Overview

The Qeswachaka Inca Bridge and 4 Lakes Tour is one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can enjoy from Cusco. This full-day journey takes you to the famous Q’eswachaka Bridge, the last hand-woven Inca suspension bridge still renewed and used through an ancestral communal tradition in the Andes.

Built entirely from ichu grass, this remarkable bridge is reconstructed every year by the neighboring communities of Huinchiri, Chaupibanda, Choccayhua, and Ccollana Quehue. The process is a living expression of Andean knowledge, cooperation, and heritage passed down from generation to generation.

Q’eswachaka is not only a bridge, but also a symbol of continuity between the ancient Inca world and present-day Andean communities. In recognition of this extraordinary tradition, it was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

This experience also includes a visit to the beautiful Four Lakes Circuit, making the tour a perfect combination of living culture, history, scenic landscapes, and authentic Andean traditions.

Tour Highlights

  • Visit Q’eswachaka, the last hand-woven Inca bridge still in use
  • Learn about the ancestral reconstruction tradition of the bridge
  • Enjoy spectacular views of the Apurímac Canyon
  • Visit the Four Lakes Circuit in the southern Andes
  • Explore a unique UNESCO-recognized cultural tradition
  • Experience one of the most authentic full-day cultural tours from Cusco

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than a standard sightseeing experience. It combines living heritage, traditional Andean culture, beautiful landscapes, and historical significance in one unforgettable day trip from Cusco.

Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary:

Cusco – Cusipata – Combapata – Qeswachaka – Cusco

We pick you up from your hotel at approximately 4:00 am and begin our journey through the southern highlands of Cusco, passing several traditional Andean villages along the way.

Breakfast in Cusipata

Our first stop is the town of Cusipata, where we enjoy breakfast and prepare for the day’s adventure.

Combapata Viewpoint and Los Pabellones

After breakfast, we continue toward the Combapata Viewpoint, where you can admire beautiful landscapes of the southern Andes. We then visit the Mini Volcano of Los Pabellones, an interesting natural formation that adds variety to the route.

Journey to Q’ewe and Q’eswachaka

From there, we pass through Yanaoca, one of the eight districts of the province of Canas, before continuing for about one more hour to the district of Q’ewe, home of the famous Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge.

This extraordinary suspension bridge is made entirely of Andean grass, measures approximately 28.67 meters in length, and stands at more than 3,600 m / 11,811 ft above sea level. From the viewpoint, we descend along a zigzagging path toward the Apurímac River, where the bridge gradually comes into view.

Exploring the Q’eswachaka Bridge

You will have plenty of time to explore this remarkable site, admire the dramatic scenery of the Apurímac Canyon, and learn about the cultural significance of the bridge and the traditional annual rebuilding ceremony performed by local communities.

Q’eswachaka is one of the most important examples of living Andean heritage and a powerful reminder of Inca engineering and community organization.

Four Lakes Circuit

After visiting the bridge, we continue to the scenic Four Lakes Circuit, where we visit Pampamarca, Asnacqocha, Acopia, and Pomacanchi. These beautiful Andean lakes offer calm landscapes, birdlife, and a peaceful contrast to the canyon scenery of Q’eswachaka.

Lunch and Return to Cusco

After visiting the lakes, we return to Cusipata, where we enjoy a buffet lunch. After lunch, we continue back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 5:00 pm.

Tour Package Details

Inclusions:

  • Private transportation: Tourist-authorized vehicles equipped with all necessary safety features, including a first aid kit and oxygen tank.
  • English-speaking tour guide: Experienced local guides specialized in adventure, culture, history, flora, and fauna of the region.
  • First aid kit: Carried by the guide at all times for minor emergencies.
  • Oxygen tank: Available if needed for safety and comfort.
  • Breakfast: Nutritious breakfast in Cusipata before the tour activities.
  • Box lunch or buffet lunch: Lunch provided after the main visits.
  • Walking sticks: Included for extra support and stability on the trail sections.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off: Pickup from your hotel and return after the tour.
  • Briefing: Information meeting one day before the trip.
  • Customer service: Emergency phone support available 24 hours a day.

Exclusions:

  • Personal snacks: We recommend bringing extra snacks such as energy bars.
  • Tips (optional)
  • Entrance fees to Qeswachaka: S/ 10 or US$ 3
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses

What to bring

  • Backpack for personal items, snacks, and water bottle
  • Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes
  • Waterproof pants (optional during the rainy season)
  • Warm jacket
  • Rain jacket and rain poncho
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Extra cash for snacks, drinks, and entrance fees
  • Basic medication prescribed by your doctor
  • Portable charger

Important tips for this hike:

  • Difficulty level: Moderate easy. Basic physical fitness is recommended.
  • Acclimatization: It is best to spend at least one day in Cusco before the tour.
  • Minimum age: 10 years old
  • Best time to go: April to October for clearer skies, although the tour operates year-round
  • Maximum elevation: 3,600 m / 11,736 ft
  • Total duration: 13 hours
  • Departure: Monday to Sunday

Why choose this hike with Inka Expeditions?

With Inka Expeditions, your visit to Q’eswachaka becomes a meaningful cultural journey led by an expert local guide who shares the history of the Inca bridge tradition as well as the flora and fauna of this beautiful region. Our groups are limited to a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized and comfortable experience.

Prices

Private service:

This is a private tour organized exclusively for you and your family. It includes private transportation and a professional tour guide to provide the best experience with flexibility and a personal touch.

Price 2026:

Group Size Price (US$)
2 people 170.00 $ per person
3 people 160.00 $ per person
4 people 137.00 $ per person

Why choose a private tour?

  • More flexible pace during the visit
  • Personalized attention from your guide
  • Ideal for couples, families, and small groups
  • More time to enjoy the bridge and surrounding landscapes

Booking Information

Booking deposit required – Online payments

You must pay a booking deposit of US$ 50 + 6% per person through PayPal.

Final payment: The remaining balance of the tour must be paid in cash upon arrival in Cusco.

Cancellation Penalties:

Cancellation of the tour after the booking deposit has been paid and the reservation has been confirmed results in the loss of the booking deposit. The US$ 50.00 deposit per person is non-refundable.

Frequently Asked Questions about Q’eswachaka hike

How do I prepare for altitude sickness on this hike?

The Q’eswachaka route reaches approximately 3,600 m / 11,736 ft, so it is recommended to acclimatize for at least one day in Cusco before the tour. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before the trip.

How difficult is the Q’eswachaka hike?

This route is considered moderate easy. It is a good option for travelers who want a cultural experience with light hiking sections. Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Is it safe to travel to Q’eswachaka during the wet season?

Yes, the route is generally safe during the wet season, but from November to March some paths can become slippery. Waterproof hiking boots and a rain poncho are strongly recommended. The dry season, from April to October, usually offers clearer views of the surrounding landscapes.