Details
The Waqrapukara One-Day Trek is the perfect choice for those seeking tranquility and a chance to visit a site few have experienced—locals and tourists alike!
Join us on a thrilling hike to the awe-inspiring pre-Inca structure of Waqrapukara, or the Fortress of Horns, nestled within the stunning Apurímac Canyon. This sacred place showcases remarkable ancient architecture amid breathtaking natural formations, as if drawn from a dream, with small crystal-clear lagoons dotting the landscape. The towering “horns” of Waqrapukara rise to an impressive 4,140 meters (13,583 feet), creating an unforgettable scene.
Departure & Return Location
Cusco hotel transfer
Departure Time
4:00 AM
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Quiquijana - Pomacanchi - Waqrapukara
Our remarkable one-day adventure begins early, with a 4:00 a.m. pickup from your accommodation. We’ll start with a scenic two-hour drive to the town of Quiquijana, where you’ll enjoy a wholesome breakfast to fuel up for the day. We’ll then continue along the route, passing by the beautiful Pomacanchi Lagoon, one of the largest in the area, surrounded by lush pastures and local agricultural fields.
Next, we’ll drive an hour and a half along an unpaved road to Santa Lucía, taking in the stunning scenery and distant views of the lagoon. From Santa Lucía, we’ll take a final 30-minute drive to the trailhead, where you’ll have a moment to gather your things before beginning the hike. The first leg of the trek lasts about 1.5 hours, providing magnificent views of the Apurímac Canyon, one of Peru’s deepest, with dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes along the way.
At the Waqrapukara viewpoint, we’ll pause to take in the sight of this impressive fortress perched on the canyon’s edge, giving you time to rest and snap some photos. We’ll then follow a steep path down toward the site itself, with views of the Apurímac River winding far below.
You’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore the archaeological site, climbing through ancient temple remains and capturing photos of the distinctive horn-shaped rock formation and stunning canyon views. With pre-Inca and Inca structures, terraces, and a fascinating historical background, this site offers a perfect chance to delve into the Andean culture. The entire experience is breathtaking from start to finish.
When the group is ready, we’ll hike back along the same path. After about 1.5 hours of walking, we’ll return to our private transport for the journey back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 p.m.
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