Why Visit Choquequirao Instead of Machu Picchu? The Hidden Gem of the Andes
Why Visit Choquequirao? Choquequirao is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in Peru — yet only a small number of travelers ever get to see it. While Machu Picchu attracts thousands of visitors daily, its “sacred sister” remains tucked away deep in the Andes, accessible only to those willing to hike through dramatic canyons and mountain passes.
If you’re looking for a destination that offers authenticity, solitude, and a true sense of adventure, Choquequirao might actually be a better choice than Machu Picchu. Here’s why more travelers are starting to choose this hidden Inca city.
It’s One of the Least-Crowded Inca Sites in Peru
One of the biggest differences between Machu Picchu and Choquequirao is the number of visitors.
Machu Picchu: up to thousands of tourists every day
Choquequirao: often fewer than 50 people per day
This means:
quiet ruins
peaceful viewpoints
no waiting lines
no crowds blocking your photos
You can explore terraces, temples, and plazas at your own pace, with nothing but the sound of the wind and the mountains around you.
A Rewarding Challenge for Adventure Lovers
Reaching Choquequirao requires effort — and that’s part of what makes it special.
The trail involves:
descending into the deep Apurímac Canyon
crossing suspension bridges
climbing steep switchbacks
camping under Andean skies
Travelers often say the journey to Choquequirao is as memorable as the ruins themselves.
If you’re looking for a trek that truly feels like an expedition, this is the one.
A More Authentic, Untouched Experience
Unlike Machu Picchu, where nearly everything is accessible by train or bus, Choquequirao remains raw and untouched.
Here you’ll find:
archaeological zones still being excavated
farmland and native vegetation surrounding the ruins
original terraces stretching across the mountains
ancient staircases carved by the Incas
Walking through Choquequirao feels like stepping back in time before tourism existed.
Some of the Most Impressive Inca Engineering
Despite being less famous, Choquequirao is architecturally breathtaking. Highlights include:
✔ The House of the Llamas
Terraces decorated with white stone figures — completely unique in the Inca world.
✔ The Main Plaza
A ceremonial platform with stunning panoramic views.
✔ The Water Systems
Aqueducts and channels that still function during the rainy season.
✔ The Upper and Lower Sectors
Vast agricultural and ceremonial platforms built on steep slopes.
Many archaeologists believe that when Choquequirao is fully excavated, it may rival or even surpass Machu Picchu in scale.
Perfect for Travelers Seeking Peace, Nature, and Culture
In Choquequirao you won’t find restaurants, hotels, markets, or crowds.
Instead, you’ll experience:
star-filled skies
untouched Andean landscapes
the silence of the mountains
condors flying overhead
genuine interactions with local muleteers and families
It’s a truly immersive experience.
A Great Alternative (or Addition) to Machu Picchu
Many travelers visit Machu Picchu but leave wishing they had seen a more authentic version of the Inca world. Choquequirao delivers exactly that.
Whether you:
already visited Machu Picchu,
want something less touristy, or
want a deeper cultural and natural experience…
Choquequirao is the perfect complement.
Some trekkers even choose the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek, one of the most beautiful and challenging expeditions in South America.
So… Why Visit Choquequirao?
Because it offers something rare:
- A once-in-a-lifetime adventure
- A place untouched by mass tourism
- A deep connection with nature and Andean culture
- A true sense of exploration
If you want more than a typical tourist experience — if you want a journey — then Choquequirao is the destination for you.
Book here: Choquequiraro trek 5 days
Table of Contents
- 1 It’s One of the Least-Crowded Inca Sites in Peru
- 2 A Rewarding Challenge for Adventure Lovers
- 3 A More Authentic, Untouched Experience
- 4 Some of the Most Impressive Inca Engineering
- 5 Perfect for Travelers Seeking Peace, Nature, and Culture
- 6 A Great Alternative (or Addition) to Machu Picchu
- 7 Related Tours









