Waqrapukara, also known as Waqra Pukara, is a Peruvian archaeological site. It is situated in the Cusco Region, Acomayo Province, and the Pomacanchi District.
are hundreds of more lesser-known sites located across the Cusco region that are well worth considering. Waqrapukara, an intriguing hilltop stronghold located south of the city, is one of my favorite sites for hiking. Waqrapukara, which means "Horn Fortress" in Quechua, is home to Peru's most massive and impressive rock formations.
Numerous rock strata reflect our world's development for millions of years. A substantial agricultural region surrounds this hallowed location with terraces. The Waqrapukara day excursion is both a tourist attraction and a new alternative in Cuzco.
You can observe the magnificent diversity of animals and plants via each one. Waqrapukara tours are great for individuals searching for a unique experience for a tiny bit of time. Visiting Waqrapukara is a great way to feel good about yourself. We assure you that you'll never forget the wonderful journey.
The architectural developments
The Incas had a unique ability to mix their constructions into the terrain, making Machu Picchu and Waqrapukara so stunning.At first sight, you might not notice the man-made elements at all - the buildings are built on cliff sides, and precipices flawlessly merged.
The stonework blends effortlessly with the valley's rock formations, highlighting both the natural characteristics and the ceremonial brickwork.
The ruins are centered on two central high peaks known as the "horns" or "llama ears."These are enclosed by a ring of rectangular stone structures with ornate niches, double and even triple jamb gateways, passageways, and formal rooms.
of these architectural features
suggest that the Incas held this location in high regard, as a sacred location
of ritual, religion, and political significance.
A series of eight enclosed terraces, totaling 153 meters in length and 1.8 meters in height, surround this hill and step their way down the mountain.Stone stairways and remarkably well-preserved walls connect them.
Ancient cave paintings depicting herd animals such as South American camelids like vicuas, alpacas, and, of course, llamas may be found in various locations, and they are most likely pre-Incan.
It simply demonstrates how much more there is to learn about these ancient sites that are constantly being unearthed today.
Climbing up
through the stone terraces and into the collapsing ruins feels hauntingly
timeless; you can almost smell the mysteries seething behind the walls.
Planning a tour of Waqrapukara
We suggest you travel with a trekking agency that will provide you with more information about ancient places. They can also keep you from getting lost because this trip involves walking through a country's rural area.
When hikers reach the summit of Waqrapukara, visitors have the option of hiking back down the same day or remaining at the summit and camping for the nighttime.
Other stops on the so-called southern tour, such as Andahuaylillás and Tipón, can be combined with Waqrapukara.
Moreover, the group of beautiful lakes known as the
"four lagoons" is breathtaking sites. So, hurry up! To organize a
trip and explore the mystery of Waqrapukara.
Getting to Waqrapukara
The enigmatic Waqrapukara ruins are located near the Apurimac River in Cusco's Acomayo region. The walk to Waqrapukara starts in one of two places: Santa Lucia or the little native agricultural settlement of Huayqui, both of which are about two and a half hours by vehicle from Cusco.
citadel complex is about midway between these two communities, and a pathway leads up from either starting place. If you start from Huayqui, the trek to the peak will take around two hours, and if you start from Santa Lucia, it will take three hours.
As you travel to 10,000 feet above sea level on the trek to the Waqrapukara ruins, you'll travel through the geographical areas of Quechua, Suni, and puna.
You can have the opportunity to see vicunas, guanacos, or condors, among other
local Andean animals. With panoramic views of the neighboring mountains and
valleys, the landscape along the route is breathtaking.
Elevation
of Waqrapukara
Waqrapukara is set among the picturesque rocky cliffs and lies at 13,580 feet (4,150 metres), nearly double the height of Machu Picchu (7,972 feet / 2,430 meters).
The highest mountain pass is 14,925 feet if approaching from the hamlet of Sangarará.The Andes Mountains are no joke, so being properly acclimated before embarking on the Waqrapukara hike, or any other in Peru, is essential.
To
assist with altitude sickness, bring coca tea and coca leaves with you. It's
also usual to leave coca leaf "offerings" to the mountains in
exchange for safe travel.
Waqrapukara: Best time for
hiking
Waqrapukara Archaeological Park is open throughout the year. It is worth noting that Peru has two different seasons: dry and wet.In Peru, the dry season occurs in May and October, while the rainy season is between November and April.
In the dry season, rain chances are
lower, but in winter, the nights will be too cool. The rainy season brings rich
green coloration. But there are also muddy pathways and increased chances of
mudslides. So, the dry season is the best time to hike the Waqrapukara.
Waqrapukara: Trekking Schedule
This is a map of a two-day walk to Waqrapukara.Although this walk may be done in one day from Cusco, it is recommended that you stay the night for free.It's worth noting that there are a variety of ways to go to Waqrapukara.
This route begins in Sangarará and finishes in Huayqui, which are easily accessible by public transit from Cusco.Day 1: Go to Cusco early in the morning for the town of Sangarará. Visit Waqrapukara in the afternoon and again the next day in the early hours.
The second day is downhill till Huayqui, where you can take a cab
to the hub settlement of Acomayo. Take a bus back to Cusco from there.Leave
Cusco early in the morning if you want to go to Waqrapukara on schedule. If
you're taking the bus to Sangarará, leave at 7:00 a.m.
What
to see in Waqrapukara?
1. Climb the Inca stairs to the area between the horns
and have a seat. See how buildings have been erected into the real horned
cliffs.
2. Follow the directions along the walking trail to a
tiny section of Waqra for a different view.
3. Climb around and follow the pathways to appreciate
the fortress's various cave-like constructions.
4. Before retiring to the campsite for the night, watch
the sunset, take in the sights, and wonder at this great architectural effort.
5. The neighboring Inca terraces are not to be missed.
Small rock caves, intriguing ruins, and, of course, spectacular vistas may be
seen on some of the terrace portions.
What to bring during the tour
to Waqrapukara?
You
have to bring the following essential things with you during the tour to
Waqrapukara.
1. A high-quality camera to capture beautiful scenes
2. Have sunglasses, a hat, and
sunscreen with you, to protect yourself from burns from sun rays.
3. Lunch, Snacks, and food for breakfast.
4. Two liters of water
5. Top-Notch quality hiking books
6. Raincoats to prevent bad weather
7. Walling-Sticks for better grip on the mountain.
Final Thoughts
Waqrapukara is a magnificent Inca site located in the Apurimac River Valley.
Believe me, this location is almost as unique as Machu Picchu. It's as though you've stumbled onto a well-kept secret that few others are aware of. A two-day journey costs around $20, making it an excellent low-cost option to Machu Picchu.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact us immediately to book your seat
for this splendid journey.
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