Life as an actress can sometimes feel like a whirlwind of auditions, rehearsals, and performances. So, when my friends and I decided to embark on a trek to the mysterious Choquequirao trek with Bamba Travel, it was a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the theater world. Our journey through the Peruvian mountains was not just an adventure; it was a transformational experience that enriched our lives in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Join me as I take you through the four unforgettable days of our trek, filled with breathtaking landscapes, personal realizations, and a dash of humor.
Day 1: Cuzco-Chicquisqa, Peru
We started our Choquequirao adventure with an early 5:00 am departure from Cuzco in a private car. While my friends and I are no strangers to early call times, the excitement of exploring a new destination had us wide awake and eager to go. Our journey began with the promise of adventure, and it didn’t disappoint.
Our first stop was the archaeological site of Saywite, a fascinating pre-Inca site that set the stage for the historical wonders we were about to encounter. From there, we descended to the charming mountain village of Cachora (2909m), where we had the chance to grab any last-minute supplies. We couldn’t resist picking up a few local snacks and trinkets to make our trek even more memorable.
After a satisfying lunch, we embarked on a 2-hour hike to Capuliyoc (2915m). The views of the Apurimac valley stretched out below us, and the snow-capped peaks of Padrayoc and Wayna Cachora glistened in the distance. The realization that we were truly on an adventure of a lifetime began to sink in, and we couldn’t wait for what lay ahead.
Day 2: Chicquisqa-Choquequirao
Day two started with an early departure and a descent to Playa Rosalinas along the magnificent Apurimac River (1550m). The hike brought us to Santa Rosa (2095m), where we took a refreshing break and stocked up on water. Climbing onwards, we reached Marampata (2913m), a plateau where we enjoyed a well-deserved lunch break while taking in a splendid view of Choquequirao.
After refueling, we hiked for about 2 more hours to reach the archaeological site of Choquequirao (3110m). As the sun began to set, we explored the site and were treated to the majestic sight of condors soaring overhead. Watching these magnificent birds against the backdrop of the ancient ruins was a surreal experience that reminded us of the incredible world we live in.
Day 3: Choquequirao-Santa Rosa
With the allure of Choquequirao beckoning, we had a chance to explore the Inca site more in-depth on the third day. The morning was filled with awe as we wandered through the ancient ruins and marveled at the historical significance of this place. It was a moment to pause and reflect on the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization.
In the afternoon, we began our descent along the edge of the Apurimac canyon, heading back to our tropical campsite at Santa Rosa. The 5-hour hike was a mix of adventure and tranquility, as we immersed ourselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Each step brought us closer to a deeper connection with the Peruvian landscape and the people who call it home.
Day 4: Santa Rosa-Cuzco, Peru
Our final day on the Choquequirao Trek was bittersweet. We knew we had to return to the realities of our everyday lives, but the memories we had created would stay with us forever. The morning hike took us down to the Apurimac Canyon, where we faced a challenging ascent that was rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of our journey.
After about four hours of climbing, we stopped for lunch in Capuliyoc (2915m). It was the perfect opportunity to savor our last moments in the rugged beauty of the Peruvian mountains. The final two hours of our hike took us and our local travel expert through the charming village of Cachora, a place that had captured our hearts. As we strolled along a picturesque trail through farming countryside, we couldn’t help but smile at the simplicity and beauty of it all.
Final Word
The Choquequirao Trek with Bamba Travel was a journey of a lifetime that left an indelible mark on my friends and me. It was a true escape from the world of auditions and scripts, and a chance to connect with nature, history, and one another. As an actress, I’ve always strived to bring stories to life, but on this trek, I discovered that life itself is the most beautiful story of all.
This adventure enriched our lives in ways we couldn’t have predicted. We found strength in the challenging climbs, serenity in the ancient ruins, and camaraderie in the shared experience. The Choquequirao Trek wasn’t just a vacation; it was a transformative custom trip that left us with personal realizations and a renewed sense of wonder.
So, whether you’re an actress seeking a break from the stage, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a unique and enriching experience, I highly recommend the Choquequirao Trek with Bamba Travel. It’s a blend of history, adventure, and beauty that will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish for a lifetime. After all, life is the grandest stage, and every journey is an act worth performing.
Check out the Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N itinerary from Bamba Travel.
Guest post written by Marcia Greene
When she’s not captivating audiences with her incredible performances, Marcia is off on thrilling adventures.
