The Inca Empire left behind an incredible engineering marvel in the form of the Qeswachaka bridge. This one-of-a-kind structure, woven entirely from vegetable fibers, continues to span the Apurimac River today. Travelers can embark on a captivating day trip from Cusco to witness the annual maintenance rituals that preserve this remarkable connection to Inca heritage. From picturesque lagoons to colonial bridges, this excursion promises a glimpse into the reverence for nature that defined the Inca civilization.

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Good To Know

A one-day excursion from Cusco to the Inca bridge of Qeswachaka, the last surviving Inca bridge, made entirely of vegetable fiber (ichu).
The tour includes a 2-hour drive from Cusco, stops at four picturesque lagoons, and a visit to the Pabellones volcano near Yanaoca.
Crossing the Inca bridge offers a glimpse into Inca engineering and the annual maintenance ceremony by local communities using traditional methods.
The surrounding area provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the colonial Inca bridge in Checacupe.
The excursion combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and an immersive experience for visitors.

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Overview

The activity, Qeswachaka – the last surviving Inca bridge, is a one-day excursion from Cusco that costs $65.00 per person.

It offers live tour guides in Spanish and English, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The journey begins with a 2-hour drive from Cusco, allowing visitors to explore four lagoons and the Pabellones volcano near Yanaoca before reaching the main attraction – the Inca bridge made of vegetable fiber over the Apurimac River.

Annually, local communities renovate the bridge with offerings to Pachamama, showcasing the enduring legacy of Inca engineering.

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Itinerary

The activity begins with a pick-up from the hotel in Cusco at 5:00 am, followed by a two-hour drive to the site.

Along the way, travelers will stop to visit four picturesque lagoons and the Pabellones volcano near Yanaoca.

The main attraction is the Inca bridge made of vegetable fiber, known as Ichu, which spans the Apurimac River in Quehue.

Local communities renovate the bridge annually with offerings to Pachamama.

Before returning to Cusco around 5 p.m., visitors will also see the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe.

The Inca Bridge of Qeswachaka

Qeswachaka, an engineering marvel, stands as the last surviving Inca bridge, a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient civilization.

Constructed entirely of vegetable fiber, known as ichu, the bridge stretches across the Apurimac River, defying the ravages of time. Renewed annually by local communities through a revered ceremony, the bridge is a living connection to the Inca’s sophisticated infrastructure.

Crossing Qeswachaka requires courage, as its swaying motion and natural materials challenge the modern traveler. Yet, the experience offers a glimpse into the Inca’s remarkable feat of engineering and their deep reverence for the natural world.

Annual Maintenance of the Bridge

Although Qeswachaka remains the last surviving Inca bridge, its preservation depends on the annual maintenance ceremony performed by local communities.

Every June, the Quechua people of the surrounding villages gather to repair the bridge using ichu, a type of straw native to the Andes. They ritually clean the bridge, weave new ropes, and replace damaged sections, all while making offerings to Pachamama, the Inca earth goddess.

This communal effort is crucial to keeping the bridge sturdy and safe for crossing. Without this tradition, the fragile Qeswachaka would quickly deteriorate and disappear.

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Surrounding Attractions

Along With the iconic Inca bridge, the surrounding area offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions worth exploring.

Travelers can visit four pristine lagoons and the Pabellones volcano near the town of Yanaoca. These stunning landscapes provide excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and taking in the serene natural beauty.

After crossing the bridge, visitors can also explore the colonial Inca bridge in Checacupe, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

These supplementary sites enhance the overall experience of witnessing the last remaining Incan footbridge, making the journey a truly immersive cultural excursion.

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What to Expect

Travelers embarking on the Qeswachaka bridge experience can expect an exhilarating journey filled with culture and breathtaking natural surroundings.

The day begins with an early pickup from the hotel, followed by a scenic two-hour drive to the site. Upon arrival, visitors will explore four lagoons and the Pabellones volcano near Yanaoca.

An early hotel pickup kicks off the journey, leading to a scenic two-hour drive and exploration of four lagoons and the Pabellones volcano.

The main attraction is crossing the Inca bridge made of vegetable fiber over the Apurimac River. This requires courage, as the bridge sways with each step.

After the crossing, the tour includes a visit to the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe before returning to Cusco.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, breakfast and lunch, and a first aid kit with oxygen.

However, the entrance fee to Qeswachaka and dinner aren’t covered. Travelers should also purchase their own travel insurance.

Booking early is recommended to keep travel plans flexible, as the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking and Flexibility

Booking the Qeswachaka tour early is recommended to keep travel plans flexible, as the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This allows travelers to modify or cancel their plans if needed without penalty. The tour’s "reserve now & pay later" option further enhances flexibility, enabling guests to secure their spot without an immediate payment.

With this approach, travelers can easily adjust their itinerary according to changing circumstances or new opportunities that may arise during their trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of Crossing the Qeswachaka Bridge?

Crossing the Qeswachaka bridge requires courage, as it’s made of vegetable fiber and spans the Apurimac River. The bridge’s rustic construction and height above the water make it a challenging but exhilarating experience for adventurous travelers.

Is the Bridge Accessible for People With Mobility Issues?

The bridge may not be accessible for those with mobility issues. It requires crossing a narrow suspension bridge made of natural materials, which could be challenging for some. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate visitors with special needs upon request.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Site?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks to the site. However, a full breakfast and lunch are already included in the tour, so bringing additional items may not be necessary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any restrictions.

Is There Any Medical Facility Near the Bridge in Case of Emergencies?

The tour includes a first aid kit and oxygen on-site in case of emergencies. Though there’s no medical facility nearby, the guide is trained to provide basic medical assistance if needed during the visit to the bridge.

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

The best time to visit the Qeswachaka bridge is during the annual renewal ceremony in June. This vibrant cultural event offers the chance to see the bridge rebuilt and experience Inca traditions firsthand.

The Sum Up

Qeswachaka, the last standing Inca bridge, offers a unique glimpse into the Inca’s engineering prowess and reverence for nature. This one-day excursion from Cusco takes visitors to the bridge, nearby picturesque lagoons, and the colonial Inca bridge of Checacupe. The annual maintenance by local communities is a testament to the bridge’s enduring legacy and the region’s rich cultural heritage.