Queswachaka Bridge Tour

Price Consult

Duration

All day

Tour Type

Traditional

Maximum Group

10 People

Maximum height

3900 msnm

Overview

“Q’eswachaka” is a native name formed by two Quechua words: “Q’eswa”, which means “braid” and “Chaka”, which means “bridge”. This bridge is very special because it is built in the original Inca way made of a special grass (q’oya).

The materials and construction techniques have been passed down from generation to generation since the time of the Incas, since the first bridge was built in the 15th century. For this reason, the Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour is a very special experience.

The impressive bridge is 33 meters long and 1.20 meters wide and swings 15 meters over the river. It is rebuilt every year, relying on communal labor. About 1,000 farmers from the communities of Winchiri, Ccolana, Quehue, Chaupibanda and Choccayhua are involved in the construction of this unique suspension bridge of Inca origin.

Itinerary

Day 1

Cusco – Four lagoons – Queswachaca

The trip begins in the city of Cusco with the pick up from your hotel, heading south-west. After almost two hours of travel we will visit the four lagoons: Pomacanchi Lagoon, Acopia Lagoon, Asnaqocha Lagoon and Pampamarca or Tungasuca Lagoon. After enjoying a quiet moment near the lagoons, the next place we will visit will be the small volcano of pabellones that is located near the town of Yanaoca.

Finally we will reach the Apurimac River and the impressive Inca bridge. This Inca hanging bridge is made of vegetable fiber (Ichu) and is located over the Apurimac River in the district of Quehue. The existence of this bridge dates back to Inca times, the renovation and maintenance is done once a year by the local people of the four surrounding communities. Before starting the renovation of the bridge, an offering is made as a sign of respect and gratitude to the Pachamama.

We will have the opportunity to cross the Inca bridge up to two times if you have the courage to do it, it may seem easy. But without a doubt you will feel a great emotion when crossing this bridge so much so that you will feel like a Chaski (Inca messenger).

On the way back to Combapata our delicious lunch awaits us in this town where we will make one last visit, the colonial Inca bridge of Combapata where you can see the differences between the two bridges. This interesting trip ends in the city of Cusco.