The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge stands as a testament to the Inca Empire’s engineering prowess. This one-day tour offers a chance to experience the bridge’s cultural significance firsthand. Travelers can cross the bridge over the Apurimac River, explore stunning lagoons, and learn about the Inca heritage that’s kept alive through annual community rituals. With breathtaking views and insights into this remarkable structure, the tour promises to immerse visitors in the rich history and traditions of the Inca civilization.

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Good To Know

A one-day tour to visit the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge, the last surviving Inca suspension bridge, including hotel pickup, transportation, bilingual guide, meals, and safety equipment.
The tour features visits to stunning lagoons, the Pabellones volcano, and the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
The Qeswachaka Bridge dates back to the Inca Empire and is annually renewed by local communities through rituals and offerings, reflecting its cultural significance.
The small group size of up to 10 participants ensures a personalized experience with tailored explanations and easier navigation.
Additional expenses include the entrance fee to the Qeswachaka Bridge and dinner, not covered by the tour package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour offers visitors the chance to explore the last surviving Inca bridge. This 1-hour tour costs from $65.00 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with no upfront payment required. The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, lunch, a first aid kit, and oxygen.

Guests should expect to pay extra for travel insurance and the entrance fee to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge. The small-group tour is limited to 10 participants.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The tour starts with hotel pickup at 5:00 a.m., allowing visitors to travel through southern Cusco and visit four stunning lagoons.

Next, the group stops at the small volcano of Pabellones near Yanaoca.

The highlight is arriving at the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge over the Apurimac River. This bridge, made entirely of vegetable fiber called ichu, offers the opportunity to cross from both sides.

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge, woven from ichu fibers, spans the Apurimac River, allowing visitors to cross from either side.

On the return journey, the group visits the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides insights into the cultural significance of these Inca landmarks.

Cultural Significance

Inca bridge of Qeswachaka dates back to the height of the Inca Empire, showcasing the ingenuity and engineering prowess of this ancient civilization.

Each year, local communities gather to renew and maintain the bridge, made of woven vegetable fibers called ichu. This ritual is a deeply rooted tradition, with offerings made to Pachamama, the Inca Earth deity, before the renovation.

The bridge’s preservation reflects the cultural significance it holds, a living testament to the Inca’s remarkable feats of infrastructure and the enduring legacy of their sophisticated civilization.

Crossing this ancient bridge is a truly unique cultural experience.

Group Size and Language

A small group limited to 10 participants joins this tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The tour is offered with live guides available in both English and Spanish, catering to diverse language preferences.

The small group size allows for:

Easier navigation and movement through the site
More opportunities for interaction with the guide
Personalized attention and tailored explanations
Enhanced culture and learning
Flexibility to accommodate individual needs and interests

This intimate group setting enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the rich history and significance of the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge.

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Inclusions and Extra Expenses

This tour includes a comprehensive set of services to enhance the overall experience.

Hotel pickup and round-trip transportation are provided, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day. A bilingual guide accompanies the small group, sharing insights into the cultural significance of the Inca bridge.

Breakfast and lunch are included, keeping energy levels high. The tour also provides a first-aid kit and oxygen, prioritizing participant safety.

While these services are covered, there are additional expenses, such as the entrance fee to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge and dinner, which aren’t included in the tour price.

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Arrival and Hotel Pickup

The tour begins with a 5:00 a.m. hotel pickup, allowing participants to embark on the day’s adventure.

Guests are gathered from their accommodations throughout Cusco, ensuring a smooth and efficient start to the day.

The journey takes travelers through the stunning southern region of Cusco, offering a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty:

The stunning southern region of Cusco offers a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty, from rugged mountains to tranquil high-altitude lakes.

Panoramic views of the rugged Andes mountains
Tranquil high-altitude lakes and lagoons
Charming rural villages and agricultural landscapes
The small volcanic formation of Pabellones near Yanaoca
The gradual descent towards the Apurimac River valley

This well-timed pickup sets the stage for an immersive exploration of the legendary Qeswachaka Inca Bridge.

Crossing the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge

After arriving at the site, visitors are immediately captivated by the striking sight of the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge spanning the Apurimac River. Constructed entirely of vegetable fiber, the bridge is a testament to the Inca’s engineering prowess. Crossing the bridge is a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of traversing this historic structure.

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Crossing the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge is a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire.

Return Journey and Visit to Checacupe

As visitors reluctantly leave the iconic Qeswachaka Inca Bridge behind, the tour continues on its return journey.

The route takes them through the picturesque countryside, offering enchanting vistas:

Rolling green hills dotted with grazing llamas
Sparkling streams winding through lush vegetation
Glimpses of traditional Andean villages in the distance
The majestic Andes mountains looming on the horizon
The historic colonial bridge of Checacupe, a final stop before heading back

This return journey provides a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of this remarkable region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, as crossing the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge requires traversing a suspension bridge made of vegetable fiber. However, the tour guide can provide guidance and assistance to help participants navigate the bridge.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, a light breakfast and lunch are included in the tour price. Bringing your own food and drinks is permitted but not required.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour includes stops at various locations, and you will have access to restrooms at these sites along the way.

Can I Take Photos and Videos While Crossing the Inca Bridge?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos and videos while crossing the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge. This offers a unique opportunity to capture the beauty and cultural significance of this last remaining Inca suspension bridge.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge?

The best time to visit the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge is during the annual renewal ceremony in June. This is when the local communities gather to maintain the bridge, making it an optimal time to witness the cultural tradition.

The Sum Up

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour offers a unique chance to explore the engineering marvels and cultural traditions of the Inca Empire. Visitors can experience the annual bridge-building ritual, cross the stunning bridge over the Apurimac River, and discover the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe, providing an immersive insight into Inca heritage and the enduring spirit of the local communities.