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Showing posts with label cusco destination. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cusco destination. Show all posts
The Walk towards the enigmatic Cachiccata Quarries will take you to know one of the little known places where the stones were extracted for the construction of the cultivation terraces, temples and the entire archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo.
The adventure will take you to one of the most spectacular routes, full of beautiful and spectacular views of the sacred valley and the mystical city of Ollantaytambo, this is one of the beauties that hides the tour to the Sacred Valley in all its splendor. This place was dedicated to the carving and extraction of the stones that were used for the construction of Ollantaytambo and many surrounding precincts.
Location:
It is located 9 km from the Ollantaytambo district, "The Living Inca City" in the province of Urubamba, Cusco region.
How to get?
On your own: The first thing is to go from the city of Cusco in a car or bus to Ollantaytambo (approximately 2 hours), once in the square of Ollantaytambo we will begin the walk: from the Plaza de Armas de Ollantaytambo take the Main Street towards Cusco, until arriving to the track, there instead of turning left where the stone street ends, continue straight on the path until you reach the Inca bridge. Cross it and walk to the right. After a 15-20 minute walk uphill, take a slope to the left at the fork, marked by a rock painted with "Las Canteras". In 20 minutes, agricultural platforms and foundations of old buildings will come into view. Follow the right trail and ignore other paths that cross. The trail will merge with a larger path. Continue through the mountain slope on this main road to the Lowe quarry, which is indicated by small stone foundations above boulders. (Minutes before reaching the quarry, the path passes through an irrigation canal, the last chance to cool off).
The first quarry is 2 hours after leaving the Plaza de Armas. Just after passing this quarry, continue on a smaller path to the left. Follow a series of zigzags to the hillside, for 45 minutes or an hour. Shortly after, the second much larger quarry will be visible on the left. The small fields on the right are a great place to camp. As a reference, a rock in the middle of the quarry painted with "National Institute of Culture".
Hiring a tour with a tour operator:
Definitely the safest and recommended option would be this, because they deal with the transfer to this archeological area better and resolve any inconvenience that may exist, are responsible for transportation, guidance, refreshment, etc.
What attractions do you have?
It has three groups of quarries:
Molle Pucro, the most accessible and popular quarry.
Sirkusirkuyoc (it was the largest of the three), shows evidence of having been in full operation when the Spaniards entered this area.
Kantirayoq or Cacchicata, where another type of extraction of minerals and precious stones was practiced.
We will also visit the slopes of Cachiccata, the pyramid of Paqariqtampu and the imposing surrounding snow-capped mountains.
We can find the so-called "Tired Stones" that stayed during the trip to Ollantaytambo and in some parts of the town.
In the same way we can observe the great work they did at the time of moving the gigantic stones to build the Ollantaytambo enclosures.
This place is also known by the Intipunku (cover of the Sun), considered as a Sacred place of Spiritual retreat since ancient times, where you can feel the energy of the Apus (mountain spirits) and recharge positive energies on the heights of the Sacred Valley.
Recommendations:
Be sure to eat and be well fed; You can bring snacks such as energy bars, nuts, chocolatillos.
Drink water: Stay hydrated during the walk is very important.
Take Coca Mate or chew Coca Leaves will help reduce and prevent altitude sickness.
Sunscreen: Be sure to apply a minimum sunscreen every 02 hours and wear sunglasses accompanied by a hat or hat.
Rain protection: There is always a chance of rain so be sure to wear rain clothes.
Wear warm and waterproof jackets and light clothes for the sun.
The Ausangate trek Circuit is definitely an adventure route recommended for those who like hiking, feel nature, the spirit of the mountains, and the energy of Mother Earth. The Ausangate circuit offers some of the most beautiful landscapes of Cusco, with varied wildlife, glaciers and Andean lagoons. Ausangate Trek is also one of the most difficult hikes in the region. The most important thing about this trip is that you’ll get to see the real PERU, the Andes and its people in their traditional dress, their customs that persist till today.
Useful Information
**- Starting Altitude **- 3350 meters / 10990 feet .
**- Highest Altitude **- 5200m / 17,056ft.
**- Meals **- 6 breakfast, 6 lunch, 6 dinner, 6 tea times, 6 wake up tea
**- Overall Difficulty **- Moderate - Changing
**- STARTING POINT: **- Cusco at your hotel IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Ausangate is the fifth highest mountain in Peru; its maximum altitude is 6,372 meters.
The hike up the mountain of Ausangate is considered adventure tourism. The road presents rock formations at a height of over 5000 meters covered by ice tongues.
The waters of the snowmelt flowing westward give origin to the Vilcanota River, which subsequently flows into the Amazon River and ends up in the Atlantic Ocean.
Its eastern slopes feed several small rivers that culminate in the Inambari River and to the south it drains its waters into Titicaca Lake with the river Azángaro.
The temperature in the day is between 11 and 13 degrees Celsius and at night it drops to 4-10 degrees Celsius in June and July.
Brief Itinerary - DIA 1 : CUSCO - TINQUI – UPIS- DAY 2: UPIS - JATUN PUCACOCHA- DAY 3: JATUN PUCACOCHA - PAMPA CANCHA- DAY 4: PAMPACANCHA - LAGUNA TICLLACOCHA- DAY 5: LAGOON TICLLACOCHA - PACCHANTA- DAY 6: PACCHANTA - CUSCO
“2 brothers (Salkantay and Ausangate), which lived in Cusco decided during the great draught in Cusco to travel to other lands and find the remedy for their people. Salkantay went north to the jungles where he met the forbidden love of beautiful Veronica and lots of problems. The other brother – Ausangante went south. He found a fertile valley and could send potatoes, maize, lama meat and alpaca to Cusco and therefore saved the inhabitants of the city”. AUSANGATE TREK
This is the legend told by Quechua Indians about the Brothers-Mountains.
Ausangate is the highest peak of the second largest Peruvian glaciated system Cordiliera Vilcanota (120km long). Cordiliera Vilcanota is located approximately 100km south-east of Cusco. The magnificent Vilcanota River begins in these high glaciers and goes on to feed the Amazon River and Atlantic Ocean. Ausangante with its 6384 m / 20940 ft elevation above sea level is the fifth highest peak in Peru (and one of the highest peaks of South America) after Huascaran, Yerupaja, Coropuna and Huandoy.
In the mid 20th century several expeditions tried to climb Ausangate. The first mountaineer was Italian Piero Ghiglione who tried to conquer Ausangate in 1950. After the first unsuccessful try he returned in 1952 with multinational expedition. But this time the expedition also failed to reach the main peak of Ausangate. Finally, in 1953 the Autsrian-German expedition became the first to reach the top of Ausangate. The first Peruvian expedition to climb Ausangate was 30 years later!
Qoyllur Rit’I Festival
Ausangate – one of the main Apu (mountain spirits) is the deity of Cuzco. During the Incan Empire the Indians worshipped and celebrated this god. After the Spanish colonisation this festival became an amalgamation of the Indian worship of mountain spirits, and the celebration of the apparition of Christ on the mountainside. Qoyllur Rit’i is celebrated at the end of May – beginning of June and continues for several days. Qoyllur Rit’i in Quechua means “Snow Star”. This festival is held at Sinakara, at the foot of Mount Ausangate. The festival attracts more than 10 thousand pilgrims every year from surrounding villages and from all other parts of the country, even from the neighbouring countries. The arrangements start with raucous celebrations near the chapel. People in national costumes dance traditional dances. However, these are not the main events of Qoyllur Rit’i.
Groups of Queros indigenous people climb Ausangate Mountain, at 6362m, in search of the Snow Star which is reputedly buried within the mountain. The foreigners are not allowed to participate in this climb, according to the Indians, this may offend Apu Ausangate. For several days the pilgrims walk to the top of the mountain: through the dangerous paths and freezing passages, gasping for breath in the thin air, and overcoming numerous difficulties. The accidents are quite frequent – not everybody returns back (in this case, the Indians say that Apu Ausangate received its sacrifice). All of this is done for one purpose; to bring a block of ice to the Chapel. They people believe that the ice brings luck, has medical effects, and that the lands irrigated with this holy water will be very fertile.
Climbing Ausangate Ausangate trek is not for beginners! If you think that you are experienced enough for this ascent, spend enough time in Cusco before climbing the mountain, to allow yourself time to become acclimatised to the region.
How to get there
There are two routes from Cusco to Ausangate
Route 1: Take the intercity bus to Chillca village. From there you can walk to Campo Base - the starting point of the trek (it will take you 4 to 5 hours).
Route 2: Take a bus to Tinqui village then to Pacchanta. Then continue by foot through Acepo ravine (8 to 10 hours) to Base del Ausangate – the best starting point of the trek according to most mountaineers.
If you don’t have enough experience for independent hiking, you can visit Ausangate and marvellous surrounding areas in the company of experienced guides.
Ausangate Mountain is a natural attraction that is located in the district of Ocongate, within the province of Quispicanchi, in the department of Cusco. That snow is part of the Vilcanota mountain range and, according to an ancient legend, was the brother of Salkantay snow.
The Ausangate Snowy, has a height of 6,384 meters above sea level; and it is considered an apu, or protective deity of the surrounding peoples; as well as the most representative mountain in the region. Its size is such that it can be appreciated even if one is in the Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, not in vain is considered the fifth highest mountain in Peru.
This beautiful snowy Cusco, impresses the eye, for its incredible natural formations; In that one there are not only beautiful mirrors of water such as Sivinicocha, turquoise waters, but also forests of stones, glaciers and high-plains that seem to make this natural attraction a paradise on earth, especially for those tourists who are interested for adventure sports since, the Ausangate landforms make it ideal for sports such as rock climbing, ice climbing, trekking, among other activities. Snowy Ausangate is presented before our eyes as a mountain challenge; it is known, that the first attempts to ascend it were made at the beginning of the fifties of the last century, were the first frustrated attempts to conquer the top of the powerful Apu, it was not until 1953, when a German expedition achieved the goal, climbing the mountain along its southern slope, in posterity, new routes were opened for the conquest of the Apu, however, only in 1983, thirty years after the first ascent, Peruvian feet crowned the top of the majestic snowfall.
Huchuy Qosqo, Quechua word meaning "little Cusco", is an archaeological complex that is not within the regular package to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this makes it ideal because it is not crowded like Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
The archeological center of Huchuy Qosqo, is located in the north of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the immediate vicinity of the province of Calca, district of Cusco. This archaeological complex is one of the most important in the Urubamba valley due to its architectural level, after Ollantaytambo and Pisac. The ruins are impressive, although the conservation of the site is inferior to that of the other two because their constructions are older. The complex includes platforms, courtyards, esplanades, squares, pedestrian path and buildings of different magnitude and quality.
One of the main attractions of Huchuy Qosqo, is a three-story building or levels; The first two are made with finely carved stone and the third level is made of adobe and although it has been lacking a roof for a long time, it is so resistant that it has been standing for more than 500 years.
There are many ways to get there, you can take a taxi from the town of Calca (1 hour from Cusco) to the door of the same complex that is 3550 meters above sea level. The other way is a 5-hour walk from the Laguna de Piray (45 min. From Cusco), where you can enjoy a majestic landscape. This road begins in the town of Cuper, (10min. From the lagoon of Piuray), here the ascent begins until you reach the Abra and from there you follow the Inca trail, which apparently is part of the famous Qapacñay; From here you pass through a beautiful rocky canyon, where you will see the purple, green and red colors of the stones, until you reach the top of the mountain and appreciate the splendor of the Sacred Valley. The road is signposted, but it is always better to ask the muleteers and farmers in the area the exact location of the accesses.
In Huchuy Qosqo you can see an esplanade next to an abyss where you can see Inca constructions, terraces, rooms with up to two floors, canals and everything looks spectacular because they are built on platforms. Huchuy Qosqo Trek to Machu Picchu
The archeological zone of Huchuy Qosqo (Cusco Small), which was known during the Inca period as Qaqyaqawana (which in Spanish means “place from where you see the thunder”), is located in the district of Lamay, within the province of Calca, in the department and region of Cusco, specifically in a plain found on the top of a mountain. At a height of 3 550 meters above sea level. And it is currently considered, thanks to the National Institute of Culture, as Cultural Heritage of the Nation. HUCHUY QOSQO ROUTE TO MACHU PICCHU INFORMATION:
On a historical level, this site is known as the preferred place of the Inca Wiracocha, which he chose as a place of rest and retreat and, where, according to the myth, he died at an advanced age (80 years old). It is also said that this area was already populated by different ethnicities, before the Inca arrival, so they had to be previously defeated. Another striking story about the area is that the Inca Wiracocha had not come only there, but in the company of his son: Inca Urco, the worst ruler of the Empire, who abandoned their Tahuantinsuyo fate after the Chanca attack that ended up being stopped by his other son Cusi Inca Yupanqui. Finally, another reason that makes this site important is the discovery of a mummified body, found during the Conquest, and that would have been attributed to the old Inca monarch, although later burned by Francisco Pizarro's brother.
As for its location, it can be added in addition to the access feature, which provides the visitor (and those who lived in the archaeological center) a great view of the snowy Pitusiray along with the town of Calca.
Regarding the architectural remains that have still been preserved on the site, we can say of them that there are at least 2 buildings, in addition to the presence of platforms and cliffs. Among the buildings, built on the basis of some of stone and others of adobe, we can observe, one of three floors, without name; This first construction is characterized by the presence of the mixture of the construction materials, since the two lower levels are made of carved stone, while the last one preserves adobe-based structure. The second building, also without a name, is a rectangular-based construction, made with adobones, which is believed to have had the purpose of being a space for the labor learning of the women of the Empire. There are also vestiges of remains of smaller enclosures that are almost destroyed due to natural events, including rains and vegetation in the area.
To get to the place the exact location of Huchuy Qosqo is necessary to make a walk, due to the narrow road, it lasts 3 hours from Lamay; on the other hand you can also go from Chinchero, using half a day of pilgrimage; and if you want to make a trip to the site, of longer duration, in which camping is required, you can take the route from the City of Cusco, since this route takes the entire day. The entrance to the site is totally free, although it is recommended that the tourist be done in the company of guides or in groups; Another recommendation is that this tour be carried out in the dry weather period, between the months of April and October, to avoid the slippery area due to the rains.
This complex is the most important archaeological center in the Urubamba Valley, after Ollantaytambo and Pisac. The ruins are impressive, although the conservation of the site is inferior to that of Ollantaytambo or Pisac, because they are older.
But unlike the places mentioned above Huchuy Qosqo has a peculiar architecture: the buildings have been built on polished stone bases of fine finish, with clay plaster (they are the best preserved parts) and the highest floors are made of adobe.
Treks of Huchuy Qosqo Trek
There is a kallanka (rectangular enclosure that could measure up to 70 meters long and that were important state centers where Inca officials were staying) of at least 40 to 50 meters long. Also a remarkable building with two stone floors and an adobe upper one. There are also large terraces, a very wide square and a large Inca gate through which a very well preserved road leads from Tambomachay.
The Hispanic chronicles indicate that Huchuy Qosqo (probably a site known in Inca times as Caquia Jaquijahuana) was the work and favorite place of the Inca Wiracocha. To this, Maria Rostworoski adds, in her work "History of Tahuantinsuyo", that this sovereign strengthened the conquest over the villages of the Urubamba Valley and that he chose as his successor his son Inca Urco who, dizzy from power and vice, He proved to be totally unable to govern. The Inca royalty was very obfuscated with this election and tried to conspire to impose another son of Wiracocha, Prince Cusi Yupanqui. Social unrest and tension increased every day and to make everything worse, the darkest night fell over Cuzco: the Chancas reached the gates of the capital and were willing to destroy it. It is the year of 1438. Wiracocha leaves the city to his fate and, accompanied by his son Inca Urco, takes refuge in its palaces in the Urubamba Valley, among which was Huchuy Qosqo.
After the Hispanic conquest, Gonzalo Pizarro found here the mummy that supposedly belonged to the Inca Wiracocha and ordered it burned. The descendants of the Inca kept the ashes in a jar that many years later the chronicler Polo de Ondegardo would discover.
Characteristics of the visit It is possible to visit Huchuy Qosqo in three ways, the first one walking from Cusco and Tambomachay along the Inca trail. The other way is up from the Sacred Valley after crossing the Wilcamayo River (now Vilcanota) and the Chinchero route.
The quarry of Cachicata was the place of extraction of the stones that were used for the construction of Ollantaytambo and many surrounding areas. This place is 9 kilometers from the Inca town of Ollantaytambo and has three groups of quarries: Molle Pucro, Sirkusirkuyoc (it was the largest), shows evidence of having been in full operation when the Spaniards entered this area. And finally Kantirayoq or Cacchicata, where another type of extraction of minerals and precious stones was practiced.
- Starting Altitude - 3350 meters / 10990 feet . - Highest Altitude - 4500m / 14,764ft - Walking Distance - 25 km / 15.5 miles - Meals - 4 breakfast, 3 lunch, 3 dinner, 3 tea times, 3 wake up tea - Overall Difficulty - Moderate - STARTING POINT: - Cusco at your hotel
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
The Community of Cachiccata consists of 80 families and a total of approximately 300 people. The quarries of Cachiccata is one of the most important attractions, these quarries were widely exploited in the Inca period. From this mine they selected and transported the stones from the archaeological remains of Ollantaytambo. By means of own bearing and thrust techniques, the stones were transferred to this old center. On the way we can see giant semilabrated stones that were being transported. Near the quarries we can also visit some pre-Hispanic chullpas (ancient funerary tower). Machu Picchu is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, Heritage of Humanity, Historical Sanctuary of Peru and probably the most important archaeological site in Latin America. Machu Picchu is majestic architecture comprises 140 structures throughout the citadel. Machu Picchu is was built by the Inca Pachacutec around the year 1460 After being forgotten, it was only in 1911 that the American Hiram Bingham reached Machu Picchu on an expedition and spread the site worldwide.
Brief Itinerary - DAY 1: CUSCO – SOQMA – RAYAN - DAY 2: RAYAN – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO - DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES - DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
The district of Lares is located north of the city of Cusco, 149 kilometers away (2 hours and 40 minutes by road). It belongs to the province of Calca. It is famous for its thermo-medicinal baths, Mantto waterfalls and trekking trails. It is located at 3150 m.a.s.l. This district is located in a valley surrounded by snowy mountains and mountains such as Abra de Lares (4460 m.a.s.l.) where the weather is very cold. In the valley, on the other hand, the weather is mild with cold at night. Lares has two different seasons during the year. The rainy season (from October to March) is characterized by the abundant river fall. The maximum temperature during this part of the year reaches 20 ° C. The minimum reaches 5 ° C. In the dry season (from March to October) the maximum temperature reaches 21 ° C and the minimum at 1 ° C. Rains and cold occur throughout the year, especially in the high areas of Lares. Machu Picchu Information
More Information: Lares Trek
LARES - CUSCO Seven Cataracts-Qanchis Paccha is the new Private Conservation Area (ACP) recognized for the period of 10 years in the Cusco region by the Ministry of Environment. Located in the district of Lares (province of Calca, Cusco) this ACP reaffirms the commitment of the Quishuarani Collana peasant community to the conservation of natural heritage by being the second Private Conservation Area established in its territory.
Recognized by Ministerial Resolution No. 214-2015-MINAM, on an area of 1,008.51 hectares, this area is a reflection of the community's initiative to integrate local actors in the care of the biodiversity of queñua forests, a work that It has been doing since 2009 with the establishment of the ACP Hatun Queñua-Quishuarani Ccollana, Sernanp informed INFOREGION. MORE INFORMATION: Lares Trek
Located 110 kilometers from the city of Cusco, the area stands out for its great biodiversity and natural landscapes that are highly attractive for tourism development. In this ACP, Queñua forests predominate that fulfill a function of climate regulator and constitute the only habitat of three species of birds in danger of extinction: the pechicenizo bull, the cejiblanco scissor and the royal churrete. In addition, they provide a wide range of plants for medicinal use that are used by the local community.
The area has a snowy chain, the most important being the Colquecampana snowfall, a set of lagoons in which different species of birds are observed such as the bandurria de la puna, the jergon duck and the crestón duck. In the highest areas there are snowfalls that form basin headwaters and constitute the main sources of water for the inhabitants of the sector.
Within the landscape and experiential potential offered by this ACP, the imposing waterfall called Siete Cataratas or Qanchis Paccha stands out. Likewise, visitors will be able to observe different species of fauna such as the Andean cat, the taruca, the puma, the vizcacha and the Andean fox. Cusco Destination
The ruins of Choquequirao are an ancient Inca city located between the mountains belonging to the snowy Salkantay in Cusco.
In 1909, the American explorer Hiram Bingham visited this place of difficult access. However, it was not until the mid-1970s that the first excavations of this archaeological site began.
Currently only 30% of the immense site was excavated. Despite this it is one of the most mysterious tourist attractions due to its similarity with Machu Picchu.
It is known as the last Inca refuge due to the belief that the remnants of Manco Inca were hidden there after the Spanish conquest.
It is also known as the ‘Sacred Sister of Machu Picchu’ due to the architectural similarity with the Inca Citadel.
The only way to get there is through a 2-day hiking trail along rivers, high mountains and breathtaking landscapes.
Machu Picchu is an Inca site located in the eastern part of the central Andes.
It belongs to the foothills of Salkantay, in southern Peru.
It is believed that this site was the urban, religious center and residence of the Inca Pachacutec, who commanded its construction in the early fifteenth century.
With the Spanish conquest, the place was gradually abandoned until it was covered by the abundant vegetation characteristic of the area.
In 1911, the American explorer Hiram Bingham made known to the world the importance of the archaeological complex.
In 2007, the Inca llaqta was chosen as one of the Wonders of the modern World. Since then, tourist traffic has skyrocketed.
Today, its mysterious stone constructions around beautiful mountainous landscapes are one of the most visited places on the planet.
It is estimated that around 1 million people visit it a year.
Because of its altitude, Choquequirao has a temperate climate. However, it should be noted that the road to Choquequirao is warm because of the Apurimac canyon.
Choquequirao was presumably used as a control site to ensure access to areas of Vilcabamba, connecting the jungle with other major centers like Pisac and Machu Picchu. The archaeological remains of Choquequirao are comprised of buildings and terraces on different levels, in which their terraces stand out due to 22 carvings on stone with figures known as "Llamas del Sol" arranged in 15 platforms towards the snowy Qori Hauyrachina. Choquequirao features a large system of platforms/terraces.
Machu Picchu is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, Heritage of Humanity, Historical Sanctuary of Peruand probably the most important archaeological site in Latin America. Its majestic architecture comprises 140 structures throughout the citadel. It was built by the Inca Pachacutec around the year 1460. After being forgotten, it was only in 1911 that the American Hiram Bingham reached Machu Picchu on an expedition and spread the site worldwide. Its main buildings are the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Three Windows. In 1913 it received worldwide attention when the National Geographic Society dedicated its entire print run in April to the newly rediscovered city.
Brief Itinerary - Day 1: CUSCO - CACHORA - COCAMASANA - PLAYA ROSALINA. - Day 2: PLAYA ROSALINA – CHOQUEQUIRAO. - Day 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO - PINCHINUYOC - Day 4: PINCHINUYOC – RIO BLANCO - MAIZAL. - Day 5: MAIZAL - YANAMA - DRIVE TO LUCMABAMBA. - Day 6: LUCMABAMBA - LLACTAPATA - AGUAS CALIENTES. - Day 7: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO.
Día 1: Cusco - Cachora - Chiquiska. Lo recogeremos en su hotel en un bus privado. Partimos de Cusco, luego nos dirigimos a la ciudad de Cachora (3100 msnm), aquí encontramos los transportistas y el personal de apoyo, en Cachora comenzaremos nuestra caminata, después de 2 horas de caminata llegaremos a Capuliyoc (2915 m) desde allí. Tendremos una hermosa vista de los picos nevados Padrayoc, Wayna Cachora y el valle de Apurimac. Luego descenderemos hacia la Coca Masana (2330 m) donde el clima se vuelve más cálido y la flora y la fauna comienzan a cambiar. Finalmente llegaremos a nuestro primer campamento en el oasis de Chiquiska (1950 metros / 6000 pies).
- Comidas: Almuerzo, Cena - Acomodación: Campamento, Chiquiska 1950 msnm - Clima: cálido y soleado - Distancia recorrida: aproximadamente 10 km - Tiempo de caminata: 6 horas Día 2: Chiquiska - Choquequirao. Este día es el más difícil de los cinco días, nos levantaremos muy temprano. Después del desayuno, continuaremos nuestro descenso hacia Playa Rosalinda, donde cruzaremos el río Apurímac (1495 metros / 5000 pies). Desde aquí comenzaremos nuestra caminata por un camino empinado durante aproximadamente 5 horas hasta llegar a Raqaypata donde almorzaremos. A lo largo del paseo observaremos muchas orquídeas y flores silvestres, muchas aves. Desde Raqaypata caminaremos durante aproximadamente dos horas hasta el sitio arqueológico de Choquequirao y allí observaremos la puesta de sol y el vuelo del cóndor. Nuestro campamento se instalará fuera de las ruinas.
- Comidas: desayuno, almuerzo, cena - Acomodación: Campamento, Choquekiraw 3100 msnm - Clima: cálido y ventoso - Distancia recorrida: aproximadamente 13 km - Tiempo de caminata: 7 horas Día 3: Choquequirao
We dedicate this day to explore the ruins of Choquequirao. Our guide will explain the history and importance of this archaeological complex. You will then have free time to visit different areas of the archaeological complex. Much work has been done in recent years to excavate, clear and restore the site. After lunch, those who choose to can visit the Cascade House(restored buildings and terraces some 300 meters (1000 feet) below the main structures of Choquequirao). Later, our evening meal will consist of a typical Peruvian “pachamanca” (traditional Andean ingredients cooked in the earth). Volunteers to help with the preparation will be welcome! From the highest point of the archaeological site (the “usno”, or ceremonial platform) there are fine views of the Apurimac canyonfar below, and if we are fortunate we may even see a great Andean condor soar above us.
- Comidas: desayuno, almuerzo, cena - Acomodación: Campamento, Choquekiraw 3100 msnm - Clima: cálido y soleado - Distancia recorrida: aproximadamente 10 km - Tiempo de caminata: 7 horas Día 4: Choquequirao - Coca Masana. Después del desayuno continuamos nuestra ardua caminata de regreso por un sendero empinado hacia el río Apurimac, donde nos detendremos y almorzaremos. Por la tarde subiremos unas 4 horas para llegar a Coca Masana. Allí cenaremos y acamparemos.
- Comidas: Desayuno, Almuerzo, Cena - Clima: cálido y soleado - Acomodación: Campamento, Cocamazana 2300msnm. - Distancia recorrida: aproximadamente 14 km - Tiempo de caminata: 8 horas Día 5: Coca Masana - Cachora - Cusco. Después del desayuno, regresamos por el mismo camino hasta el paso de Capuliyoc y desde aquí son dos horas más hasta el pueblo de Cachora. Luego tomamos el autobús que nos llevará a Cusco
- Comidas: Desayuno - Clima: cálido y soleado - Distancia recorrida: aproximadamente 9 km - Tiempo de caminata: 6 horas
You can visit the architectural complex Choquequirao is situated in Vilcabamba at 3100 meters, considered the last Inka refuge and place of resistance from the invaders, when doing this trek you will enjoy beautiful scenery, you'll see the impressive Apurimac Canyon, flora and wildlife along the path. This route offers a strenuous but formidable journey due to the various existing ecosystems.
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude - 2900m / 9515ft. - Highest Altitude - 3050m / 10,005ft - Walking Distance - 64 km / 40 miles - Longest Day - Day 1, approximately 25 km/15.5 miles - Overall Difficulty - Difficult
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Because of its altitude, Choquequirao has a temperate climate. However, it should be noted that the road to Choquequirao is warm because of the Apurimac canyon. Choquequirao was presumably used as a control site to ensure access to areas of Vilcabamba, connecting the jungle with other major centers like Pisac and Machu Picchu. The archaeological remains of Choquequirao are comprised of buildings and terraces on different levels, in which their terraces stand out due to 22 carvings on stone with figures known as "Llamas del Sol" arranged in 15 platforms towards the snowy Qori Hauyrachina. Choquequirao features a large system of platforms/terraces.
Brief Itinerary - Day 1: Cusco – Cachora – Capuliyoc – Santa Rosa - Day 2: Santa Rosa – Marampata – Choquequirao. - Day 3: Choquequirao – Marampata – Chiquisca. - Day 4: Chiquisqa – Capuliyoc – Cusco.
The quarry of Cachicata was the place of extraction of the stones that were used for the construction of Ollantaytambo and many surrounding areas. This place is 9 kilometers from the Inca town of Ollantaytambo and has three groups of quarries: Molle Pucro, Sirkusirkuyoc (it was the largest), shows evidence of having been in full operation when the Spaniards entered this area. And finally Kantirayoq or Cacchicata, where another type of extraction of minerals and precious stones was practiced.
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude - 3350 meters / 10990 feet . - Highest Altitude - 4500m / 14,764ft - Walking Distance - 25 km / 15.5 miles - Meals - 4 breakfast, 3 lunch, 3 dinner, 3 tea times, 3 wake up tea - Overall Difficulty - Moderate - STARTING POINT: - Cusco at your hotel
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
The Community of Cachiccata consists of 80 families and a total of approximately 300 people. The quarries of Cachiccata is one of the most important attractions, these quarries were widely exploited in the Inca period. From this mine they selected and transported the stones from the archaeological remains of Ollantaytambo. By means of own bearing and thrust techniques, the stones were transferred to this old center. On the way we can see giant semilabrated stones that were being transported. Near the quarries we can also visit some pre-Hispanic chullpas (ancient funerary tower). Machu Picchu is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, Heritage of Humanity, Historical Sanctuary of Peru and probably the most important archaeological site in Latin America. Machu Picchu is majestic architecture comprises 140 structures throughout the citadel. Machu Picchu is was built by the Inca Pachacutec around the year 1460 After being forgotten, it was only in 1911 that the American Hiram Bingham reached Machu Picchu on an expedition and spread the site worldwide.
Brief Itinerary - DAY 1: CUSCO – SOQMA – RAYAN - DAY 2: RAYAN – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO - DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES - DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
INFORMATION OF SALKANTAY TO MACHU PICCHU Salkantay is a snow-capped mountain in Peru located in the department of Cuzco; It is one of the main peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range. It reaches an altitude of 6,271 meters. It presents two summits covered by snow. The Salkantay Route, also known as the " New Inca Trail", is located north of the city of Cusco, following the Cusco - Limatambo highway, making a detour past Limatambo until you reach Mollepata.
It is very sunny during the day, but a cold at night. The temperature falls below 0 ° C at night during the months of June to September. In the season from December to March it is very rainy reason why it is not recommended to go on these dates. The best time for the weather, to do this walk is during the months of March to September. This hike reaches a height of 4,600 meters above sea level at its highest point this on the slopes of the same snowy Salkantay. The buses from Cusco to Mollepata depart very early from 4:00 to 5:00 and go through Limatambo, from Mollepata is where the trek to the snowy Salkantay starts, after climbing a step up it is possible to have an impressive pyramidal view of the Salkantay, one of the most beautiful snows of Cusco. From the same Mollepata it takes two days to go down to Huayllabamba and merge with the second day of the Inca Trail. On the way there are herds of cattle and sheep, orchids, bear with glasses, medicinal plants of the Inca eponca, small variety of birds, fruit trees such as Orange, Papaya, bananas, etc. - Note: The spectacled bear to see it you have to have a bit of luck.
If you want to visit this Inca Citadel we have the trek for you: Salkantay Trek Challenge, Salkantay Trek Express,Salkantay Trek classic.
Salkantay trek challenge 3 days is considered by most to be the best and challenging alternative route to Machu Picchu, This walk allows you to enjoy the options that there is in the salkantay route, you will pass for the highets point of the salkantay route to be to see salkantay mountain up close, you hike through the santa teresa valley that is full of vegetation is the begining of the peruvian amazon, you have the chance to see, plantations of coffe, coca, avocados, bananas and much more, this valley is full of fresh wáter with many waterfalls.
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude - 3350 meters / 10990 feet . - Highest Altitude - 4600 meters / 15091 ft - Walking Distance - 12km / 7.45 miles - Campsite Elevation - 3920 meters / 12861 ft - Meals - 2 breakfast, 2 lunch, 2 dinner, 1 tea times, 1 wake up tea - Overall Difficulty - Changing - STARTING POINT: - Cusco at your hotel
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
The snow-capped Salkantay is one of the highest mountains in Cusco, along with the Ausangate mountain in the Vilcanota mountain range which is located further south. The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is listed as one of the 25 best treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine. The Salkantay Trek is definitely one of the very best trekking adventures that you will find in Cusco and in Peru. After the Inca Trail classic or Inca Trail short, the Salkantay route is the 2nd most popular to Machu Picchu (and a lot less crowded). Machu Picchu is one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, Heritage of Humanity, Historical Sanctuary of Peru and probably the most important archaeological site in Latin America. Machu Picchu is majestic architecture comprises 140 structures throughout the citadel. Machu Picchu is was built by the Inca Pachacutec around the year 1460 After being forgotten, it was only in 1911 that the American Hiram Bingham reached Machu Picchu on an expedition and spread the site worldwide.
Brief Itinerary - Day 1: Cusco – Soraypampa – Salkantay Pass – Chaullay. - DAY 2: Chaullay - La Playa - Aguas Calientes - DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
Salkantay is a snow-capped mountain in Peru located in the department of Cuzco; It is one of the main peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range. It reaches an altitude of 6,271 meters. It presents two summits covered by snow.
The Salkantay Route, also known as the " New Inca Trail", is located north of the city of Cusco, following the Cusco - Limatambo highway, making a detour past Limatambo until you reach Mollepata.
It is very sunny during the day, but a cold at night. The temperature falls below 0 ° C at night during the months of June to September. In the season from December to March it is very rainy reason why it is not recommended to go on these dates.
The best time for the weather, to do this walk is during the months of March to September.
This hike reaches a height of 4,600 meters above sea level at its highest point this on the slopes of the same snowy Salkantay.
The buses from Cusco to Mollepata depart very early from 4:00 to 5:00 and go through Limatambo, from Mollepata is where the trek to the snowy Salkantay starts, after climbing a step up it is possible to have an impressive pyramidal view of the Salkantay, one of the most beautiful snows of Cusco.
From the same Mollepata it takes two days to go down to Huayllabamba and merge with the second day of the Inca Trail.
On the way there are herds of cattle and sheep, orchids, bear with glasses, medicinal plants of the Inca eponca, small variety of birds, fruit trees such as Orange, Papaya, bananas, etc.
- Note: The spectacled bear to see it you have to have a bit of luck.
If you want to visit this Inca Citadel we have the trek for you: Salkantay Trek Challenge, Salkantay Trek Express,Salkantay Trek classic.
DAY 1: CUSCO - CITY TOUR:
This day will begin with a welcome at the airport or bus terminal, then transfer to the hostel or Hotel, we chose for you, then you will have the rest of the morning to rest and acclimatize. At 1:30 pm. we will pick you up at your hotel for the City Tour, we will begin the tour visiting the QORICANCHA; or Convent of Santo Domingo. Then we’ll visit the Archaeological Complexes that are close to the city of Cusco, starting with the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman; here we can see the cyclopean constructions and have a panoramic view of Cusco, then we head to Q'ENQO where we will see high precision carving into the rock, then we head to PUKAPUKARA; there we can see part of the Inca trail, finally we visit TAMBOMACHAY; This site was designed basically for the performance of ceremonies and water purification.
The tour will end at approximately 6:30 pm.
DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY:
This wonderful excursion begins with pick up from your hotel at 08:30 am to begin our journey to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, during our tour we make stops at the viewpoints of Taray and Ccorao, we’ll also visit the typical market of Pisac and the archaeological complex of Pisac, where we find very important Inca buildings that serve as an area of adaptation for some Inca produce. Then we continue to the town of Urubamba where we will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at a tourist restaurant, then continue our journey to the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo. after we’ll board the train at the station of Ollantaytambo towards Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night. (Optionally we can enjoy the hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU:
We will pick you up at your hotel 2 hours before the departure of your train, and take you to the train station, located in the town of Ollantaytambo, here we take the train and begin the journey from Ollantaytambo to the village of Aguas Calientes which lasts two hours, where our guide will be waiting, with the guide we will go to the bus station, where we’ll board the bus that will take us to the wonderful citadel of " Machu Picchu ". On reaching the Citadel, we begin our guided tour, visiting the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Cemeteries, Intihuatana, the Royal Quarters, and the Temple of the Three Windows etc. approximately more than two hours. Then you will be given free time to stroll around the citadel, then we descend to the town of Aguas Calientes by bus, where you can you have lunch at one of several restaurants in Aguas Calientes or if you wish at Sanctuary Lodge. (Lunch is on you).
At 6:30 pm, we take the train that will take us back to Ollantaytambo. This trip takes about two hours; therefore, at 8:20 pm, we will take the bus to take us back to Cusco; we’ll arrive in Cusco at approximately 10:30 pm.
DAY 4: FAREWELL:
This day according to the departure time of your travel ticket, we will coordinate with you the time of your pickup and then transfer either to the Bus station or to the airport to return to your hometown.
This wonderful excursion begins with pick up from your hotel at 7:30 am to head to the town of Ollantaytambo, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the area. From Ollantaytambo we’ll take the road that will take us to the "Abra Málaga" (4.316msnm) of this place, we can see some of the most impressive landscapes of the Andes that Peru has to offer. After a brief stop to take pictures of the stunning snowcapped mountains located next to the road, we begin our descent into the thick jungle, through the different micro-climates, resulting from the union of the mountains and jungle. The route continues through the village of Alfamayo until we reach the town of Santa Maria, from this place we will go to the village of Santa Teresa where we will have lunch. If you wish after lunch we can go to the medicinal thermal baths of Cocalmayo. At 3:45 pm, we will go to the train station of the hydroelectric plant. In this place we’ll begin the trek to the village of Aguas Calientes, where we will have dinner and spend the night in a hotel chosen for you. If you want you can go for a relaxing swim in the healing thermal waters of the town.
DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
At 4:00 am you’ll have breakfast in the hotel, then we’ll start our climb to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, the tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or you can opt to go to the citadel by bus (Optional bus $16 each way). On reaching the Citadel you can appreciate the enigmatic beauty an incomparable sample of architectural perfection and hydraulics of one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, you’ll take a guided tour of about 2 hours, where we can appreciate the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, Intihuatana (sundial), The Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows and Cemetery, then you will be given free time to stroll through the citadel. They will have all morning to Machu Picchu to take pictures and enjoy this mystical place. At about 11:30 am we’ll descend from the mountain to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch in peace. At 13:15 AM we’ll take the train back to the hydroelectric plant, here we’ll get aboard the bus to take us back to Santa Teresa and then to Cusco, we’ll arrive in Cusco at approximately 9:30 pm.
This day will begin with a welcome at the airport or bus terminal, then transfer to the hostel or Hotel, we chose for you, then you will have the rest of the morning to rest and acclimatize. At 1:30 pm. we will pick you up at your hotel for the City Tour, we will begin the tour visiting the QORICANCHA; or Convent of Santo Domingo. Then we’ll visit the Archaeological Complexes that are close to the city of Cusco, starting with the impressive fortress of Sacsayhuaman; here we can see the cyclopean constructions and have a panoramic view of Cusco, then we head to Q'ENQO where we will see high precision carving into the rock, then we head to PUKAPUKARA; there we can see part of the Inca trail, finally we visit TAMBOMACHAY; This site was designed basically for the performance of ceremonies and water purification. The tour will end at approximately 6:30 pm.
DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU:
We will pick you up at your hotel 2 hours before the departure of your train, and take you to the train station, located in the town of Ollantaytambo, here we take the train and begin the journey from Ollantaytambo to the village of Aguas Calientes which lasts two hours, where our guide will be waiting, with the guide we will go to the bus station, where we’ll board the bus that will take us to the wonderful citadel of" Machu Picchu ". On reaching the Citadel, we begin our guided tour, visiting the Main Square, the Circular Tower, the Cemeteries, Intihuatana, the Royal Quarters, and the Temple of the Three Windows etc. approximately more than two hours. Then you will be given free time to stroll around the citadel, then we descend to the town of Aguas Calientes by bus, where you can you have lunch at one of several restaurants in Aguas Calientes or if you wish at Sanctuary Lodge. (Lunch is on you). At 6:30 pm, we take the train that will take us back to Ollantaytambo. This trip takes about two hours; therefore, at 8:20 pm, we will take the bus to take us back to Cusco; we’ll arrive in Cusco at approximately 10:30 pm.
DAY 3: FAREWELL:
This day according to the departure time of your travel ticket, we will coordinate with you the time of your pickup and then transfer either to the Bus station or to the airport to return to your hometown.
