Lots of folks call it Machu Picchu’s “sister site” ’cause architecturally they’re super similar they look kinda alike in how they’re built. This place is a mix of Inca history and amazing nature way up high at about 3,050 meters (10,010 feet). They’ve been digging more lately finding new stuff and that’s got travelers buzzing like maybe this is the next big thing. The Peruvian government is also thinking about fixing it up even more hoping it becomes a major spot for people wanting to get the real Inca vibe you know learn about their culture. Getting there is a proper mission though it’s a tough trek which maybe keeps the massive crowds away for now.
What Cool Stuff Can You See at Choquequirao?
So the whole place is kinda broken into nine main sections or zones. You’ll probably spend a lot of time in the big main plaza they call Huaqaypata – it’s got great views of a lot of the other ruins you can see most buildings from there.
From the main square you can wander over to check out other spots. You gotta follow the paths to find things like the old storage buildings the Qolqa then head down to the lower plaza Hurin. Don’t miss the crazy farming terraces built right into the steep slopes the Chaqra Anden they’re super impressive. There’s also a special ceremonial platform called Ushno and further down the hill you can see ruins of houses where the priests probably lived. It’s a lot to explore takes some walking.
How’d They Build Choquequirao and What’s Special?
Walking around the main plaza and other areas you’ll see buildings some are two stories tall which is cool. Inside they have those typical Inca niches little shelf spaces cut into the walls. Check out some of the doorways and niches they have this fancy double frame design.
Where’d they get the stone? Looks like they used local quarries right there up the mountain so they didn’t have to haul it too far smart huh. One really neat thing they found are these stone carvings of llamas people call them the “Llamas del Sol” (Llamas of the Sun). There’s like 22 of them set into 15 different terraces and they all seem to face towards a snowy mountain peak called Quory Hauyrachina which is way way up there maybe around 5,400 meters (about 17,700 feet).
And those farming terraces or platforms are everywhere. Choquequirao had a massive system of them really clever way to use the steep hillsides for growing crops. Nowadays when you look at them they just look like green steps carpeted with all the plants growing there.
They also found bits of old paintings and some tombs which makes people think Choquequirao wasn’t just houses and farms. It was probably a big important ceremonial center too maybe even for sacrifices but honestly who knows for sure. So the educated guess is that Choquequirao was a pretty major political and economic hub for the Incas maybe one of their last big settlements before things changed.
What About Nature and Animals Around Choquequirao?
Dude the nature around Choquequirao is insane it’s called megadiverse for a reason like super rich in different plants and animals. Everything living here both flora and fauna had to get tough and adapt to the difficult mountain terrain and the weather that swings big time between hot days and cold nights.
Keep an eye out while you’re hiking you might spot some cool animals. Condors soaring overhead are the big prize super lucky if you see one! But there are also eagles those fluffy rabbit-like things called vizcachas deer foxes maybe even skunks pumas or the rare spectacled bear (the Paddington kind!). Plus lots of hummingbirds buzzing around.
Plant-wise look for giant ferns the tough high-altitude grass called ichu and tons of different kinds of orchids especially if you go during the wetter season. Yeah okay there are also snakes lizards and various insects around too it all just adds to the adventure right? Makes the trip to Choquequirao a real experience.
Heads Up: What You Should Pack for the Choquequirao Trek
Okay listen up if you’re actually planning this trek which is awesome but hard work here’s the gear most travelers say you really need:
- Good Camera: Obvious right? The views up there and the ruins themselves are epic you’ll want loads of pictures. Maybe bring extra batteries or a power bank too cause finding electricity is not really a thing on the trail.
- Warm Layers: Seriously don’t underestimate this. Nights get cold at altitude even if the days feel warm. Pack fleece jackets hats gloves maybe thermal underwear. You’ll be glad you did.
- Solid Trekking Shoes: Not just any sneakers get proper hiking boots. And make sure you break them in before the trip your feet will seriously thank you later the trail is steep and rocky.
- Trekking Poles: Lots of people swear by these. They’re lifesavers especially on the super steep downhill parts saves your knees big time. Even helpful going up.
- Water Purifier: Totally crucial. You’ll likely refill your water bottles from streams or designated spots along the way. You NEED purification pills or a filter bottle. Don’t risk getting sick from the water it’ll ruin your whole trip.
- Camping Gear (if needed): If your tour involves camping or you’re hardcore and going independently you need the whole setup: tent sleeping bag sleeping pad. Make sure it’s decent quality stuff that can handle potentially cold or wet weather.
- Trail Snacks: You burn a crazy amount of calories on this hike. Pack high-energy stuff like nuts dried fruit energy bars chocolate. Maybe grab some coca candies like the locals use they say it helps with the altitude and energy. You need fuel for the road.
