The Salkantay Route to Machu Picchu seems too short at 5 days so I chose to walk the 5 day Choquequirao walk as part of this Inca Trail trail trek.
After a few hour shuttle bus, along with 2 companions from Uruguay, we began the trek following a ridge and then descending steeply into a beautiful valley where the Rio Apurimec flowed below.
The first night had us camping along side the river.
A very steep ascent up the other side of the valley took its toll on us Day 2.
A pleasant evening before following the ridge to the Inca Ruins at Choquequirao.
The ruins were quite spectacular and without the massive crowds at Machu
The early morning fog heightened the experience.
They say there will be a tram built here in a few years making me glad I was here before the hoards of tourists.
The journey back down the valley. Fortunately we had some coca leaves to chew on for extra energy on the steep uphill.