Tour Waqrapukara Hike 1 Day

Physical Level

Moderate

Trip Style

hiking

Max Altitude

4100 msnm (13452ft)

Group Size

max 10 persons

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

Discover the hidden gem of Cusco with our Waqrapukara 1-Day Tour, the perfect adventure for hiking enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, the Waqrapukara trek invites you to explore a remarkable pre-Inca construction that once served as an astronomical observatory. This unique journey offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable addition to your Peruvian adventure.

Embark on an exhilarating trek through the stunning Cañón del Apurímac, where towering cliffs and dramatic vistas set the stage for your exploration. Marvel at the impressive Fortaleza de Waqrapukara, a testament to ancient engineering and celestial knowledge. Along the way, immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Andean communities and capture the essence of their rich traditions. Every step reveals beautiful landscapes that showcase the true spirit of the Andes, providing countless opportunities for memorable photos and personal reflection.

Our meticulously planned itinerary ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., followed by a scenic three-hour drive to Santa Lucía, with a delightful breakfast stop in Cusipata. After a short detour to Punta Carretera, prepare for your ascent to Waqrapukara with the guidance of our professional bilingual guides. Enjoy ample time to explore the archaeological site at your own pace before relishing a delicious box lunch. Finally, relax on the return journey to Cusco, arriving by 6:00 p.m. Our tour includes transportation, meals, entrance fees, and a first aid kit, ensuring a hassle-free and enriching adventure. Join us for an extraordinary day of discovery and adventure in the heart of the Andes!

Highlights

Explore the Majestic Apurímac Canyon: Trek through one of Peru’s most breathtaking canyons, offering dramatic vistas and a glimpse into the natural beauty of the region.
Discover the Ancient Fortress of Waqrapukara: Visit this impressive pre-Inca archaeological site, known for its unique architecture and historical significance as an astronomical observatory.
Immerse Yourself in Andean Communities: Experience the rich culture and traditions of local Andean villages, connecting with the warm-hearted people who call these highlands home.
Witness Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views and beautiful scenery throughout your journey, providing countless photo opportunities and moments of awe.

Trip Details

Activities: Trekking Adventure
Difficulty Levels: 3 of 5
Departures Day: Daily Departures
Sites to Visit: Apurímac Canyon, Fortaleza de Waqrapukara, Andean Communities, Punta Carretera
Hike Distance: 2 km
Minimum Altitude: 2,500 msnm (8,202 ft)
Max Altitude: 4,100 msnm
Age Recommended: 12 Years
Altitude Acclimatization: Yes, required
Recommended Season: March to December
Tour Type: Classic Tour

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Tour Waqrapucara 1 Day

Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m.. Ensure you arrive on time as we gather the group to start our exciting day.

Scenic Journey to Santa Lucía:
We embark on a three-hour journey by comfortable tourist transport towards the charming village of Santa Lucía, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters (8,202 feet). Along the way, we’ll make a delightful breakfast stop in Cusipata, allowing you to refuel before continuing our trek.

Road to Punta Carretera:
Upon arrival in Santa Lucía, we’ll take a 15-minute detour along a picturesque, zigzagging road leading to Punta Carretera, elevated at around 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). Here, we’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing for the hike, ensuring everyone is ready for the ascent to Waqrapukara.

Ascend to Waqrapukara:
Our guided hike begins promptly, ascending steadily over 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles). The trek takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering stunning views of the surrounding Andes. As we climb, our professional guide will share insights about the historical and astronomical significance of the Waqrapukara Complex.

Exploration and Lunch:
Upon reaching Waqrapukara, you’ll have free time to explore the archaeological site at your own pace, capturing memorable photos and soaking in the ancient ambiance. After your exploration, enjoy a delicious box lunch amidst the beautiful Andean landscape.

Return Journey to Cusco:
We begin our descent, retracing our steps back to Punta Carretera. Here, our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. You’ll arrive back at your hotel by 6:00 p.m., concluding a day filled with adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Additional Details:

Altitude: Starting at 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) and reaching up to 3,000 meters (9,843 feet)
Meals Included: Breakfast and box lunch
Guidance: Professional bilingual (English-Spanish) guides
Amenities: Transportation, entrance fees, and first aid kit provided

Join us for the Waqrapukara 1-Day Tour and experience the rich history and natural beauty of the Andes like never before!

Inclusions

Hotel Pickup in Cusco: Convenient and timely collection from your Cusco hotel to begin your adventure.
Comfortable Tourist Transportation: Reliable, air-conditioned vehicles for a pleasant journey throughout the day.
Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious and energizing breakfast to start your day.
Box Lunch: Savor a nutritious and tasty box lunch during your visit to Waqrapukara.
Professional Bilingual Guide (English-Spanish): Knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Spanish to enhance your experience.
First Aid Kit: Comprehensive first aid supplies available for your safety and peace of mind.

Entrance Fee to Waqrapukara (S/ 10.00): Additional cost required for site access.
Dinner: Evening meal is not provided as part of the tour.
Tips: Gratuities for guides and drivers are not included.

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
- The name of the university
- The student’s name and photo
- A valid expiration date
ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

The traveler is older than 25
The ID is expired
The ID does not have an expiration date
ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Illapa Peru Trip”?

“Illapa Peru Trip” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Illapa Peru Trip,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Illapa Peru Trip,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Illapa Peru Trip” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Illapa Peru Trip” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Illapa Peru Trip” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Pricing Options

Group Service

US $ 60.00

$ 280.00 USD

$ 140.00 USD

$ 120.00 USD

$ 100.00 USD

$ 90.00 USD

6 to 10

$ 80.00 USD

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Faqs

What is the Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day?

The Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day is an adventurous trekking experience in Cusco, Peru, that explores the ancient pre-Inca archaeological site of Waqrapukara. This full-day tour includes hiking through stunning landscapes, visiting historical sites, and immersing yourself in Andean culture.

What are the tour highlights?

Highlights of the tour include the breathtaking Apurímac Canyon, the impressive Fortaleza de Waqrapukara, interactions with local Andean communities, and stunning panoramic landscapes that offer numerous photo opportunities.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The trek is rated as a 3 out of 5 in difficulty, making it suitable for those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy hiking and some physical challenge.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 14 hours, starting early in the morning with a hotel pickup around 4:30 a.m. and returning to Cusco by 6:00 p.m.

What is included in the tour?

Included in the tour are hotel pickup in Cusco, comfortable tourist transportation, one breakfast, a box lunch, a professional bilingual (English-Spanish) guide, and a first aid kit. Entrance to Waqrapukara is also covered.

What is not included in the tour?

Not included are the entrance fee to Waqrapukara (S/ 10.00), dinner, and tips for guides and drivers.

What is the altitude of Waqrapukara?

Waqrapukara is located at an altitude of approximately 4100 meters (9,843 feet) above sea level, requiring proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.

What should I bring on the tour?

Bring a lightweight backpack with essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, a map, personal medications, and a small first aid kit to ensure a comfortable and safe trek.

What is the best time to take the tour?

The best time to take the tour is from March to December, when the weather is generally dry and skies are clear, providing optimal conditions for hiking and sightseeing.

How do I prepare physically for the tour?

Engage in regular hiking or cardio exercises leading up to the tour to build endurance. Ensure you are comfortable with ascending trails and sustained walking for approximately 2.5 kilometers.

Are there any age restrictions?

Participants should be at least 12 years old to join the Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day. It is recommended for individuals who are physically fit and can handle moderate hiking.

Do I need to acclimatize to the altitude?

Yes, acclimatization is required. It is recommended to spend at least a day in Cusco before the tour to adjust to the high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

What is the weather like during the tour?

During the tour, daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Layered clothing is essential to stay comfortable throughout the day.

How do I dress for the tour?

Wear layered clothing, including a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Sturdy hiking boots, extra socks, a hat, sunglasses, and gloves are also recommended to handle varying temperatures and conditions.

Are there any health recommendations?

To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consider consulting a doctor about taking acetazolamide if you are prone to altitude issues. Use sunscreen and lip balm with SPF to protect against intense UV rays, and carry any necessary personal medications.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

In case of an emergency, notify your guide immediately. The tour provides a first aid kit for minor injuries, and the professional guide is trained to handle basic medical situations. Always follow the guide’s instructions and prioritize your safety.

Travel Guide

Recommendations for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

What to Bring

Backpack Essentials: Carry a lightweight backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Hydration: Bring at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated during the trek.
Personal Items: Include a map, a small first aid kit, and any personal medications you may need.

Photography Tips

Best Times to Shoot: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for capturing the beauty of Waqrapukara and the Apurímac Canyon.
Equipment: A DSLR or a high-quality smartphone camera is recommended to take advantage of the picturesque scenery.
Angles and Perspectives: Experiment with different angles to highlight the unique architecture of Fortaleza de Waqrapukara and the expansive views of the Andes.

Weather for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

Seasonal Climate

March to December: These months are ideal for visiting, with dry weather and clear skies enhancing the trekking experience.
June to August: Expect cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities.

Temperature Range

Daytime: Temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), providing comfortable conditions for hiking.
Nighttime: Temperatures can drop to between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F), so layering is essential.

Altitude Considerations

Santa Lucía: Approximately 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) above sea level.
Punta Carretera: Around 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) above sea level.
Waqrapukara: Reaches up to 3,000 meters (9,843 feet), requiring acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.

Tips for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

Acclimatization

Spend Time in Cusco: Arrive in Cusco at least a day early to acclimate to the high altitude before embarking on the tour.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during the trek to help your body adjust to the elevation.

Safety Tips

Follow Your Guide: Always adhere to the instructions and guidance provided by your professional bilingual guide.
Pace Yourself: Take your time during the hike to avoid overexertion, especially on the ascending trail to Waqrapukara.

Cultural Respect

Respect Local Communities: Be mindful of the traditions and customs of the Andean communities you visit.
Leave No Trace: Ensure that you leave the natural and archaeological sites as you found them, preserving their beauty for future visitors.

How to Dress for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

Layered Clothing

Base Layer: Wear moisture-wicking materials to keep sweat away from your skin.
Middle Layer: A fleece or lightweight jacket for insulation during cooler parts of the day.
Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket to protect against unexpected weather changes.

Footwear

Hiking Boots: Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for navigating the rugged trails.
Socks: Bring extra pairs of moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry.

Accessories

Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
Gloves and Scarf: Useful for the cooler morning and evening temperatures, especially at higher altitudes.

Restrictions for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

Age and Health

Minimum Age: Participants should be at least 12 years old.
Health Conditions: Individuals with severe health issues or mobility challenges may need to consult a physician before joining the trek.

Permits and Fees

Entrance Fee: An additional cost of S/ 10.00 is required for entry to Waqrapukara.
Prohibited Items: Large backpacks, drones, and any items that could damage the archaeological site are not allowed.

Group Policies

Group Size: Tours may have a maximum number of participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Cancellation Policy: Be aware of the tour’s cancellation and refund policies in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Physical Preparation for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

Fitness Level

Moderate Fitness: A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as the trek involves ascending trails and sustained walking for 2.5 kilometers.
Training: Engage in regular hiking or cardio exercises leading up to the tour to build endurance.

Acclimatization

Gradual Ascent: Spend time acclimating in Cusco to adjust to the high altitude before undertaking the hike to Waqrapukara.
Avoid Alcohol and Heavy Meals: These can interfere with your body’s ability to acclimate properly.

Equipment Check

Proper Footwear: Ensure your hiking boots are well-broken-in to prevent discomfort during the trek.
Gear Testing: Familiarize yourself with any gear you plan to use, such as trekking poles or backpacks, to ensure comfort and functionality.

Health Recommendations for Tour Waqrapukara 1 Day

Altitude Sickness Prevention

Medication: Consult your doctor about taking acetazolamide (Diamox) if you are prone to altitude sickness.
Slow Ascent: Ascend at a steady pace to give your body time to adjust to the higher elevation.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen: Apply a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from intense UV rays.
Lip Balm: Use a lip balm with SPF to prevent chapping and sunburn on your lips.

Hydration and Nutrition

Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day to maintain hydration levels.
Healthy Snacks: Bring energy-boosting snacks such as nuts, fruits, and energy bars to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

Emergency Preparedness

First Aid Kit: Utilize the provided first aid kit for any minor injuries or ailments during the tour.
Know the Signs: Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea, and inform your guide immediately if you experience any.

Embrace the adventure and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Andes with our Waqrapukara 1-Day Tour. Proper preparation and awareness will ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.