Our landscape astrophotography trek to Waqrapukara Cusco, meaning Horn Fortress In Quechua, is in reference to the massive and powerful rock formations of this site. This magnificent archaeological site is located in the southern province of Cusco. Built upon a mountain, Waqra Pukara offers views of what seems as endless mountains that span so far they disappear into the horizon.It is believed that this powerful archaeological site was at one point used for astronomical observation and ritual, as well as, the development of agriculture as the buildings are westward facing. Within the stone structures, you will also see vaulted niches with three jambs, a rare detail only found in Mauka Llactta architecture in the mythical Paqarektampu.This tour will bring you through various ecological levels including: quechua, suni, and puna. Through each one we will see the beautiful diversity in flora and fauna. Waqra Pukara is perfect for someone with minimal time looking for an experience unique to the others, as it is off the beaten path, rich in history and culture, and surrounded by vast beauty.
Group Size
1 – 8 Guests
Experience | Difficulty
- Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
- DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
- Moderate schedule
- Travel by car or minibus
- Moderate elevation changes and lots of walking and hiking (none of our adventures have difficult hikes)
- (non-photographers also welcome)
Weather | Sun
May – Temps 70/40 F 20/2 C Sunrise 5:24 | Sunset 7:23 (19:23)
September – Temps 75/42 F 24/5 C Sunrise 6:10 | Sunset 6:35 (18:35)
Includes
- 3 Days
- Travel, landscape, nature, wildlife and people photography
- Professional photographer | guide
- Photo walks & discussions
- Small group size (1-8 guests)
- Hostels
- Breakfasts
- All Meals
- National Park Permits
- Local transportation
Travel Information
Arrival Airport: Cusco– Transfer time to hotel 30min
Departure Airport: Cusco – Transfer time to hotel 30min
Our adventure begins in the morning on the first day and ends at end of the last day.
Travel Visa: Not required
Accommodations
Hostel
- 1 people : US$1050.00 per person
- 2 people : US$800.00 per person
- 3 people: US$750.00 per person
- 4 people : US$700.00 per person
- 5 people : US$650.00 per person
- 6 people : US$600.00 per person
- 7+ people : US$550.00 per person
ITINERARY
We leave the city of Cusco early in our private transport and drive towards the south of the valley, following the path of the Watanay and Vilcanota rivers. On our way, we will pass Pomacocha, a beautiful sparkling Andean lake where we will see the vibrant flora and fauna specific to this habitat.
We then continue to the town of Acomayo on the way we will stop at the village called “Pitumarca” . Here, we will start the trek to the Waqrapukara campsite for 3 hours, arrival at our camp for a rest. Then, we will have lunch, on the way we will pass through small lagoons. Later, once we will arrive we will have some time to wonder around at this majestic place during the day then also we might have some time to explore at night.
We will have it our extra night for nightscape photography tour to this magical place so you will have all night long for the best photo of your mind.
We will art with a nourishing breakfast and hot cup of tea, while surrounded by views of the beautiful mountains. We then begin with a guided tour of the archaeological site of Waqra Pukara, which awaits us in an impressive location. The spectacular surroundings provide a for a magnificent backdrop to appreciate the ingenuity of this Inca architecture. Here we will be able to see with our very own eyes the architecturally advanced triple jamb vaulted niches. Then we return to the Llamapinta sector to take photos of the paintings representing the Andean Cosmovision. After hiking further, we will have a moment to rest and appreciate the vast Apurimac river valley below. Then, we will arrive at the town of Wayke where we will enjoy lunch. Here, our private transport will pick us up and. Arrival to the city of Cusco at 05:00 p.m.
Photography tours & expeditions peru
