Tour to Waqrapukara | Impressive Inca Fortress |

Waqrapukara Tour Itinerary

1. Pickup from your hotel in Cusco

The tour begins with early pickup from your hotel, located in the historic center of Cusco. Private transportation provides the necessary safety measures. A brief introduction to the itinerary is provided by the guide.

2. Transfer by shuttle to the community of Campi or Rinconada

The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. You travel along the Cusco-Urcos-Pomacanchi-Sangarara highway until you reach Santa Lucía, from where you take a detour to the community of Campi or Rinconada. During the journey, you will appreciate high Andean landscapes, lagoons, agricultural terraces, and traditional villages.

3. Andean Breakfast in the Community

Upon arrival at the community, travelers enjoy a traditional breakfast prepared by a local family: coca or muña tea, homemade bread, cooked quinoa, free-range eggs, and fruit. This light and energizing meal prepares the body for the physical effort.

4. Hike to Waqrapukara

Start of the hike along ancestral trails. The chosen route will depend on the group’s physical condition:

• Short Route (Rinconada): 3.5 km one way. 1.5 to 2 hours trek. Moderate gradient.
• Long Route (Campi): 7.5 km one way. 3 to 3.5 hours trek. Varied terrain with steep climbs and flat sections.

During the hike, the guide will explain aspects of the local flora and fauna, geological formations, ancestral customs, and the Andean worldview. The landscape is dominated by moors, rock formations, and the impressive Apurímac Canyon.

5. Guided Tour of Waqrapukara

Arrival at the Waqrapukara sanctuary. Your guide will lead a tour of the complex’s most important sites:

• Ceremonial Towers
• Inca Stairways
• Trekking Platforms and Viewpoints
• Stone Enclosures

The site’s ritual, astronomical, and strategic functions will be explained, as well as its history linked to the Qanchis and the Inca Empire. Free time to explore, rest, take photos, and absorb the site’s energy.

6. Box Lunch

A lunch will be served that includes:

• Andean Sandwich
  Fresh Fruit
  Cereal Bar
  Natural Juice

7. Return Hike

Descend to the starting point of the hike. The return hike is usually faster and less strenuous, but a steady pace and short breaks are recommended. Stops are made to observe the landscape and take photographs.

8. Return to Cusco by private transportation

From Rinconada or Campi, the return trip to Cusco begins. During the journey, passengers can rest. The guide concludes the tour, answering questions and sharing insights.

9. Arrival and transfer to the hotel

The transportation drops passengers off at their hotel in Cusco, concluding the tour.

Included in the Waqrapukara tour:

• Round-trip tourist transportation
• Professional bilingual guide
• Breakfast and lunch
• Trekking poles (optional)
• First aid kit and oxygen

Not included in the Waqrapukara tour:

• Dinner
• Travel insurance
• Additional drinks or snacks not mentioned
• Tips (optional)

Recommendations for the Waqrapukara tour:

Previous acclimatization in Cusco

• Since the highest point of the route exceeds 4,000 m above sea level, it is essential to have spent at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to properly acclimatize and prevent altitude sickness (soroche).

Moderate physical condition:

• The trek is of intermediate difficulty, with challenging ascent sections. Recommended for people in good physical condition and accustomed to long hikes. Not recommended for people with heart conditions or respiratory problems.

Appropriate Clothing

Wear comfortable, breathable, layered hiking clothing, including:

• Hiking or athletic pants.
• Long-sleeved, windproof shirt.
• Waterproof jacket and coat for the cold (mornings and evenings are chilly).
• Sun hat and thermal hat for the cold.
• Wear hiking boots or sneakers with non-slip soles.

What to Bring

• High-protection sunscreen.
• Sunglasses with UV filter.
• Raincoat or rain poncho, especially during the wet season (November to March).
• Bring at least 1.5 liters of water per person (ideally in a reusable bottle).
• Bring energy snacks such as nuts, cereal bars, chocolate, or dried fruit.

Suggested Additional Equipment

• Camera or cell phone with a charged battery and storage space.
• Portable charger or power bank.
• Trekking poles (optional, but useful for stability and descent).

Cash (small amounts)

• Bring some cash in case you want to buy handicrafts, local snacks, or give tips. There are no ATMs or electronic signage in the area.

Respect the natural and cultural environment

• Do not leave trash or extract local flora or fauna.
• Respect the signs and established trails.
• Avoid climbing or touching archaeological structures to preserve their integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Waqrapukara Tour

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The Waqrapukara Trek is of moderate difficulty, ideal for people with reasonable physical condition and basic hiking experience. The route includes uphill sections with steep slopes and walking at altitude. Although you don’t need to be a professional hiker, it is important to be prepared to hike for 2 to 3 hours at over 3,800 meters above sea level.

2. Is it necessary to acclimatize before the tour?

Yes. It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 1 or 2 days before the tour to facilitate altitude acclimatization and prevent altitude sickness (soroche). During the tour, altitudes of up to 4,300 meters above sea level are reached, so proper adaptation considerably enhances the experience.

3. How long is the total tour?

The tour lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours, departing very early from Cusco (around 4:00 a.m.) and returning in the afternoon. This includes ground transportation (round trip), guided hike, breaks, meals, and time to explore the Waqrapukara archaeological complex.

4. What is the best time to take this tour?

The tour is available year-round, but the best time is during the dry season: from April to October, when the skies are clearer and the weather is more stable. November to March is the rainy season, so it can be foggy and the terrain can become slippery, although the landscape becomes greener.

5. Can children or seniors participate?

This tour is aimed at people over 12 years of age in good health. It is not recommended for young children, people with respiratory or heart problems, or people with reduced mobility, due to the altitude and the physical demands of the trek.

Waqrapukara Tour is one of the most popular destinations in Cusco, Peru. We currently offer daily tours to this impressive mountain.

Adult: $60 per adult

Student: $60 per adult