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1 Day

Qeswachaka Private Tour: Day Trip

From $105 / per Person

Overview

The Q’eswachaka Bridge: A Living Incan Legacy

The Q’eswachaka bridge is the world’s last remaining Incan grass bridge, rebuilt annually in just three days using 500-year-old engineering techniques.

The Process:

  • Preparation: Local communities harvest q’oya grass, twisting it into small cords that are braided into massive, heavy-duty cables.

  • Installation: The old bridge is used to pull the first new cable across the canyon before being cut away to fall into the river.

  • Anchoring: New cables are hand-stretched by the community and secured to ancient stone abutments on either side.

  • The Weave: Master architect Victoriano Arizapana and a fellow weaver work from opposite ends, meeting in the center to hand-braid the floor and handrails.

The Significance: Passed down through generations, this tradition is a labor of love and community identity. Despite being made entirely of grass, the structure is remarkably strong and can support dozens of people at once. The project concludes each year with a communal celebration between the neighboring villages.

About this activity

TYPE SERVICE

Private

ACTIVITIES

Cultural and Adventure

GROUP SIZE

Up to 8

ACCOMMODATION

DIFFICULTY

Easy

DURATION

1 Day

Qeswachaka Private Tour: Day Trip

From $105 / per person
  • GROUP SIZE: Up to 8
  • DIFFICULTY: Easy
  • DURATION: 1 Day
Book Now Enquire Now

ITINERARY

We pick you up at your Cusco hotel around 5:00 AM and start a 3-hour scenic drive through the southern valley, passing traditional Andean villages and terraced farmlands. The drive itself offers stunning views of the Apurímac River canyon and surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Qeswachaka Bridge Visit
The highlight of the day is the Qeswachaka Inca Rope Bridge, perched 15 meters above the Apurímac River at roughly 3,600 m / 11,800 ft. This incredible bridge is still reconstructed annually by over 1,000 local villagers following traditional Inca techniques. Its name comes from Quechua: “Q’eswa” = plait, “Chaka” = bridge. Walking across it, you’ll feel the history and ingenuity of the Inca Trail network, the Qhapaq Ñan, firsthand.

Along the way, your guide will explain the cultural significance of the bridge, local customs, and the engineering marvels of the Incas. You’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and river.

Return to Cusco
After exploring and taking photos, we drive back to Cusco, arriving by early afternoon. Along the way, stop in small villages to experience local crafts, Andean culture, and traditional agriculture, making this an immersive and unforgettable journey.

Travel Times: 3 hours each way from Cusco
Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,800 ft
Highlights: Qeswachaka Rope Bridge, Apurímac River Canyon, Andean villages, Inca engineering, local culture

$105 per person

What is Included for the Qeswachaka Tour?

  • Round trip Cusco hotel transfer
  • Bi-Lingual Tour Guide (English and Spanish)
  • Transport
  • Lunch
  • First Aid Kit

What is Not Included for Qeswachaka Tour ?

  • Entrance Fees (15 Soles)
  • Guide Service Fee (Optional)
  • Any Private Expenses
  • Breakfast

  • Daypack to carry your things
  • Sunscreen
  • Camera
  • Peruvian Soles in Cash (100 Soles approximately)

1 Day Day

$ 105 USD per person Book Now

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