Waqrapukara Fortress Trek: The Horned Fortress of the Canyon

After driving south for a couple of hours, we will make a stop in a small local town to have a nutritious breakfast. This will provide the energy needed for the day’s adventure.

We will continue our journey by vehicle through picturesque Andean landscapes until we reach the starting point of our trek near the community of Wayki. Here, our guide will give a final briefing, and we will prepare our daypacks for the hike.

The trek to Waqrapukara begins. The trail is relatively gentle and mostly flat for the first part, making it an excellent opportunity to acclimatize while enjoying the stunning scenery. You will walk through high-altitude plains with views of deep canyons and unique rock formations, accompanied by the serene silence of the Andes. The hike typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

Upon arrival, you will be immediately struck by the dramatic location of Waqrapukara, which means “Horned Fortress” in Quechua. Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Apurimac Canyon, the site is a marvel. You will have ample time to explore its terraces, plazas, and enclosures with your guide, who will explain its history as both a Qanchi culture fortress and a sacred Inca astronomical observatory.

After immersing ourselves in the history and incredible views of Waqrapukara, we will begin the trek back along the same trail. The return hike will take approximately 2.5 hours. Once we reach our vehicle, we will enjoy a well-deserved box lunch while surrounded by the impressive landscape.

With our adventure concluded, we will board our transportation for the long drive back to Cusco. The return journey will take around 3.5 to 4 hours. This is a great time to rest, reflect on the day’s experience, and enjoy the changing light over the Andes.

We expect to arrive back in Cusco between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM. You will be dropped off at a central location near the Plaza de Armas, concluding a long but unforgettable day of exploration.