Waqrapukara Full Day Tour: The Ultimate Horn-Shaped Fortress Adventure
The Waqrapukara Full Day Tour is a unique adventure that takes you to one of the most impressive and lesser-known Inca sites in the Andes. Located above the dramatic Apurímac River Canyon, this archaeological complex is famous for its distinctive horn-shaped mountain peaks and spectacular natural scenery.
Surrounded by rugged landscapes, lagoons, and striking rock formations, Waqrapukara offers visitors a peaceful experience while exploring ancient terraces, stone stairways, and remarkable Inca architecture far from the crowds.
Itinerary at a Glance:
Full Day Tour: Cusco – Sangarará – Waqrapukara – Cusco.
Early morning hotel pick-up and scenic drive through the southern valleys to the starting point of the hike. From there, begin a moderate trek through beautiful Andean landscapes until reaching the impressive Waqrapukara archaeological site. After exploring the fortress and enjoying the views of the Apurímac canyon, return to Cusco in the afternoon.
Itinerary
This day it is necessary to leave early, at 5:00 a.m., for a bus ride to the district of Acomayo, until finally arriving at Cocha 4000m / 13123f, where the 2½ hour hike to Waqrapukara will begin. The geography is rugged with incredible natural rock formations and small lagoons, where you can observe the local wildlife such as condors, llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, wild horses and wild ducks.
During this hike we can observe a lot of flora and fauna typical of the area to reach our destination Waqrapukara, where we will have a guided tour visiting the following places: Intipunku (Sun Gate), main square, towers, terraces, enclosure of Wiracocha and cave paintings depicting llamas.
The archaeological complex is located winding along a rocky promontory, built around two horn-shaped mountain peaks, the site has eight Inca terraces with retaining walls and stone stairs.
It will take you three hours to hike back along an ancient road to the village of Waqui, before meeting your private bus that will take you back to the city of Cusco.
Includes
- Transfer by private bus round trip
- Bilingual private professional guide
- Box lunch
- First aid kit
- Walking sticks
Does not include
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Others not mentioned
Recommendations
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes or sneakers. You will be walking on uneven Inca stone steps.
- Sun Protection: The sun at high altitude is strong. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen.
- Clothing: Dress in layers. The weather in Cusco can change quickly, so carry a lightweight rain jacket or poncho.
- Documents: Bring your original Passport. It is often required to enter specific archaeological sites even with the ticket included.
- Hydration: Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and help with acclimatization.
- Cash: Small change (Soles) is useful for buying souvenirs or tipping.
Prices
- Price: Please contact us for private group rates.
- Student Discount: Available for students with a valid University ID (under 25) or teenagers under 17. (To Consult)
- Booking Process: A deposit is required to secure your Inca Trail permits, which are non-refundable and non-transferable.
More Info
What is Waqrapukara?
Who built Waqrapukara?
First, it was built by the Qanchi ethnic group in the period of the Auqarunas 1500 to 1000 BC. The current construction is from the Inca Period, it was made in the Inca Wayna Qhapaq period, with the intervention of architects of that government, also involved Qanchimachu and Ttito Q’osñipa.
Why did they turn it into a fortress?
Why in the time of the Auqarunas, there is already a need to form warrior men and places to defend the territory conquered by ethnicity and tribe. Not only to defend their territory and the leader. In pre-Inca and Inca times, these leaders were called curacas, and in the Colonial Era it was called Caciques. In the Purunrunas period there was no need for pucaras, because they lived in a place they wanted.
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Waqrapukara Full Day Tour: The Ultimate Horn-Shaped Fortress Adventure
Full Day of Adventure
$ 120.00
Per Person
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Quick Stats
Duration
Full Day of Adventure
Physical Rating
Moderate
Trip Type
Adventure and History
Team
Experienced Guide, Transportation
