After a Belmond trip that exceeded all expectations on how to do a luxury travel trip to Peru compared to my last mission there delivering school supplies to children and playing soccer with the local Cusco Villagers I discovered the next big thing in Peru called Choquequirao Archaeological Park which takes 2 days to hike to and a future gondola is being built for faster access.
Choquequirao Archaeological Park, often referred to as the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, is rapidly emerging as Peru’s next must-see tourist destination. While Machu Picchu remains the crown jewel of Peruvian tourism, Choquequirao offers visitors a chance to experience a similar grandeur with a fraction of the crowds, while also discovering an even more secluded and untouched archaeological treasure.
Why Choquequirao Is Set to Become Peru’s Second Biggest Tourist Destination
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Size and Significance: Choquequirao covers nearly twice the area of Machu Picchu, making it one of the largest Inca complexes in Peru. Its vast network of terraces, ceremonial spaces, and agricultural areas highlight the advanced engineering and agricultural practices of the Incas. Yet, despite its significance, much of Choquequirao remains uncovered and less explored, giving it an air of mystery that draws the more adventurous traveler.
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Untouched Beauty: While Machu Picchu is well-preserved, Choquequirao is often described as more “raw.” Perched high above the Apurímac River and surrounded by steep valleys, the park offers an unmatched scenic beauty. The ruins are nestled among dense cloud forests, providing a backdrop that is both serene and awe-inspiring.
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Fewer Crowds, More Exploration: With Machu Picchu attracting millions of visitors annually, Choquequirao offers a quieter, more immersive experience. The remote location and challenging hike to the site mean fewer tourists, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature and history.
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The Planned Cable Car: What truly sets Choquequirao apart in its race to become Peru’s second-biggest tourist draw is the government’s plan to install a cable car system. The project, set to be completed in the near future, will make the site much more accessible. Currently, reaching Choquequirao requires a two-day hike, deterring many visitors. The cable car, however, will cut the travel time dramatically, potentially boosting annual visitor numbers from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands.
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Rich History and Cultural Heritage: Like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao was an important religious, political, and agricultural center for the Incas. It is believed that the city was a stronghold for Inca resistance against the Spanish conquerors. The terraces and structures that remain offer glimpses into the spiritual and practical lives of its former inhabitants. Excavations have revealed intricate stonework, sacred plazas, and temples that echo the grandeur of Machu Picchu.
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Sustainable Tourism Potential: As Choquequirao grows in popularity, there are concerted efforts to ensure the site is protected. This means that, even as visitor numbers increase, there will likely be sustainable tourism initiatives in place to prevent overcrowding and environmental damage.
What to See at Choquequirao
- Main Plaza: Much like Machu Picchu, Choquequirao has a central plaza, surrounded by ceremonial and residential buildings. This space was likely used for religious ceremonies and communal gatherings.
- Terraces: The terraces of Choquequirao are not only agricultural feats but also home to impressive stone carvings, such as those of llamas, which are unique to this site. These carvings were possibly symbols of fertility and abundance.
- Temple of the Sun: A hallmark of Inca architecture, the Temple of the Sun at Choquequirao is believed to have been a site for celestial observation and rituals dedicated to the sun god, Inti.
- Apurímac River Views: The park offers breathtaking views of the Apurímac River, which flows in the canyon far below. The contrast between the steep cliffs, verdant landscapes, and the ancient ruins creates a dramatic and unforgettable panorama.
The Adventure to Get There
While the upcoming cable car will make Choquequirao more accessible, for now, the journey is a major part of the allure. Most visitors who make the trek enjoy a multi-day hiking experience that immerses them in the diverse ecosystems of the Peruvian Andes. The path is challenging but rewards hikers with sweeping views of mountain ranges, deep valleys, and cloud forests.
This Will Bring People Back Who Used To Visit Once for Machu Pichu
Choquequirao is poised to become Peru's next major tourist attraction, offering visitors an authentic, quieter alternative to Machu Picchu. With its incredible size, historical significance, and natural beauty, along with the planned cable car, the site will soon be a must-see for those interested in Peru’s rich cultural heritage. As this lost treasure becomes more accessible, it is only a matter of time before Choquequirao takes its place as a premier destination for history enthusiasts, hikers, and adventure seekers alike.
