Choquequirao Trek vs Salkantay Trek: Which One Should You Choose?
Table of Contents
Introduction
Peru is a dream destination for hiking lovers and adventurers looking for authentic experiences in the heart of the Andes. Beyond the famous Inca Trail, two incredible routes stand out: the Choquequirao Trek and the Salkantay Trek.
Both treks take you through breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude challenges, and cultural discoveries. But they are very different experiences. In this guide, we will compare Choquequirao Trek vs Salkantay Trek, so you can decide which one fits your time, fitness level, and travel goals.
Choquequirao Trek: The Hidden Inca City
What is Choquequirao?
Choquequirao, often called the sister city of Machu Picchu, is an Inca citadel located at 3,050 meters (10,000 ft) above sea level in the Apurímac region. Its name means “cradle of gold” in Quechua.
This archaeological complex is believed to have been a political, religious, and administrative hub during Inca times. It is three times larger than Machu Picchu, yet only about 40% has been excavated, making it a true hidden gem.
Trek Characteristics
Duration: 4 to 9 days depending on itinerary.
Difficulty: High – steep ascents and descents across deep canyons.
Scenery: Towering mountains, the Apurímac Canyon, cloud forests, and remote valleys.
Main highlight: The archaeological site of Choquequirao, only accessible on foot.
The Experience
The Choquequirao Trek is a journey for adventurers who want solitude, mystery, and an authentic Inca discovery. Unlike Machu Picchu, which receives thousands of visitors per day, Choquequirao is nearly empty, giving you the chance to wander its terraces, plazas, and temples in silence.
Salkantay Trek: The Route to the Sacred Mountain
What is Salkantay?
The Salkantay Trek is one of the most popular alternatives to the Inca Trail. It takes its name from the snowcapped Salkantay Mountain (6,271 meters / 20,574 ft), considered sacred by the Incas.
Trek Characteristics
Duration: 4 to 5 days.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Scenery: Glaciers, turquoise lagoons, cloud forests, coffee plantations, and lush jungle.
Main highlight: Crossing the Salkantay Pass at 4,600 meters (15,091 ft) and finishing at Machu Picchu.
The Experience
The Salkantay Trek is the perfect mix of natural diversity and adventure. It is a great choice for those who want to experience multiple climates and landscapes in a short amount of time. The trek ends with a magical visit to Machu Picchu, making it one of the most rewarding routes in Peru.
Choquequirao Trek vs Salkantay Trek: A Detailed Comparison
Duration and Distance
Choquequirao Trek: 4–9 days, with daily hikes up to 25 km.
Salkantay Trek: 4–5 days, with daily hikes of 10–20 km.
If you have limited time, Salkantay is the better option. If you want a long and demanding expedition, choose Choquequirao.
Difficulty Level
Choquequirao Trek: Very challenging. The descent to the Apurímac River followed by a steep climb is considered one of the toughest hikes in Peru.
Salkantay Trek: Also challenging, but less extreme. The high-altitude pass is tough, but the rest is more manageable.
Choquequirao is for experienced trekkers. Salkantay is suitable for those with a good fitness level but not necessarily experts.
Landscapes and Nature
Choquequirao: Remote mountains, dramatic canyons, untouched wilderness.
Salkantay: More variety: snowcapped peaks, alpine lakes, lush jungle, waterfalls.
For raw, isolated beauty choose Choquequirao. For diverse ecosystems, Salkantay wins.
Archaeological Highlights
Choquequirao: The trek’s highlight is the citadel itself, a massive Inca site hidden deep in the Andes.
Salkantay: Few ruins on the way, but the ultimate reward is Machu Picchu.
If your passion is Inca history and archaeology, Choquequirao is unbeatable.
Tourist Crowds
Choquequirao: Almost empty, with only a handful of trekkers per day.
Salkantay: Much more popular, but still less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail.
For solitude, choose Choquequirao. For a social and lively trek, choose Salkantay.
Access and Logistics
Choquequirao: Starts from the village of Cachora (Apurímac). No direct connection to Machu Picchu.
Salkantay: Starts near Cusco, ends in Aguas Calientes (the base town of Machu Picchu).
If Machu Picchu is your goal, Salkantay is the more practical choice.
Comparison Table: Choquequirao Trek vs Salkantay Trek
| Aspect | Choquequirao Trek | Salkantay Trek |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4–9 days | 4–5 days |
| Difficulty | Very high | Moderate to high |
| Scenery | Canyons, remote mountains | Glaciers, lakes, jungle |
| Archaeological Sites | Choquequirao ruins | Machu Picchu |
| Tourist Numbers | Very low | Moderate |
| Access | Remote, from Apurímac | Easy, near Cusco |
| Experience | Solitude, history | Nature diversity, Machu Picchu |
Which One Should You Choose?
Go for Choquequirao Trek if:
You are passionate about Inca history and want to explore a massive site with almost no tourists.
You want a tough challenge and have several days available.
You enjoy isolation and immersion in remote landscapes.
Go for Salkantay Trek if:
You want diverse landscapes: snowy peaks, cloud forests, and jungle.
You want to finish your adventure at Machu Picchu.
You prefer a trek with easier logistics and moderate difficulty.
Practical Tips for Both Treks
Acclimatize: Spend 2–3 days in Cusco before trekking to adapt to the altitude.
Gear: Good hiking boots, layers of warm clothing, rain poncho, backpack, trekking poles.
Hydration: Carry water and high-energy snacks.
Guide/Agency: Highly recommended for safety and organization.
Respect nature: Leave no trash and honor the Andean environment.
Best Time to Hike Choquequirao or Salkantay
The dry season (May to September) is the best time for both treks. Days are sunny, with clear skies and safer trails. The rainy season (November to March) makes trails muddy and slippery, but also greener and less crowded.
Estimated Costs
Choquequirao Trek: Around $500–$900 depending on duration and agency.
Salkantay Trek: Around $400–$800 for 4–5 days, usually including Machu Picchu entrance.
Finally
When comparing Choquequirao Trek vs Salkantay Trek, the choice depends on your goals.
If you want solitude, archaeology, and a raw adventure, Choquequirao Trek is your best option.
If you want diverse landscapes and the iconic finish at Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek is ideal.
Both routes are life-changing experiences that allow you to connect with the majesty of the Andes and the spirit of the Inca civilization.
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