From Cusco: Qeswachaka Inca Bridge | Pabellones Volcano |

This full-day tour from Cusco, costing around $62 per person, invites you to experience some of the most iconic and lesser-known sights in the Cusco Region. Starting early—around 4:30 to 5:00 a.m.—you’ll head south through scenic landscapes to visit four tranquil lagoons, explore the tiny Pabellones Volcano, and stand on the last surviving Inca suspension bridge: Qeswachaka. The day wraps up with a visit to the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe, offering a fascinating comparison between ancient and colonial engineering.

Two things we love about this experience: first, the chance to walk across the only remaining Inca bridge, still maintained by local communities with offerings to Pachamama—a real taste of living tradition. Second, the opportunity to relax by the four lagoons, which provide a peaceful break from sightseeing and beautiful photo ops.

A possible drawback? The early start and some physical effort required to cross the bridge might be challenging for those with mobility concerns or a light sleep schedule.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty with some historical insight. It’s especially suited for those interested in Inca history, stunning landscapes, and unique local traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Inca Experience: Cross the last remaining Inca suspension bridge built of vegetal fiber, maintained yearly by local communities.
• Natural Beauty: Visit four lagoons, perfect for tranquility and photography.
• Volcanic Landscape: Explore the small Pabellones Volcano near Yanaoca for a taste of volcanic activity in the region.
• Cultural Insight: Witness local traditions, including offerings made before bridge renovations.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip comfortable transport from Cusco saves hassle.
• Guided Tour: Bilingual guides ensure you understand the history and significance of each site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Closer Look at Your Day from Cusco

The tour kicks off early in the morning, around 4:30 to 5:00 a.m., with a pickup in Cusco’s historic center. This early start is common for day trips venturing into the southern highlands, and it’s worth it for the daylight hours you’ll enjoy at each site. The drive, lasting about two hours, takes you through scenic Peruvian countryside, gradually revealing the diverse landscape of the region.

The Four Lagoons

Our first stop is at the four lagoons, a peaceful spot away from the busy city. Here, you’ll enjoy a moment of calm, soaking in the scenery and snapping photos of the shimmering waters. Reviewers have mentioned how “the lagoons offer a perfect place for reflection—both literal and figurative,” emphasizing their tranquil beauty and photographic appeal.

Pabellones Volcano

Next, about 30 minutes from the lagoons, is the Pabellones Volcano, a modest yet intriguing volcanic cone near Yanaoca. This small volcano offers a quick, accessible hike if you’re interested. Its proximity allows you to get close enough to appreciate volcanic formations without the demanding trek often associated with more prominent peaks.

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge

The centerpiece is the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge, an extraordinary feat of Inca engineering. Spanning the Apurímac River, the bridge measures about 28 meters long and 1.2 meters wide. What makes it remarkable isn’t just its age—dating back to the Inca period—but the fact that it’s still maintained annually by local communities through a traditional renewal process, complete with offerings to Pachamama.

Walking across the bridge is an exhilarating experience. It’s surprisingly sturdy, but don’t underestimate the nerves it might take—you’re walking on vegetal fiber woven into a suspension that sways slightly in the breeze. Many travelers say, “It’s easier than it looks, but my heart was pounding!” You have the chance to cross from both sides, which is a unique photo opportunity and a test of your courage.

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Checacupe Colonial-Inca Bridge

On the way back to Cusco, we stop at the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe. Comparing this modern construction with the ancient one offers insight into how engineering and materials evolved in the region. Travelers often find this contrast fascinating, enhancing their understanding of Peru’s layered history.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The tour’s price of $62 covers pick-up in Cusco’s historic center, round-trip transportation, a professional bilingual guide, breakfast and lunch, along with basic safety equipment like a first aid kit and oxygen. These inclusions make it a good value, especially considering the remote locations and the effort involved in organizing such excursions independently.

Not included are entrance fees—which are modest: 10 soles for locals and 20 soles for foreigners, payable at the sites—and any extra expenses or personal purchases. You might also want to consider travel insurance separately. Our advice: bring some cash for tips and small souvenirs.

Transportation & Group Size

The comfortable, air-conditioned transport minimizes fatigue, making the early start more manageable. The group size tends to be moderate, ensuring you get personal attention from guides while still sharing the experience with fellow travelers. The guides speak both Spanish and English, making explanations accessible and enriching the experience.

Duration & Flexibility

The entire trip lasts about 12 hours, from early morning pickup to return around 5 p.m. Check availability for specific start times, but you can expect a full, immersive day. The flexible booking policy allows canceling up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Authenticity and Cultural Significance

What truly distinguishes this tour is its focus on living tradition. The annual renewal of the Qeswachaka bridge, with offerings to Pachamama, underscores the ongoing importance of Inca customs. You’re not just observing history—you’re witnessing a tradition that has persisted for centuries. Many reviews mention that “seeing locals actively involved in maintaining their heritage made the experience feel genuine,” and this active participation enriches the visit.

Photography and Scenic Highlights

With lush lagoons, volcanic cones, and the historic bridge, this trip offers a wealth of photographic opportunities. The bridges and lagoons look stunning at sunrise or late afternoon, when the light is softer. Many travelers comment on how “the varied landscapes make it worth every minute,” and how they appreciated the chance to capture the changing scenery from different angles.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who crave authentic cultural experiences, appreciate natural beauty, and aren’t afraid of early mornings or some light physical activity. It appeals to history buffs, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. It’s also suitable for families and small groups, who want a manageable yet comprehensive exploration of the highlands.

For those wanting a well-rounded day of exploration, this tour offers a compelling mix of history, nature, and tradition. The chance to walk on the last Inca suspension bridge and stand beside four serene lagoons creates a memorable experience that balances physical activity with cultural insight. The logistical convenience, including transportation and guided commentary, makes it accessible even for travelers unfamiliar with the region.

While the early start and the physical aspect of crossing the bridge might not suit everyone, those willing to embrace these elements will find this experience both rewarding and eye-opening. It’s a genuine glimpse into Peru’s living heritage, perfect for travelers eager to see beyond the main city sights and connect with the country’s ancestral roots.

FAQs

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pick-up is available from 4:30 to 5:00 a.m., so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day of sightseeing.

What is the cost of the entrance to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge?
Entrance fees are 10 soles for locals and 20 soles for foreigners, payable directly at the site.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the tour involves some walking and crossing a suspension bridge, many find it manageable. However, elderly or mobility-challenged travelers should consider their comfort and perhaps consult with the guide beforehand.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, some cash for entrance fees and tips, sun protection, water, and a camera for the scenery.

How long is the drive from Cusco?
The drive to the lagoons and volcano takes about two hours, with the whole day lasting approximately 12 hours.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast and lunch, ensuring you stay energized for the day’s activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if needed.

Will I have a bilingual guide?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making sure you understand the significance of each site.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
A comfortable, safe tourist vehicle is used for the round-trip journey, ensuring a smooth ride through the highlands.

This tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to connect with Peru’s living traditions, stunning landscapes, and ancient engineering. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day trip that combines adventure with culture, this excursion from Cusco deserves a spot on your itinerary.

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