Price: $150.00
Waqrapukara Trek 2 Days 1 Night: Camping Adventure & Sunrise at Sacred Fortress from Cusco
Code: RMARVD
Description
Discover the mystical Waqrapukara fortress on this extraordinary 2-day trekking tour from Cusco, featuring an unforgettable camping experience beneath the Andean stars. This off-the-beaten-path trek takes you through stunning high-altitude landscapes where herds of alpacas, vicuñas, and llamas roam freely. Watch a breathtaking sunset paint the ancient stone walls of Waqrapukara, then wake to the peaceful sounds of native birds and witness a magical Andean sunrise.
Perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic Peru hiking experience, this Waqrapukara camping tour combines spectacular natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. Explore ancient cave paintings, Inca tombs, and one of Peru’s most impressive archaeological sites while enjoying comfortable camping facilities and expert local guidance.
Tour Overview – Waqrapukara Hike Camping Tour
Tour Type: 2-day hiking adventure with camping
Duration: 2 days and 1 night
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) round trip hiking
Elevation: 3,600m – 4,300m (11,811 – 14,107 feet)
Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging
Good For: Adventure enthusiasts in good physical condition
Best Season: May to September (dry season)
Group Size: Small groups (2-12 people)
Highlights: Sunset & sunrise at Waqrapukara, wildlife viewing (alpacas, vicuñas, llamas), cave paintings, Inca tombs, camping under stars
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Sangarara – Waqrapukara Fortress
8:00 AM
Hotel Pickup & Departure
Collection from your Cusco hotel in our comfortable private vehicle. Begin the scenic 2-hour journey
southeast through traditional Andean villages and stunning mountain landscapes.
30 minutes
10:00 AM
Pomacanchi Lagoon Stop
Photo opportunity and wildlife observation at the beautiful Pomacanchi Lagoon. Spot various bird species
including ducks and other waterfowl in this pristine high-altitude ecosystem.
30 minutes
10:30 AM
Drive to Sangarara Village
Continue to the traditional village of Sangarara, our gateway to the Waqrapukara trek. Brief
acclimatization and final preparations before beginning the hike.
1 hour
11:30 AM
Begin Waqrapukara Trek
Start with a 20-minute uphill warm-up, then enjoy a scenic 2-hour descent through dramatic Andean
landscapes. Marvel at herds of alpacas, vicuñas, and llamas grazing in their natural habitat.
2.5 hours
2:00 PM
Arrival at Waqrapukara & Camp Setup
Reach the magnificent Waqrapukara fortress and set up comfortable camping facilities. Enjoy lunch while
taking in the incredible views of this ancient Inca construction.
2 hours
4:00 PM
Fortress Exploration & Sunset
Explore the impressive stone terraces and ceremonial areas of Waqrapukara. Position yourself for the
breathtaking sunset over the fortress – a truly magical experience you’ll never forget.
3 hours
7:00 PM
Dinner & Stargazing
Enjoy a hearty dinner at camp followed by spectacular stargazing in the clear Andean sky. Experience the
profound silence and natural beauty of this remote location.
Rest of evening
Day 2: Sunrise at Waqrapukara – Wayki Route – Return to Cusco
5:30 AM
Sunrise at Waqrapukara
Wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise illuminating the ancient fortress. Watch as the golden
light transforms the stone structures and surrounding landscape into a breathtaking panorama.
1 hour
7:00 AM
Breakfast & Final Exploration
Enjoy breakfast with a view, then spend time exploring areas of Waqrapukara you may have missed. Learn
about the fortress’s history, architecture, and cultural significance from your expert guide.
2 hours
9:00 AM
Trek via Wayki Route
Begin the return journey via the scenic Wayki route. This relatively flat 2-hour hike offers incredible
landscapes and takes you past ancient cave paintings and Inca tombs from the Canchi culture.
2 hours
11:00 AM
Cultural Sites & Photography
Stop to admire and photograph the remarkable cave paintings and burial sites. Your guide will explain the
historical and cultural significance of these ancient Canchi and Inca remains.
1 hour
12:00 PM
Return Journey to Cusco
Meet your private vehicle and begin the comfortable journey back to Cusco. Relax and reflect on your
incredible adventure while enjoying the changing Andean scenery.
3 hours
4:00 PM
Arrival in Cusco
Drop-off at your hotel in Cusco with unforgettable memories of your Waqrapukara camping adventure and
plenty of stunning photos to share.
End of tour
Inclusions
Inclusions
What’s Included:
- Round-trip private transportation from/to Cusco hotels
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Complete camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags, mats)
- All meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
- High-quality blankets and traveler pillows
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Trekking poles and safety equipment
- Identification vests for safety
- Traditional coca tea service
- Professional camping setup and breakdown
What’s Not Included:
- Waqrapukara entrance fee (10 soles / $3 USD per person)
- Horse rental for those who prefer riding (optional)
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips for guide and driver (appreciated but voluntary)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Alcoholic beverages
- Items not specifically mentioned as included
Packing List
Packing List
Essential Items:
Clothing & Layers:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal underwear)
- Long-sleeve hiking shirts
- Waterproof trekking pants
- Warm fleece or down jacket
- Wool or synthetic gloves
- Warm beanie/winter hat
- Sun hat with wide brim
- Comfortable hiking underwear (synthetic material)
Footwear:
- Waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
- Comfortable camp shoes/sandals
- Moisture-wicking hiking socks (2-3 pairs)
- Gaiters (optional but recommended)
Gear & Accessories:
- Daypack (30-40 liters capacity)
- High-quality rain poncho or jacket
- UV-protection sunglasses
- High SPF sunscreen (30+ recommended)
- Reusable water bottles (2-3 liters total)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Power bank for electronic devices
Personal Items:
- Personal medications
- Cash for entrance fees and tips (Peruvian soles preferred)
- High-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, energy bars)
- Personal toiletries and toilet paper
- Camera with extra batteries/memory cards
- Valid passport or ID
Health & Safety Guidelines
Health & Safety Guidelines
Pre-Trip Preparation:
- Altitude Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco at least 2-3 days before your trek to properly acclimatize to the 3,400m elevation
- Physical Fitness: This trek requires moderate to good fitness level. Regular cardio exercise 4-6 weeks before travel is recommended
- Medical Consultation: Consult your doctor before traveling, especially if you have heart conditions, respiratory issues, or other health concerns
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance including high-altitude trekking coverage is strongly recommended
During the Trek:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek (3-4 liters per day minimum)
- Altitude Sickness Prevention: Ascend gradually, avoid alcohol, and inform your guide immediately of any symptoms
- Sun Protection: UV levels are extremely high at altitude – use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and sunglasses
- Weather Awareness: Mountain weather can change rapidly – always carry rain gear and warm layers
- Follow Guide Instructions: Always stay with the group and follow your guide’s safety instructions
Safety Equipment Provided:
- First aid kit with altitude sickness medication
- Emergency oxygen supply
- Satellite communication for emergencies
- Professional safety equipment and rescue protocols
Important Considerations:
- Minimum Age: 12 years old (with parental supervision)
- Weather Conditions: Tours may be modified or cancelled due to severe weather for safety reasons
- Environmental Responsibility: Follow Leave No Trace principles – pack out all trash and respect local wildlife
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and sacred sites throughout the journey
Emergency Contacts:
Our guides carry emergency communication equipment and are trained in first aid and high-altitude rescue procedures. In case of emergency, evacuation to Cusco medical facilities can be arranged.
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