From Cusco: Qeswachaka Inca Bridge | Pabellones Volcano |

Uncover the captivating blend of Inca engineering and natural wonders on a full-day tour from Cusco to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge and Pabellones Volcano.

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Cusco to explore the breathtaking Qeswachaka Inca Bridge and the stunning Pabellones Volcano. This full-day tour takes you through a rich cultural heritage, showcasing remarkable Inca engineering and serene natural wonders. With a professional guide, you’ll have the chance to cross the last remaining Inca bridge made of ichu fibers and discover the hidden gems of the region. It’s a perfect adventure for nature and history enthusiasts who want to enjoy the stunning landscapes and ancient tales of the Andes.

Good To Know

  • The tour includes a visit to the Inca Qeswachaka Bridge, a unique vegetable fiber bridge over the Apurímac River, and an exploration of the Pabellones volcano.
  • The tour departs from Cusco around 4:30-5:00 a.m. and visits four scenic lagoons along the way, concluding in Cusco around 5 p.m.
  • The tour is accompanied by a professional guide fluent in English and Spanish, and includes breakfast and lunch.
  • Entrance fees to the Qeswachaka Bridge are additional costs, with 10 soles for Peruvian nationals and 20 soles for foreigners.
  • Travel insurance is not included but recommended, and personal expenses such as souvenirs and extra snacks are not covered in the tour price.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. and takes you on a journey south of the city for almost two hours.

The day-long adventure allows you to visit four scenic lagoons, explore the small Pabellones volcano, and experience the remarkable Inca Qeswachaka Bridge.

Crossing this 28-meter long, 1.20-meter wide bridge made of vegetable fiber is a highlight.

The tour also includes a stop at the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe before concluding back in Cusco around 5 p.m.

Priced from $62.00 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Itinerary

After pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., the tour heads south of the city for almost two hours.

Along the way, you’ll visit four serene lagoons.

Visitors will have the chance to take in the tranquil beauty of four serene lagoons during the tour.

Next, you’ll explore the small Pabellones volcano near Yanaoca.

The highlight is the Inca Qeswachaka bridge, a 28-meter-long and 1.20-meter-wide structure made of vegetable fiber. You’ll have the chance to cross the bridge from both sides.

On the return, you’ll visit the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe.

The tour concludes in Cusco around 5 p.m.

Inca Qeswachaka Bridge

A highlight of the tour is the Inca Qeswachaka bridge, the last remaining Inca bridge made of vegetable fiber known as ichu.

Located over the Apurímac River in the Quehue district, this bridge dates back to the Inca period and is maintained annually by local communities through a ceremony involving offerings to Pachamama.

Visitors can cross the 28-meter-long and 1.20-meter-wide bridge from both sides, experiencing the unique tradition.

The renovation process exemplifies the respect these communities have for their cultural heritage and the importance of preserving this remarkable example of Inca engineering.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up in historic Cusco center, as well as comfortable round trip transportation.

A professional guide, fluent in English and Spanish, accompanies guests throughout the excursion.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, ensuring travelers are fueled for the day’s activities.

Breakfast and lunch are provided, ensuring travelers are fueled for the day’s activities.

A first aid kit and oxygen are on hand, prioritizing safety.

While entrance fees to the Qeswachaka Bridge are an additional cost – 10 soles for Peruvians, 20 soles for foreigners – all other expenses mentioned in the program are covered in the tour price.

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Additional Expenses

Although the tour price covers a significant portion of the experience, there are a few additional expenses travelers should be aware of. The Qeswachaka Bridge requires an entrance fee, which is 10 soles for Peruvian nationals and 20 soles for foreigners. Plus, travel insurance is not included in the tour price, which is recommended to protect against any unforeseen circumstances during the trip. Other personal expenses, such as souvenirs or extra snacks, are also not covered by the tour package. Considering these additional costs can help travelers budget accordingly for a successful and worry-free experience.

| Expense | Cost |

| — | — |

| Qeswachaka Bridge Entrance (Nationals) | 10 soles |

| Qeswachaka Bridge Entrance (Foreigners) | 20 soles |

| Travel Insurance | Varies |

| Personal Expenses | Varies |

| Other Expenses Not Mentioned | Varies |

Exploration of the Pabellones Volcano

Pabellones Volcano, a small but captivating feature near the town of Yanaoca, offers visitors a chance to explore its unique geological wonders.

Pabellones Volcano, a small but captivating feature near Yanaoca, offers visitors a chance to explore its unique geological wonders.

The tour includes:

  1. A leisurely hike to the volcano’s base, providing a closer look at its rugged, volcanic landscape.

  2. Observation of the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the area, including rare alpine plant species.

  3. Breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean peaks and valleys from the volcano’s slopes.

  4. An opportunity to learn about the geological history and formation of this volcanic formation.

Visiting the Colonial Inca Bridge of Checacupe

As the tour heads back to Cusco, it makes a stop at the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe.

This historic structure, built during the Spanish colonial era, stands as a testament to the Inca’s engineering prowess. Visitors can marvel at the intricate stonework and appreciate the bridge’s continued use as a vital crossing point over the Vilcanota River.

The guide shares insights into the bridge’s history and its role in connecting communities.

Though not as famous as the Qeswachaka, the Checacupe bridge offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of Inca architecture.

The Sum Up of the Tour

After exploring the historic Inca Qeswachaka Bridge and the nearby Pabellones Volcano, the tour concludes with a return to Cusco, arriving around 5 p.m.

The journey includes:

  1. A visit to the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe.

  2. Hotel drop-off in the historic center of Cusco.

  3. A comfortable round-trip transportation.

  4. Guidance from a professional, multilingual tour guide.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy a hearty breakfast and lunch.

The tour provides first-aid kits and oxygen, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Climate Like During the Tour?

The climate during the tour is generally mild and comfortable. Temperatures range from cool mornings to pleasant afternoons, making it suitable for outdoor exploration. The tour takes place in the Andes region, so visitors should be prepared for potentially changing weather conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks for the tour. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, but having extra snacks on hand can be helpful, especially for those with dietary restrictions or a hearty appetite.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though parents should ensure young children are supervised. The tour includes activities that may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Can I Take Breaks During the Long Drive?

Yes, you can take breaks during the long drive. The tour provides ample opportunity for stops and rest along the way. The guide will accommodate any requests for short breaks to stretch your legs or use the restroom.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends about 2 hours at the Qeswachaka Bridge, allowing time to cross it and explore. It also visits 4 lagoons and the Pabellones volcano, though the specific time spent at each location isn’t provided.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into the Inca’s remarkable engineering feats and the breathtaking natural beauty of the Cusco region. Travelers will cross the last remaining Inca bridge made of ichu fibers, explore serene lagoons, and marvel at the stunning Pabellones Volcano, all while learning about the area’s rich cultural heritage from a knowledgeable guide. It’s an adventure not to be missed for nature and history enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: