Overview
Qeswachaka Inca Bridge or Keshwa Chaca, this is one of the only remaining examples of the Incan handwoven bridges once common in the Incan road system.
Made of woven grass, the bridge spans 118 feet and hangs 60 feet above the canyon’s rushing river. The Incan women braided small, thin ropes, which were then braided again by the men into large support cables, much like a modern steel suspension bridge. Handwoven bridges have been part of the trail and roadway system for over 500 years and were held in very high regard by the
Inca. The punishment for tampering with such a bridge was death.
Over time, however, the bridges decayed or were removed, leaving this last testament to Incan engineering. The bridges’ sagging was addressed by destroying and rebuilding it in an annual ceremony—originally considered a social obligation under Inca rule, and now preserved as a way of honouring their history by the nearby community of Quehue, Peru. This bridge has been christened with a traditional Incan ceremonial bridge blessing and is in extremely good condition.
Every June, Quechua communities gather on the banks of the
Apurimac River to renovate the Qeswachaka Inca Bridge. On this day, they manifest their honour to Pachamama, the Earth Mother, and behold archaic traditions. When the work is over, people express gratitude to Apus (mountain spirits) and afterwards celebrate with music, traditional food and drinks
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FAQs
All of our participants are required to inform us of any illness or injury which could affect them or the group during the tour. Although our guides carry first aid kits, we strongly recommended that you bring any personal medications you may need. We also suggest that you consult your doctor before reserving your tour.
Anything you do not want to bring with you on the tour can be safely left in your accommodation. Most hotels and hostels have safes to protect your belongings. However, if you do not feel comfortable leaving your things there, you may also bring them to our office for safekeeping during the tour.
At Inka Trail Backpacker, we are committed to providing your ideal experience in Peru. Therefore, if there are any adjustments you would like to make to reflect your fitness level, lifestyle, or personal interests, we are happy to help! Our itineraries are reasonably flexible and activities can be removed or substituted as necessary.
Yes! All visitors are welcome and encouraged to cross the bridge; however, this is not recommended for visitors with vertigo.
All of our guides are educated in the field of tourism, have received first aid assistance training and are fluent in English. We also have guides who offer tours in Spanish, German, French, Italian, and Portuguese. All guides have excellent knowledge about local flora and fauna as well as Peru's history, geography and culture.
The bridge is approximately 28 meters (99 feet) long and 1.2 meters (4 feet) wide.
Water is provided at meals. However, you should also carry a refillable water bottle with you to prevent dehydration.
We recommend that you book your trek approximately one to two weeks in advance. This allows us to arrange for you to have the best possible transportation, guides, and meals during your tour.
We recommend at least two days in Cusco to sufficiently acclimate before the tour begins.
Yes, vegetarian options are available; however, vegan options are not.
A tip is customary, but the amount is at your discretion. Whatever you feel is appropriate based on the service you have received is fine; please remember to always be courteous and respectful with our guides.
All of our guides are bilingual and speak both Spanish and English.
The highest elevation on this hike is 5,200 meters (17,020 ft) above sea level.
