EXPEDITION OVERVIEW

Tour Q’eswachaka Bridge 2 Days / 1 Night

The Q’eswachaka Bridge is located over the Apurimac River about 11,811 feet above sea level in the province of Canas about 160km South of Cusco. “Q’eswachaka” is a native name formed by two Quechua words: “Q’eswa” which means “to braid” and “Chaka” which means “Bridge”.  This bridge is very special because it is built in the original Inca manner made from a special woven grass (q’oya). The material and construction techniques have been passed down from generation to generation since the Incas time since the first bridge was built in the 15^th century.  This impressive bridge spans 33 meters in length and 1.20 meters wide and swings 15 meters above the river. It’s rebuilt every year as a communal effort. About 1000 peasants from the communities of Winchiri, Ccolana, Quehue, Chaupibanda and Choccayhua are involved in the construction of this unique Inca hanging bridge. During this trip you will also visit four famous lakes near Cusco and pass by typical villages and different typical villages such as Piñipampa, where we can appreciate an artisan tails factory and a farm fish. We run full day trips to the bridge all year round, as well as an extended 2 day trip on the 11^th – 12^th June 2011 when the bridge is ceremoniously rebuilt by local tribes.