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Immerse yourself in one of the most authentic experiences in Cusco and discover Q’eswachaka, the last hanging Inca bridge, where Andean tradition hangs over the Apurímac River. This tour also surprises with the landscapes of the Four Lagoons circuit, surrounded by imposing mountains and snow-capped peaks. A route designed for those who seek to connect with culture and nature in a more immersive way, away from conventional paths and in a tranquil setting.
Q'eswachaka and 4 Lakes tour overview
Why choose this experience with us?
- Private experience for 2 to 6 passengers: Enjoy an exclusive experience with your group, without sharing the tour with other travelers. You will have greater privacy, flexibility to adjust the pace of the visit, and more personalized attention throughout the entire tour.
- Meals included: Buffet breakfast and lunch, for a more complete and comfortable experience.
- Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pickup at your hotel to the end of the experience, our guide will answer your questions and provide information and safety along the way.
- Enjoy every destination without rushing: An itinerary designed to explore each highlight of the route calmly, taking in the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination.
Programme summary
Cusco – Combapata – Pabellones – Q'eswachaka – Four Lakes – Cusco
Travel from Cusco to Q'eswachaka, the last hand-woven Inca suspension bridge, hanging over the Apurímac River. On the same day you will explore the Four Lakes circuit and viewpoints with unforgettable views of the South Valley.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Hiking distance | 3 km / 1.86 miles |
| Hiking time | Approx. 1 to 2 hours, spread across the stops |
| Maximum altitude | Pabellones Volcano: 3,948 m / 12,953 ft above sea level |
| Minimum altitude | Combapata Viewpoint: 3,450 m / 11,319 ft above sea level |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperature | Between 16 °C and 20 °C / 61 °F and 68 °F during the day, with sunshine |
Highlights
- Q'eswachaka Inca Bridge (3,700 m / 12,139 ft): the last hand-woven Inca suspension bridge still in use, hanging over the Apurímac River. Every year it is completely rebuilt in a community ceremony recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
- Four Lakes circuit (3,792 m / 12,441 ft): the high Andean lakes of Pomacanchi, Acopia, Pampamarca and Asnaqocha, set among mountain landscapes, Andean communities and the area's typical wildlife.
- Pabellones Volcano (3,948 m / 12,953 ft): known as one of the smallest volcanoes in the world, with a curious and photogenic geological formation created by underground water activity.
- Combapata Viewpoint (3,450 m / 11,319 ft): a vantage point for taking in the variety of Andean landscapes in the South Valley before reaching the main destinations of the tour.
Q'eswachaka and 4 Lakes tour itinerary
Cusco – Combapata – Pabellones – Q'eswachaka – Four Lakes – Cusco
A day that brings together living Inca engineering, high Andean landscapes and mountain lakes on a single route.
- The experience begins early, at around 5:00 a.m., with the pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel in tourist transport towards the South Valley, crossing beautiful high Andean landscapes.
- Our first stop is the village of Cusipata, where we will have breakfast with a variety of Andean dishes to recharge for the day.
- We continue with a short stop at the Combapata Viewpoint, with incredible views of the South Valley and a perfect moment for photographs.
- We then head to the Pabellones Volcano, a remarkable geological formation just 9 metres high. This small, completely inactive volcano has a clearly visible crater that lets you see its unusual features up close.
- The journey continues to the star of the day: the Q'eswachaka Inca Bridge. It is woven entirely by hand from plant fibre (q'oya) and rebuilt every year using the same technique the Incas used more than 500 years ago. Those who wish can cross it and experience walking over this feat of ancestral engineering, with the Apurímac River flowing below.
- Our next stop is the Four Lakes circuit, a group of lakes surrounded by mountains, with wide landscapes and, often, birds and wildlife typical of the area. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the peace of the surroundings.
- After time for photographs we set off on the return journey, stopping for lunch in the village of Acopia. We arrive in Cusco at around 5:00 p.m.
What the Q'eswachaka and 4 Lakes tour includes
Guaranteed entrance
- Entrance ticket to the Q'eswachaka Inca Bridge, included in the service.
Support and safety
- Virtual assistance before the tour. Before departure, our team answers all your questions about the programme so you can enjoy the trip without worries.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English). A team of guides highly trained in history, culture and tourist information accompanies you throughout the tour.
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank. Our guides receive ongoing first-aid training, which ensures timely assistance along the route.
- 24/7 customer service, with an emergency number available from start to finish.
Meals
- Buffet breakfast and lunch, with traditional Andean flavours prepared with local ingredients and accompanied by a selection of typical regional desserts.
Transport
- Pickup in tourist transport from your hotel in Cusco.
- Private tourist transport throughout the tour.
Not included
- Travel insurance (recommended): cover for flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays and medical assistance.
- Tips (optional).
- Expenses arising from causes beyond the agency's control: adverse weather, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, strikes, political instability or changes in government policy.
Q'eswachaka and 4 Lakes Tour Price
Rates by Group Size
| Group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2 people | 130 USD |
| 3 people | 95 USD |
| 4 people | 77 USD |
| 5 people | 75 USD |
| 6 people | 65 USD |
Plan Your Visit
We recommend booking in advance to secure your date. Traveling soon? Contact us to check availability: you can also book just a few days ahead, depending on the date.
The Best Time to Visit Q'eswachaka
The dry season, from April to October, offers clearer skies and better conditions for the tour. If you'd like to witness the bridge's annual renewal, plan your visit for June.
What to bring to the Q'eswachaka Inca Bridge and the 4 Lakes
These are the most important items for this excursion.
Required documents
- Original, valid passport or ID card.
Luggage
- A light 20 to 30 litre backpack or day bag for the essentials.
- Water bottle and some snacks.
- Cash in Peruvian soles, preferably in small notes.
Clothing and footwear
- Comfortable trainers or shoes with good non-slip soles.
- Layered clothing: a breathable base layer, a warm layer and a waterproof jacket.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Woollen hat and gloves for the morning.
- Hat or cap and sunglasses.
- Bandana or buff to protect yourself from the wind, dust and solar radiation.
- A special outfit for your photographs at the bridge and the lakes.
Personal items
- Sunscreen.
- Personal medication and a basic first-aid kit.
- Wet wipes or toilet paper and hand sanitiser.
- Energy snacks: chocolate, nuts or bars.
Equipment and extras
- Camera or mobile phone.
- Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs or tips.
Important considerations
- Acclimatise for at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour.
- Avoid heavy luggage so you can enjoy the experience more.
- Always keep your documents and valuables with you.
Frequently asked questions about Q'eswachaka and 4 Lakes
What is the Q'eswachaka Inca Bridge?
It is the last hand-woven Inca suspension bridge still in use, made of plant fibre and hanging over the Apurímac River. Every year the local communities rebuild it completely in an ancestral ceremony lasting several days, keeping alive a tradition of more than 500 years that UNESCO recognises as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Can I cross the bridge?
Yes. Those who wish can cross the bridge, provided conditions on the day allow it. Please check the current conditions for your travel date with your sales executive.
When is the bridge renewed each year?
Traditionally in June, during a community ceremony lasting several days in which the communities of the area take part.
How difficult is the tour?
It is easy. The walks are short and accessible to most travellers. The main consideration is the altitude, so we recommend proper acclimatisation in Cusco beforehand.
How far do I walk to reach the bridge?
The walk to the bridge is short, approximately 15 to 20 minutes each way, on an accessible path.
What are the Four Lakes?
They are the high Andean lakes of Pomacanchi, Acopia, Pampamarca and Asnaqocha, located on the route to Q'eswachaka. Surrounded by mountains and home to a variety of birds and local wildlife, they are one of the most scenic stops of the tour.
Could I suffer from altitude sickness?
Mild symptoms are possible, as the route runs through high Andean areas. We recommend acclimatising in Cusco beforehand, staying hydrated and walking at a calm pace.
Is this a good tour for families with children or older travellers?
Yes. Thanks to its short walks and low difficulty, it is a good option for families, older travellers and anyone looking for a cultural experience without great physical demands.
When is the best time to visit Q'eswachaka?
The dry season, between April and October, offers clearer skies and better conditions for the tour. Those who wish to see the bridge being renewed usually plan their visit for June.
How many people are in the group?
The groups are private from 2 passengers and have a maximum of 6 passengers. For a shared service, you can also join a group of 18 passengers, the price varies depending on the number of people.
How far is Q'eswachaka from Cusco?
It is approximately 160 km south of Cusco. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours each way.
What should I wear?
The best approach is to dress in layers, because of the changes in temperature: a warm jacket, comfortable clothing, shoes with good soles, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a rain poncho.
Is there mobile phone signal or internet during the visit?
The signal is limited for much of the route. We recommend letting family or contacts know that you may be out of touch for a few hours.
What happens if I feel unwell during the tour?
Your safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in first aid, assess any discomfort during the tour and arrange the necessary assistance depending on the situation.
What is the booking process?
Step 1. Availability enquiry. Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates. We will send you a booking form for each participant to complete.
Step 2. Passenger details. To process the booking we need, exactly as they appear on your passport, your full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. A deposit per person is required to secure your place. We recommend booking in advance, especially on public holidays and in high season.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the booking is confirmed, you will receive the official invoice and your place will be 100 % guaranteed.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Yes. You can cancel or change your booking date up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases an administrative fee applies, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Any further questions?
You can contact our sales team on WhatsApp at +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % local, Peruvian company specialising in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco and Peru. We have a team of certified guides, porters and operations staff committed to delivering unique, safe and high-quality experiences.
We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personalised attention in every service. Backed by our tourism quality certification, we guarantee standards of excellence in every detail of the operation, from planning through to the tour itself.
