Full Day Tour to the Inca Bridge of Qeswachaka

Full Day Tour to the Inca Bridge of Qeswachaka

If you’re exploring the Cusco region and are craving a glimpse of vibrant landscapes combined with a touch of ancient engineering, this full-day tour to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge is a perfect choice. Priced at $75 per person and lasting about 12 hours, this trip takes you on a journey through remote highland villages, stunning lagoons, and a living piece of history that dates back to Inca times. Expect to see Inca architecture, appreciate breathtaking views, and even cross the last Inca suspension bridge still maintained by local communities.

What we love most about this tour is how it marries authentic indigenous traditions with spectacular scenery. The chance to walk on a bridge made of plant fibers with a backdrop of rugged mountains and flowing rivers is a rare experience that stays with you. Plus, the small details—like the offering made to Pachamama (Mother Earth) before maintaining the bridge—bring a genuine sense of connection to local customs.

However, one consideration is the early start time—pickup begins around 4:30 to 5:00 am—so this tour might not be ideal if you prefer to sleep in. Also, crossing the bridge requires some courage, as it can seem deceptively simple but does demand a bit of bravery.

This tour will appeal most to those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and breathtaking landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see a living piece of the Inca world, away from crowded tourist spots, and for those comfortable with a full day of traveling and walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic experience with a visit to a living Inca tradition that continues through local community efforts.
• Spectacular scenery including lagoons, mountains, and the Apurimac River, ideal for photography.
• Crossing the last Inca suspension bridge, an exhilarating and memorable moment.
• Cultural respect with offerings made to Pachamama before bridge maintenance.
• Inclusion of meals (breakfast and lunch), which adds value for a full day of exploration.
• Early start that may be a challenge for late risers or those with flexible schedules.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The day begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco, around 4:30 to 5:00 am. This might seem a bit abrupt, but it allows ample time to reach the highlands before the crowds and the midday heat. The drive lasts nearly two hours, giving travelers a chance to settle in and enjoy the landscape as it unfolds.

Lagoons and the Volcano Near Yanaoca

The first stop is at four beautiful lagoons, set against the rugged backdrop of the high Andean mountains. These lagoons are tranquil spots, perfect for some quiet reflection and photography. As one reviewer notes, “we enjoyed a peaceful moment near the lagoons,” which captures the sense of serenity many travelers find here.

Just nearby, you’ll visit the small Pabellones volcano close to Yanaoca. While not a major volcanic site, its presence adds a dramatic element to the landscape, a reminder of the volcanic activity that shaped this region.

The Imposing Qeswachaka Inca Bridge

The highlight of the tour is arriving at the Qeswachaka suspension bridge. Made from Ichu plant fibers, this bridge stretches over the Apurimac River, offering a tangible link to the Inca era. It’s one of the few still maintained through annual community efforts—a tradition that underscores local pride and resilience.

Before the bridge is renovated each year, the community performs a small offering to Pachamama, a ritual of gratitude and respect. This offers visitors a glimpse into the spiritual dimension of these traditions—an aspect that makes this experience profoundly authentic.

Crossing the bridge is an adventure in itself. You’ll have the chance to walk from both sides, which is not only fun but also a test of nerve. As one review states, “It seems easy, but it takes courage,” highlighting that this is not just a walk—it’s a small adventure that adds an element of thrill.

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Returning via Checacupe and Comparing Bridges

After crossing the Inca bridge, the tour continues with a visit to the colonial-influenced Checacupe bridge. This allows for a visual comparison between the ancient Inca construction and later colonial engineering—a neat way to appreciate the evolution of local architecture.

End of the Day in Cusco

You’ll be back in Cusco around 5:00 pm, tired but enriched by a full day of sights, sounds, and stories. The long but rewarding day offers a mix of nature, history, and local culture, making it a well-rounded experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $75 covers hotel pickup, transport, a bilingual guide, meals (breakfast and lunch), plus safety gear like a first aid kit and oxygen bottle—useful in the high altitudes. It’s a good value considering the full-day itinerary and the remote, authentic sites you visit.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees to the Qeswachaka bridge are not included—10 soles for locals and 20 soles for foreigners. Extra expenses could be for souvenirs or additional personal items.

The tour’s flexibility is supported by the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The Experience Provider

Operated by Uyuni Experience EIRL, this experience is designed for travelers who value authenticity and scenic beauty. Their bilingual guides help decode local traditions and history, making the experience accessible for English-speaking visitors.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This tour offers a rare chance to see a living Inca tradition that few travelers encounter. The combination of spectacular natural scenery—lagoons, mountains, rivers—and the cultural significance of the bridge makes it compelling. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy adventure, outdoor activities, and learning about indigenous customs.

The early start might not suit everyone, but it maximizes daylight and minimizes crowding. Expect a full day of exploration that’s physically manageable but still memorable enough to justify the early wake-up.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in history with a tangible, ongoing connection to the past, this experience will resonate deeply. It’s ideal for outdoor lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and photographers eager for stunning landscape shots. Travelers who appreciate authentic local rituals and are comfortable with walking on a suspension bridge will find this trip fulfilling.

It’s also a good option if you want a value-packed day trip that covers diverse highlights—nature, architecture, tradition—all in one package.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides tourist transport from Cusco and back, making logistics simple and comfortable.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup occurs between 4:30 and 5:00 am, depending on your hotel location, to maximize sightseeing time.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast and lunch, giving you fuel for the day’s adventure.

How much does the entrance to the Qeswachaka bridge cost?
It’s 10 soles for locals and 20 soles for foreigners, payable on site.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is advisable—think warm layers, sturdy shoes, and sun protection.

Is the bridge crossing safe?
While the bridge appears simple, crossing requires some courage. It’s safe but may be challenging for those with a fear of heights.

What’s the duration of the journey?
The full trip lasts approximately 12 hours, including travel and sightseeing.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, but it’s recommended to check availability with the provider by email if you’re booking close to the departure date.

Final Thoughts

This full-day adventure provides a meaningful blend of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and a touch of adrenaline crossing the last Inca bridge. It’s a rare opportunity to witness a tradition that has survived centuries, maintained by local communities proud of their heritage. The landscapes are stunning, and the experience of walking a fiber-crafted suspension bridge over the roaring Apurimac River is unforgettable.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates off-the-beaten-path sites, loves authentic cultural rituals, and doesn’t mind a early start for a full day of discovery, this tour is well worth considering. For those with limited time but a deep interest in Inca history and high-altitude scenery, it can be a highlight of your Cusco visit.

In essence, this tour offers a compelling slice of Andean life—alive, breathtaking, and rooted in tradition—making it a memorable addition to any Peruvian adventure.

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