Here are 5 reasons to visit Choquequirao Peru in 2026. These are just a starting point, as there are likely many more reasons to explore this remarkable destination. Notably, Choquequirao was named one of the wonders of the world by Time Out magazine in 2025. This trekking route is steadily gaining recognition and popularity worldwide, receiving numerous awards along the way.
1.- A significant legacy of the Inca civilization.
In Cusco, we have not only Machu Picchu as a testament to the grandeur of Inca culture, but also Choquequirao, which stands as another remarkable example of the cultural legacy left by our ancestors.
The site is recognized as an Inca city, similar to Machu Picchu. Choquequirao served important political, social, and religious functions. The site features stunning areas, including streets, temples, plazas, and agricultural terraces adorned with llama figures.
Beyond its monumental scale and cultural significance, Choquequirao also boasts natural beauty. Built atop a mountain and surrounded by the Andes, it is nestled within the region’s lush and vibrant forests.
2.- Fewer tourists lead to a better experience for visitors.
The only way to reach Choquequirao at the moment is on foot, which is why only a few people have the privilege of visiting this beautiful site. With fewer tourists in Choquequirao, visitors have a greater opportunity to explore each sacred location in peace and tranquility.
To travel between different areas, such as from the main square of Choquequirao to the Hanan sector or the upper part, you must walk approximately 20 minutes. The walk is quite serene, as there aren’t many tourists in the vicinity.
For this reason, Choquequirao can be fully explored without any significant restrictions, apart from the necessity to respect the cultural heritage. All you need is time and good physical condition to reach all the areas of this vast Inca city.
3.- The Apurímac Canyon features breathtaking and distinct landscapes.
The landscapes along the route to Choquequirao are breathtaking. Just the thought of crossing the Apurímac Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, fills us with excitement and challenges us to reach our destination.
Starting at 3,080 meters above sea level in Capuliyoc, we will descend to 1,500 meters in Playa Rosalina, and then climb back up to 3,100 meters in Choquequirao. This journey takes us through diverse landscapes, including high Andean areas, seasonal dry forests, and cloud forests. Visiting Choquequirao is a unique experience due to the effort and adventure involved in getting there.
4.- Experience the best adventure and trekking in the Andes along the Choquequirao route.
If you love adventure, trekking, and challenges, then this is the route for you. In Cusco, and arguably throughout all of Peru, the Choquequirao trek stands out as the most demanding hike, both mentally and physically.
Every step of the journey takes us along stunning trails carved by the Andes Mountains over thousands of years. On some days, we will descend to the lowest point of the Apurímac Canyon, only to climb seemingly endless paths, with our sole reward being the destination: Choquequirao.
Many trekkers who have completed this journey attest to its unique blend of breathtaking scenery, cultural richness, and natural beauty.
5.- Discovering spiritual energy and connecting with ancestors.
Like any Inca city, there are areas where we can feel the spiritual energy of the Andes and connect with nature’s power.
With fewer tourists around, we will have the space and time to explore these energy-rich locations in Choquequirao.
This will allow us to recharge and return to the city transformed, with new perspectives on life. Our motto is, “If we can complete the hike to Choquequirao, there is nothing we can’t achieve.”
