Q’eswachaka the Last Inca Bridge
The Inca bridge Q’eswachaka is probably something we in Germany find hard to imagine: “A bridge made entirely of grass, that can’t hold,” most would probably say. But the proof is in Canas province, three hours south of Cusco. Here, the 28-meter suspension bridge hangs, defying anyone who thinks it can’t be done. At 15 meters high, this historic grass bridge spans the Apurímac River. Every year it is rewoven in the traditional way — a highlight for Peruvians and travelers alike.
The Inca Bridge Q’eswachaka
For over 600 years the Incas and their descendants have been building this bridge. Because already in the times of the Incas, Inca Bridge Q’eswachaka was part of the Inca road network, which connected the most important cities in the Inca Empire, the so-called Tahuantinsuyo. Thanks to this bridge, the inhabitants of the surrounding villages could cross the dangerous Apurímac River and were connected to the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca road system. An important prerequisite in those days, among other things for trade.
But how can it actually work, such a bridge made of grass? The art here lies in the material and the processing: Because here not just any grass is used, but the special golden Qoya grass (Qoya Ichu). It is particularly robust and grows only at certain altitudes in the Andes. Every year in June it is demolish to make a new bridge. From the long stalks, the women weave meter-long thick braids, which later become elements of the bridge. This braiding technique is so special that it was named an intangible UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
But even the grass from the Peruvian Andes highlands doesn’t last forever, and so the bridge has to be renewed year after year — quite a chambasa, a huge job, as the Peruvians would say. But this work has tradition and that has to be celebrated! For the people from the surrounding communities of Hunchiri, Chaupibanda, Choccayhua and Ccollana Quehue this event is a big highlight and almost 700 people are involved. Also from outside more and more people join, who want to watch this living tradition from the Inca era.
The tasks are clearly distributed: The men of the communities cut the old ropes and the grass bridge falls into the currents of the Apurímac River, which carries it away. Meanwhile, the women weave the new ropes. Here it is important that they stay away from the bridge, which would bring disaster according to Inca belief. Once the bridge is newly woven, the men stretch it across the river. This is followed by a big ceremony with offerings and incense. After the ceremony, women and other visitors are also allowed to cross the bridge.
Visitors can prove their courage and after paying the entrance fee of S./10 (about € 2.50) enter the bridge with careful wobbly steps. But beware: The grass bridge is only 1.20 meters wide, so too narrow for oncoming traffic, entering is only possible from one side. A visit with a view downwards is worthwhile — provided you are not afraid of heights.
Visit the Inca bridge Q’eswachaka
The Inca Bridge is about a three-hour drive from Cusco, making it a great day trip. Getting there on your own and in the middle of public transportation is a bit of a hassle, but possible. First, take a public bus towards Puno, but get off in Combapata on the way. From there you have to get to the village of Yanaoca and then further south to Quehue. There are station wagons or shared cabs here and there, but the trip may be delayed and it may not be possible to visit the bridge in one day. If you are brave, go on this adventure and spend a night with a local family in the communities of the suspension bridge. The inhabitants are no strangers to foreign visitors, as hundreds of people come every year in June for the inauguration of the bridge and stay overnight with the locals. A nice opportunity to get to know the Andean people better.
If you have less time in your luggage, we recommend a day tour, which you can book through some travel agency. You can join the Inca Bridge with a visit to “4 laggons and/or a homestay with a local family”.
Together with agency we have arranged a round trip through southern Peru, but you can also book single excursions or multi-day tours. With some travel agency other great excursions, for example to Waqrapukara or to the Sacred Valley.
Have you already been live at the Inca bridge Q’eswachaka? We are looking forward to your experience report in the comments.
Best time Q’eswachaka
Q’eswachaka is a suspension bridge made of woven grass that spans the Apurimac River in the Andes of Peru. It is rebuilt every year using traditional Inca techniques and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The best time to visit Q’eswachaka is during the annual rebuilding ceremony, which usually takes place in June. This is a unique cultural experience where you can witness the bridge being woven together by hand and participate in traditional Andean ceremonies.
However, if you are unable to visit during the rebuilding ceremony, the bridge is accessible year-round and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The dry season is from May to September, So it’s the best time to visit as the weather is generally clear and sunny.
