Waqrapukara Trekking: Walk to the Sacred Fortress

The Waqrapukara Full-Day Tour is a unique experience that combines adventure, history, and spiritual connection in the Andes of Cusco. From the sunrise over the Pomacanchi Lagoon to the hike to the imposing Waqrapukara fortress, every moment reveals the grandeur of the Inca legacy and the energy of the Apurímac Canyon. This trip invites you to explore natural landscapes, enjoy an Andean breakfast, take a guided trek, and explore an archaeological site full of mystery and symbolism. Ideal for travelers seeking authentic, less touristy routes, where nature and ancestral culture merge into an unforgettable experience.

Detailed Itinerary of the Waqrapukara Full-Day Tour

🚐 Pickup at your hotel in Cusco

We begin this adventure early in the morning with pickup from your hotel or meeting point in Cusco, located in the historic center. As the transport continues south through the Cusco Valley, you’ll be able to observe how the first rays of the sun tinge the Andean hills and valleys with gold.
During the journey, we’ll pass through picturesque villages such as Acomayo, Pomacanchi, and Tinta, where traditions live on in the daily lives of the residents.

☕ Breakfast in Pomacanchi

Here we’ll enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast with freshly brewed coffee, artisan bread, local cheese, fruit, and natural mates to help you acclimatize.
Before continuing, you’ll have a brief moment to stretch your legs and capture the sunrise reflected in the lagoon, a spectacle that showcases the purity of the Cusco plateau.

🏞️ Transfer to Wayquecha – Trekking starting point

We continue by transport to Wayquecha (3,700 m above sea level), where our hike to Waqrapukara begins. Here, you’ll receive an orientation briefing from your guide and the latest recommendations to make the most of your experience.
The setting is pure and peaceful, surrounded by mountains that herald the entrance to one of the most spectacular trekking routes in Cusco.

🚶‍♂️ Hike to the Waqrapukara Fortress

We begin the trek of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, covering 7 to 8 km along ancient trails that combine nature and spirituality. The hike is moderate, ideal for those who enjoy contact with the mountains and seek a less touristy experience.
During the ascent, you’ll observe:

1. 🌄 Natural rock formations that resemble sculptures.
2. 🌊 Views of the Apurímac River Canyon, one of the deepest gorges in Peru.
3. 🦙 Herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in the high Andean grasslands.
4. 🦅 Andean birds such as the caracara and the sparrowhawk soaring through the sky.

Short stops will be made to rest, hydrate, and take photographs.

🏛️ Guided tour of Waqrapukara Fortress

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the imposing Waqrapukara Fortress, whose name in Quechua means “horn-shaped fortress.” This archaeological site is a little-known wonder, surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
During the guided tour, you will explore:

1. Perfectly preserved Inca ceremonial platforms and terraces.
2. Sacred precincts and minor temples, used for ritual offerings to the Sun and the Earth.
3. Natural viewpoints from which you can see the entire Apurimac Canyon.

The guide will explain the different theories about the site’s function: some believe it was an Inca ceremonial center, others a military defense post.

🧘‍♂️ Free time for personal exploration and photography

After the guided tour, you’ll have time to explore on your own, rest, and feel the mystical energy of the place.

🥪 Boxed lunch

We’ll recharge with a light picnic lunch, including a sandwich, fresh fruit, natural juices, and Andean snacks. You’ll enjoy your meal in front of a majestic landscape, with the breeze from the canyon and the echo of the mountains accompanying the experience.

⛰️ Return hike to Wayquecha

We begin the return trip along the same route, but with new perspectives of the landscape.
The descent is usually faster and more relaxed, ideal for enjoying the Andean silence before returning to civilization.

🚌 End of the trek and return to Cusco

Back in Wayquecha, we board our tourist transport to Cusco. The return trip offers a last opportunity to contemplate the rural landscapes or simply rest.

🌆 Arrival in Cusco

The tour concludes with arrival in Cusco at sunset. You will be dropped off near the historic center, filled with memories and emotions after having discovered one of the hidden gems of Cusco tourism.

✅Includes

🚐 Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco: Modern, comfortable, and safe vehicles, driven by professional drivers licensed for tourist routes.

🗣️ Professional bilingual tour guide (Spanish/English): Specialist in Inca history, nature, and Andean worldview. Accompaniment throughout the tour.

☕ Traditional breakfast in Pomacanchi: Artisan bread, local cheese, fruit, coffee, and Andean infusions to start the day with energy.

🥪 Boxed lunch: Sandwich, fresh fruit, juice, and natural snacks to enjoy amidst the Andean landscape.

💬 Orientation talk in Wayquecha: Brief introduction to safety, local culture, and trekking recommendations.

🚻 Technical stops and free time: Planned moments for rest, hydration, and personal exploration.

❌Not Included

🍳 Dinner in Cusco: The tour ends around 6:00 PM; dinner is at the passenger’s expense.

💸 Voluntary tips: Not included. You can offer them to the guide or driver as a thank you for their service.

🧾 Travel or medical insurance: Not included; it is recommended to have your own insurance before the trip.

🎟️ Cusco Tourist Ticket (if visiting another additional site): Access to Waqrapukara is usually charged separately.

🧃 Additional drinks or snacks: Not included; it is recommended to bring water, chocolates, or energy bars.

🧥 Clothing or personal items: Raincoats, hats, or sunscreen are not provided.

🏨 Accommodation in Cusco: Not included, but can be requested as an additional service.

🧍‍♂️ Transfers from hotels outside the historic center: Must be arranged in advance and may have an extra cost.

✨Recommendations

👟 Wear comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes: The trail includes ascents and descents on natural terrain.

🧥 Wear light, layered clothing: It’s cold in the morning, and the sun can be intense at midday.

🧴 Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat: Radiation at altitude can be intense, even on cloudy days.

🧃 Bring water and energy snacks: Stay hydrated and energized throughout the trek.

💊 Acclimatize for at least one day in Cusco: This will help prevent altitude sickness (soroche).

💰 Have cash in soles: Pomacanchi and Wayquecha don’t always have signal or ATMs.

📸 Bring a camera or cell phone with a full battery: The views of the Apurímac Canyon and the fortress are spectacular.

🕶️ Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before the trip: This will help you perform better during the hike.

🧴 Use natural repellent: Insects may appear near the lagoon at certain times of the year.

🎒 Small, light backpack: Bring only the essentials: water, a coat, documents, and a camera.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where is Waqrapukara?

Waqrapukara is located in the Acomayo province, south of Cusco, at approximately 4,300 meters above sea level, near the impressive Apurimac Canyon.

2. What does Waqrapukara mean?

The name comes from the Quechua words “waqra” (horn) and “pukara” (fortress), so it translates as “horn-shaped fortress” due to the natural shape of the rocks surrounding it.

3. Is the hike difficult?

The hike is moderate, with gradual ascents and scheduled rest breaks. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to be in good physical condition.

4. How long does the entire tour last?

The tour lasts around 14 hours, starting between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. and ending around 6:00 p.m. in Cusco.

5. Can Waqrapukara be visited year-round?

Yes. However, the best time is between April and November, during the dry season, when the trails are firmer and the weather is ideal for trekking.

6. Are there restrooms along the route?

Yes, there are basic restrooms in Wayquecha and Pomacanchi, as well as natural rest stops during the hike.