Q’eswachaka, The Last Inca Bridge

OVERVIEW

A cultural journey to one of the most remarkable living traditions in the Andes. Discover the last handwoven Inca bridge, still rebuilt each year using ancestral techniques, while exploring high-altitude lakes and communities that continue to preserve centuries-old traditions.

DURATION:

Full Day

DESTINATIONS:

Cusco → Combapata → Mini Volcano of Los Pabellones → Yanaoca → Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge → Four Lagoons Circuit (Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnacocha & Pampamarca) → Mosoq Llaqta → Cusco

Itinerary

Full Day → Cusco – Q’eswachaka & the Andean Highland Lagoons – Cusco

Your experience begins with a private pick-up from your hotel as you journey south of Cusco through rural landscapes, traditional Andean communities, and expansive highland scenery.

Your first stop is Combapata, home to the unusual Mini Volcano of Los Pabellones, a fascinating geological formation that remains relatively unknown even among visitors to the region.

The journey then continues to Yanaoca and the Apurímac River Canyon, where the historic Q’eswachaka Bridge spans the dramatic gorge below. Entirely handwoven from native plant fibers using techniques passed down through generations, this suspension bridge stands as one of the most extraordinary examples of engineering and communal organization inherited from the Inca world.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to cross the bridge and learn about the local communities that continue to rebuild it every year through a collective tradition recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The route continues through the Four Lagoons Circuit: Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnacocha, and Pampamarca. Surrounded by sweeping Andean landscapes, these pristine lakes provide excellent opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and quiet appreciation of nature.

Before returning to Cusco, you will visit the community of Mosoq Llaqta, where you can gain insight into local traditions and aspects of daily life that remain deeply rooted in this part of the southern Andes.

What's Included

Important Altitude Information

This experience takes place between 3,300 and 3,943 meters (10,827–12,936 feet) above sea level, reaching its highest point near Lake Asnacocha.

Physical activity is considered light to moderate and includes short walks as well as a descent toward the bridge. We recommend wearing comfortable layered clothing, staying well hydrated, and using footwear with good traction suitable for mountain terrain.

Availability & Operations

Year-Round Availability

This experience operates throughout the year, allowing visitors to explore the bridge, lagoons, and local communities in every season.

Featured Cultural Event (June)

The second week of June is one of the most special times to visit Q’eswachaka. During this period, local communities come together for the annual renewal of the bridge, dismantling the previous structure and weaving a new one using traditional methods that have been preserved for generations.

Rainy Season (January – March)

The experience continues to operate during the rainy season. Seasonal rains bring vibrant green landscapes to the Andean highlands and surrounding lagoons. Due to changing weather conditions, waterproof clothing and appropriate footwear for wet terrain are recommended.

Booking Notes

Advance Reservation

To properly coordinate transportation, private guiding services, and all included arrangements, reservations should be made at least 72 hours in advance.

Logistics

As several points along the route are located above 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) above sea level, we recommend spending at least one day acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before joining the experience. This will help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable visit.

INCLUDED:

Private transportation throughout the experience.
Private bilingual guide.
All entrance tickets
Cultural activities and community demonstrations
Meals as specified in the itinerary
Trekking poles.

NOT INCLUDED:

Tips
Personal travel insurance
Additional drinks
Food not mentioned in the program
Personal expenses and services not specified in the itinerary

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

ARE ENTRANCE FEES AND MEALS INCLUDED?
Yes. It includes entrance fees to Q’eswachaka Bridge and all attractions along the route, a private bilingual guide, private transportation, trekking poles, breakfast en route, and a traditional Andean buffet lunch.

WHAT IS THE MOST ACTIVE PART OF THE TRIP?
Walking along the short trails near the highland lakes and the descent toward the Q’eswachaka Bridge are the most active experiences, though conducted at a comfortable, manageable pace.

DO I NEED TO GET USED TO THE ALTITUDE FIRST?
Yes. Since the journey reaches elevations up to 3,943 meters (12,936 feet), we recommend spending at least one day acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley beforehand for greater comfort.

WILL I HAVE MOBILE AND INTERNET COVERAGE?
Signal is generally available near Cusco, but will become limited, intermittent, or completely unavailable while traveling through remote southern highland routes and the four lagoons circuit.

CAN THIS JOURNEY BE ENJOYED YEAR-ROUND?
Yes. The experience operates throughout the year. June features the special annual community renewal of the bridge, while the rainy season (January to March) showcases vibrant green highland landscapes.

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