Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Q’ESWACHAKA INCA BRIDGE AND 4 LAGOONS TOUR – 1 DAY
day 1
Lagoons (Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnacocha, Pampamarca), Q'eswachaka Bridge
The last Inca bridge still alive.
We visit Q’eswachaka, a hand-woven suspension bridge renewed every year by local communities, and tour four high Andean lagoons south of Cusco.
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Pickup and breakfast in Cusipata
By tourist transport, approx. 2 hours · Cusco → Cusipata
We pick you up in the morning at your hotel in Cusco and drive south. In Cusipata we have a hot semi-buffet breakfast.
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Combapata viewpoint and Pabellones volcano
By tourist transport · Cusipata → Combapata → Pabellones
We stop at the Combapata viewpoint, with sweeping Andean views, and continue to the mysterious Pabellones volcano, rising from the high plateau.
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Yanaoca
Short stop · Yanaoca
In the picturesque village of Yanaoca there is time to buy souvenirs and use the restrooms.
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Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge Highlight
On foot, 15 to 20 minutes each way · mid-morning · Yanaoca → Q’eswachaka
We reach the Q’eswachaka Bridge, the last Inca suspension bridge still in use. The guide explains how, every year, the communities gather to renew it by weaving ropes of ichu (Andean grass), just as their ancestors did more than 500 years ago. If conditions allow on the day, you can cross it.
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4 Lagoons route
By tourist transport · Tungasuca → Pomacanchi · Acopia · Asnaqocha · Pampamarca
From Tungasuca we visit four lagoons: Pomacanchi, with calm waters and high Andean birds; Acopia, famous for its legends; Asnaqocha, hidden among mountains; and Pampamarca, home to native species.
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Lunch in Acopia and return to Cusco
By tourist transport, in the afternoon · Acopia → Cusco
In the district of Acopia a typical semi-buffet lunch awaits. Then we drive back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.
Day details
- Distance from Cusco: Approx. 160 km (99 miles), 3 to 4 hours each way
- Hike: 15 to 20 minutes each way to the bridge
- Difficulty: Easy
- Meals: Semi-buffet breakfast and lunch
A hand-woven Inca bridge, four high Andean lagoons and the landscapes of southern Cusco in a single day. Want to see another gem of the south? Discover the Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain 1 Day.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
Guide, transport and safety
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
- Tourist transport: Round trip.
- Professional bilingual guide: Spanish or English.
- First aid kit.
Meals
- Semi-buffet breakfast in Cusipata.
- Semi-buffet lunch in Acopia.
Not include
Entrance fees
- Entrance fees to the sites: Including the Q’eswachaka Bridge.
Other
- Drinks and meals not mentioned.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
Prices Q’ESWACHAKA INCA BRIDGE AND 4 LAGOONS TOUR – 1 DAY
Rates per person
Traveling soon? We recommend booking early to secure your date, but we have daily departures and, depending on the date, you can also book just a few days ahead. Ask us about availability.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Layered clothing: Warm jacket, gloves and scarf (mornings at the lagoons are cold), a warm hat and a rain poncho.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes with good soles.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses and a cap (UV radiation is intense at altitude).
- Binoculars: For birdwatching at the lagoons (optional).
- Cash: For the Q’eswachaka entrance fee and handicrafts.
Recomendations
- Acclimatize first: Spend at least one day in Cusco before the tour so the altitude change is less abrupt and to prevent altitude sickness. When you reach your hotel, rest a little before you start sightseeing. Some travelers take altitude sickness pills.
- Mind the altitude: The tour runs through high Andean areas. Stay hydrated and walk calmly.
- Bring cash: Entrance fees are not included, and in Yanaoca and other stops you can buy handicrafts.
- Crossing the bridge: It is possible if conditions allow on the day. Ask your sales executive about conditions for your date.
- Bridge renewal: If you want to see the annual ceremony, plan your trip for June.
- Best time to go: The dry season, from April to October, has clearer skies.
- Great for everyone: The walks are short, so it is a good tour for families with children and older adults.
- Limited signal: Let your family know you may be out of contact for a few hours.
F.A.Qs
What is the Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge?
It is the last hand-woven Inca suspension bridge still in use, made of plant fiber over the Apurímac River. Every year local communities rebuild it completely in a ceremony lasting several days, a tradition of more than 500 years recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Can I cross the bridge?
Yes, if conditions allow on the day. Ask your sales executive about conditions for your travel date.
When is the bridge renewed?
Traditionally in June, in a ceremony lasting several days with the participation of the local communities.
How difficult is the tour?
It is easy. The walks are short and suitable for most travelers. The main thing to keep in mind is the altitude, so we recommend acclimatizing in Cusco first.
How far is the walk to the bridge?
Short: about 15 to 20 minutes each way, on an accessible trail.
What are the Four Lagoons?
They are the high Andean lagoons of Pomacanchi, Acopia, Pampamarca and Asnaqocha. Surrounded by mountains and home to birds and local wildlife, they are among the most scenic stops of the tour.
Can I get altitude sickness?
You may feel mild symptoms, as the tour runs through high Andean areas. We recommend acclimatizing in Cusco first, staying hydrated and walking calmly.
Is it a good tour for families with children or older adults?
Yes. With short walks and low difficulty, it is a good option for families, older adults and travelers looking for a cultural experience without much physical effort.
When is the best time to go?
The dry season, from April to October, with clearer skies. If you want to see the bridge renewal, plan your visit for June.
How far is it from Cusco?
About 160 km (99 miles) south of Cusco, 3 to 4 hours each way.
What should I wear?
Ideally, dress in layers for the temperature changes: a warm jacket, comfortable clothes, shoes with good soles, a warm hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a rain poncho.
Is there phone signal or internet?
Signal is limited along much of the route. We recommend telling your family you may be out of contact for a few hours.
What happens if I feel unwell during the tour?
Your safety comes first. Our guides are trained in first aid, assess any discomfort and arrange the assistance needed for each case.
How does the booking process work?
1. Availability check: Write to us at info@sakuraexpedition.com or on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 to check your dates. We will send you a booking form that each participant must complete.
2. Traveler details: To manage the booking we need, exactly as shown in the passport, full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) and nationality.
3. Guarantee: We ask for a guarantee per person to secure your space. We recommend booking early, especially on holidays and in high season.
4. Final confirmation: Once the booking is confirmed, you will receive the official invoice and your place will be 100 % guaranteed.
Can I cancel or change the date?
Yes, up to 48 hours before departure. In that case an administrative fee applies, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.
Why choose Sakura Expedition?
We are a 100 % local Peruvian company, specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in Cusco and Peru. Our team of certified guides and operations staff works to give you unique, safe, high-quality experiences.
We stand out for responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities and personalized service. With our tourism quality certification, we take care of every detail, from planning to the very last moment of the tour.
Do you have more questions?
Message us on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 or email info@sakuraexpedition.com.
