The Inca empire was very organized. Among many things, they built the Qapac Nan, a large network of roads, staircases and bridges that interconnected all its regions, making activities much easier.
South of Cusco City, at around 3,700 meters above sea level (12,140 feet approx.), a little more than a 3-hour ride across unforgettable Andean landscapes, we can find the historical Qeswachaka bridge, called the “last remaining Inca one”. It crosses the beautiful Apurimac river, with a total length of 30 meters (98.5 feet) and it is entirely made of vegetal fibers, which are tied together to reach the hardness of ropes. The Qeswachaka bridge is a stunning hanging connection!
Visiting this historical/archaeological site in Cusco, you will be able to admire and walk on this amazing bridge, just like the Inca people did more than 500 years ago, taking with them their Andean camels, the llamas, which were also used as burden animals. The surrounding landscape is splendid, in the middle of massive mountains, listening to the soothing flow of the river and taking in the relaxing, silent energy flow of Andean heights.
Following ancient Inca uses, every year the local population conducts the renovation works of the Qeswachaka bridge, an event that lasts 3 days, while on the fourth day everybody celebrates the successful finalization, with dances, typical foods and drinks.
Workers nowadays in Cusco apply the same techniques used by Inca builders, which have been preserved in their communities. It is really amazing that a bridge made of plant fiber still hangs strong over the Apurimac river!
Also, religion was something always present for the Inca people; before beginning the renovation works at the Qeswachaka bridge, a chosen local man will do the rituals of worshiping of Pachamama (Mother Earth), with an offering including coca leaves, corn, beans, other typical Andean/Cusco crops and beverages. For the Inca people, Pachamama was a subtle female energy which provided everything needed for survival, like food and water, it was an spirit underlying nature, it had to be revered so nature will cooperate and the building/renovation of the Qeswachaka bridge will go without troubles.
The renovation of Qeswachaka bridge event is also deemed a major time for union, cooperation, mixing and fraternity between the Cusco villages involved. Following ancient Andean uses, they get together for the works, bringing food and sharing physical effort, building expertise, food and beverages as well.
Just like in old times, when the works are finished, the person in charge gives his approval and main authorities of the region will walk all the extent of the Qeswachaka bridge.
Last but not least, this wonderful destination at the spectacular heights of Cusco region has been declared Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO in 2013.
The Qeswachaka bridge is one more wonder you can visit in our Cusco area. The tour is a perfect mix of history, archaeology, enjoyment of nature, landscape observations, reviving natural energy flow, Andean culture, adventure and learning. Really a great package!
Ask our tourism professionals about this tour to the Qeswachaka bridge, it can be a quite rewarding addition to your vacation in Cusco!
