From Cusco: Waqrapukara Hike Full-Day Tour With Meals

Experience Waqrapukara: An Offbeat Inca Treasure Near Cusco

If you’re seeking a less crowded, more authentic Inca site experience, the Waqrapukara Hike Full-Day Tour from Cusco might be just what you’re after. For around $119 per person, you get a full day of scenic drives, lagoons, an adventurous hike, and a fascinating archaeological site. The trip lasts about 13-14 hours, making it a long but rewarding day.

What we really love about this tour are two key details: first, the chance to explore a remote Inca fortress that few travelers visit, and second, the spectacular mountain panoramas you’ll enjoy along the way. It’s an outing that combines nature, history, and adventure, away from the crowds.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and hiking—about 30 minutes between lagoons and the site itself—so it may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have mobility issues or health concerns. Still, it’s perfect for travelers eager for a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that offers both scenic beauty and a sense of discovery.

This tour is best suited for those who want to escape the crowds and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. History buffs, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in seeing a less-visited Inca site will find this experience especially rewarding.

Key Points

• Remote Location: Waqrapukara is rarely crowded, offering a more peaceful exploration of Inca ruins.
• Scenic Lagoons: The tour includes stops at four lagoons, perfect for photos and enjoying nature.
• Guided Hike: The walk to the site offers insights into local flora and fauna, guided by knowledgeable guides.
• Meals Included: Breakfast en route and a boxed lunch at a river viewpoint add value.
• Transportation: Comfortable round-trip transport from Cusco ensures a hassle-free day.
• Accessibility: Due to the hiking involved, it’s better suited for active travelers without mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Waqrapukara: An Adventurous Day from Cusco

Waqrapukara — which translates roughly to “horned fortress” in Quechua — is a striking archaeological site perched high in the Andes, carved into the landscape with impressive stonework and ruins. Unlike Machu Picchu, it remains relatively undiscovered, meaning you’ll likely share it with only a handful of fellow explorers. The location is dramatic: the fortress is set against jagged peaks, with the river valley and the distinctive “stone horns” on the mountains providing a striking backdrop.

Starting the Journey: From Cusco to Lagoons

The adventure begins early, with a roughly 2.5-hour drive from Cusco through the scenic valleys of Acomayo Province. Along the way, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, with four lagoons offering a peaceful interlude before the main hike. These lagoons are often overlooked by travelers, and they provide a calm, reflective setting to stretch your legs and enjoy the mountain air.

As you approach the lagoons, you’ll notice how the landscape changes — from lush greens to rugged, rocky terrain. This stretch gives you a taste of the highland environment you’ll be exploring later.

Breakfast at Qenterococha Lagoon

After a short walk from the lagoons, you’ll arrive at Qenterococha Lagoon, where a nutritious breakfast awaits. This pause is a welcome chance to refuel, especially since the hike ahead can be quite demanding. The setting is beautiful, with the lagoon’s calm waters serving as a perfect backdrop for breakfast.

This part of the journey is appreciated by travelers like the reviewer who said, “Margot was an excellent guide. Very well informed and pleasant,” reflecting the value of a knowledgeable guide who can point out flora and local wildlife while adding context to your surroundings.

The Hike to Waqrapukara

Armed with energy from breakfast, you’ll start the hike to Waqrapukara. The trail is accessible but involves about 30 minutes of walking uphill, with stunning views of the landscape unfolding with every step. Keep your eyes open for native plants and perhaps some local animals if you’re lucky.

The real highlight is reaching the site itself. The fortress is remarkable — its rocks covered in ruins, forming a fortress that looks like it belongs more to a movie set than real life. The towering stone structures are set in a river valley, which makes for dramatic photos.

Travelers describe the site as “brilliant” with “jaw-dropping scenery,” emphasizing how special it feels to stand at such a remote, untouched archaeological location. The site’s relative obscurity means fewer travelers, allowing you to soak in the history and landscape without the crowds that typically fill other Inca sites.

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Exploring the Site and Taking Photos

Once at Waqrapukara, you can explore with your guide and then venture off on your own. The ruins, covered in stones and remnants of Inca architecture, evoke a sense of mystery. It’s an ideal spot for photography, especially with the mountain vistas and rugged terrain creating a vivid contrast.

Lunch with a View

After exploring, you’ll take a break at a viewpoint overlooking the Apurimac River. Here, a boxed lunch is provided, allowing you to enjoy your meal while gazing out over one of the most impressive canyon views in Peru. It’s a simple but thoughtful addition that makes the day feel more complete.

The Return Journey: Different Routes for Different Views

The way back is a different route, described as easier and offering different vistas of the canyon and the river. This change of scenery provides a fresh perspective on the landscape and makes the return journey just as interesting as the ascent.

A private van will then transport you back to Cusco, arriving in the evening. It’s a long day, but the combination of scenic stops, hiking, and history makes it worthwhile.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Compared to other excursions, this tour offers a more intimate, less touristy experience. As one reviewer pointed out, the site sees “hardly any travelers”, making it ideal for those craving a quiet, reflective experience with history and nature.

The included meals and transport add convenience, ensuring you don’t need to worry about logistics. The guides are generally well-informed, and the scenery along the way is breathtaking. It’s a perfect day for adventure lovers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and are eager to discover a hidden gem in the Peruvian highlands.

Considerations and Tips

While this tour is fantastic for active travelers, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, those over 70, or individuals with mobility issues. The walk involves some uphill stretches, and the terrain can be uneven.

Weather can be unpredictable, so bring rain gear and sun protection, along with your camera and hiking shoes. The tour offers small group or private options, which can enhance the experience by allowing more personal interaction and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure close to Cusco, this trip to Waqrapukara is a solid choice. It balances scenic drives, nature, and history without the crowds and commercialization of more popular sites. The inclusion of meals, guide-led exploration, and diverse scenery make it a full-value day for those willing to hike and venture into less-visited parts of the Andes.

Ideal for adventure-oriented travelers and history enthusiasts, this tour offers a memorable glimpse of Inca architecture in a setting that feels both majestic and untouched. It’s a long day, but one that rewards you with spectacular views, meaningful exploration, and a deepened appreciation for Peru’s archaeological treasures.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The full-day experience lasts about 13 to 14 hours, including transport, stops, and hiking.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided exploration of Waqrapukara, entrance fees, breakfast, and a boxed lunch.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entry fees are not included in the base price, so be prepared for that. Confirm if your booking covers all entrance fees or if you need to pay separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s geared toward active travelers comfortable with hiking. It may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, and rain gear. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private or small group options are available, offering more personalized service.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The included meals are standard, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific dietary needs.

Is the route different on the way back?
Yes, the return hike is along a different, easier route that provides different views of the canyon and river.

To sum it up, this tour offers a distinctive blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, perfect for those eager to get off the usual tourist trail. With its stunning scenery and fewer visitors, Waqrapukara promises a more authentic and memorable experience that will resonate long after you leave Peru.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby