The legends of Waqrapukara, the “horned fortress”
Crowning a remote cliff south of Cusco stand two great horns of rock, with Inca walls woven between them. Waqrapukara — the “horned fortress” — is among the most dramatic and least-crowded sites in the region, and it is steeped in legend.
A fortress with horns
Waqrapukara’s name comes from Quechua for horn and fortress. Its twin rock towers rise above terraces and finely cut Inca stonework, perched above the Apurímac canyon. Some believe it was a ceremonial site rather than a true fort — its beauty suggests worship more than war.
Legends of the horned peak
Local stories tie the site to pre-Inca peoples who resisted conquest, and to the mountain spirits, or apus, said to dwell among the rocks. Reaching it takes a rewarding day hike through wild highland scenery.
Trek to Waqrapukara
Hike to the horned fortress above the Apurímac canyon.
Frequently asked questions
It means “horned fortress” in Quechua, after the two horn-shaped rock towers that crown the site.
It takes a day hike through remote highland terrain, which is part of its appeal — it sees far fewer visitors than the famous sites.