Discovering the majestic Inca construction of Waqrapukara or “horn-shaped fortress”, located in the canyon of the mighty Apurimac river, will be an unforgettable experience, since it is a hidden treasure for travelers who are looking for something different and with few people. This beautiful sacred place combines an incredible work in stone with spectacular natural formations and small lagoons around.
FULL DAY TOUR WAQRAPUKARA
The tour begins with the pick-up from the hotel at 5:00 am and then we drive to the south of Cusco, arriving to the village of Chuquicahuana (3,378 mt.) where we will take the route to Zangarara (3,763 mt.) a population of farmers, during our way we will observe the lagoon of Pomacanchi, where we enjoy our breakfast, after that we finally arrive to the area of Cocha ( 4,000 mt.) where the 2½-hour hike to Waqrapukara will begin. The geography is rugged with incredible natural rock formations and small lagoons, where you can observe the wild fauna of the area, such as condors, llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, wild horses and wild ducks.
once we´ll reach Waqrapukara (4,300 mt.) your tour guided will take you along of the different areas of this impressive Inca site, visiting: Intipunku (Sun Gate), main square, the towers, some terraces and more.
This great archaeological complex is located sinuously along a rocky promontory, built around two horn-shaped mountain peaks, the site has eight Inca terraces with retaining walls and stone stairs.
After enjoying this place will walk back to the bus stop to enjoy our box lunches meanwhile we drive back to Cusco arriving to your hotel around 18:00
Important:
To enjoy and explore of this tour we recommend to stay at least 2 days in Cusco, to get a good adjusting to the altitude to avoid any problems with it and doing some of this tours as the City tour, the Sacred Valley of the Incas or Moray and Maras.
Read our Terms & conditions (link).
INCLUDES
- Pre-departure briefing
- English speaking professional and official tourist guide (2 guides for groups of over 12 people).
- Transportation (van or bus) with professional authorized driver
- Meals (1 B, 1 L)
- Entrance to visit the rainbow mountain.
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- 24-h guest service: please ask for the emergency number available during your time of visit.
NOT INCLUDED
- Horse service (you can rent it at S/80 at the trail head)
- Travel insurance.
- Tips to our staff (guide & driver).
Important: read our Terms & conditions (link)
WHAT TO BRING
The geography where the Rainbow Mountain is located, conditions its weather. Despite of the time of the year, there are always seasonal variations: it can be sunny and still cold or rainy but dry and kind of mild. Tourists must be ready and equipped to enjoy their trip under safe conditions. The following packing list gathers items that you will need in your visit.
Clothing
- Wear clothes in layers: It is hard to guess what the weather will be like, that’s why layering is really helpful. Make sure you are using wickable clothes, cotton ones keep much moisture on them.
- Use short or long-sleeved t-shirts for your first layer.
- Pack lightweight jackets of fleece or microfleece for the second layer.
- Wear a waterproof jacket for the third layer.
- Carry gloves to protect your hands from the cold.
- Wear hiking boots or trekking shoes.
- Use thick socks
- Pack a hat in case is going to be sunny day.
Additional Accessories
- Lip balm.
- Sunglasses.
- Sun cream.
- Baby wipes.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Trekking poles.
- Batteries or flashcards for your camera.
Snacks & Drinks
- Energetic bars.
- Dried fruit.
- Bottle of water (1-2 Lt).
- Candies.
Beware that there will possibly be no signal for cell phones up in the mountain. Personal identifications are always required.