2 Days / 1 Night Waqrapukara Trek
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Waqrapukara (from Quechua waqra ‘horn’ and pukara ‘fortress’) can be defined as a horn- shaped fortress. It was declared as Cultural Heritage of the Nation by the Ministry of Culture in July 2017. This archaeological site is located in the district of Acos, province of Acomayo, department of Cusco, near the Apurimac River at 4 300 m.a.s.l.(13,123 ft.), It was built by the Qanchis and then conquered by the Incas.
Waqrapukara is a new and recently promoted tourist attraction, south of the city of Cusco. Waqrapukara has not yet been deciphered and can be considered as a fortress, a sanctuary or an astronomical observatory. This tour will take you to a different and unusual destination, where you will enjoy spectacular views, different lagoons, chasms of the Apurimac Canyon, and also connect with nature and the energy of this amazing place.
Day 1 Cusco – Santa Lucia- Huacrapucara
We will pick you up from your hotel at 7am and leave the city of Cusco early in our private transport and drive to the south of the valley, following the path of the Vilcanota River. On our way, we will pass Pomacocha, a beautiful sparkling Andean Lake where we will see the flora and fauna specific to this habitat. We then continue to the town of Acomayo and take a break. We then arrive at the very small village of Pitumarca until the road will end (3296 m.a.s.l), where we will begin the Waqrapukara Trek, that is one of the better preserved ancient andean trail stretches. Right at the beginning our uphill climb begins. However, the hard trek will reward you with views of gigantic pinnacles which come up from the Apurimac River. Spectacular!
We will stay in a campsite with a great view of the archaeological site, where we will rest and enjoy a tasty lunch prepared by our trekking chef. After a siesta, we will have the afternoon to tour the archaeological site. In the evening, we will share a lovely dinner and rest under the stars in this amazing location.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Night: Waqrapukara Campsite
Maximum Altitude: 4087 m. / 13408 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 3296 m. / 10813 ft.
Walking Distance: 7.80 km. / 4.84 miles
Approximate Walking Time: 5-6 hrs
Day 2 Huacrapucara – Santa Lucia – Cusco
We start with a nourishing breakfast and hot cup of tea, while surrounded by views of the beautiful mountains. The spectacular surroundings provide for a magnificent backdrop to appreciate the ingenuity of this pre Inca architecture. Here we will be able to see with our very own eyes the architecturally advanced triple jamb vaulted niches.
After hiking further, we will have a moment to rest and appreciate the vast Apurimac River valley below. Then, we will arrive at the town of Santa Lucia where we will enjoy lunch. Here, our private transport will pick us up and we will drive back to Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Night: Not included
Maximum Altitude: 4087 m. / 13408 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 3296 m. / 10813 ft.
Walking Distance: 7.80 km. / 4.84 miles
Approximate Walking Time: 5 – 6 hours
