Overview
Experience a journey back in time by visiting the Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge, an ancient handwoven suspension bridge made from natural fibers, maintained by local communities in the same traditional way their ancestors did over 500 years ago. This full-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural history and stunning Andean landscapes, showcasing the rich heritage of the Incas.
Highlights
- Visit the Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge, a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage site
- Witness the craftsmanship behind the ancient Andean bridge-building tradition
- Explore the pristine Andean landscapes, lakes, and valleys surrounding the bridge
- Learn about local customs and the annual bridge reconstruction by the Quechua communities
- Enjoy a scenic drive through remote Andean highlands
Itinerary
Early Morning:
Pick-up from Hotel (4:30 AM):
Start the day with early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Begin the scenic drive through the highlands of the Cusco region, taking in stunning views of the Andean countryside.
Stop at Four Lakes:
During the drive, stop to admire the natural beauty of four serene Andean lakes (Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnaqocha, and Pampamarca). Take a break for photos and enjoy the peaceful environment of these high-altitude lakes.
Mid-Morning:
Arrival at Q’eswachaka Bridge:After the scenic drive, arrive at the Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge, located over the Apurímac River. This ancient bridge has been continuously rebuilt each year by local Quechua communities, following a tradition that spans centuries. Learn about the techniques and materials used to create this remarkable structure, and enjoy a guided tour explaining the historical and cultural significance of the bridge.
Lunch:
Picnic Lunch:Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the incredible scenery surrounding the bridge. You’ll have time to relax, take photos, and soak in the breathtaking views of the canyon and river below.
Afternoon:
Walking Across the Bridge (Optional):
For those feeling adventurous, you’ll have the opportunity to walk across the bridge. It’s an exhilarating experience, but also entirely optional for those who prefer to observe from a distance.
Return to Cusco:
After the visit to the Q’eswachaka Bridge, start the journey back to Cusco, passing through small villages and more stunning Andean scenery along the way.
Evening:
Arrival in Cusco (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM):Arrive back in Cusco and drop off at your hotel, concluding the full-day adventure.
Cost
Cost includes
- Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Private transportation to and from the bridge
- Entrance fees to the Q’eswachaka site
- Packed lunch
- Stops at the four Andean lakes
- First aid kit and oxygen
Cost excludes
- Personal expenses
- Tips for the guide and driver
- Breakfast or additional meals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Qeswachaca
The Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge is a handwoven suspension bridge made of natural fibers, spanning the Apurímac River. It has been maintained for over 500 years by local Quechua communities using traditional techniques.
The tour is a full-day excursion, starting around 4:30 AM and returning to Cusco between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
Yes, walking across the bridge is an option for those who feel adventurous. However, it’s entirely optional, and you can enjoy the experience from a distance if you prefer.
The tour is not physically demanding. There is minimal walking involved, but the high altitude may be challenging for some. It’s important to be acclimatized before the tour.
We recommend bringing:
- Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
- Layered clothing (it can get cold in the Andean highlands)
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- A rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
- Water and snacks
- A camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the ancient bridge
The Q’eswachaka Bridge is approximately 15 meters (49 feet) above the Apurímac River, offering dramatic views of the canyon and surrounding landscapes.
Yes, the bridge is rebuilt every year by the local communities, ensuring it remains safe. However, crossing the bridge can be a thrilling experience due to its traditional construction and height.
Q’eswachaka is located at an altitude of around 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) above sea level. It’s important to be acclimatized to high altitudes before taking this tour.
Yes, Breakfast and a packed lunch is included, and you’ll enjoy it with beautiful views near the bridge. You may also want to bring additional snacks and water for the journey.
The tour is available year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October. The bridge is also rebuilt in June during an annual festival, which is an amazing cultural event.
Yes, the tour is suitable for children, but parents should be aware of the optional bridge crossing, which might be thrilling for some.
Yes, private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the Q’eswachaka site and back is included in the tour.
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco or another high-altitude location before taking this tour to avoid altitude sickness.