Waqrapukara Full Day
Waqrapukara Full Day
Overview
The word Waqrapukara comes from the Quechua language: Waqra means “horn,” and Pukara means “fortress.” However, the inhabitants of Llamapuka claim that they are not horns, but rather the upright ears of a llama, alerting the presence of outsiders. The site is divided into two sections: The upper part, located on a rocky spur, where two enclosures are separated by a central open space. Here, you can also observe niches and doorways, all of which had ceremonial purposes. The lower part, made up of Inca terraces, five structures, and additional niches.
Itinerary
Day 1: Waqrapukara
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., heading south of Cusco towards the town of Cusipata, where you will enjoy a delicious semi-buffet breakfast to give you energy for the day’s adventure.
After breakfast, we will continue our journey for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes until we reach the starting point of the hike, located in the community of Santa Lucía. From here, our trekking adventure to Waqrapukara begins.
During the hike, which lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you will be able to appreciate a great variety of Andean flora and fauna, as well as breathtaking landscapes of mountains and canyons surrounding the trail. The route combines nature, history, and spirituality, making it an unforgettable experience.
Upon arriving at our destination — the impressive archaeological complex of Waqrapukara (“fortress in the shape of a horn”) — we will take a well-deserved break to enjoy our box lunch, provided at the beginning of the trek.
Next, we will have a guided visit through the main sectors of the archaeological site, including the Sun Gate (Intipunku), the main square, towers, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial enclosures dedicated to the god Wiracocha. Our professional guide will share insights into the history and spiritual significance of this mysterious site, considered one of the most important temples of the Inca period.
After enjoying this magical place and taking some time for photos, we will start our return hike to Santa Lucía, where our transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.
Without a doubt, this Waqrapukara Tour is a unique experience that combines adventure, nature, and ancient culture, perfect for travelers looking to discover the lesser-known secrets of the Inca Empire.
Included:
- Pick up from your respective hotel in Cusco.
- Tourist transport.
- Official Tourism Guide (Spanish / English).
- Food: 1 breakfast + 1 lunch (box lunch).
- Trekking poles.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen balloon in case of emergencies.
- Permanent assistance
Not included:
- Entrance ticket.
- Extra expenses.
- Food not mentioned.
Recommendations
- Small backpack (bottle of water, snacks and more).
- Extra cash (soles) to buy souvenirs (optional).
- Trekking shoes or shoes.
- Light, warm clothing, gloves, scarf, jacket/jacket.
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho if your visit is between the months of October to March.
- personal medication.
- Sunglasses.
- Sun hat
- Sun block.
- Camera and camcorder.
- Camera and extra batteries.
