DESCRIPTION
The Waqrapukara 2-Day Tour invites you to explore one of Cusco’s best-kept secrets: an Inca fortress nestled among sacred mountains and breathtaking landscapes. This trek combines adventure, history, and spiritual connection, offering an authentic experience for those seeking to discover the heart of the Andean world far from traditional routes. Sleeping under the stars, walking along ancient paths, and feeling the energy of the Apus make this trip a deeply transformative experience.
Over two days, you’ll experience a journey filled with vibrant nature, stone temples, and ancient legends. From the warmth of the local communities to the imposing structure of Waqrapukara, every step will connect you with the Inca worldview.
ITINERARY
📍Day 1 – Cusco – Santa Lucía – Base Camp
🚐 Pickup in Cusco and Departure
We begin the adventure early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We leave the imperial city behind to delve into the high Andean landscapes of southern Cusco, where the mountains merge with the sky and the valleys seem eternal.
🍞 Andean Breakfast in Cusipata
After approximately 2 hours of travel, we arrive at the town of Cusipata, where we will enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast with mountain bread, eggs, homemade jams, and coca tea or muña tea, perfect for acclimatizing to the altitude and starting the day with energy.
🏞️ Route to Sangarará and Santa Lucía
We continue by road to Sangarará, a historic town linked to the rebellion of Túpac Amaru II. From here, we detour to the Santa Lucía sector, the starting point of the trek. During the journey, the guide will share information about local traditions and the cultural significance of the area.
🥾 Start of the trek to the campsite
We begin an acclimatization hike along less-traveled trails. Along the way, we will admire the landscapes of the Apurímac River canyon, natural rock formations, and Inca terraces hidden among the vegetation.
🍲 Lunch and arrival at base camp
After a few hours of hiking, we arrive at the campsite, located in a serene natural setting with views of the deep valleys. Our team will be waiting for us with a hot lunch prepared on-site, ideal for recharging our batteries.
🌅 Free afternoon and optional hike to the viewpoint
During the afternoon, you can rest or take an optional hike to a nearby viewpoint, from where you can admire the landscapes of the Apurímac and the mountains that frame the horizon.
🍛 Dinner and overnight stay under the stars
We will enjoy a comforting dinner under the starry sky of the Andes. We will sleep in comfortable tents with thermal insulation and sleeping bags, surrounded by nature and the murmur of the Andean wind.
📍Day 2 – Santa Lucía – Waqrapukara – Cusco
🌄 Andean breakfast and awakening
We wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the mountains. We share an energetic breakfast with coffee or hot infusions, while the sun illuminates the Apurimac landscapes.
🥾 Trekking to Waqrapukara (2–3 hours)
We begin the ascent to Waqrapukara, following ancient Inca trails that wind through cliffs and grasslands. During the hike, we will enjoy panoramic views of the Apurimac River canyon and impressive geological formations that announce the proximity of the archaeological site.
🏛️ Arrival at the Inca fortress of Waqrapukara
Upon arrival, we are greeted by the imposing ceremonial fortress of Waqrapukara, whose name means “fortress with horns.” This archaeological site, located on a mountain at over 4,000 meters above sea level, combines Inca architecture and sacred natural settings.
We will explore its terraces, ritual precincts, plazas, and viewpoints, while the guide explains its religious, astronomical, and military role within the Inca Empire.
📸 Free time and spiritual connection
Enjoy the site at your own pace. Take a moment to photograph the landscape, meditate, or simply contemplate the energy emanating from this ancestral sanctuary. From here, the views of the canyon are truly breathtaking.
🥘 Lunch en route or at camp
During the return journey, we will pause to enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by our team, depending on the group’s pace.
🚐 Return to Cusco
We conclude our trek by descending toward Santa Lucía, where our tourist transportation awaits us. We begin the return trip to Cusco, arriving in the historic center around dusk.
INCLUDES
✅Includes
🚐 Round-trip tourist transportation: Modern and safe tourist vehicle from Cusco to the trekking starting point (Santa Lucía) and back to the city.
🍽️ All-inclusive meals:
Day 1: Breakfast in Cusipata, lunch and dinner at camp.
Day 2: Breakfast and lunch on the trail or at camp.
🧗 Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English): Specialized in high-altitude treksinca history and culture.
🏕️ Complete camping equipment: Personal tents, thermal mats, sleeping bags, portable tables and chairs.
🦙 Support horses (optional): For luggage transport or assistance on challenging sections (depending on group conditions).
⛑️ First aid kit and emergency oxygen: Provided by the guide throughout the trek.
📸 Photography assistance: At viewpoints and panoramic points along the trek.
NOT INCLUDED
❌Not Included
💰 Additional personal horses: Can be requested in advance for an extra cost.
🎒 Extra sleeping bag or personal trekking equipment: Available for rent.
🍷 Alcoholic or soft drinks: Not included.
🎥 Professional photography or video services.
🧧 Tips for the guide and camping equipment: Optional and voluntary.
🚐 Transfers outside the historic center of Cusco.
🪙 Personal travel insurance: Recommended for high-altitude trekking activities.
RECOMMENDATIONS
✨Recommendations
🥾 Wear sturdy trekking shoes: The trails are uneven, with ascents and descents. Shoes with good traction are essential.
🧢 Layered clothing: During the day, the weather is mild, but at night, temperatures can drop considerably. Include a thermal jacket.
🎒 Pack light: Only bring what you need for two days: water, sunscreen, a hat, a flashlight, personal hygiene items, and a camera.
💧 Stay hydrated: Bring a reusable bottle; the team will provide boiled or purified water at the campsites.
🍫 Personal snacks: Dried fruit or energy bars help maintain energy during the climb.
🌤️ Best time to take the tour: From April to October, with clear skies and dry weather.
🌙 Enjoy the night sky: At the campsite, the starry sky of the Andes offers a spectacular view for observing constellations.
🌿 Respect the environment: Do not leave trash and avoid damaging archaeological structures.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🥾 What is the difficulty of the Waqrapukara trek?
Moderate. It is ideal for people in average physical condition and accustomed to 2- to 3-hour hikes at altitude.
🏕️ At what altitude is Waqrapukara?
The archaeological site is at 4,140 m above sea level. m., while the camp is located around 3,800 m.a.s.l.
🍽️ What kind of food is served during the tour?
Nutritious Andean dishes prepared with local products: soups, stews, rice, vegetables, and fresh fruit.
🧣 Is it very cold at night?
Yes, temperatures can drop to 0°C. Thermal clothing and a wool hat are recommended.
🎒 Should I carry my luggage during the hike?
Only a small backpack with personal items. The rest of the luggage is carried by support horses.
📷 Can I take photos with a drone?
Yes, but prior authorization from the guide or local authorities is required.