  2. Choquequirao Trek(Multi-day trip)
  3. Main Plaza & Ceremonial Sector
  4. Llama Terraces (Llamas de Pumaqhasa)
  5. Ushnu Ceremonial Platform
  6. Temple Sector
  7. Upper Plaza
  8. House of the Priests
  9. Storehouses (Qolqas)
  10. Apurímac Canyon Viewpoints(Multi-day trip)
  11. Capuliyoc Viewpoint
  12. Marampata Viewpoint(Multi-day trip)
  13. Andean condor watching
  14. Cloud forest wildlife
  15. Apurímac River Crossing(Multi-day trip)
  16. Camping along the Choquequirao Trek(Multi-day trip)
  17. Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek(Multi-day trip)

Map view

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