Short Walks

Waqrapukara Cusco Tour – Full Day

Waqrapukara Cusco Tour, located in the Province of Acomayo, south of Cusco. Dare to live this adventure in a different way...

From

US$ 40.00

per person

4.9 +120
Waqrapukara Cusco Tour – Full Day

Waqrapukara Tour: Horn-shaped Fortress

  • Duration: Full day
  • Start: Cusco
  • Maximum altitude: 4,300 m.a.s.l.
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Guide: Spanish / English / Portuguese

Description

Waqrapukara, whose name in Quechua means "horn-shaped fortress," is an impressive archaeological site located atop a mountain in Acomayo, south of Cusco. This enigmatic construction combines pre-Inca and Inca architecture in a breathtaking natural setting: the Apurímac River canyon.

The Waqrapukara Tour not only takes you to discover a little-explored archaeological wonder, but also immerses you in an experience full of mysticism, biodiversity, and unique Andean landscapes. During the tour it is possible to spot birds such as hummingbirds, and observe wild animals such as deer, alpacas, or vizcachas. The hike is light and allows you to enjoy nature peacefully, ideal for travelers seeking culture, adventure, and connection with Pachamama.

Tour highlights

  • Waqrapukara Fortress: Stone structures with terraces, plazas, and a ceremonial double-jamb doorway.
  • Apurímac River Canyon: Impressive panoramic views from the archaeological site.
  • Local fauna: Observation of birds, deer, and alpacas in their natural habitat.
  • Andean landscapes: Rock formations and water bodies that enrich the experience.

Why choose this experience?

  • Unique and authentic adventure. Waqrapukara is a little-known destination that will take you to an ancient pre-Inca fortress, surrounded by impressive landscapes and lush nature.
  • Connection with history and culture. Explore an archaeological site of great historical and cultural relevance, where you can learn more about the civilizations that inhabited this region, such as the Qanchis and the Incas.
  • Easy and accessible hike. The route to Waqrapukara is light and suitable for all types of people, allowing you to enjoy nature without complications.
  • Panoramic views. From the top of Waqrapukara, you will enjoy spectacular views of the valley and rock formations that make this site a jewel of nature.
  • Diversity of flora and fauna. Throughout the tour, you can observe native species such as hummingbirds, deer, and alpacas, adding a complete experience of connection with nature.

Tour Description

WAQRAPUKARA CUSCO TOUR – FULL DAY The Waqrapukara Tour takes you to the province of Acomayo, south of Cusco. This Inca and pre-Inca fortress, once inhabited by the Qanchis ethnic group, features impressive architecture. The hike is light and allows you to enjoy a natural environment with birds, deer, alpacas, and rock formations, in a mystical and little-explored destination.

Things you should know about this tour

Inca Route to Waqrapukara – Trekking All Day

Explore ancient trails to Waqrapukara on a trek steeped in history and unique landscapes.

  • TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • Layered Clothing: Comfortable layered clothing (thermal, fleece, and windproof/waterproof). Mornings are cold but the hike is light.
  • Footwear: Comfortable sports shoes or light trekking sneakers with good grip. Special high-altitude boots are not required.
  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses with UV protection, cap or hat with visor.
  • Cash: Bring soles for entrance to Waqrapukara (S/10 for everyone), voluntary tips, and personal purchases.
  • Hydration: Water bottle of 1-2 liters. Staying hydrated is important during the hike.
  • Small Backpack: Light backpack of 15-20 liters to carry water, snacks, camera, and personal items for the day.
  • Camera or Cell Phone: Essential to capture the archaeological structures of Waqrapukara and the panoramic views of the Apurímac canyon. Bring extra battery.
  • Medications: If you are sensitive to altitude, bring altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills) as a precaution. Also personal medications.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures in the morning (5-10°C). During the day it can be sunny. Bring a warm jacket.
  • Documents: Original ID or Passport (mandatory) and cash in soles to pay entrance.
  • Acclimatization: Spend at least 1 day in Cusco before the tour. Drink coca tea and avoid excessive efforts the day before.
  • Physical Condition: No special physical preparation required. The hike is light (1h 30min) and easy, accessible for all ages.
  • Rainy Season: If traveling between November and March, bring a poncho or waterproof jacket. Trails may be wet.
  • Snacks: Optional to bring chocolates, dried fruits, or light snacks. The tour includes buffet breakfast and lunch (box lunch).
  • Binoculars (Optional): Binoculars for bird watching such as hummingbirds and local fauna.
  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  • Is previous high-altitude hiking experience necessary? No, this tour has an easy difficulty level and is accessible for all types of people. The hike is light (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes) and does not require previous trekking experience or great physical effort.
  • What does this tour include? It includes tourist transportation to/from your hotel in Cusco, certified professional guide (Spanish, English, Portuguese), buffet breakfast at a local restaurant, lunch (box lunch) outdoors, trekking poles, first aid kit, and oxygen cylinder.
  • What services are NOT included? The entrance to Waqrapukara (S/10 for all visitors), voluntary tips for guide and driver, dinner, or personal expenses are not included. The entrance is paid directly at the archaeological site.
  • How long does the tour last and what is the maximum altitude? The tour lasts 1 full day, approximately 13 hours. The maximum altitude is 4,300 m.a.s.l. at the Waqrapukara fortress. Pickup is between 04:00 and 04:30 a.m. and return to Cusco is around 05:00 p.m.
  • How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour? It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 day before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude. Although the altitude is not extreme and the hike is light, it is important to be slightly adapted to better enjoy the experience.
  • What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit the Waqrapukara fortress, an impressive pre-Inca and Inca archaeological site with stone structures, terraces, and a ceremonial door. You will enjoy panoramic views of the Apurímac River canyon, observation of local fauna such as hummingbirds, deer, alpacas, and vizcachas, and unique Andean landscapes with natural rock formations.
  • IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BOOKING
  • Total duration: 1 full day (approximately 13 hours).
  • Departure: Between 04:00 a.m. and 04:30 a.m. with pickup at your hotel in Cusco.
  • Maximum altitude: 4,300 m.a.s.l. (Waqrapukara Fortress).
  • Difficulty level: Easy (light hike of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes).
  • Documentation: It is mandatory to carry original ID or Passport.
  • Acclimatization: Recommended to spend at least 1 day in Cusco to adapt to the altitude.
  • Guide language: Spanish, English, and Portuguese according to availability.
  • Service type: Group or private with comfortable tourist transportation.
  • Meals: Buffet breakfast and lunch (box lunch) included.
  • Entrance fees: The entrance ticket to Waqrapukara (S/10) is NOT included and is paid on-site.
  • Restrictions: Accessible for all types of people. Does not require great physical effort.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures in the morning; bring warm and waterproof clothing.
  • Clothing: Comfortable layered clothing; trekking or sports shoes recommended.
  • End: Return to Cusco at approximately 05:00 p.m.

Explore ancient trails to Waqrapukara on a trek steeped in history and unique landscapes.

Sigue los antiguos caminos incas hasta la imponente fortaleza de Waqrapukara. Este mapa guía tu aventura por valles, miradores y paisajes que conectan historia y naturaleza.

Map of the Trek to Waqrapukara – Full Day Inca Route

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.

"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".

Shared Service
Price Book
Shared Service Price per traveler
$40.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$100.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$85.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$75.00 USD

Schedule office appointment

Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco

1 WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE?

  • Breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
  • No prior experience required
  • Safe activity: favorable topography and certified equipment
  • An exciting and different experience
  • Perfect for adventure, nature and unforgettable memories in Cusco
  • Horseback or trekking options
  • Daily departures all year round
  • Oxygen support and first-aid kit

2 WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

  • We are tour operators in Cusco
  • Professional and responsible work
  • 100% tourist vehicles
  • Safety for our visitors
  • Your trip will be the best experience
  • 100% responsible
  • Care for the environment
  • Commitment to service quality