High in the Vilcabamba mountains lies Choquequirao, a remote Inca citadel often called Machu Picchu’s sister site—not because it mimics the famous wonder, but because it shares its majesty, mystery, and architectural genius. Unlike Machu Picchu, however, Choquequirao remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Only those willing to tackle its challenging multi-day trek experience its terraces, temples, and sweeping Andean landscapes in near solitude.
Choquequirao, meaning “Cradle of Gold,” is believed to have been a major ceremonial center and possibly one of the last strongholds of the Neo-Inca resistance. Today, it stands as one of the greatest archaeological secrets of the Andes.
A Hidden Inca Gem in the Vilcabamba Range
Choquequirao sits over 3,000 meters above sea level, spread across several mountain spurs connected by dramatic terraces. The site’s remote location—reachable only by a steep, challenging 4-day trek—has kept it remarkably preserved.
Hikers who reach the top discover:
- Enormous stepped terraces carved into the mountainside
- Ceremonial plazas aligned with sacred peaks
- Irrigation channels and water shrines
- Llamas carved in white stone decorating terrace walls
- Panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Apurímac Canyon
The sheer scale of Choquequirao continues to surprise archaeologists; in fact, only 30–40% of it is fully excavated.
A Royal Estate or a Refuge of the Resistance?
Scholars believe Choquequirao served multiple roles during its occupation, similar to other major Inca sites.
1. A Ceremonial and Administrative Center
Its temples, sun platforms, and ritual terraces suggest that Choquequirao played a major spiritual role connected to nearby sacred mountains.
2. A Royal Estate Tied to Pachacuti
Like Machu Picchu, it may have been built under the reign of Pachacuti, the emperor credited with transforming the Inca Empire.
3. A Last Refuge for the Neo-Inca State
During the Spanish conquest, Inca rebels—including Manco Inca—reportedly used Choquequirao as a vantage point and safe zone before retreating deeper into Vilcabamba.
This makes the site part of the dramatic story of the final Inca resistance.
This makes the site part of the dramatic story of the final Inca resistance.
Why Choquequirao Feels More Enigmatic Than Machu Picchu
While Machu Picchu is celebrated worldwide, Choquequirao offers something uniquely compelling: tranquility. Visitors often find themselves alone among giant terraces and ancient temples, surrounded only by clouds, condors, and the silence of the mountains.
The site provides:
- a more immersive archaeological experience
- a physical challenge rewarding with unmatched views
- an opportunity to see an Inca city still emerging from the forest
- an atmosphere that feels like stepping back into the 15th century
For many travelers, Choquequirao is what Machu Picchu must have felt like before its global fame.
A Future Icon of Andean Archaeology
With ongoing excavations and proposals for a cable car in development, Choquequirao may soon transform from a hidden treasure to one of Peru’s major archaeological destinations. But for now, the Lost City remains an unforgettable journey for those seeking adventure, history, and unspoiled Andean beauty.
Whether you’re drawn by its role in Inca history or the thrill of reaching an isolated citadel, Choquequirao is a place where the past still whispers across the mountains.
