Price: $115.00
Waqrapukara Horseback Riding Tour – Full Day Adventure
Code: XV3B24
Description
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Waqrapukara, one of the most spectacular and lesser-known Inca fortresses in Peru.
This one-day horseback adventure to Waqrapukara combines history, culture, and breathtaking Andean landscapes,
taking you through diverse ecological zones at altitudes reaching 4,300 meters above sea level.
This one-day horseback adventure to Waqrapukara combines history, culture, and breathtaking Andean landscapes,
taking you through diverse ecological zones at altitudes reaching 4,300 meters above sea level.
Tour Overview
Departure and Return Location:
Your hotel in downtown Cusco
Your hotel in downtown Cusco
Departure Time:
4:00 AM (Early morning pickup)
4:00 AM (Early morning pickup)
Tour Duration:
Full Day (Return around 7:00–7:30 PM)
Full Day (Return around 7:00–7:30 PM)
Horseback Riding Duration:
1.5 hours each way (3 hours total)
1.5 hours each way (3 hours total)
Maximum Altitude:
4,300 m (Waqrapukara)
4,300 m (Waqrapukara)
Total Distance:
Approximately 16 km
Approximately 16 km
Languages:
English and Spanish-speaking guide
English and Spanish-speaking guide
Group Size:
Small groups for a personalized experience
Small groups for a personalized experience
Itinerary
CUSCO – SANGARARA – WAQRAPUKARA – CUSCO
1
4:00 AMEarly Morning Pickup
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco city center and begin our journey south through the spectacular Andean landscape. Watch the sunrise paint the mountains in golden hues as we drive through traditional villages.
Hotel pickup
2
6:00 AMBreakfast in Cusipata
After approximately 2 hours of scenic drive, we’ll stop in the picturesque town of Cusipata (3,310 masl) for a hearty traditional breakfast to fuel our adventure ahead.
45 minutes
3
7:00 AMJourney to Sangarara
Continue our journey for another hour through stunning Andean valleys, passing through the historic town of Sangarara before reaching the trailhead parking area.
1 hour drive
4
8:00 AMHorseback Riding Adventure Begins
Meet your horses at the Sangarara road endpoint. After a safety briefing and mounting instructions, begin your spectacular 1.5-hour horseback ride through Andean meadows, traditional farming areas, and picturesque villages. The horses are well-trained and accustomed to the altitude and terrain.
1.5 hours riding
5
9:30 AMFinal Trek to Waqrapukara
After the horseback portion, continue with a moderate trek to reach the fortress. The path offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. Your guide will share stories about the local flora, fauna, and ancient Inca traditions along the way.
2 hours trekking
6
11:30 AMExplore Waqrapukara Fortress
Arrive at the magnificent Waqrapukara fortress (4,300 masl). Your expert guide will lead you through the main square, terraces, and ceremonial enclosures, explaining the fascinating history of this pre-Inca and Inca temple. Marvel at the ingenious architecture built atop steep cliffs and enjoy panoramic views of the Apurímac canyon.
2 hours exploration
7
1:30 PMLunch with a View
Enjoy a delicious box lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Free time to explore independently, take photos, and soak in the mystical atmosphere of this ancient fortress.
1 hour
8
2:30 PMReturn Journey
Begin the descent back to Sangarara, combining trekking and another scenic horseback ride. The afternoon light creates perfect photography conditions as we retrace our path through the Andean landscape.
3.5 hours total
9
7:00-7:30 PMReturn to Cusco
Board our comfortable minivan in Sangarara for the return journey to Cusco. We’ll drop you off at your hotel, ending an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.
Drop-off at hotel
Inclusions
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Entrance tickets to Waqrapukara archaeological site
- Nutritious breakfast in Cusipata
- Box lunch with vegetarian options available
- Round-trip tourist transportation in comfortable minivan
- Well-trained horses for the riding portion
- Riding equipment (helmets available)
- Professional first aid kit and oxygen
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco city center
What’s Not Included
- International or domestic flights
- Extra beverages (water, soft drinks, beer, etc.)
- Personal trekking poles
- Tips for guides and horsemen
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
- Additional snacks or energy bars
- Optional activities not mentioned
Packing List
Packing List
Daypack with rain cover (20-30L)
Reusable water bottle (1-2 liters)
Camera with extra batteries
High SPF sunscreen (50+)
UV protection sunglasses
Sun hat or cap with brim
Warm fleece or down jacket
Waterproof rain poncho
Comfortable hiking boots
Quick-dry clothing layers
Energy snacks (nuts, chocolate)
Personal medications
Cash for personal expenses
Passport or ID copy
Toilet paper & hand sanitizer
Additional Information
Additional Information
Important Altitude Information
4,300 m
Maximum altitude (Waqrapukara)
Maximum altitude (Waqrapukara)
3,310 m
Minimum altitude (Cusipata)
Minimum altitude (Cusipata)
16 km
Total walking distance
Total walking distance
⚠️ Acclimatization Recommendation: For travelers coming from locations below 1,000 meters altitude, we strongly recommend spending at least 1-2 days in Cusco before taking this tour to properly acclimatize to the high altitude and avoid altitude sickness.
Special Dietary Requirements
We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and other special dietary needs. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking or before the tour departure.
Physical Requirements
This tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness. The combination of horseback riding and trekking at high altitude can be challenging. Participants should be comfortable riding horses and walking on uneven terrain for extended periods.
Weather Considerations
The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable. We operate this tour year-round, but the dry season (May to September) offers the best conditions. During the rainy season (December to March), trails may be muddy, but the landscape is lush and green.
Horseback Riding Experience
No prior horseback riding experience is necessary. Our horses are gentle and well-trained for tourist rides. Our experienced horsemen will provide basic riding instructions and assist you throughout the journey. The horseback riding portion starts from the Sangarara road endpoint and lasts approximately 1.5 hours each way.
Group Size
We maintain small group sizes to ensure a personalized experience and minimize environmental impact. Maximum group size is typically 8-10 participants.
Booking & Cancellation
Advanced booking is recommended, especially during peak season (June to August). Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour departure. In case of extreme weather conditions, we reserve the right to modify or cancel the tour for safety reasons, with full refund or rescheduling options.
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