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Join our Waqrapukara Full Day Hike and discover one of the most impressive and lesser-known sites in the Andes: Waqrapukara, located above the dramatic Apurímac Canyon.
Often referred to as the “Fortress of Horns,” Waqrapukara blends unique pre-Inca architecture with striking natural rock formations. Its iconic horn-shaped peaks rise to over 4,100 meters (13,500 ft), creating a surreal and unforgettable landscape.
Surrounded by peaceful lagoons and breathtaking views, this sacred site offers a perfect combination of history, nature, and adventure — an ideal experience for travelers looking to explore beyond the traditional routes in Cusco.
Cusco – Pomacanchi – Santa Lucia – Waqrapukara
In the morning, we will pick you up from your accommodation at approximately 4:00 – 4:30 am. If your hotel or hostel is not located in the city center, we will pick you up from the doorway of our office building. We will begin the one and a half hour drive towards Cusipata where we will eat our semi buffet breakfast. We will continue bordering the shimmering Pomacanchi lagoon, one of the largest in the area. This beautiful lagoon is also flanked all over by pastures and plenty of local agricultural fields
After that, we’ll follow our route for one hour and a half along an unpaved road until the town of Santa Lucía, witnessing some amazing scenery all around and even looking at the lagoon in the distance
From the town, we’ll take a final 15-min drive to our hike’s starting point. There, you’ll have time to get your things together before we start. The hike to Waqra Pukara is one and half hour, observing the magnificent Apurimac Canyon, one of the deepest in Peru, and the dramatic landscapes studded with cliffs along the way.
Once we arrive at the Waqra Pukara Overlook, we will pause briefly to take our first photos of this incredible fortress perched on the edge of a canyon. We will then descend for 10 minutes along a steep, cliffside path into the site itself, while the Apurimac River runs swiftly below.
We will explore the ruins for approximately an hour, climbing through the remains of the temple, taking photos against the incredible canyon scenery, and resting on clifftops in the shadows of the stone walls. Once the visit is complete, we will return along the same path to starting point, where our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusipata, where we will enjoy a delicious semi-buffet lunch. Finally, we will begin our journey back to Cusco, arriving at 6:00 p.m.
Pick-up from your accommodation and drop-off near the main square
Round trip transportation between Cusco and Waqra Pukara
English/Spanish-speaking professional guide
Semi Buffet Breakfast in Cusipata
Semi Buffet at Lunch(vegetarian option available)
First aid kid
Dinner
Snacks
Tips for the guide and driver
A small backpack.
Copy of your passport.
Good team trek, such as hiking boots, scarf, polar or thermal clothing, gloves, fleece warm hat and wool socks.
Waterproof pants and jacket for the cold
T-shirts and long sleeve sweaters
Poncho Rain
Sun hat
Sunscreen, Mosquito repellent.
Camera and films
Canes.
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks and TIPS.
The hike is considered moderate. Depending on the route, it can take between 1.5 to 3 hours each way. A basic to متوسط nivel de condición física es recomendable.
Waqrapukara is located at approximately 4,100 meters (13,500 ft) above sea level, so acclimatization in Cusco is recommended before the tour.
Waqrapukara is unique for its horn-shaped rock formations and its combination of pre-Inca and Inca architecture, set above the impressive Apurímac Canyon.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a hat. Weather can change quickly due to the altitude.
