About this experience
Step into the living legacy of the Incas at the Qeswachaka Bridge, an ancestral work built from ichu grass. We will witness its annual renewal, a tradition maintained for centuries by local communities. This suspension bridge stretches over the Apurímac River at more than 3,700 meters above sea level. We will explore this marvel of Inca engineering and cultural identity in the Peruvian Andes.
During the full-day Qeswachaka tour, we will admire the dramatic Apurímac Canyon and the volcanic landscape of Los Pabellones. We will visit the beautiful highland lakes of Pampamarca, Asnacocha, Acopia, and Pomacanchi. This natural circuit will delight lovers of culture, history, and adventure alike. We will capture photos, enjoy the scenery, and learn about traditional construction techniques still in use today.
Why will you love the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge? We will experience an authentic Inca cultural practice in a single day. We will explore ancient engineering, natural beauty, and local traditions. We are 100% local operators, ensuring a genuine and immersive experience.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1Qeswachaka Bridge Tour
We will begin the day with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 05:00 AM. We will travel southwest through the Andes on paved and rural roads. The first part of the route will take approximately two hours. We will enjoy breathtaking views of the Andean landscape along the way.
Our first stop will be the four highland lakes: Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnacocha, and Pampamarca. We will admire the reflections of the surrounding mountains in the calm turquoise waters. We will have time for photos and short walks around the lakes. The serene atmosphere provides an ideal setting to observe native birds and Andean wildlife.
Next, we will reach the small volcanic formation of Pabellones near the town of Yanaoca. Here, we will appreciate the volcanic rock structures and learn about the local geology. Afterward, we will continue toward the Apurímac River, where the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge awaits. This suspension bridge is built from ichu grass and has been maintained by local communities for centuries.
We will cross the Qeswachaka Bridge carefully, feeling the thrill of walking on this living Inca heritage. Our guide will explain the annual reconstruction process and its cultural significance. We will take photos of the Apurímac Canyon and the surrounding Andes while experiencing the excitement of this traditional passage.
On the return route, we will visit the archaeological site of Rumiqolqa. We will explore its stone constructions, originally from the Tiwanaku-Wari period and later refined by the Incas. After this enriching visit, we will return to Cusco, arriving at approximately 18:30. We will conclude the tour at Plaza San Francisco in central Cusco.
- Distance traveled
- 130 km round trip
- Highest altitude
- 3,700 m.a.s.l. at Qeswachaka Bridge
- Lowest altitude
- 3,150 m.a.s.l. near Cusco city
- Route
- Cusco – Four Lakes – Pabellones Volcano – Qeswachaka Bridge – Rumiqolqa – Cusco
- Difficulty level
- Moderate; requires walking and crossing a suspension bridge
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Private or shared tourist transportation.
- One breakfast and one box lunch.
- Accredited professional guide.
- First aid equipment, including oxygen and altitude sickness medication.
What’s not included
- Meals except those mentioned.
- Airfare.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance fee to Qeswachaka Bridge.
Frequently asked questions
What is the current significance of Qeswachaka?
Qeswachaka celebrates the unity of Inca communities and their culture through an annual four-day bridge festival.
Which communities participate in the Qeswachaka Bridge construction?
The communities of Huinchiri, Chaupibanda, and Chocayhua build the bridge, with each one assigned specific tasks.
What are the dimensions of Qeswachaka Bridge?
The bridge measures 28 meters long and 1.2 meters wide and is made of braided ichu grass.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations 30 days or less before travel lose 100% of the payment. For cancellations 31 days or more in advance, fees vary. Contact your travel agent for details.