Join the list of travelers who decided to embark on a unique and special adventure, such as the Waqrapukara tour, which reveals to the world one of the best hidden treasures of Cusco. So if you are expecting a challenging trip with dreamy postcards, don’t wait any longer and add this tour to your list of memorable experiences.
Were you looking for an unexplored destination to have an out of the ordinary experience? We have the perfect proposal for this, the Waqrapukara tour. This tour will take you to one of the best views of the entire Inca empire, through an unprecedented adventure.
When you arrive in the city, you will have the opportunity to do what every traveler prefers: explore. You will know all the enigmatic structures that this archaeological site has, which (here I tell you a little bit of history) was built by the Canchis to be conquered by the Incas and become a sanctuary. Did you not know this? Don't worry, our guides will be very attentive to accompany you throughout this journey and give you all the facts that are not well-known.
We recommend opting for the Waqrarapukara trek because it’s one of those destinations that offers a truly unique experience. It takes you to a hidden, and really important, Peruvian gem that, while not completely off-limits to people, is relatively unknown and not as widely talked about as we’d like, giving you a more peaceful journey and experience.
This place is named this way because of its peculiar shape, which resembles horns. This has led to the combination of Quechua words, where waqra means horns and pukara means fortress, resulting in the literal translation of "horned fortress." Also, let me tell you that some communities refer to it as Llamapukara, because they see the rock formations as the ears of an alert llama. The llama is the well-known camelid, so Llamapukara means "fortress of the llama." However, the version of "horned fortress" is more commonly used.
So, it’s not just about seeing something beautiful, but about traveling back in time. You’ll become aware of the paths that Inca messengers used to take through these high-altitude landscapes. Whether you’re someone who loves nature, history, or is looking for a challenging trek, Wakarapukara is the destination you’ve been waiting for. We’re also excited to take everyone on this unforgettable journey.
Now, let’s talk more about why you should do a Wakarapukara Tour. It’s really special and a unique experience that you'll never regret. So, let’s start by mentioning some of the benefits you’ll get
This isn’t just about going to see a very old fortress. You’ll be witnessing a place that held a strong spiritual meaning for the Incas, as they used these locations to connect with the Apus, the spirits of the mountains. So, by visiting this place, you’ll become a part of it and truly appreciate their expressions of belief.
You’ll go to a place with an incredible view. Why? Because this archaeological site is located 4,000 meters above sea level, about 13,000 feet. You’ll be surrounded by amazing landscapes, taking photos and seeing the stunning nature surrounding this beautiful place. Of course, this will excite anyone who loves nature and adrenaline, because just imagine being that high up—you’re going to love it!
Additionally, it’s an off-the-beaten-path destination. You won’t be dealing with big crowds. This is not a place that’s always full of tourists because it offers a relatively new experience within the whole Machu Picchu area. Due to its complexity and elevation, not many people visit this site, which is why you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those who love discovering lesser known places and want to explore their depth.
This is something we also specialize in, as we have guides who know the place like the back of their hand. I’m sure they’ll guide you through the whole experience with the utmost professionalism and knowledge.
This place can be visited year-round, but certain months offer better conditions for hiking and sightseeing. Since this is a high-altitude destination with unpredictable weather, choosing the right season can make your tour more enjoyable.
This is the most popular time for trekking in the Andes. Clear skies, sunny days, and dry trails make it ideal for a full day hike. You'll get the best views of the Apurímac Canyon and the horned fortress without worrying about rain or muddy paths. June, July, and August are especially good for photography, with crisp air and panoramic visibility.
Keep in mind that mornings and evenings can be cold, so warm layers are essential.
Although it’s the rainy season, the landscapes during these months are lush, vibrant, and full of life. If you don’t mind the chance of light showers and cloud cover, this can be a beautiful and peaceful time to visit. There are fewer tourists, which makes the experience feel even more personal.
The heaviest rains usually occur in January and February, so we recommend extra caution or choosing another date during those months.
In short, if you're looking for the most comfortable hiking conditions and epic mountain views, the dry season is the best time to do this trip. But if solitude and green landscapes are more your thing, a rainy-season trek might just surprise you.
This place sits at an impressive altitude of about 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) above sea level, which is quite a bit higher than Cusco, resting at around 3,400 meters (11,150 feet).
While the difference might not seem significant on paper, you'll definitely feel it once you're out on the trail. The air becomes thinner, and each step can feel just a bit heavier. If you’ve just landed in Cusco, it’s not the best move to head straight to this place. It’s a good idea to spend a couple of days acclimatizing to the altitude before taking on a hike like this.
But trust me, that extra elevation is absolutely worth it. The views are breathtaking, the cliffs exude a serene silence, and the sensation of standing high above it all is simply unmatched.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Sit back and relax as we travel through the South Valley, passing sleepy towns, rolling hills, and dramatic mountain scenery. After approximately 3 hours on the road, we’ll arrive in Acomayo, a charming Andean town nestled in a quiet valley.
In Acomayo, we’ll stop to enjoy a nourishing breakfast prepared with local ingredients. Once we’re fueled up, we’ll continue by private transport to the trailhead, where your trek officially begins. As the mountains grow taller around you, the sense of anticipation builds.
We start our hike around 9:00 a.m., making our way along paths once used by the Incas. The 3-hour trek is moderately challenging, but incredibly rewarding. You’ll pass through high-altitude grasslands, rock formations sculpted by wind and time, and endless views of the Apurímac Canyon. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the region’s natural and cultural history.
Once we reach the top, you’ll be greeted by the sight of Waqrapukara—an impressive archaeological site clinging to a rocky cliffside. With more than an hour to explore, your guide will walk you through its ceremonial platforms, mysterious enclosures, and panoramic viewpoints. Take your time, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and feel the energy of this sacred place.
After soaking in the views and snapping some unforgettable photos, we begin our return hike to the trailhead. Back in Acomayo, a well-deserved lunch awaits you, followed by a relaxing drive back to Cusco. We’ll arrive at your hotel around 7:00 p.m., wrapping up a full day of discovery, nature, and cultural immersion.
This tour includes:
Enjoy a hassle-free experience with everything you need for an unforgettable travel!
Any additional expenses not mentioned in the itinerary
For a better experience, it's better to have it all, right? That's why we include a list of everything you should bring and be more than prepared to start an adventure.
Depending on the season, we’ll provide more details privately. 24-hour assistance is available.
Note: If you have any medical conditions or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.
1-day
Medium
+4 persons
The best season is the dry season (May to October) when the weather is clear, ideal for hiking and photography.
The Waqrapukara trek is moderate, suitable for travelers in good physical condition, with altitudes reaching 4,300 m (14,100 ft).
Waqrapukara sits at about 4,300 m (14,100 ft) above sea level. Spend a couple of days in Cusco to acclimatize before hiking.
If you’d like extra details or still have questions about this trip, feel free to get in touch. Send us a message and our team will respond promptly to help you plan with confidence.
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