Excursion to Waqrapukara with Coca Ceremony || Private Service ||

An Authentic Day Exploring Waqrapukara and Beyond: A Detailed Review

If you’re looking to explore one of the lesser-know but equally impressive sites near Cusco, the Waqrapukara tour offers a fantastic blend of history, nature, and cultural ritual. At $117 per person, this 13-hour private experience takes you away from the busy crowds and into the heart of the Andean landscape, with visits to Pomacanchi Lagoon, Sangara, and Rinconada before finally reaching the awe-inspiring Waqrapukara archaeological site.

What We Love: First, the personalized attention you get on a private tour means your guide can tailor the experience to your interests, explaining intricate details and answering questions without feeling rushed. Second, the combination of remote natural beauty with ancient ruins makes this a well-rounded, memorable adventure. The included breakfast and lunch save time and add to the value, making it a hassle-free day.

A possible consideration is the early start, which begins at 4:00 a.m., for some travelers might be a bit demanding, especially after a late night or if you’re not an early riser. The hike to Waqrapukara is also physically demanding, so you’ll want a good fitness level to enjoy it fully.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate history, scenic landscapes, and cultural rituals. The reviews highlight how even those in their 60s found it doable, provided they’re prepared. It’s perfect for those who want an exclusive, in-depth experience rather than a crowded bus ride to Machu Picchu.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Tailored, more intimate, and flexible.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Visits a site most travelers miss, Waqrapukara.
• Inclusive Meals: Breakfast and lunch are provided, saving time and money.
• Early Start: The tour kicks off at 4 a.m., ideal for maximizing daylight.
• Physical Activity: Moderate hiking involved, suitable for active travelers.
• Authentic Ritual: Participate in a coca leaf ceremony led by your guide.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Dawn – From Cusco to Pomacanchi Lagoon

The day begins early, with pickup from your Cusco hotel at 4:00 a.m. This might sound brutal, but it’s a smart move—by leaving early, you beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler morning air. The first scenic stop is the Pomacanchi Lagoon, which offers a peaceful, reflective break early in the morning. The tranquil waters framed by mountains set a serene tone for the day and provide perfect photo opportunities.

Breakfast in Sangara and the Journey to Rinconada

Next, the group stops at Sangarara for breakfast. Many reviews emphasize this as a highlight—”Muy bonito todo y recomendamos al guía Saul,” one reviewer mentions, highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the delicious meal. After fueling up, you continue to Rinconada, a local community that acts as the starting point for the hike, offering a glimpse into rural Quechua life.

The Hike and Arrival at Waqrapukara

The trek from Rinconada to Waqrapukara is where the adventure truly begins. Expect a hike that traverses natural terrain, with varying flora and fauna. While the reviews note the hike involves some effort, many mention that the effort is worth it for the stunning views and archaeological marvels.

Your guide, Saul, (or your assigned guide) will lead you through this landscape, pointing out interesting plants and animals along the way. Once you arrive at Waqrapukara, you’ll participate in a coca leaf ritual, which is a traditional Andean ceremony used to honor the land and seek blessings—an authentic cultural moment many travelers cherish.

Exploring Waqrapukara’s Ruins

After the ritual, you get an in-depth, interactive tour of the site, which includes:

• Intipunku (Sun Gate): Perfect for panoramic views and understanding Inca astronomy and architecture.
• Main Square, Towers, and Terraces: Exploring these ancient structures reveals their intended purpose and the ingenuity of their builders.
• Wiracocha Site: A sacred spot linked to the Inca god Wiracocha, adding spiritual significance.
• Cave Paintings: Offering a glimpse into prehistoric expressions, adding an artistic dimension to the ruins.

The guide’s explanations, highlighted by reviews, bring these ruins to life, making history more tangible.

Return and Relaxation in Sangara

After a thorough exploration, the group heads back to Sangara for a well-earned lunch, a highlight for many reviews praising the quality and timing of the meal. The return journey is relaxed, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights and experiences.

Back to Cusco

The tour concludes with the return trip to Cusco, arriving approximately at 5:00 p.m., well after a full day of adventure and exploration.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For the price, you get a fully private experience, which means your group can set the pace and focus on the aspects that interest you most. The inclusion of transportation, meals, and an interactive guide maximizes convenience. This is especially valuable given the remote nature of Waqrapukara—public transport would be complicated, and trying to piece together a DIY trip could be overwhelming.

The small group size (or private service) also ensures a more personal and flexible experience. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Saul for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor, which adds warmth and depth to the trip.

The Experience Through Travelers’ Eyes

Multiple reviews highlight how spectacular the views are—”the views are amazing and we took so many photos”—and how the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience. Many mention the good organization, comfortable logistics, and the ability to explore truly unique sites that most travelers never see.

One reviewer in their 60s called it a “trek” but found it very doable, suggesting that while the hike is challenging, it’s accessible for most reasonably fit travelers. Others appreciated the authenticity of the coca ceremony, which adds a cultural dimension that feels genuine rather than touristy.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers craving a deeper connection to Peru’s lesser-known sites. If you’re tired of crowded Machu Picchu-day trips and want something more intimate and authentic, Waqrapukara is a perfect choice. The inclusion of local rituals and exploration of traditional communities also makes it appealing for those interested in cultural experiences beyond just sightseeing.

Travelers who value well-organized logistics, professional guides, and scenic landscapes will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind an early start and a bit of physical activity, as the reward is an unforgettable view and a meaningful cultural encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While the hike to Waqrapukara involves some physical effort, many travelers in their 60s have completed it successfully, provided they’re reasonably fit. Be prepared for a moderate trek with uneven terrain.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable hiking shoes, water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera are recommended. The tour provides breakfast and lunch, but you might want to carry snacks or extra water.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 4:00 a.m. and typically returns around 5:00 p.m., making it a long but rewarding day.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast in Sangara and lunch are both included in the tour, which helps streamline your day and keeps your focus on exploring.

Can I participate if I’m not used to hiking?
The tour involves some physical exertion, so a good fitness level is advised. However, many review comments suggest that active travelers of various ages find it manageable.

How personalized is this tour?
It’s a private service, meaning your group gets personalized attention from guides like Saul, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided, ensuring a comfortable journey to and from the site, avoiding the hassle of public transit.

What makes Waqrapukara different from other ruins?
Its remote location and the stunning views it offers, along with the authentic cultural rituals like coca ceremonies, make Waqrapukara a unique and worthwhile visit.

What should I expect at the archaeological site?
You’ll see ruins such as terraces, towers, the Sun Gate, and cave paintings, all with interpretation from your guide to help understand their historical and cultural significance.

Final Word

Choosing this tour means enjoying a less crowded, more authentic side of Peruvian heritage. The combination of scenic natural beauty, archaeological marvels, and cultural rituals creates a well-rounded adventure. If you’re eager to explore beyond the typical tourist trail and enjoy a highly personalized experience, this Waqrapukara tour delivers on both the journey and the memories. Expect an early start, a moderate hike, and a day filled with incredible views, cultural insight, and authentic local encounters. It’s a trip that truly rewards those who seek meaningful exploration and unforgettable scenery.