Waqra Pukara Excursion




Waqra Pukara Tour – Full Day

Discover the Waqra Pukara Tour, an impressive journey to one of the most fascinating fortresses of the pre-Inca and Inca heritage.
During this route, you will visit the Pomacanchi Lagoon, enjoy an Andean breakfast, take a 3-hour hike to the impressive Waqra Pukara Fortress, and finish with lunch in the town of Pitumarca before returning to Cusco.

An ideal tour for those seeking adventure, history, and spectacular landscapes.


Places you will visit on this excursion:

🟢 Pomacanchi Lagoon
A beautiful body of water surrounded by high-Andean grasslands.

🟢 Waqra Pukara Fortress
An impressive pre-Inca archaeological site built among the mountains.

🟢 Pitumarca Town
A traditional town where you will enjoy lunch.

Schedule:

🕙 Start: 4:30 AM (Hotel pick-up – urban area)
🕒 End: 5:00 PM approx.

Itinerary Overview

🕒 Schedule: 4:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.📍 Meeting Point: Pick-up from your hotel (Cusco Historic Center)

Duration: Full Day – approx. 12 hours

map of the Waqra Pukara Tour

Detailed Itinerary – Waqra Pukara Tour

1

4:30 a.m.

Hotel pick-up and departure

Pick-up in Cusco (downtown area) and start of the journey south. Along the way, you will enjoy high-Andean landscapes, small communities, and the sunrise on the route.

Recommendation: dress in layers and bring water; mornings are usually cold.

2

Acomayo

Andean breakfast

Stop to enjoy a traditional breakfast in Acomayo. This is a good time to recharge, use the restrooms, and get ready for the hike.

3

Pomacanchi

Pomacanchi Lagoon

Panoramic visit to the lagoon surrounded by high-Andean scenery and farmland. We will make a short stop to observe the surroundings, take photos, and continue to the starting point of the trek.

4

Trekking

Hike to Waqra Pukara (approx. 3 hours)

Start of the trek through mountains, ravines, and rock formations. The route combines moderate sections with some uphill stretches, offering wide views of the Andean landscape throughout the journey.

Tip: keep a steady pace and use sunscreen; there are sections exposed to the sun.

5

Waqra Pukara

Guided visit and photos

Arrival at Waqra Pukara, an impressive archaeological complex known for its strategic location and its stone “horns.”
You will have time to learn about the history and function of the site with the guide, rest, and take panoramic photographs.

Recommendation: make the most of the natural viewpoints for the best shots.

6

Pitumarca

Return and lunch

Return by vehicle to Pitumarca and enjoy a traditional lunch to recover your energy. After a short rest, we will begin the journey back to Cusco.

7

5:00 p.m.

Return to Cusco – End of the tour

Return trip and approximate arrival in Cusco. End of the service in the historic center or at the agreed meeting point.

Recommendations

  • Bring warm clothing
  • Trekking shoes
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Hat, gloves, and windbreaker
  • Extra cash for purchases or entrance fees

What is included and not included in the Waqra Pukara Tour

Included

  • Shared transportation: Round-trip transfers from Cusco included.
  • Bilingual guide: Professional guide in Spanish and English.
  • First aid kit
  • Oxygen
  • Meals: breakfast and lunch
  • Drop-off in Cusco City Center
Note: All entrance fees can be purchased at the entrance points of the places to be visited.

Not Included

  • Personal expenses
  • Entrance fee to Waqra Pukara
  • Tips (optional)
  • Drinks

Entrance Fee – Waqra Pukara

  • 🎟️ General admission: S/ 15.00

Additional Details

Recommendations for taking the excursion

To fully enjoy your visit to Waqra Pukara, keep the following in mind:

  • Arrive in Cusco at least 24 hours in advance to acclimatize.
  • Stay hydrated before and during the hike.
  • Bring a windbreaker jacket, as the area is often windy.
  • Drink coca tea to help prevent altitude sickness.
  • Have a light meal before departure.

What to bring to Waqra Pukara

Ensure a comfortable experience by bringing:

  • A small backpack.
  • A hat for cold weather and a sun hat.
  • Sunscreen and lip balm.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Energy snacks.
  • Enough water.
  • Extra cash in soles for entrance fees or optional expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Waqra Pukara Tour

How much does the Waqra Pukara Tour cost?

Prices for the Waqra Pukara Tour may vary depending on the type of service:
Waqra Pukara entrance fee: S/15.00 (paid at the entrance).
Group Waqra Pukara Tour: From USD 35 (includes guide, transportation, and meals).
Budget Waqra Pukara Tour: From USD 28.
Private Waqra Pukara Tour: From USD 95 per person (for groups of 5 or more).

Can you visit Waqra Pukara without a tour?

Yes, but it is not the most recommended option.
To go on your own, you will need to travel to Acomayo and arrange additional transportation.
Most travelers choose the Waqra Pukara Tour because it includes direct transportation, a professional guide, and meals, making the experience safer and more comfortable.

How much hiking is involved in the Waqra Pukara Tour?

The hike is approximately 3 hours each way, depending on the group’s pace.
It is a moderate-difficulty route, with uphill sections and uneven trails.

What is the best time to visit Waqra Pukara?

The best time to visit is between April and November, when the weather is dry and the trail is more stable.
The most recommended months are: May, June, July, and August.

Is Waqra Pukara suitable for children or older adults?

Due to the long hike and steep terrain, it is not the best option for:
• Young children
• Older adults
• People with little hiking experience
It is ideal for travelers who enjoy trekking and natural landscapes.

What should I bring for the Waqra Pukara Tour?

It is recommended to bring:
• Warm clothing
• A windbreaker jacket
• Trekking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Water and snacks
• Sunglasses
• Cash for the entrance fee

What altitude is Waqra Pukara located at?

The archaeological site is located at approximately 4,300 meters above sea level.
It is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco for at least 24 hours beforehand.

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From: $45.00