Cusco, August 23, 2023 – Award-winning, Indigenous owned and operated Tour Specialist Alpaca Expeditions, is recognized as the leading and most experienced tour operator in Peru. For over a decade, this purpose-driven company has guided thousands of travellers on the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and far beyond. As travellers’ needs and interests are shifting, Alpaca Expeditions invites intrepid adventurers to explore and indulge in the rich culture, history and natural beauty of two extraordinary alternative trails - Choquequirao and Salkantay - before they reap the world’s attention they deserve.
The Choquequirao Trail, nestled in the Vilcabamba Mountains, takes travellers to remote ancient ruins known as “The Last Refuge of the Incas.” These awe-inspiring ruins stand as a testament to the Incas ‘strength and resilience, as they were their refuge to escape from the Spanish. Choquequirao means “Cradle of Gold”, and the Choquequirao ruins are considered the Sister City of Machu Picchu. These ruins, at 1,800 hectares, are 30-40% evacuated and larger than the ruins of Machu Picchu. The Choquequirao Trek is considered one of the most challenging hikes in the Cusco region. Travellers joining the 5-day trek experience a rewarding journey both physically and spiritually.
The Salkantay Trek is another alternative trekking journey. Hikers visit the enchanting Humantay Blue Lagoon and Alpaca Expeditions’ out-of-the-ordinary accommodation offerings, including glass cabanas with panoramic views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain range and Lord of the Rings inspired Hobbit Houses exclusive to Alpaca Expeditions. Hot tubs, showers, and a nearby glacial fed river complement the mystical Hobbit House experience. An exclusive campsite overlooking the ruins of Machu Picchu at Llactapata is also on this trip.
Also considered one of the world’s best treks, the Salkantay Trek travels through Peru’s diverse ecosystems; from alpine to semi-tropical to tropical. Alpaca Expeditions’ experienced local guides lead the trekking excursion with deep knowledge and pride in their Inca history and natural beauty.
Both the Choquequirao and Salkantay trails offer great escapes in significantly less crowded locations that aren’t subject to government regulations or permits, making them much easier to reserve. Alpaca Expeditions goes the extra mile to assist its guests with all trip logistics and in securing the limited permits needed for Inca Trail treks.
Alpaca Expeditions’ operates a wide range of hiking tours in the Peruvian Andes to Machu Picchu and sightseeing tours in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Alpaca Expeditions’ rates are extremely competitive within the industry.
Alpaca Expeditions operates two guided trekking excursions on the Choquequirao Trail:
The Choquequiaro Trek - 5 days/ 4 nights priced at $700 USD per person.
The Choquequirao and Machu Picchu Trek- 6 days/ 5 nights that combines both historic Inca sites in one trip. This popular journey is $825 USD per person. Both tours are offered as group departures for up to 16 people and as private tours.
The company operates two popular trekking excursions on the Salkankay - The Classic Salkankay Trek -5 days/ 5 nights priced at $650 USD per person and The Inca Trail Plus Salkantay Trek - 7 days/6 nights. The combo Inca Trail and Salkantay is a best seller multi-day excursion for only $1,150 USD per person, for the weeklong adventure. Both tours are offered as group departures for groups up to 16 people and as private tours.
For more information see: Alpaca Expeditions, Choquequirao Treks and Salkantay Treks