The Qeswachaka Bridge | The Last Living Inca Bridge
The Qeswachaka Bridge, the last remaining Inca suspension bridge made entirely of ichu (Andean straw), is a living marvel of engineering and tradition in the heart of the Andes. Every year in June, Quechua communities renew it in an ancestral ritual declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
For this reason and more, in this guide with the help of Kantu Peru Tours, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to visit it: how to get there, what to see, the best time to go, and the unique experiences offered by this corner of Cusco, where history and nature intertwine.
What is the Qeswachaka Bridge in Cusco?
The Q’eswachaka Bridge is the only Inca suspension bridge still in use thanks to a thousand-year-old tradition. Built entirely of ichu (Andean straw), this impressive 28-meter-long bridge is part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca road network. Additionally, every year in June, local communities renew it in a ritual declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Renovación del puente qeswachaca en Cusco
History of the Qeswachaka Bridge
This bridge dates back to the Inca Empire, when it served as a vital connection for trade and communication between regions. Unlike other colonial bridges, the Q’eswachaka has maintained its original essence thanks to oral tradition and ancestral techniques passed down through generations.
How was the Qeswachaka Bridge made?
The construction of the Qeswachaka Bridge is a community process involving four Quechua communities:
1. Rope weaving: Thick ropes of ichu are braided.
2. Anchoring to stones: The bases are tied to Inca stone structures.
3. Placing the walkway: The central path is woven.
4. Blessing with offerings: An Andean ritual concludes the reconstruction.
Turistas en el tour al puente qeswachaka
Why visit the Qeswachaka Bridge in Cusco?
→ Unique in the world: It’s the last authentic Inca bridge.
→ Living tradition: You can witness its annual renewal (June).
→ Unique adventure: Crossing it is an exhilarating experience (at 3,700 meters above sea level!).
→ Quechua culture: You’ll meet the communities preserving this heritage.
Soga de pasto seco para hacer el puente de qeswachaka
At what altitude is the last Inca bridge located?
This straw bridge sits at 3,700 meters above sea level (masl) in the heart of the Andes mountain range. Its altitude makes it a destination that requires some acclimatization, especially if you’re coming directly from lower-altitude cities like Lima or Arequipa.
Where is the Qeswachaka Bridge located in Cusco?
It is located in the district of Quehue (Canas province), about 180 km from Cusco (3.5 hours by car). Additionally, the bridge crosses the Apurímac River, in an area surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Mapa para llegar al Puente Inca de Qeswachaka
How to Get to the Q’eswachaka Bridge?
Option 1: Independent Travel from Cusco
First, take a bus to Combapata (3-hour trip), usually costing S/15 – S/20 soles. You’ll need to pay attention to get off at the right stop, then, head from Combapata to Qeswachaka (an additional hour). For this leg, you can take a shared van or taxi from Combapata’s main square, which costs around S/10 – S/15 soles. However, finding transportation is rare except on Sundays, so you may need to hire a private taxi to the bridge, which can cost up to S/80 soles.
Option 2: Organized Tour from Cusco
If you prefer not to deal with logistics, this is the perfect option for you. While it’s not as budget-friendly as destinations like Humantay Lagoon or Rainbow Mountain, you can visit this attraction in one day (departing from Cusco). Most authorized travel agencies include transportation, breakfast, lunch, a guide, and visits to nearby lagoons in their packages, with prices starting at $40 USD, moreover, they combine this tour with the 4 Lagoon circuits in Cusco.
A group tour to the Rainbow Mountain
What to see at the Qeswachaka Bridge?
The Q’eswachaka Bridge
The Q’eswachaka Bridge is the last original Inca suspension bridge still standing, built entirely of ichu (Andean straw) using ancient techniques. This impressive 28-meter-long and just 40 cm-wide structure sways over the deep Apurímac River canyon. Its stone foundations and hand-braided ropes showcase the Incas’ advanced engineering knowledge, kept functional thanks to the annual maintenance performed by local communities.
The Renovation Ritual (June)
In June, the bridge becomes the stage for a unique ceremony declaring the Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. Quechua communities gather to completely rebuild the bridge in a process that includes weaving new ropes, offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), and a ceremonial first crossing. This four-day event is accompanied by traditional music, dances, and a deep sense of cultural identity.
Panoramic Views of the Apurímac Canyon
The bridge offers one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Andes, suspended over the imposing Apurímac River canyon. From natural viewpoints, you can admire the depth of the abyss and the contrast between the golden ichu structure and the river’s turquoise waters. At sunset, the surrounding mountains glow in golden hues, creating a perfect scene for unforgettable photos.
Puente Qeswachaka en Cusco – Hombres renovando el puente
Discover more wonders on the way to Qeswachaka
Pomacanchi and Acopia Lagoons
On the way from Cusco to Q’eswachaka, the Pomacanchi and Acopia lagoons dazzle with their crystal-clear turquoise waters. These natural mirrors, surrounded by mountains and ichu (Andean straw), are ideal for panoramic photography, spotting local birds like Andean ducks, or simply enjoying the scenery. Many tours include a stop here for breakfast and a stretch break.
Traditional Andean Life
The communities of Huinchiri, Chaupibanda, Choccayhua, and Ccollana Quehue, guardians of the Q’eswachaka Bridge, keep their ancestral traditions alive. Along the drive, you can learn about:
• Agricultural techniques on Inca terraces.
• Traditional textiles made from alpaca wool.
• Andean rituals of reciprocity with Pachamama (Earth).
Archaeological Sites
The area hides little-explored archaeological remains, such as:
• Inca Raqay: Small Inca checkpoints along the Qhapaq Ñan (Royal Road).
• Ancient colcas (stone storage houses) near Yanaoca.
• Petroglyphs featuring condors and llamas in the canyon.
A tourist visiting the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge
Visit Recommendations
✔ Wear non-slip shoes (the bridge is unstable)
✔ Acclimate for 1-2 days in Cusco (it’s at 3,700 masl)
✔ Respect local rituals (ask permission before taking photos)
✔ Hire a local guide (supports community economy)
A woman in the tour to the Qeswachaka Bridge
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you cross the bridge year-round?
Yes, except during the 4-day renewal period (June). It’s open to the public the rest of the year.
2. Is it safe to cross Qeswachaka Bridge?
Yes, but be careful: it’s narrow (40 cm) and sways. Not recommended for people with vertigo.
3. Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, admission costs S/10 soles (supports local communities). Tours already include this cost.
4. How high is the bridge above the Apurímac River?
It’s suspended 15 meters above the river at 3,700 masl.
5. Are there restrooms and restaurants nearby?
Only basic restrooms are available. Bring snacks or book a tour that includes meals.
Camino al Puente qeswachaka
The Qeswachaka Bridge is much more than a tourist attraction: it’s a connection with Peru’s living history. Crossing its narrow ichu ropes, witnessing its annual renewal, or talking with the guardians who maintain this tradition are experiences that will connect you with Inca heritage and Quechua culture.
Whether you visit on a tour from Cusco or on your own, this destination will leave you with amazing photos, unforgettable stories, and deep respect for the communities preserving this heritage. If this article inspired you to take the Qeswachaka Bridge Tour, give us a 👍 like and share it with other adventurers! Still have questions about planning your trip to Peru? At Kantu Peru Tours we’re happy to help!
