Perú
Full day
Up to 18 Pax per vehicle
Cusco City
Level 2: Easy
Immerse yourself in a unique day of exploration that will take you to the mysterious archaeological complex of Waqrapukara. This full-day adventure allows you to choose between joining a group or enjoying a private experience. Get ready for an exciting hike as you uncover the fascinating remains of the ancient Inca civilization.
Admire breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Apurimac Canyon, as you dive into the history and culture of the region. With expert guides by your side, you’ll learn about the importance and meaning of this ancestral site. Add this unforgettable experience to your list of must-do adventures in Cusco.
● Scenic Breakfast Stop in Cusipata: Enjoy a fresh local breakfast before continuing through charming Andean villages on the way to the trailhead.
● Stop at Pomacanchi Lagoon: Visit a stunning high-altitude lake known for its cultural and ecological importance, surrounded by peaceful Andean landscapes.
● Hike to the “Horn-Shaped Fortress”: Embark on a scenic trek to Waqrapukara, an archaeological complex blending pre-Inca and Inca architecture on dramatic cliffs.
● Explore an Ancient Sanctuary: Discover the ceremonial and astronomical significance of this sacred site, believed to have served as an observatory or spiritual center.
● Panoramic Andes Views at 4,300 m: Reach breathtaking viewpoints overlooking valleys, canyons, and mountains — an unforgettable reward at the summit.
We’d love to hear from you and learn about your plans to explore Bolivia.
TRAVEL ACTIVITIES: Hiking | Cultural Adventure
TOUR TYPE: Shared group or Private tour
TOUR DURATION: Full day
TRAVEL STYLE: Standard
PHYSICAL RATING: Easy
STAR/FINISH CITY: Cusco City
● Pick-up Location: Hotel pick-up, only if located in the city center.
● Drop-off Location: Plateros Street (Cusco City Center)
TRANSPORT: Tourist van
GROUP SIZE: Up to 18 Pax per vehicle
AVAILABILITY: All year
DEPARTURES: Daily at 4:30 AM
LANGUAGE:
● Spanish
● English
Hike to Waqrapukara
Immerse yourself in a cultural hike to Waqrapukara.
Enjoy this tour privately or join a group of passionate travelers like you!
04:30 hrs: We will pick you up from your hotel, as long as it is located in the center of Cusco.
05:00 hrs: Departure from Cusco toward the town of Cusipata.
06:30 hrs: Breakfast in Cusipata.
07:00 hrs: Drive through the towns of Chuquicahuana and Acomayo.
08:00 hrs: Visit to Pomacanchi Lagoon.
08:30 hrs: Start of the hike from the community of La Rinconada or Santa Lucia.
11:30 hrs: Visit to the Waqrapukara Archaeological Complex (Sun Gate or Intipunku, main square, towers, terraces, enclosures, and ancient rock paintings).
12:30 hrs: Free time to take photos and enjoy a light snack.
13:00 hrs: Return hike to the town of Cusipata.
14:30 hrs: Lunch in Cusipata.
19:00 hrs: Arrival in Cusco.
Hike to Waqrapukara
We will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel or accommodation in the city of Cusco to begin our adventure to Waqrapukara, where we will explore this fascinating complex of the Inca civilization.
We’ll start our tour with a delicious breakfast in the town of Cusipata, and then continue through the picturesque towns of Chuquicahuana and Sangarara.
Next, we will visit the Pomacanchi Lagoon, located in the town of the same name. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 ft) above sea level and covering an area of around 2.5 square kilometers, this lagoon is known for its natural beauty and its cultural and ecological importance to the region.
Upon reaching Punta Carretera, we will begin our hike toward the Waqrapukara Archaeological Complex, also known as the “Horn-Shaped Fortress.” This impressive structure combines pre-Inca and Inca architectural elements and was built by the Qanchi civilization during the Inca period. Although many of its mysteries remain unsolved, it is believed to have served as a sanctuary or even an astronomical observatory.
At the end of the excursion, we will return to Cusco city center, with an estimated arrival around 7:00 p.m.
Altitudes:
Cusco: 3,350 m (10,990 ft)
Cusipata: 3,310 m (10,859 ft)
Pomacanchi Lagoon: 3,669 m (12,037 ft)
Waqrapukara: 4,300 m (14,107 ft)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Transportation: Cusco – Cusipata – Rinconada or Santa Lucia Community – Cusco
● English or Spanish – speaking local guide
● Pick-up from hotel (available only for hotels close to the city center)
● 01 Breakfast
● 01 Lunch
● Tourist transport
● Entrance to Waqrapukara
● Meals, except those mentioned.
● Flights.
● Extra expenses (such as tips or others).
● Travel insurance.
● Horse rental not included (can be hired directly).
● Trekking poles.
● Sleeping bag.
● Comfortable clothing
● Light jacket or raincoat (depending on the weather)
● Comfortable walking shoes
● Professional camera or a smartphone with good resolution to capture excellent photos.
● Hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun, rain, and cold.
● sunglasses, Sunscreen and/or moisturizer for face and body.
● Snacks: energy bars, chocolate, fruit, granola, or cookies.
● Your own medical kit with any special medication you may need, such as Sorojchi Pills (for altitude sickness) and blister protection.
● Cash in local currency, preferably in small bills and coins.
Private Hike to Waqrapukara (price per person):
● Private tour for 1 traveler: $ 120 USD per person
● Private tour for 2 travelers: $ 65 USD per person
● Private tour for 3 travelers: $ 50 USD per person
● Private tour for 4 travelers: $ 45 USD per person
● Private tour for 5 travelers: $ 40 USD per person
● Private tour for 6 travelers: $ 35 USD per person
Hike to Waqrapukara (No Tickets)
Shared tour without entrance fees. Price: $20 per person.
Need help or want to book a private tour?
Contact us via email or WhatsApp and our team will assist you.
1. What is the best time to visit Waqrapukara?
Waqrapukara can be visited all year round, but the best time is from April to October, when the dry season offers clear skies and excellent hiking conditions. During the rainy season (November to March), trails may be slippery, so extra caution is needed.
2. What important details should I know about the experience?
● This experience is offered as a shared service, meaning transportation will be shared with other travelers, up to a maximum of 12 passengers, all following the same itinerary. Private tours are also available. Contact us at info@nomadex.com to learn about private tour pricing.
● To ensure the itinerary is followed, a maximum tolerance of 15 minutes is allowed for the tour start.
● Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and you must return in the same seat you occupied at the beginning of the tour.
3. How far in advance can I make a reservation?
● Up to 6 months in advance, subject to availability (since entry to some attractions is limited).
● Up to 48 hours before the tour, subject to availability (only if you are already in Cusco). If you are traveling from another country, we recommend booking at least 30 days in advance, or 2 months in advance during high season.
4. Do I need to bring my identification for the tour?
Yes. All participants must carry a valid ID, foreigner card, or passport, since entrance tickets must be purchased physically on the day of the tour, presenting your ID at the ticket office of each attraction.
5. Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
The tour is recommended for adults and young travelers in good physical condition due to the altitude and hiking difficulty. Children over 8 years old may join with adult supervision. Seniors should consult with their doctor and consider altitude acclimatization before booking.
6. Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, lunch is included. We recommend bringing snacks and water.
7. Can I request a private tour for my group?
Yes, private tours are available. Contact us for pricing and arrangements.
8. What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a light jacket are recommended due to the varying weather conditions in Cusco.
9. How long does the Hike to Waqrapukara last?
The tour lasts approximately 12–13 hours, depending on traffic and time spent at each attraction.
