TRIP ITINERARY
CUSCO – PITUMARCA – WAQRAPUKARA – CUSCO.
This is one of the Tours in Cusco that will take you to places that you will never forget, we start at 4:30 in the morning our private transportation will pick you up at the hotel, to soon go to the district of Acomayo (Pitumarca) where we will be approximately at 6:30 in the morning where we will enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast. Afterwards we will resume our route bordering the beautiful Pomacanchi lagoon, which is surrounded by meadows and numerous crop fields. This magnificent lagoon is one of the largest in the town.
Then we will continue to the starting point of the walk which lasts about 3 hours where we will get to observe the flora and wildlife of the area, as well as great views of the mountains and rock formations. Thus arriving at the fortress (waqrapukara) at approximately 12:00 noon. After a short rest we can begin the tour to this wonderful archaeological center of Waqrapukara with our guide who will give us all the detailed information, then you will have free time to explore and take photos.
After concluding the visit to the fortress we will return to the town of Pitumarca, upon arrival we will have lunch, then board our transportation to go to the starting point (Cusco).
End of the tour.
Inclusions
Included
- First, round-trip tourist transportation.
- Second, breakfast and box lunch.
- Professional Guide.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen Ball.
- As well as, walking sticks.
No Included
- First, drinks and/or meals outside of breakfast and/or box lunch.
- Second, tips.
- Also, accommodation.
- Similarly, dinner.
Pricing
Number of personas | Price per person | |
2 Personas | $ USD 130.00 | Deseo Reservar |
3 Personas | $ USD 120.00 | Deseo Reservar |
4 Personas | $ USD 100.00 | Deseo Reservar |
5 Personas | $ USD 80.00 | Deseo Reservar |
6 Personas | $ USD 70.00 | Deseo Reservar |
7 Personas | $ USD 60.00 | Deseo Reservar |
8 Personas | $ USD 50.00 | Deseo Reservar |
What to Bring
- Clothing:
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable clothing for hiking.
- Warm layers for chilly evenings and nights.
- A waterproof and windproof jacket or poncho.
- Quick-drying underwear and socks.
- Hiking boots or sturdy trekking shoes with good traction.
- Sandals or comfortable shoes for camp.
- Gear:
- Backpack (30-40 liters) for daily essentials.
- Sleeping bag suitable for cold weather.
- Lightweight and compact trekking poles.
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the breathtaking scenery.
- Protection from the Elements:
- Sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Lip balm with sun protection.
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Health and Personal Care:
- Personal first aid kit with bandages, blister treatment, and any necessary medications.
- Water purification tablets or a water filter.
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.).
- Insect repellent.
- Documents and Essentials:
- Passport and any required permits.
- Cash for tips and souvenirs.
- Snacks and energy-boosting foods (granola bars, trail mix, etc.).
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system.
- Optional Items:
- Binoculars for bird watching and enjoying distant views.
- Travel pillow for added comfort during the nights.
- Trekking gaiters for added protection in wet or muddy conditions.
- Power bank to recharge electronic devices.
- Clothing for the Last Day in Machu Picchu:
- A change of clothes for the visit to Machu Picchu.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
- Hat and sunglasses.
- Small daypack for your essentials during the visit.
- Bring your personal document or passport with which you purchased the admission.
- Arrive at the train station half an hour early.
- Do not bring too much luggage; only 7kg are allowed on the train.
- We suggest bringing a small backpack with your camera, wearing a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a water bottle.
- At Machu Picchu you will climb many stairs, use appropriate hiking shoes.
- After the guided tour of Machu Picchu, enjoy the magical moment, open your arms and recharge your energy.
- Visit the thermal baths in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Recommendations
You must acclimatize correctly
To acclimatize yourself correctly, it is necessary to spend a few days in the city of Cusco or in another high altitude location before starting the hike or adventure you want to do. Acclimatization helps your body gradually adapt to the lower concentration of oxygen in the air that exists in high-altitude cities, thus reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Use these days to explore Cusco and enjoy the local culture and allow your body to adjust to the change in altitude more comfortably.
Physical preparation for walks in Cusco
The hikes we offer can be somewhat difficult, but this is more due to the altitude. Before the walk you can do regular exercises to strengthen your legs and improve your resistance, all of this to prepare your muscles for the effort. This will allow you to enjoy the ride more and reduce the risk of muscle fatigue.
Pack your backpack rationally
For your hikes you should include only the essentials: such as a good quality backpack, comfortable hiking boots (remember to wear shoes that you have used before, do not wear new shoes, as these have not yet adapted to your feet), warm clothing ( as temperatures can drop at night), rain gear and a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures.
Make sure you only carry the essentials to keep your backpack light and comfortable throughout the hike.
Water and snacks for the walk
Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the hike. Also, be sure to bring enough water for the day and take advantage of opportunities along the trail to refill your bottle. Energy snacks, such as dried fruit and granola bars, will provide you with the energy you need to maintain a good pace.
Travel with a travel agency or independently
Decide if you prefer to do the walk independently or with a guided tour with our travel agency. While doing it independently gives you more flexibility, a guided tour provides logistical support, transportation, and often includes meals. A guide can also enrich your experience by providing information about local history and culture. Also remember that many of our routes are several days long, with changing climates, constant ascents and descents; Traveling with heavy luggage on your back is exhausting and dangerous for the body; At “Xpedition Trek” we do not want you to take risks of any kind, although it is true that there are routes that you can do on your own; There are others that we do not recommend you go alone.
We provide you with all the necessary logistics to make your hike as pleasant as possible.
What you should consider for the climate
In Cusco, the walks and Tours are done in different climates and altitude conditions, so it is necessary to adapt to each of the conditions; Before taking these tours, always ask us about the specific weather of the tour you will do. In addition to warm clothing, bring a waterproof jacket and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Check weather forecasts before you leave and adjust your luggage accordingly.
Permits and Entry Tickets
Many tourist sites in Cusco require special permits, and involve a cost; Check whether permits are required for the hike or tour you are taking in advance, especially if you plan to go during peak season. This will guarantee your place on the route and allow you to avoid possible logistical setbacks.
Prevention of altitude sickness:
Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and consider using medication to prevent altitude sickness. Consult a health professional before taking any medication. Additionally, walk at a steady pace and allow your body to gradually adapt to the altitude to minimize the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Enjoy the landscape
Take time to appreciate the stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural sites along the way. The Salkantay Route offers impressive views of the Andes. Don’t rush and take advantage of every moment to absorb the natural beauty that surrounds you. Consider bringing a camera to capture unforgettable memories of your adventure.
FAQ´s
A trip to Machu Picchu that requires an overnight stay in Cusco, immediately taking the train from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo, the town nearest Machu Picchu. Spend a night or two getting used to the relatively low elevation of Aguas Calientes, at about 6,700 feet, then explore Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.
The Inca Trail, a section of one of the hundreds of Incan roads built as the empire expanded. It might sound intimidating but thousands of people make this trek every year.
The tour starts with a hotel pickup at 6:30 am, followed by a drive to the Poroy-Cusco Train Station for a train departure at around 7:35 am.
From January to April, the Vistadome Train does not leave from Poroy. Instead, you will be picked up from Cusco at 4:45 am and taken to the Ollantaytambo Train Station for the 7:05 am Vistadome Train.
You will travel through the Sacred Valley of the Inca, surrounded by majestic white glacial peaks. As you approach Aguas Calientes, the landscape transitions into a narrow river canyon and sub-tropical jungle. The sacred Vilcanota River accompanies you until your arrival at Aguas Calientes.
No, hiking to the Sun Gate and Inca Bridge is no longer possible due to new regulations.
No, due to time constraints of the one-day tour, hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is not possible.
The return Vistadome Train times depend on availability and the advance booking. During the rainy season, the return trains from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo are at 4:22 pm, 4:43 pm, or 6:10 pm.
The Vistadome Train offers unimpeded views through large panoramic windows, air conditioning, heating, and comfortable leather seats. It provides personalized and first-class service, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in Andean culture through landscapes, music, and dance.
The journey from Aguas Calientes to Poroy, passing through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, takes over 3 hours, except during the rainy season.
After arriving in Poroy, you will transfer to a private van for the trip back to Cusco. The arrival at your hotel is expected between 8 to 10 pm, depending on the schedule of your return train.
Travel Guide
Peru, a land of ancient wonders and captivating history, offers travelers an array of archaeological sites to explore. If you’re a history enthusiast seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Waqrapucara 1 Day Tour is an exceptional choice. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of Waqrapucara, share valuable tips to enhance your experience, and unveil the historical richness of this unique journey.
Unveiling the Secrets of Waqrapucara
The Waqrapucara 1 Day Tour is a journey back in time, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the remarkable archaeological site of Waqrapucara. Nestled in the highlands of the Cusco region, this ancient citadel is a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered.
Booking Your Waqrapucara Adventure
To embark on this extraordinary journey, you can book the Waqrapucara 1 Day Tour through local tour operators or online booking platforms. Ensure you check the availability for your chosen travel dates and secure your spot to guarantee a seamless experience.
What to Wear and Prepare
Here are essential tips to make your Waqrapucara tour unforgettable:
Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hiking and exploring ancient ruins. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are recommended.
Layer Up: Be prepared for changing weather conditions by dressing in layers. The high-altitude environment can bring temperature variations throughout the day.
Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the high-altitude sun by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Altitude Considerations
Waqrapucara is located at a high altitude, so acclimatization is crucial. Spend a few days in Cusco before embarking on the tour to help your body adjust to the thin air and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Guided Experience
A knowledgeable guide is typically provided for the tour, offering insights into the historical significance of Waqrapucara and ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
Photographic Opportunities
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning archaeological site and the breathtaking Andean landscapes. The ancient ruins provide a captivating backdrop for memorable photos.
Pack Essentials
Carry a daypack with essentials such as water, snacks, a rain jacket, and any personal items you may need during the tour. It’s important to stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
A Day for All Ages
The Waqrapucara 1 Day Tour is suitable for travelers of various ages, making it a great family-friendly adventure. The trek is generally considered to be moderately challenging.
Historical Immersion
This tour is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the Cusco region and learn about the ancient civilizations that once thrived in these highlands. Waqrapucara’s well-preserved structures offer insights into the past and the architectural prowess of its builders.
Scenic Beauty
Beyond the historical significance, the Waqrapucara 1 Day Tour provides a chance to relish the natural beauty of the Andean landscape. The stunning vistas and tranquil surroundings make this journey a true feast for the senses.
Plan Your Journey
Plan your Waqrapucara adventure to explore the captivating history and breathtaking beauty of the Andes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply a traveler in search of hidden gems, this tour offers an enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression. So, prepare for a day of exploration, historical immersion, and natural wonder in the heart of the Cusco region.