As a pilot, I’m used to soaring through the skies, but every now and then, I crave a different kind of adventure, one that takes me off the beaten path and closer to the heart of nature and culture. That’s why I recently embarked on the Choquequirao Trek in Peru with a small group tour organized by Bamba Travel.
From the moment we set foot on the trail to the awe-inspiring moments at Choquequirao, every step of the journey left me in awe. Here’s a glimpse into my unforgettable experience.
Day 1: Cuzco-Chicquisqa, Peru
Our journey began before the break of dawn as we departed Cuzco in the early hours. With anticipation building, we made our way to the archaeological site of Saywite, a fascinating prelude to the adventure ahead.
Descending to the mountain village of Cachora, we had a chance to stock up on supplies, preparing for the trek ahead. Lunch fueled us for the next leg of our journey, a two-hour hike to Capuliyoc, where the majestic vistas of the Apurimac valley greeted us, setting the tone for the adventure that lay ahead.
Day 2: Chicquisqa-Choquequirao
The second day brought with it both challenges and rewards as we embarked on a steep climb from Playa Rosalinas to Santa Rosa. Along the way, the mighty Apurimac River accompanied our ascent, providing a dramatic backdrop to our journey.
As we reached Marampata, a plateau offering panoramic views of Choquequirao, we paused to catch our breath and soak in the splendor. The final stretch led us to the archaeological site itself, where the ruins whispered tales of ancient civilizations, and the sight of condors soaring overhead added a touch of magic to our evening.
Day 3: Choquequirao-Santa Rosa
With a day dedicated to exploring the wonders of Choquequirao, we delved deeper into its secrets, marveling at the intricate architecture and imagining life in centuries past.
The morning offered moments of quiet reflection, while the afternoon saw us tracing the edge of the Apurimac canyon, descending to our tropical campsite at Santa Rosa. Each step brought us closer to nature, forging bonds with the landscape and each other.
Day 4: Santa Rosa-Cuzco, Peru
As our adventure drew to a close, we bid farewell to Santa Rosa and began our ascent back to Cachora village. The arduous climb was tempered by the promise of breathtaking views, a fitting finale to our trek.
With each step homeward, we carried memories of our journey, etched in the rugged terrain and shared experiences. As we reached Cuzco once more, weary but fulfilled, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the unforgettable adventure made possible by Bamba Travel.
Final Word
The Choquequirao Trek was more than just a physical journey; it was a voyage of discovery, friendship, and resilience. From the challenging trails to the moments of awe-inspiring beauty, every aspect of the adventure left its mark on me.
I’m immensely grateful to Bamba Travel for crafting an affordable yet enriching experience, and to our local travel expert whose expertise ensured smooth sailing throughout our journey. I’ll be recommending this trek to my colleagues with the highest praise, knowing that it promises an adventure of a lifetime.
Check out Bamba Travel’s free Choquequirao Trek itinerary below:
Guest post written by Ricky Trust
Meet Pilot Ricky Trust, a man of the skies who finds as much joy in sharing his adventures through the written word as he does in navigating the clouds. From the cockpit to the page, Ricky’s passion for travel knows no bounds.
