The most extraordinary thing at Choquequirao is on its western flank, well below the main plaza: a flight of steep agricultural terraces whose dark stone walls are decorated with llamas picked out in white stone. Counts vary, but there are more than twenty of them, walking in procession across the terraces, together with a human figure often interpreted as a herder.
Nothing quite like it is known anywhere else in Inca architecture. The figures were uncovered from the vegetation in the early 2000s and are usually linked to the importance of llamas — for transport, wool, meat and sacrifice — in Inca religion and economy. Seeing them costs you a steep descent and an even steeper climb back, which is exactly why so few people do.
Top things to do at The Llama Terraces
Walk down the terraces
A path descends from near the main sector through the terraces; the llamas are best seen from the viewing points alongside and below them. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, including the climb back.
Photograph them in the right light
The white llamas stand out best in soft, even light — early morning or when there is high cloud. Harsh midday sun flattens the contrast.
Combine with the lower sectors
With a full day at Choquequirao you can pair the llama terraces with the lower buildings and water channels on the same side of the ridge before climbing back to camp.
How to get to The Llama Terraces
- From the main plaza: a steep descent on the western side of the site, signposted from the main sector. Ask the site guards for the current path if unsure.
- To Choquequirao itself: only on foot, over two days from Capuliyoc — see the trek guide.
- On a five-day trek: the extra day at the site is what makes the llama terraces realistic — compare five-day treks.
Insider tips
- Do not attempt the terraces late in the afternoon of a four-day trek if you are already tired; the climb back is long.
- Carry water and a snack — there are no facilities below the main sector.
- Stay on the paths and do not walk on the terrace walls themselves.
- Trekking poles are a great help on the steep steps.
Best treks & tours for The Llama Terraces
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see The Llama Terraces:
Trek from US$798 Choquequirao: 5-Day Trek to the Lost City of the Incas
The better way to do Choquequirao: five days, so that one of them is spent entirely at the site — the plazas, the ceremonial platform, the water channels and the famous terraces decorated with white-stone llamas.
- A full day to explore Choquequirao
- Time to reach the llama terraces
- Gentler daily stages than the 4-day trek
Trek from US$430 Choquequirao: The Enigmatic Lost Inca City — 5 Days with Cabins
A five-day itinerary priced like most four-day treks, with cabins instead of tents on some nights. A comfortable way to take the slower, more rewarding pace at Choquequirao.
- Five days for roughly the price of four
- Cabin nights on part of the route
- Extra time at the ruins
