CHONTA CUSCO HIKE

Pick-up from the lobby of your hotel. We leave Cusco by private transport at 8:00 am. and travel through the highlands of Anta towards the Northwest. After passing the pass of Willque we descend into the beautiful Limatambo valley and on most days, we may enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Salkantay, the second highest Apu of the region (6272 m). Near Limatambo town we take a well-preserved dirt road up to the picturesque highland hamlet of Chonta. Time permitting, we shall briefly visit the local school that benefits from our tours through the donation of materials, before starting our two-hour trek (moderate difficulty). With a little luck we may spot typical highland birds on the way (sometimes even parrots can be seen), whilst appreciating the pretty flora and the spectacular scenery as we approach the canyon.

A short hike downhill will take us to the viewpoint in time for a delicious picnic lunch. We shall stay at this marvelous spot for 2-3 hours in order to wait for the Andean condors to soar upwards, being transported by thermal winds. This is an unforgettable birding experience and a highlight for every nature enthusiast! in the early afternoon we start our hike back to Chonta. On the way, we shall visit the archaeological Inka complex of Tarawasi and the mysterious ceremonial site of Killarumiyoq where we shall enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our journey to Cusco where we shall arrive in the afternoon.