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Choquequirao: Una Joya Arqueológica Oculta

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In 1834, the Frenchman Eugène de Sartiges discovered the ruins of Choquequirao. When the American explorer Hiram Bingham searched for remains 67 years later, he passed near Choquequirao but did not see it. Instead, he found what would make him famous: Machu Picchu.

Choquequirao is now considered Peru's new archaeological wonder. According to archaeologists, it is the "new Machu Picchu," at least in terms of its importance. What is certain is that it is one of the country's new archaeological and cultural gems.

Choquequirao, which means "cradle of gold" in Quechua, is located in the province of La Convención, in the department of Cusco, at an altitude of 1500 meters. Some believe that Choquequirao was an economic enclave that connected the forest with important cities like Machu Picchu and Pisac. Comprising nine sectors, such as the politico-religious center, the system of fountains and canals with aqueducts, and the façade sector, only 30% of the citadel has been excavated.

The traveler can visit this part with significant effort. Indeed, the area is not yet a major tourist destination like Machu Picchu, and access is long and difficult. However, for those brave enough to explore this new gem, the journey is accompanied by discoveries of local flora and fauna, such as the Michi-Michi orchid (Cypalla Herrerae) or the Wkanki (Masdevalia Veitchiana).

The route to reach Choquequirao is as follows:

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