Qeswachaca Bridge and 4 Lagoons Full Day Tour

The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping around 5°C, especially in June and July.

The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. Rainfall can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.

Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.

The climate in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.

• The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
• Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.

It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.

If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:

1. Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking, and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
2. Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
3. Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
4. Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure you bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
5. Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles for shopping in local markets, paying for cabs and tipping.
6. Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
7. Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.

It is advisable to acclimatize before visiting Cusco due to the high altitude of the city. Cusco is located at an altitude of approximately 3,400 meters above sea level, which can cause soroche or altitude sickness in some people. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headache, nausea, dizziness and shortness of breath.

To avoid altitude sickness, it is recommended to take a day or two to acclimatize before engaging in intense physical activities, such as walking or hiking. During this time, it is advisable to rest, stay hydrated, avoid consuming alcohol and heavy food, and drink coca tea, which is a natural remedy to alleviate the symptoms of soroche.

The Q’eswachaca Bridge was built as part of a network of Inca roads, and was used to cross the Apurimac River. For centuries, the bridge was used by the inhabitants of the region and became an important symbol of Andean culture.

With the arrival of the Spanish in Peru in the 16th century, many aspects of Andean culture were destroyed or eliminated. However, the tradition of building the Q’eswachaca Bridge survived thanks to the perseverance of the local communities, who have kept alive the tradition of rebuilding the bridge every year during a traditional ceremony.

The Q’eswachaca Bridge is approximately 28 meters long and 1.20 meters wide. It is located at an altitude of about 4,000 meters above sea level. It is one of the last remaining suspension bridges in the world.

The Q’eswachaca Bridge is made of ichu straw, a plant that grows in the Andean region of Peru. The straw is braided into thick, strong ropes, which are used to build the structure of the suspension bridge.

The straw ropes are joined together to form the railings and the floor of the bridge, which is replaced every year during the bridge’s reconstruction ceremony. The bridge is built using traditional techniques, which have been passed down from generation to generation by the inhabitants of the region.

The Q’eswachaca Bridge is rebuilt every year during a traditional ceremony that takes place in June. During the ceremony, members of the local communities gather to renovate and rebuild the bridge using traditional techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.

The reconstruction of the bridge is a laborious task that can take several days to complete. Once the new bridge has been built, a ritual ceremony is held to celebrate the completion of the work and to thank the protective spirits of the region for the safety and protection they provide to those who cross the bridge.