Qeswachaka + Grutas de karañawi +four lagoons
Description
The Qeswachaka, Karañawi Caves, and Four Lagoons tour is a cultural and natural circuit that takes you off the beaten track. This tour takes you to the province of Canas, south of Cusco, a place where time seems to stand still.
The Four Lagoons—Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnaqocha, and Pampamarca—are the beginning of the adventure. They are a natural reflection of the Andean Mountains, habitats for a wide variety of Andean birds, and a place of serenity and breathtaking landscapes. The Karañawi Caves are volcanic caverns formed by the activity of the earth, a mystical place with unique rock formations that local communities consider sacred. Finally, the Qeswachaka Bridge, the jewel in the crown, is the last remaining Inca bridge made of hand-woven straw. It is renewed each year with an ancient ceremony, and walking across it is an unparalleled experience that connects you with the living history of the Incas.
Qeswachak
Grutas de karañawi
four lagoons
Introducion
Qeswachaka + Grutas de karañawi +four lagoons
In the less-explored landscapes south of Cusco lies a journey that immerses you in Andean history and nature. This tour takes you on an encounter with a living past and a stunning natural present. It combines the serene beauty of the Four Lagoons, the mystery of the Karañawi Caves, and the impressive engineering of the last Inca bridge, the Qeswachaka. It’s more than just a tour: it’s an adventure that allows you to touch history and feel the soul of the Andes.
Dificultad y Preparación
- Difficulty: Moderate to high due to altitude and uneven terrain
- Preparation: It is essential to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
- Equipment: Thermal clothing, trekking boots, hiking poles, sunscreen and camping gear
FULL DAY
Itinerario de un Día: Qeswachaka, Grutas de Karañawi y four lagoons
This full-day tour is one of the best options for exploring the cultural and scenic richness of southern Cusco. The itinerary is designed for you to experience the area’s highlights in a well-organized day.
- 4:30 a.m. – 5:00 a.m.: Departure from Cusco. The day begins early with pickup from your hotel. A tourist shuttle will take you south of the Cusco region. The journey will allow you to see the gradual change in landscapes, from green valleys to vast, dry Andean plateaus.
- 7:00 a.m.: Visit to the Four Lagoons. The first stop is on the “four lagoon circuit”: Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnaqocha, and Pampamarca. You will have time to enjoy the views, take photographs, and observe the local flora and fauna. It is a moment of tranquility and connection with nature.
- 8:30 a.m.: Visit to the Karañawi Caves. You will continue the journey to the volcanic caves. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore these fascinating caverns, with rock formations that create a unique and mystical underground landscape.
- 11:00 AM: Arrival at the Qeswachaka Bridge. You’ll reach the highlight of the tour: the last Inca rope bridge. After a short walk, you’ll find yourself in front of the imposing suspension bridge. You can cross it and marvel at the Inca engineering and the history it represents.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch. After the exciting visit to the bridge, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can sample typical Andean cuisine and recharge for the rest of the day.
- 2:30 PM: Return to Cusco. You’ll begin the return trip to Cusco, with the opportunity to make some strategic stops to take photos or purchase local handicrafts.
- 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.: Arrival in Cusco The tour ends with the return to your hotel, after a day full of culture, history and unforgettable landscapes.
INCLUYE + DETALLES DE RUTA
Transportation
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
- Transportation to the trek start.
Meals
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
- Snacks (tea, hot water, cookies).
- Cook and assistants during the trek.
Safety
- First aid kit.
- Emergency oxygen.
- Admission to Ausangate Glacier and Vinicunca (15-20 soles)
- Tips
Before the Trek
- Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days early to get used to the altitude.
- Pre-training: Hiking, running, or light cardio to build endurance.
- Sleep well: Avoid staying up late or drinking alcohol the day before.
Equipment and Clothing
- Small backpack (30–40L): To carry water, snacks, a camera, a coat, and daily essentials.
- Large backpack (60–70L): If you don’t hire additional porters (mules usually carry some of the weight).
- Layered clothing:
o Quick-drying t-shirts.
o Fleece jackets or a mid-layered coat.
o Waterproof and windproof jacket.
o Thermal clothing for the evenings (it gets very cold in Soraypampa).
- Trekking footwear: Sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots.
- Sandals/light sneakers: For resting at camp.
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses (the sun is strong at high altitudes).
- Gloves, hat, and scarf (it can be cold in the early morning).
- Headlamp with extra batteries.
- Sleeping bag with a temperature of -10°C (if not, rent one).
Food and Hydration
- Bring a reusable water bottle or camelback (minimum 1.5–2 L).
- Water purification tablets or a personal filter.
- Energy snacks: nuts, chocolate, cereal bars.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the trek.
Health and Safety Tips
- Walk at your own pace, without rushing (especially on the climb to Salkantay Pass, 4,650 m).
- Use coca leaves or sorojchi pills if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Protect yourself from the cold at night and from the sun during the day (sudden changes in weather).
- Bring a personal first aid kit: pain relievers, band-aids, and your own medications.
- Always follow the guide’s instructions.
Extras to Consider
- Cash in soles (for swims, extra snacks, tips, and Cocalmayo hot springs).
- Swimsuit and a light towel if you plan to go to the hot springs.
- Camera with extra battery (there’s not always electricity to charge).
