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Discover Waqrapukara, an Andean archeological gem hidden above the impressive Apurímac Canyon. During the one-day journey, you will encounter unique landscapes along with ancestral stories that add value to the adventure. In this cultural and scenic experience, you will traverse ancient Inca routes and live authentic moments amidst nature.
Waqrapukara Trek tour overview
Why choose this experience with us?
- Small groups and guaranteed departures: Travel in groups of up to 18 people for a more authentic experience throughout the tour. Departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, so you can plan your adventure with complete confidence.
- Meals included: Buffet breakfast and lunch, before and after the hike, 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 – Pomacanchi – Santa Lucía – Waqrapukara – Cusco
A scenic adventure to the archaeological site of Waqrapukara, with sweeping views of the Apurímac Canyon, blooming valleys, Andean communities and the area's typical wildlife.
Tour facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Hiking distance | Approx. 5 km / 3.11 miles (round trip) |
| Hiking time | Approx. 4 hours (round trip) |
| Maximum altitude | Waqrapukara Viewpoint: 4,300 m / 14,108 ft above sea level |
| Minimum altitude | Santa Lucía: 3,700 m / 12,139 ft above sea level |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
Highlights
- Waqrapukara (4,140 m / 13,583 ft): an impressive Inca archaeological complex built on a rock formation overlooking the majestic Apurímac Canyon.
- Santa Lucía (3,700 m / 12,139 ft): a traditional Andean community and the starting point of the hike to Waqrapukara, surrounded by mountains and rural landscapes.
- Waqrapukara Viewpoint (4,300 m / 14,108 ft): a spectacular panoramic spot with the best views of the archaeological complex, the surrounding mountains and the Apurímac Canyon.
- Apurímac Canyon: one of the deepest and most impressive canyons in Peru, surrounded by Andean landscapes and unique panoramic views.
Waqrapukara Trek tour itinerary
Cusco – Pomacanchi – Santa Lucía – Waqrapukara – Cusco
A day of culture, nature and connection with the Inca legacy, facing the Apurímac Canyon.
- The adventure begins very early with the pickup from your hotel in Cusco. On the way you can watch the sunrise over the mountains of the South Valley until we reach the village of Cusipata (3,310 m / 10,860 ft), after a drive of almost 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- In Cusipata we enjoy an Andean buffet breakfast. We then continue in tourist transport to the village of Santa Lucía (3,700 m), the starting point of the hike.
- The first section of the trail is uphill, for about 2 hours and 40 minutes, through mountain landscapes, ravines and rock formations along the way to one of the most impressive destinations in Cusco.
- At the Waqrapukara Viewpoint (4,300 m) we take in the imposing horn-shaped fortress overlooking the Apurímac Canyon, with time for photographs before descending to the archaeological complex.
- With our guide we explore its terraces, ceremonial buildings and Inca walls, learning about the history, symbolism and mysteries of this ancient ceremonial centre.
- After the visit we enjoy an Andean toast, a hot drink made with natural herbs from the region, to round off the adventure.
- We set off on the return journey with a stop in Cusipata for a traditional buffet lunch full of Andean flavours. We arrive in Cusco at sunset.
What the Waqrapukara Trek tour includes
Guaranteed entrance
- Entrance ticket to Waqrapukara, arranged by us so you can skip the ticket queues.
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.
- Waterproof backpack cover, to protect your belongings from sun and rain during the hike.
- 1 trekking pole, for extra stability and support on the climbs and descents.
- 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.
- Water refill at the start of the hike, so you begin well hydrated. We recommend bringing a reusable bottle.
- Andean farewell toast, a hot drink made with traditional ingredients from the region after the hike.
Transport
- Pickup in tourist transport from your hotel in Cusco.
- 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.
Waqrapukara Trek tour price
Rates by group size
| Your group size | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2 people | 105 USD |
| 3 people | To be confirmed |
| 4 people | To be confirmed |
| 5 people | To be confirmed |
| 6 or more people | To be confirmed |
Plan your visit
We recommend booking early to secure your date. Travelling soon? Ask us about availability: depending on the date, you can also book just a few days ahead.
Upgrade your experience
| Add-on | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Private service at your own pace | On request | A more comfortable and personalised experience, with flexible timings, more time for photographs and the freedom to stop whenever you wish. |
The best time to visit Waqrapukara
The dry season, from April to October, brings less rain, better hiking conditions and clearer views. The tour runs all year round; in the rainy season (November to March), bring waterproof clothing and footwear with good grip.
What to bring on the Waqrapukara Trek
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.
- Reusable water bottle and some snacks.
- Cash in Peruvian soles, preferably in small notes.
Clothing and footwear
- Comfortable trainers or trekking shoes with good non-slip soles.
- Layered clothing: a breathable base layer and a warm layer.
- 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 Waqrapukara.
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 the Waqrapukara Trek
What does "Waqrapukara" mean?
Waqrapukara (or Huacrapucará) comes from Quechua and means "horn-shaped fortress", a reference to the two rock formations that frame this impressive Inca complex.
What is the Waqrapukara tour like?
It combines stretches in tourist transport with a hike to the Inca archaeological site, through high Andean landscapes and historic trails, and a visit to the impressive Waqrapukara fortress above the Apurímac Canyon.
Which places are visited on the tour?
The tour includes the hike from Santa Lucía, the Waqrapukara Viewpoint and a guided visit to the archaeological fortress, with impressive panoramic views of the Apurímac Canyon.
How long is the hike and how many kilometres does it cover?
The hike is about 5 km / 3.11 miles round trip and takes around 4 hours in total, including about 2 hours and 40 minutes uphill. Times depend on each traveller's pace and adaptation to the altitude.
How difficult is the tour?
It is moderate. It includes a gradual uphill hike, so basic fitness and prior acclimatisation in Cusco are recommended.
Do I need to be very fit?
No athletic training is needed, but basic fitness is recommended. The hike is done at a relaxed pace, ideal for enjoying the scenery.
At what altitude does the tour take place?
Between 3,700 m / 12,139 ft in Santa Lucía and 4,300 m / 14,108 ft at the Waqrapukara Viewpoint. The archaeological complex stands at about 4,140 m / 13,583 ft. That is why it is important to acclimatise in Cusco before the tour.
Could I get altitude sickness during the tour?
Yes, because of the altitude you may feel mild discomfort such as headache, fatigue or dizziness. We recommend resting in Cusco beforehand, staying hydrated and avoiding physical exertion before the trip.
Is the Waqrapukara hike safe?
Yes. It is a safe tour, with a professional guide throughout. Even so, we recommend walking carefully on some uphill sections because of the gradient.
How do I know if this tour is right for me?
It is ideal if you are looking for a peaceful experience away from the tourist crowds and want to enjoy nature, history and Andean scenery. It only requires basic fitness and good acclimatisation.
Is it a good destination if I want to avoid the crowds?
Yes. Waqrapukara is one of the best options in Cusco for those seeking peace and an authentic experience. As a little-visited destination, it lets you explore its landscapes, cliffs and Inca structures calmly and without crowds.
When is the best time to visit Waqrapukara?
Between April and October, in the dry season, when there is less rain, better hiking conditions and clearer views.
Does the tour run all year, even in the rainy season?
Yes. The tour runs all year round, including the rainy season (November to March). In those months the trail can be more slippery and some sections more demanding, so we recommend waterproof clothing, footwear with good grip and trekking poles.
What should I bring on the tour?
Warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, trekking shoes, sunscreen, a cap, water and cash for personal expenses. You will find the full list in the What to bring tab.
Is there mobile phone signal during the tour?
The signal is limited for much of the route, especially on the hiking section and at Waqrapukara. We recommend letting your family or contacts know in advance.
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 arrange the entrance tickets we need, exactly as they appear on your passport, your full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality. Without this information we cannot purchase the tickets.
Step 3. Deposit and confirmation. Once we receive the forms, we request a deposit per person. We recommend booking in advance, as places sell out quickly.
Step 4. Final confirmation. Once the tickets are secured, you will receive the official invoice and your booking will be 100 % guaranteed.
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. We are here to help you plan your experience.
Why choose Sakura Expedition for your trip?
Sakura Expedition is a 100 % Peruvian company specialising in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco. We have a team of certified guides 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.
With Sakura Expedition, your satisfaction is guaranteed.
