Private Unique Overnight Excursion to the Fortress and astronomical site of Waqra Pukara

The Inca Culture occupied the Archeological site of Waqra Pukara (which means Horn Fortress, in clear reference to the rock formation), after their conquest of the ethnic group the Kanas in the High Mountains. This Quechua word gives its name to the southern province of Cusco where this magnificent archaeological site is located. Built on the top of the mountain, Waqra Pukara Site offers us great and spectacular view of mountain ranges that disappear into the horizon in the deep canyons of the Apurimac River, as well as gigantic rock formations which give depth to the valley of the Apurimac River. The ecological levels we will visit are Quechua, suni and puna, observing the characteristic flora and fauna of each one.This archaeological site was linked to astronomical observation and rituals for the development of agriculture, as the buildings face the sun rise. We can also observe vaulted niches with three jambs.

Day 1: Cusco – Acos - Campsite Waqra Pukara

We leave the city of Cusco early in our private transport towards the south of the valley, following the path of the Watanay and Vilcanota rivers. On our way we will pass Pomacanchis, one of the deep lakes over in the mountains with a depth of 140 meters a beautiful Andean lake where we can observe flora and fauna specific to this natural habitat. Continuing our route, we stop for a few minutes in the town of Acomayo, on the way to the small population of Acos (3296 masl) where we will begin our trek.

The climb begins right at the start of our trek, allowing us to observe gigantic pinnacles which rise from the Apurimac River. Spectacular.

We will stop in the Llamajpinta sector, where milenial cave paintings evidence man’s necessity to domesticate this cameloid as it was a provider of transport, food, clothing and other uses. This cameloid is also important as it is represented in the Milky Way, according to Andean cosmology. We continue our walk to arrive at the campsite, where we will set up camp and have lunch. In the afternoon we will have a short tour of the archaeological site to later return to the campsite to sleep.

Meals: lunch and dinner

Maximum Altitude:4087 masl / 13408 ft, Minimum Altitude:3296 masl / 10813 ft, Distance Travelled:7.80 km / 4.84 ml

Approximate Walking Time:6 hrs

Day 2: Waqra Pukara – Wayke – Cusco

We begin our day with a guided tour of the archaeological site of Waqra Pukara, which awaits us in its impressive location. The spectacular geography provides a frame for the magnificent Inca architecture, where triple jamb vaulted niches stand out.

We return to the Llamapinta sector to observe the paintings of immeasurable value representing the Andean Cosmo vision.

we will appreciate the Apurimac river valley. We arrive at the town of Acos where we enjoy our lunch, and later take our private transport to the city of Cusco.