Last Inca Bridge Tour – Q’eswachaka Full day
Last Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge Tour: Millennial Engineering
Traveling south of Cusco is to delve into territories where the customs of the ancient Peruvians remain intact. The Q’eswachaka Last Inca Bridge tour offers you the unique opportunity to see and cross an authentic marvel of Andean engineering that has survived the passage of centuries. Suspended over the mighty Apurímac River, this suspension bridge is made entirely of plant fiber and is renewed annually through community labor, a ritual declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
This cultural excursion not only takes you to this handwoven masterpiece but also immerses you in the pristine landscapes of the Canas province. Along the way, you will explore the beautiful circuit of the four lagoons, mirrors of water that reflect the immensity of the Andean sky and are home to a rich local fauna.
It is the perfect trip for those seeking to go beyond conventional destinations and genuinely connect with the living history of the Andes.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
The following map details the route to the province of Canas and the suspension bridge. The times are approximate and may be adjusted according to road conditions.
- 4:30 – 5:00 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco and boarding of our tourist transport.
- 5:00 AM – Start of the journey south, traveling along a paved road that crosses picturesque valleys and traditional villages.
- 7:00 AM – Arrival in the town of Cusipata or Combapata, where we will stop to enjoy a nutritious local breakfast, ideal for recharging before continuing the route.
- 8:30 AM – Start of the scenic tour of the Four Lakes Circuit: Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnaqocha, and Pampamarca. We will make brief stops to appreciate the landscape, the endemic flora and fauna, and learn about the legends surrounding these bodies of water.
- 10:30 AM – Arrival in the district of Quehue and descent towards the Apurímac River canyon, where the imposing Q’eswachaka bridge is located.
- 11:00 AM – Time for a historical explanation from the guide about the weaving technique using q’oya (ichu) fiber and the annual renewal ritual. Those who don’t suffer from vertigo will have the opportunity to cross the 28-meter-long suspension bridge.
- 12:30 PM – Start of the return trip along the same scenic route.
- 2:00 PM – Strategic stop at our country restaurant to enjoy a comforting traditional Andean lunch.
- 3:00 PM – Boarding the transport for the final leg back to the city.
- 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM – Arrival in Cusco, concluding our services a few blocks from the Plaza de Armas or near your accommodation.
INCLUDES
Includes
- Pick-up from your hotel located in downtown Cusco.
- Modern and safe tourist transportation throughout the trip south.
- Full board consisting of breakfast and an Andean lunch.
- Service of a professional tour guide with extensive knowledge of local culture and traditions (Spanish and English).
- First-aid kit and ongoing assistance.
Not Include
- Entrance fee to the Q’eswachaka Bridge (direct payment to the community representatives who protect the site).
- Bottled drinks, snacks, or other items during the trip.
- Personal expenses and purchases of handicrafts from local residents.
- Voluntary tips for the guide and driver.
- Travel insurance.
Recommendations
Recommendations
- Bring cash in Peruvian Soles (small denominations) to pay the entrance fee to the bridge and to support the local community by purchasing handicrafts.
- Wear warm clothing in layers and a windbreaker. Although the sun can be intense at midday, the winds in the Apurímac River canyon are often strong and cold.
- Wear closed, comfortable, and non-slip shoes to safely descend the stone steps leading to the base of the bridge.
- Bring sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat) and stay well hydrated during the walk.
- Cross the bridge with caution and respect. It is a safe and firmly anchored structure, but it sways naturally with the wind and footsteps, so it is recommended to walk slowly and steadily.
Additional
Additional information
- Difficulty: Easy. The excursion requires no considerable physical effort, consisting of short walks from the parking area to the viewpoints and the bridge itself.
- Climate: Cold and dry. Temperatures in this high Andean region range from very cold mornings to warm, sunny middays, dropping sharply in the afternoon.
- Altitude: The Q’eswachaka Bridge is located at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level, while some of the lagoons are above 3,800 meters.
- Recommended Age: Suitable for travelers of all ages. This tour is highly recommended for families seeking a day of cultural immersion without the strenuousness of high-altitude treks.
- Approximate Times: The travel time by transport is approximately three and a half hours each way, making this tour a distinctly scenic journey.
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