Qeswachaka Inca Bridge the Last Surviving Inca Bridge 1 Day

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge is a remarkable relic from the Inca Empire. This one-day tour offers a rare chance to witness the annual renewal of this last-standing suspension bridge, a process steeped in Andean tradition. Visitors can explore the surrounding landscapes, including scenic lagoons and a volcano, while learning about the bridge’s engineering marvels and the enduring reverence for nature that defines Inca culture. For those seeking an immersive cultural experience, this tour promises to be a captivating journey into the heart of the Andes.

Key Points

• The Qeswachaka Bridge is the last surviving Inca suspension bridge, spanning the Apurimac River and connecting visitors with Inca engineering and nature reverence.

• The one-day tour offers an opportunity to cross the Qeswachaka Bridge from both sides and explore the surrounding landscape, including four pristine lagoons and the Pabellones volcano.

• The annual renewal ceremony, where locals gather to reconstruct the bridge using traditional methods, highlights the cultural significance of the Qeswachaka Bridge as a living link to Inca history.

• The tour includes hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and a meal, with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Additional expenses include the entrance fee to the bridge and travel insurance, with the tour departing around 5:00 a.m. and returning around 5:00 p.m.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge Tour

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour is a captivating one-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the last surviving Inca bridge. Priced from $46 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include visiting four lagoons, the Pabellones volcano, and the opportunity to cross the Qeswachaka Bridge from both sides. The tour also includes a visit to the Inca colonial bridge of Checacupe on the return journey, ending in Cusco around 5 p.m.

Bilingual guides, breakfast, and first aid are provided, making this an immersive cultural experience.

Exploring the Inca Bridge and Its Surroundings

Arriving at the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge, visitors are greeted by a captivating sight that transports them back in time. The iconic structure, woven from plant fiber, spans the Apurimac River, a testament to the Inca’s engineering prowess.

Visitors can cross the bridge, experiencing the thrill of walking in the footsteps of their ancestors. Beyond the bridge, the surrounding landscape offers a glimpse into the Inca’s reverence for nature, with the Pabellones volcano and four pristine lagoons to explore.

The annual renewal ceremony, where locals gather to maintain the bridge, further underscores the cultural significance of this remarkable engineering marvel.

The Significance of the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge holds immense cultural significance, a testament to the engineering prowess and reverence for nature of the Inca civilization.

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge holds immense cultural significance, a testament to the engineering prowess and reverence for nature of the Inca civilization.

This bridge, constructed entirely from plant fibers, has been meticulously restored annually by locals for centuries. The ritual renovation is an act of respect, honoring Pachamama, the Inca earth goddess.

Crossing the bridge is a profound experience, allowing visitors to connect with the enduring traditions of the Andes.

The Qeswachaka Bridge stands as a living link to the past, showcasing the Inca’s remarkable ability to harness natural materials and adapt to their environment.

Crossing the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge

When visitors arrive at the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge, they’ll find themselves standing before an engineering marvel that has withstood the test of time.

Crossing the bridge is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as it’s the last surviving Inca bridge in the world. Locals from four surrounding communities gather annually to carefully reconstruct the bridge using traditional methods, weaving thousands of ichu grass ropes.

Visitors can walk across the bridge, feeling the sway of the structure and taking in the stunning views of the Apurimac River below. It’s a humbling reminder of the ingenuity and endurance of the Inca civilization.

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The Annual Renovation of the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge

Every year, locals from the four surrounding communities of the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge gather to meticulously reconstruct the iconic structure using traditional methods.

For three days, they work together to weave the ichu grass ropes that form the bridge’s foundation. This annual ritual is a powerful display of cultural heritage and community unity.

The renovation includes an offering to Pachamama, the Inca earth goddess, as a sign of respect.

Preserving this centuries-old tradition ensures the Qeswachaka Bridge remains the last surviving Inca suspension bridge, connecting the past to the present.

Inclusions and Amenities of the Tour

The tour package includes pickup from the hotel and round-trip transportation, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure. A bilingual guide accompanies the group, providing insights in both Spanish and English. Breakfast and a meal are included, and a first-aid kit and oxygen are available for any emergencies. The experience is enhanced by these thoughtful inclusions:

| Inclusions | Amenities |

| — | — |

| Pickup & Drop-off | Bilingual Guide |

| Breakfast & Meal | First Aid & Oxygen |

| Round-trip Transportation | – |

These amenities guarantee a comfortable and informative Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the cultural significance of this remarkable Inca structure.

Important Information for the Tour

Guests must meet at the hotel lobby near the main square as the departure point for the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour.

Travelers should provide their WhatsApp number for communication.

Extra expenses include travel insurance and the entrance fee to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge.

The tour provides pick-up from the hotel and round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast, and a meal. However, dinner isn’t included.

The tour starts at approximately 5:00 a.m. and returns to Cusco around 5:00 p.m., providing ample time to explore the historical and cultural significance of the last surviving Inca bridge.

Discovering the Inca Colonial Bridge of Checacupe

After visiting the iconic Qeswachaka Inca Bridge, the tour continues to the historic Inca colonial bridge of Checacupe. This architectural marvel offers a glimpse into Cusco’s rich heritage:

1. The Checacupe Bridge, constructed during the Spanish colonial era, showcases a blend of Inca and Spanish design elements.

2. Spanning the Vilcanota River, the bridge features sturdy stone arches and intricate masonry work, exemplifying the engineering prowess of the era.

3. Visitors can explore the bridge, appreciate its historical significance, and capture breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean landscape.

The Inca colonial bridge of Checacupe provides a captivating finale to the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour.

Since You Asked

Is the Bridge Accessible for People With Limited Mobility?

The bridge may not be fully accessible for people with limited mobility. It’s a traditional rope bridge that requires crossing over narrow wooden planks, which could pose challenges. Visitors should inquire about accessibility options before booking the tour.

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

Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a meal is already included in the tour, so bringing additional snacks and beverages is optional.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows photography, but visitors should be mindful not to disrupt the cultural experience. Some areas may have restrictions for preservation purposes, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions on where and when photography is permitted.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements to Participate in the Tour?

There are no age or fitness requirements to participate in the tour. The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as long as participants can comfortably cross the bridge and walk for short distances.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Inca Sites in the Area?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional Inca sites in the area. Travelers can discuss this option with the tour provider, who can customize the itinerary to include visits to nearby Inca ruins or other historical landmarks during the day.

The Sum Up

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Andean culture and history. Participants can witness the annual renewal of this engineering marvel, explore nearby lagoons and a volcano, and gain insights into the Inca’s reverence for nature. With round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and a reasonable price, this one-day excursion is a practical and informative way to discover the last surviving Inca suspension bridge.

You can check availability for your dates here: