The Choquequirao complex as seen from the mountain above, at over 3,000 meters above sea level. The top two levels are apparent here. The lower levels are a good walk to either side of the mountain. In the top part of the photograph, the red blur is a butterfly. Throughout the entire five days I spent in and around Choquequirao, butterflies seemed to accompany me on the trail.

The Incas were very particular in where they built their sacred places, including both landscape and astrology in their choices. Choquequirao is not only a sacred Apu, or mountain light being, but it is also located in the cross-section between mountain and jungle. It is referred to as the “sacred sister” city of Machu Picchu, the famous lost city of the Incas. It was a place of political and spiritual importance, and one of the last fortresses the Incas used against the Spanish invaders.