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Inca quarry trails.

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu (also known as the Cachicata, Soqma, and Chaski Trek) is an excursion that’s stayed out of the crowded traditional tourist circuits. It’s an excellent tour for those looking to delve into the Incas’ history and learn first-hand how life in the Andes works. The Inca Quarry Route was recently included in the top six Alternative Routes to Machu Picchu by National Geographic.

Inca Quarry Trail 1 Day Hike All inclusive

Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

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Inca Quarry Trail

The quarry trek to machu picchu peru.

The new route to Cachicata Trek or Inca Quarry Trail  is a beautiful alternative route located in the Sacred Valley of the Inca, just outside of the stunning Ollantaytambo. With breathtaking views of high peaks, we will visit numerous Inca ruins, while being surrounded by a variety of lush and vibrant flora and fauna in this region.

This Inca Quarry trail is highly recommended for those wanting to escape from the hustle and bustle of the busier treks. Aside from the tranquility, the highlights of this Inca Quarry to Machu Picchu is our visit to the Inca site of Cachicata, the quarry that supplied the stones used to construct Ollantaytambo. This site, is rich in history and fascinating experiences, with mummies, chullpas, and well preserved Inca buildings.

If you are in search for a experience without the crowds, rich in history and culture, where you visit numerous Inca ruin sites and mountain villages,  look no further, the Inca Quarry Trail  is perfect for you!

Inca Quarry trail to Machu Picchu – Overview

• First day: Cusco – Socma – Rayanniyoc
• Second day: Rayanniyoc – Cachicata
• Day 3: Cachicata – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
• Fourth day: Machu Picchu

Trek Information

• Starting Altitude – 3300m / 10,827ft.
• Highest Altitude – 4500m / 14,764ft
• Walking Distance – 32 km/ 20 miles
• Overall Difficulty – Easy-Moderate.

Inca Quarry Trek – Itinerary

Day 1: cusco – socma – rayanniyoc.

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco relatively early and drive down to the Sacred Valley of the Inca to the village of Socma, just a short drive outside of Ollantaytambo. Before we arrive to Socma, we stop at a spot where we can view and take photos of some stone age petroglyphs.

Today’s hike, takes us up the valley behind Socma. As we make our way to a small and pristine Inca site and beautiful waterfall that lie at the top of the valley.

Along our Inca Quarry trail, we walk past fields of potato, corn, and quinoa nestled among the incredible mountains. Throughout, we will have the opportunity to see a variety of flora and fauna – gorgeous and lush fields and trees and fascinating native birds. Also, your guide will inform you of the customs of the Andean people of this region and will teach you some Quechua (the Inca language) as we hike.

After a relaxing morning’s walk, we finally arrive to our destination, the best Inca site of Perolniyoc. We will tour here and learn of the significance of this site. After, we will carry on for just a little longer to our campsite at Rayanniyoc (3650m / 11975 ft.).

In the afternoon, we will visit one of the local families and you can practice the Qhechua you had learned in the morning. As for the Quecha you didn’t learn in just a morning’s time, your guide will translate for you, making this a beautiful cultural exchange and learning opportunity for both you and the local people.

In the evening, we enjoy a deliciously prepared dinner by our trekking chef, soak in the views, and sleep amidst the mountains.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Snacks / Dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Maximum altitude: 3,700 m. / 12,136 ft
• Minimum altitude: 3,300 m. / 10,827 ft
• Walking Covered: 8 km. / 5 miles
• Approximate walking time: 3 – 4 hours

Day 2: Rayanniyoc – Inti Punku – Cachicata

We wake up early with a cup of hot coca tea and  breakfast  prepare for the longest day of the adventure. We continue on up the valley, approaching the first pass of the Inca quarry trail. This agricultural area is still tended by the local people despite the high altitude. One of the few plants that thrive wildly in this region is muña, Andean mountain mint. The aroma is lovely and the scent infuse the air, especially in the morning. Muña makes a beautiful cup of tea, so along the way we pick some for later.

In total, it’s about a 4 hour hike to the pass (4500m / 14,764ft.), where we will stop to take in the stunning panoramic views, snap some photos, and catch our breath before carrying on. It is only about another 20 minutes until we arrive at our lunch spot, at an incredible vantage point of the valley below.

After lunch, the hike is slightly easier, having reached the top of the mountain, the terrain levels out. We then hike through a strange area, a landscape with numerous mounds, that resemble burial mounds but are actually glacial moraines. These are piles of rock deposits are from glaciers dating back to the Ice Age, fascinating!

In the late afternoon, we pass a beautiful Inca ruin site, Intipunku, which means Sun Gate in Quechua. Of course, we will rest here and take advantage of this incredible photo opportunity, with the valley below and the snow capped mountains surrounding us.

As we work our way down from the high plateau, our destination for the day is the Inca Quarry of Cachicata resting at (3,6000m / 11,808 ft.). This is our home for the night and will share a lovely dinner in this tranquil campsite.

• Maximum altitude: 4500m / 14,764 ft
• Minimum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,808 ft
• Walking Covered: 13 km / 8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 8 to 9 hours

Day 3: Cachicata Trail – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Today we wake up amidst the mountains and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Our day we is dedicated to exploring Cachicata trail and all it has to offer. Despite it’s proximity to Ollantaytambo and the incredible architecture and ingenuity, hardly anyone actually comes up here. Cachicata is a vast site, as it was the quarry used by the Inca for the construction of Ollantaytambo.

There are a number of significant sites, including: large buildings, abandoned and half finished quarried stones, chullpas (burial houses), and a cave with Inca mummies still in place. We will take ample time here and learn of the interesting history this site holds.

After our Cachicata Trek, we’ll continue following the trail down the mountain walking along the original platform that the Incas used for transporting stones to Ollantaytambo. In the early afternoon, we arrive in Ollantaytambo, where we will board the train. We then take a scenic train ride from the Sacred Valley of the Incas through the lush jungle to Aguas Calientes.

Once we arrive at this lovely town, we will check you into the your comfortable hotel and then you will have the rest of the afternoon to relax and explore. Aguas Calientes has bustling artisan markets and natural hot springs, plenty to do to fill your late afternoon. Then, in the evening, we meet for dinner at a lovely restaurant in town and return back to the hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel
• Minimum altitude: 2,840 m / 9,315 ft
• Maximum altitude: 3,525 m / 11,562 ft
• Walking Covered: 11 km / 7 miles
• Approximate walking time: 4 hours

Day 4: Machu Picchu!

We wake up early, to bring on our big day tour to Machu Picchu ! After breakfast at the hotel, we board the first bus  that will wind up the beautiful cloud forest to the ancient citadel itself. Upon arrival, we will begin our 2 hour guided tour with our professional guide. On the tour, you will visit various sites, all that hold significance in understanding the history of Machu Picchu and how the Incas lived thousands of years ago high up in the mountains. You will visit temples, ceremonial sites, fountains, and much more.

After, you will have ample time to visit other places that may catch your eye or if you have the permit, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machupicchu Mountain. These hikes are both quite a climb, although well worth it once you are at the top with such picturesque views and even more fascinating ruin sites to explore.

In the afternoon, we will make our way back down to Aguas Caliente by bus and then board the train that takes us back to Ollantaytambo. We then have private transport awaiting our arrival to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Maximum altitude: 2,040 m. / 6,691 ft
• Minimum altitude: 2,440 m. / 8,052 ft

The trek Includes

• Professional English Speaking  Guide
• Assistant  Guide for groups of 9+
• Pre trek briefing 1 or 2 days before your tour
• Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in Cuzco to your Hotel
• Breakfast on Day 1
• Mules to carry cooking and camping equipment and 7kg of your personal items.
• Pick-up from your hotel
• Transportation by bus to Socma
• Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
• Return transportation by train and bus to Cuzco
• Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the trek, you will need to bring your own)
• 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Afternoon Snacks and 3 Dinners. If you have a dietary  such as vegetarian food please let us know and request with no cost at all.
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• a 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
• Hotel on Day 3
• Sleeping mattress
• Oxygen bottle
• First aid kit
• Entrance to Machupicchu
• Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu-round trip.

Not Include

• Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
• Lunch and dinner on Day 4
• Tips for the crew
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trail.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain-US$ 70

What you need to take?

• Original Passport
• Valid STUDENT CARD (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• Comfortable Trousers
• Insect repellant
• Toiletries and hand sanitiser
• Personal medication
• Camera and film
• Spare batteries.

Inca Quarry – Prices

• 2 people US$660 per person
• 3 people US$600 per person
• 4+people US$560 per person
• Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
• Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras

• Hiking Poles US$15
• Sleeping Bag US$25
• Single Tent Supplement US$25
• Additional Night in Aguas Calientes US$90
• Vistadome Train Upgrade US$60
• Huayna Picchu Mountain US$70
• Machupicchu Mountain US$70

When is the best time to hike the Cachicata trek?

Peru is a year-round destination, although most people plan to trek during the dry season, running from April to October. The mid-year months, June and July, are the most popular and therefore the most crowded times of year to visit. Low cloud cover in these winter months also means cold nights on the trail, so bring some thermal wear for a good night’s sleep.

Do I need a permit to trek the Inca Quarry?

While there are no permit requirements for the Inca Quarry Trail, we run small groups averaging 12 people. So to secure a place on the tour, we recommend booking at least a few months in advance.

The Inca Quarry Trail takes you up and down through altitudes each day, with the highest pass reached on the second day (4,500 m / 14,764 ft.)

When is the rainy season?

From November to March is the wet season; the temperature rises and the region receives heavy rainfall.

When is the high season on the Inca Quarry Trek?

The high season for trekking in Peru runs over the drier months, from April to October. The Inca Quarry Trail is gaining a reputation for its archaeological sites and off-the-beaten-path cultural interactions. I am saying this, you will most likely have the Inca Quarry Trail all to yourself, even during the high season.

How hard is the Inca quarry trail?

The Quarry Trail is not the most difficult alternative to the Inca Trail but some would claim the scenery is even more spectacular than on the classic Peruvian trek. The walk takes in several sets of Inca ruins, including irrigation works, the Sun Gate and, of course, the Inca quarry for which the trek is named.

How cold does it get on the Inca quarry trail?

It depends. Peru has two seasons,wet and dry. The dry season runs from April to October with moderately warm days and cold nights. It’s important to pack thermals and warm clothing for the evening.

Does the Inca Quarry Trek visit Machupicchu?

On the fourth day, you will take a 30-minute bus ride from Aguas Calientes to visit MachuPicchu. The Inca Quarry Trail itself does not lead to Machu Picchu.

What type of accommodations can I expect on the trek?

Accommodation on the Inca Quarry Trail is camping (two nights).Four person tent for every two people and air mattress will be provided. The porters will set up the tents each day.

What are the toilets like on the Inca Quarry Hike?

There are no toilets on the Inca Quarry Trail. When we set up camp, we provide a camping toilet tent with a small portable chemical toilet in it.

How do I get back to Cusco after Machupicchu?

After spending the day exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll take a train and bus through the Sacred Valley and back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Can I bring my own hiking poles?

Yes, you can bring your own hiking poles. Alternatively, you can rent from us.

INCA QUARRY TRAIL SPECIAL ADDITIONALS:

• Inflatable Mattress (Included)
• Pillow (Included)
• Blanket (Included)
• Extra 7kg of personal items (Included). All of our adventures include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will also carry your personal duffel, which you will receive at your briefing the night before your Inca Quarry Trail. This duffel can not exceed 7 kg/14 lbs, and must include your sleeping bag and an air mattress.

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• The ultimate guide to Hike the Cachicata Trek or Inca Quarry Trail in the Sacred Valley

For a long time, there were enormous enigmas about how the Incas cut and transported enormous carved stones for their builts. This is how the Cachicata quarry, one of the most representative destinations near Ollantaytambo town, solves some of these mysteries. Discover below, in this blog, everything you need to know about the hike to Cachicata Quarry or Intipunku with Inkayni Peru Tours!

The famous Inti Punku “Sun Gate” in Ollantaytambo

WHAT IS CACHICATA OR CACHICCATA?

Cachicata is a well-known Inca Quarry Trail in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Incas sourced red granite blocks from this area to build temples and palaces in the archaeological complex of Ollantaytambo and many nearby establishments.

WHAT DOES CACHICATA MEAN?

Etymologically, “Cachicata” comes from two Quechua words:

• CACHI= SALT
• CCATA= SLOPE

In Spanish, it means salt slope because it is believed that during the Inca period, there were salt mines in this area. Also, these deposits had been used to preserve food as offerings in religious ceremonies during those times.

WHERE IS THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA TREK LOCATED?

The Cachicata Quarry trek is located in the region of Cusco, 8 km from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, at 3,644 metres/11,955 feet.

The route to reach the Cachicata Quarry area has two sections. The first section is the bus ride that takes approximately 15 minutes from Ollantaytambo to Cachicata village, the starting point of the hike. The second part is the hike that takes approximately three hours uphill to discover and appreciate this tourist attraction.

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CACHICATA QUARRY OR INCA QUARRY TRAIL

During the Inca empire’s expansion and growth, the Cachicata quarry was a vital centre for rock material supply. In this quarry, the Inca builders produced, selected and transported enormous stones using their techniques (rolling and pushing).

Undoubtedly, moving these enormous lithic pieces from the place of fragmentation and edging to the main road for their subsequent transfer was an extremely difficult and risky task claiming the lives of many people due to work accidents.

Nowadays, during the hike, you can see enormous stones of different sizes and shapes that were left half-worked after the Spaniards arrived.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA OLLANTAYTAMBO?

Main quarry.

This quarry is the largest and has an enormous rocky cliff where traces of the Incas’ immense work remain. In this quarry, the most striking feature is an enormous piece of red granite with a circular shape and an indentation in the central part, also circular. This circular rock has the shape of a wheel and is completely polished with finely carved edges.

Circular wheel-shaped stone is believed to have been used to transport huge lithic pieces using a rolling and sliding technique.

THE MINOR OR SECONDARY QUARRY

This is the first quarry seen on the way up. It has a wall approximately 80 metres long and 4 metres high. It is a chaotic group of different-sized stones that seem to have been rolled down from the upper parts of the mountain. You can see worn pieces that were made in the process of shaping.

Piece of red granite of robust elongated form ready to be moved from Cachicata quarry to Ollantaytambo.

THE INTI PUNKU OF CACHICATA

The Inti Punku or “Gate of the Sun” of Cachicata is located at the top of the mountain, at 3,886 m.a.s.l./12,749 ft. This structure was built in honour of the sun, which normally welcomes the winter solstice’s first rays. From this point, you can appreciate an impressive view of the Sacred Valley and the surrounding snow-capped peaks such as Wakay Willka, known as Nevado Verónica nowadays.

Viewpoint of Inti Punku in front of the snow-capped Veronica (Wakay Willca).

CHULLPAS OF CACHICATA

They are circular constructions of small size located on top of enormous granite stones. They are built with small rustic pieces joined by red mud mortar and straw. They have a roof and small access doors oriented towards the sunrise. It is believed that noble people were buried in these Chullpas during the Inca period. The deceased were generally placed in fetal position together with some of their most valuable belongings.

Three Chullpas of the Cachicata quarry overlooking the sacred valley

THE RUINS OF CACHICATA

Hundreds of unfinished cubic shapes are deposited in the lower part of the quarry. With all these carved stones the Incas intended to build structures, walls and ceremonial places in the great llaqta of Ollantaytambo.

PYRAMID OF PACARITAMPU

The truncated pyramid of Pacaritampu has a large extension with wide terraces still cultivated by locals. It can be seen from the top of the Cachiccata quarries and you will witness the pyramidal representation and the magnificent landscapes.

The optical effect of the Pacaritampu pyramid observed during the Cachicata Hike

THE “TIRED STONES”

The “tired stones” or “sleeping stones” are those abandoned stones that can be seen along the route from Cachicata quarries to Ollantaytambo and in some parts of the town.

Tired stone at the side of the road to Ollantaytambo

THE QUARRY OF CACHICCATA HIKE (INCA QUARRY TRAIL)

Cachiccata quarry trail – machu picchu 4d/3n.

The Inca quarry trail to Machu Picchu is another alternative path to Machu Picchu. During this hike, you can appreciate beautiful natural landscapes and it is highly recommended for those people who wish to have some time for themselves as Cachicata is not a very busy route.

DAY 01: CUSCO – SOCMA – PEROLNIQYOC – RAYAN

• Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours
• Hiking Distance: 4,97 miles / 8 km
• Difficulty hiking level: Tough

DAY 02: RAYAN – PUERTA DEL SOL (INTI PUNKU) – CHOQUETAKARPO

• Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
• Hiking distance: 8.07 miles / 13 km
• Difficulty hiking level: Challenging.

The archaeological site of Choquetakarpo with a view of the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

DAY 03: INCA QUARRY – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

• Hiking distance: 6.83 miles / 11 km
• Difficulty hiking level: Mild

DAY 04: MACHU PICCHU!

• Inca Quarry Tour to Machu Picchu with an optional climb to “Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain”.
• Difficulty hiking level: Easy

Day 4 of the Inca Quarry to Machu Picchu tour

A FULL DAY HIKE TO THE CACHICATA QUARRIES!

It is also possible to trek to the Quarries of Cachicata Ollantaytambo  in a full day , another option to visit this enchanting place. This adventure is ready for people who want to see new places and challenge their limits.

We will pick you up from your hotel and then drive you to the hike beginning point near Ollantaytambo (duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes).

Afterwards, it is about a three to four hour hike to the Intipunku viewpoint. During the walk, you can see the famous quarries of Cachicata, the tired stones, Chullpas, the pyramid of Pacaretambo (Pakaritampuc) and high mountain landscapes.

After enjoying the magnificent view, the descent begins, which is much easier and shorter. The descent takes about 2 hours. The transport will wait for us to return to the navel of the world “Cusco”. And this is how the Cachicata trek adventure ends.

The starting point of the Cachicata Trek, Ollantaytambo

CACHICATA TREK MAP

This full-day Cachicata Trek map is easy to understand and highlights the most important towns, roads and archaeological sites during the tour.

Cachicata Trek Map

FLORA AND FAUNA OF THE CACHICATA QUARRY

Flora of the cachicata quarry, fauna of the cachicata quarry, when is the best time to hike the inca quarry of cachicata trek and inti punku.

Many travellers when deciding the date of their trip have this doubt. The seasons in Cusco are well-defined and two:

• Dry season (May – October).- During these months the average daytime temperature is 18° C/64°F, while the average nighttime temperature is 2° C/37°F.
• Rainy season (November – April).- During these months the average daytime temperature is 16° C/61°F, while at night it is 4° C/39°F.

However, it is best to be prepared as you never know if a sunny day can turn into a downpour in seconds.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA TREK IN JANUARY

During January, the average daytime temperature is 20° C/68°F while at night the average nighttime temperature is 8° C/46°F. In January it rains at least 20 days of the month.

• Pros: The rains that occur during this month usually last for a couple of hours and bring beautiful rainbows. The landscape looks green and everything blooms!
• Cons: The hike can be complicated by mud, mist and rainfall.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA HIKE PERU IN FEBRUARY

During this month the average daytime temperature is 18° C/64°F and the average nighttime temperature is 7° C/45°F. The weather is quite cold, and it rains 20 days.

• Pros: Very few people are encouraged to hike during this month, so you won’t have to deal with crowds to appreciate the scenery and take the pictures you want.
• Cons: During this month the rains are heavier and longer, so the path to the Cachicata quarry will be slippery, cloudy and sometimes with hail.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA HIKE PERU PERU IN MARCH

During this month the average daytime temperature is 20°C/68°F while the average nighttime temperature is 8°C/46°F.

• Pros: Rains in this month usually decrease, so travellers travel again!
• Cons: The trail to the Cachicata quarry will still be muddy and exposed to the risk of landslides.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA HIKE PERU IN APRIL

During this month the average daytime temperature is 21°C while the average temperature is 6°C.

• Pros: The rainy season ends this month. So, April is a good time to visit the Cachicata quarry.
• Cons: Holy Week starts this month, so tourists will increase and higher prices will result. It is recommended to book in advance.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA HIKE PERU IN MAY

During this month the average daytime temperature is 21° C while the average nighttime temperature is 4° C.

• Pros: May is the beginning of the dry season. The days during this month are usually warm. In the morning it is sunny and in the evening you can appreciate the bright and clear sky.
• Cons: The flow of tourists continues to increase so it is advisable to book tours well in advance.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA HIKE PERU IN JUNE

During this month the average daytime temperature is 20° C and the average nighttime temperature is 2° C/36°F. In this month, one of Cusco’s most famous festivities occurs: “The Inti Raymi”.

• Pros: June is accompanied by spectacular sunrises, during the day the sun radiates with a blue sky, so, almost every day appropriate to undertake this hike to the quarries of Cachicata.
• Cons: Despite the beautiful scenery, you should be aware of the sun’s radiation, so take appropriate sunblock and a hat with you.

THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA TREK  IN JULY

During this month the average temperature during the day is 20°C/68°F while the average temperature during the night is 0°C/32°F.

• Pros: Probably, July is the best month to hike to the Cachicata quarry, because of its temperature to visit this attraction.
• Cons: It is the month that receives more tourists, so if you want to visit other nearby attractions you would have to book your tours or hotels in advance.

INCA QUARRY TRAIL IN AUGUST

During this month the average daytime temperature is 21°C/70°F and the average nighttime temperature is 3°C/37°F.

• Pros: The days are sunny. The afternoons present a slow drizzle during your hike to the Cachicata quarry.
• Cons: You should be prepared for unexpected showers. Nights are cold.

INCA QUARRY TRAIL IN SEPTEMBER

During this month the average daytime temperature is 21° C and the average nighttime temperature is 5° C.

• Pros: In this month spring starts in this area, so small drizzles are more common. However, these last for a short time and then the sun comes out again.
• Cons: These drizzles can occur anytime in the afternoon.

INCA QUARRY TRAIL IN OCTOBER

During this month the average daytime temperature is 22°C/72°F and the average nighttime temperature is 7°C/45°F. In October the dry season ends, so it is the last month you can visit.

• Pros: In October the dry season ends, so it is the last month you can hike to Cachicata quarries.

INCA QUARRY TRAIL IN NOVEMBER

During this month the average daytime temperature is 22°C/72°F while the average nighttime temperature is 7°C/45°F.

• Pros: Tourist traffic begins to decrease, so it is pleasant weather to enjoy this hike to the Cachicata quarry.
• Cons: The rainy season starts this month and the trails to the Cachicata quarry will be wet and slippery.

INCA QUARRY TRAIL IN DECEMBER

During this month the average daytime temperature is 21°C/70°F while the average temperature is 8°C/46°F.

• Pros: In December the hike to the Cachicata quarries has beautiful views of the landscapes blooming from the rains, and the weather is warm.
• Cons: Trails and camping areas will be muddy. This month is the start of the heavy rainy season and landslides are possible.

Without a doubt the most ideal time of the year to do this magnificent hike is between May and October, the best months being June and July. During these months the trails are dry and the weather will be lovely. The rainy season is between November and April, with the rainiest months being January and February. During this time of year, the trail will be wet and difficult to hike.

Hike to Inti Punku, Cachicata Quarry

HOW HARD IS THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL?

Anyone trekking above 3,500 m.a.s.l / 11,482 ft. needs to be physically active regularly . Altitude sickness is a real risk, so it is recommended to acclimatise by spending a day or two in Cusco before the hike. Most people complete the Quarry Inca Trail without problems. Drink plenty of water as you hike and pace yourself.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I SUFFER FROM ALTITUDE SICKNESS DURING MY TREK TO THE CACHICATA QUARRY?

If you suffer from altitude sickness or the famous “Soroche” during your hike to the Cachicata quarry, the recommended first thing to do are:

• Hydrate yourself (if is it possible drink coca tea).
• Chew coca leaf
• Eat coca or lemon sweets
• Our team of guides will be at your disposal, so do not hesitate to ask for help because they are highly trained to act in moments like this.

PACKING LIST TO THE QUARRY OF CACHICATA OLLANTAYTAMBO?

In order to achieve this hike without difficulty, we recommend you bring:

• Trekking shoes
• Waterproof jacket
• Rain poncho
• Trekking backpack
• Water bottle
• Mosquito repellent
• Coca or lemon candy
• Coca leaves

DO I NEED A TOURIST TICKET FOR THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL?

To visit this tourist destination you don’t need a tourist ticket. So don’t wait to face this new adventure.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO HIKE THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL WITHOUT A GUIDE?

The hike to the Inca quarry of Cachicata is part of the Inca trail circuit through Peru and part of the Qhapap Ñan circuit. It is suggested that you do this hike under the supervision of an authorized and highly trained agency that offers a professional guiding service so that you can be satisfied with the hike to the Cachicata quarry.

If you want to live an extraordinary experience and enjoy Andean landscapes without crowds, do not miss this extraordinary adventure to the Cachicata Quarry, and enter into the majestic natural landscapes, culture and history of Peru.

Inkayni Peru Tours offers spectacular treks to Machu Picchu through the Andes Mountains’ most diverse and majestic landscapes. We guarantee quality services with highly professional standards and constant training that will make your journey unforgettable. Don’t wait anymore, book with us!

Gonzalo Tapia was born in the rainforest of Peru, Madre de Dios, and he's been living in Cusco since 2008. He has been exploring Peru due to his main hobby as a birdwatcher. Also, he has a lot of experience in outdoor activities and wilderness.

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Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu

The historical cachicata inca trek.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path trek to Machu Picchu, then the Inca Quarry Trail is an excellent alternative. Over the years, it’s managed to stay off the list of traditional tourist routes. That doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting, though.

This route is perfect for those looking to delve further into the Inca’s history and see firsthand how life in the Andes is for the locals who live in remote regions. You’ll get up close and personal with small communities and witness their day-to-day lives. On this route, you’ll also see some unique Inca sites that very few people get to see, even those from Cusco!

The Inca Quarry was recently included in the top six Alternative Routes to Machu Picchu by National Geographic, making it an excellent trek to choose from.

• Before You Go
• Packing List

Escape the crowds and get off the beaten path with our specially designed Inca Quarry Trail for history lovers and those who want to see real life in the rural Andes. Our package is suitable whether alone or in a group, and you’re guaranteed a real adventure!

The Inca Quarry Trail, also known as the Cachicata Trek or Chaski Trail, is one of the more recent routes to open up and one of the least crowded treks to Machu Picchu. This incredible trail will take you past tall waterfalls, Inca constructions, unforgettable views of the Andes, and beautiful jungle scenery.

Along the way, amidst the animated flora and fauna, you’ll stop off at Racaypata archaeological site and pass through various communities close to the Cachiqata quarry - the site the Incas took their stones from to build Ollantaytambo! In the quarry, you’ll be able to appreciate some rocks cut by the Incas and observe their fine skills.

After three days of trekking, enjoying nature, and seeing how locals live in the rural regions of Cusco, you’ll head to Aguas Calientes by train. This evening, you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel and enjoy a tasty dinner at one of the best restaurants in town.

On the fourth and final day, you’ll visit the magnificent and magical Inca city of Machu Picchu. You’ll be able to enjoy the site and learn all about its history from your local. On the last afternoon, it’ll be time to head back to Ollantaytambo by train and then to Cusco by private transport.

Itinerary at a Glance

Cusco | soqma - perolniyoc - racaypata - rayan.

Your adventure begins as you head towards the Perolniyoc waterfall, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. Bathe in the water before visiting Racaypata archaeological site. Spend the night at Rayan and observe the clear Andean night sky.

Rayan | Puccaqasa - Kuichiqasa Pass - Sun Gate - Choquetacarpo

Head to the first summit of the trek at Puccaqasa and then onto lunch. Afterward, you’ll reach the route's highest point, Kuichiqasa Pass. Head to the Sun Gate for some spectacular views before reaching our camp for dinner and rest.

Choquetacarpo | Cachicata - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes

Visit the Cachiqata quarries in the morning and enjoy a guided tour to observe stones cut to build Ollantaytambo. Have lunch in Ollantaytambo before catching the train to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy dinner in a top restaurant before going to be early.

Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo - Cusco

Enjoy exploring the magical and mystical Machu Picchu on a 2-hour guided tour. Head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch before getting a train to Ollantaytambo and then private transport back to your accommodation in Cusco.

What's it like

• Trek through the stunning Andean jungle landscapes and take in the astounding views.
• See beautiful and unique flora and fauna in the zone and learn all about it.
• Visit the quarry where the Incas got the stones to build Ollantaytambo.
• Understand how small communities live in remote regions of the Andes and see them going about their daily lives.
• Explore archaeological sites and uncover Inca secrets.
• Take a grand tour of the mystical Machu Picchu.

Why Travel with us

Your safety is our priority, expert guides, sustainable tourism, andean chefs, food on the trail, small groups.

Highlight of the day: Bathing in the Perolniyoc waterfall and visiting Racaypata archaeological site.

Refreshing Waterfalls and Inca History

Start your adventure when we collect you in the early morning from your accommodation. We’ll take you to the starting point of the trek to meet your team before you begin a 3 to 4-hour hike to the Perolniyoc waterfall. Along the way, you’ll pass wonderful scenery and the small town of Soqma, where farmer’s fields surround you. You’ll have time to bathe in the waterfall to cool down once you get there.

Afterward, you’ll keep going until we reach Racaypata archaeological site. Your guide will give you an exciting history lesson, and you can take in the beautiful landscape before enjoying a lunch prepared by our team. You’ll then continue to our camp at Rayan to relax and enjoy the Andean night sky with constellations and shooting stars while you wait for dinner. Spend the night in a comfortable tent and rest until morning.

Your adventure begins today bright and early when we collect you from your accommodation in the morning and drive for one and a half hours to the starting point of our trek. Our private transport is highly comfortable, and we’ll provide blankets if you want to get a little more sleep on the journey.

Once we arrive at the starting point, and after enjoying a great breakfast, you’ll meet the cooks and horseman and get to know your team. Then, we’ll begin our hike with a 3 to 4-hour stretch to the pretty Perolniyoc waterfall. On the way, we’ll pass through the little town of Soqma, surrounded by corn, potato, and quinoa fields. After enjoying the beautiful valley landscape, you’ll get the chance to cool off or shower in the waterfall.

When you feel refreshed, we’ll continue to the Racaypata archaeological site, which was built on a cliff and boasts spectacular views of the surrounding valley. All our guides are experts in Inca history, so you can expect a quality history lesson! We’ll also have our lunch there, and you’ll get to try the exquisite food prepared by our team in the middle of the mountains.

The afternoon is relaxing as we ascend one more hour to reach our campsite at Rayan (3,700 m / 12,139 ft). You’ll be able to rest for the remainder of the day and wander around the area before a tasty dinner. While you wait for your food, take the opportunity to observe the clear Andean night sky. You’ll see constellations and shooting stars before heading to the comfort of your tent to wind down for the night.

Highlight of the day: Admiring the spectacular views from the Sun Gate.

Stunning Views and Astounding Landscapes

After breakfast, you’ll be off early to the first summit, Puccaqasa. Take some time to enjoy the stunning views of the Sacred Valley before you continue onto the lunch spot. Once we’re full, we’ll continue to the route's highest point at Kuichiqasa Pass. Next, we’ll head to the Sun Gate or Inti Punku to take in the spectacular views of the Veronica glacier in the distance. Finally, we’ll head down to our campsite in the Choquetacarpo sector for dinner and sleep.

After an energizing breakfast, we’ll head uphill for 3 hours to the first summit of the hike at Puccaqasa (4,400 m / 14,436 ft). You’ll get the most incredible views of the Sacred Valley from here, and, of course, it’s the perfect spot to get some amazing photos.

Later, we’ll descend for around 25 minutes to our lunch spot for a well-deserved meal. Recharge your energies with more incredible food from our cooks before continuing with a 2-hour up and down hike. On the last 20 minutes of this stretch, you’ll head up to the highest point of the whole trek, the Kuychicassa Pass (4,500 m / 14,764 ft). You can expect more wonderful landscapes from this height and observe snowy glaciers.

Afterward, You’ll head downhill to the Inti Punku or Sun Gate archaeological site (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). You’ll learn about the site while taking in spectacular views of La Veronica glacier (5,682 m / 18,642 ft) and the Sacred Valley of the Incas, which you’ll likely visit sometime in Cusco.

Finally, there’ll be a 30-minute descent to our campsite in the Choquetacarpo sector (3,600 m / 11,811 ft). You can now rest for the evening and enjoy another tasty meal before bed.

Highlight of the day: Explore the incredible Cachicata quarry and witness the Inca’s fantastic craftsmanship.

Quarry Visit and Understanding Inca History

After breakfast, we’ll head up to the Cachicata quarries for a guided tour and to observe the impressive stones cut by the Incas to build Ollantaytambo. It’s incredible to see the fine skills that the Incas had with so few materials. Then, we’ll make our way to Ollantaytambo for lunch and catch the train to Aguas Calientes. Along the way, you’ll see fantastic scenery everywhere you look.

Once you arrive in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into your hotel and be able to rest. If you have energy, you can explore the town or relax at the hot springs. In the evening, we’ll go to one of the top restaurants for dinner before going to bed early. You need to be up before dawn tomorrow.

Just like every other morning, you’ll be greeted with a tasty, filling breakfast to get you going. We’ll then begin our 1-hour descent to the Cachicata quarries (3,520 m / 11,549 ft), where the stones were taken to build Ollantaytambo. Inside the site, you’ll enjoy a guided tour to learn more about the place and observe the cut stone blocks whose transportation was interrupted by the arrival of the Spanish. It’s fascinating to see the perfect cuts that the Incas were able to create with simple materials.

After, we’ll descend from the quarry for 3 hours until we get to the quaint town of Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft), where we’ll have lunch. Once we’ve finished, we’ll head to the train station to board the Expedition service to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft). Along the tracks, you’ll be able to observe the beautiful scenery of the Sacred Valley up close as you travel beside the Urubamba River. You’ll need your camera ready to take some great snaps!

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you’ll check in at your hotel to rest before dinner if you feel tired. If you still have some energy, you can explore the small town or head to hot springs, the perfect place to relax your tired muscles after three days of walking. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner in a top restaurant before going to bed early, as you’ll be up before sunrise to see Machu Picchu.

Highlight of the day: Exploring and touring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu.

The Magical, Mystical Machu Picchu Awaits

Today we´ll get up very early to avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu. We´ll board a bus to enter at 6:00 a.m. to the Inca citadel and appreciate the sunrise. Our expert guide will conduct a tour of approximately two hours of the important places of this majestic site.

Around midday, you’ll have to head back to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy lunch in a restaurant of your choice before heading to the train station to board your train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will take you back to your accommodation in Cusco to put your feet up and rest.

The big day has arrived! Be sure to get up very early to avoid the crowds at Machu Picchu. We´ll board a bus in Aguas Calientes at 5:30 a.m. until we arrive at the sanctuary at 6:00 a.m. Once inside, we´ll watch the brilliant sunrise over the incredible citadel. We´ll observe the breathtaking views before enjoying a two-hour tour with our expert guide.

We’ll visit all the must-see sites of this majestic place, including the terraces, houses, temples, and lanes. We’ll also stop at the observatories to admire the greatness and real extension of this engineering feat. If you’re still up for it, it’ll be the perfect time to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains; if you have pre-booked tickets.

A little after midday, it’ll be time to make your way down to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have some time to grab lunch in a restaurant of your choice before catching a train to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will collect you and take you to your accommodation in Cusco. You can put your feet up and reflect on your fantastic adventure. We’re sure your heart will be soaring with the magic of the Incas for weeks, months, and even years to come!

At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.

What Is Included?

Permits & entrance tickets, high quality service & safety, pre-departure briefing - the day before the trip, at 5:00 pm you will meet your trekking guide..

You'll have an orientation meeting with your guide the evening before the tour. The meeting is at 5:00 p.m. in our office and, depending on the itinerary, in your hotel.

Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.

English and spanish speaking official tour guide. All our guides are graduates of the professional career of Tourism of the National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We choose them for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness, unbridled passion for exploring, and sincere desire to proudly share in our culture and history. He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time worry-free!

Private Camping Equipment

• Tents: Spacious dining tents to enjoy your meals worry-free.
• Tables, chairs, and cooking equipment
• A Portable Travel Toilet
• Sleeping Pad

All equipment will be carried by our horses.

One Duffle Bag

On the trek, you can carry your personal belongings up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15.4 lb (this weight includes your sleeping bag).

Medical Kit or First AID Kit - Our guides are trained to deal with basic emergencies.

All Salkantay Trekking guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers' diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.

Extras Included in our Service - You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.

We believe that attention to small details is what sets us apart from other local companies. You’ll receive a cover to protect your backpack on the road and a rain poncho.

24/7 Customer Service - We have 24 hours a day telephone service.

We have telephone service available 24 hours/day for ease of communication with Salkantay Trekking leading up to your trek.

Satellite Phone - Each of our guides has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of emergency.

Our main priority will always be the tranquillity of our clients. All of our guides are prepared for emergencies in the mountains; however, being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps you feel more secure. For this reason, each Salkantay Trekking guide has a satellite phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to call anywhere in the world in case of an emergency.

Accommodation

Hotel in aguas calientes.

You will spend the last night of the trek in a comfortable hotel at Aguas Calientes, including luggage storage, while you visit Machu Picchu.

*Accommodation is in double, twin, and triple rooms.

2 Nights Accommodation in Tents

• Days 1 and 2: Salkantay Trekking uses the best camping tents to ensure your safety and comfort (e.g., Eureka Timberline or Mountain Hard Wear tents).

4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 3 Dinners

Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets (vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), so let us know if you have any particular allergies or restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks.

Water on the trail - You will need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle for us to give you boiled, filtered and refrigerated water.

We’ll provide you boiled, filtered, and cooled water during your hike, from your first lunch to your last breakfast. For this, you need to bring a camel bag or an empty bottle (we recommend a capacity of 2 liters).

Wake up tea - Every morning at campig we will provide you with hot coca tea.

Every morning at the campsite, you'll be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent so that you will be warmed from inside out before you start your day.

Tea Time or Happy Hour - Every evening, before dinner, the cooks will provide you with popcorn, cookies, coffee, tea, hot water, etc.

Every afternoon before dinner, the cooks will provide you popcorn, biscuits/cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, teas, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won't have to wait until dinner to relax, warm-up, and enjoy a bite to eat!

Snacks on the trail daily - You will receive a bag with cookies, fruit and more, to be refilled each morning.

Before starting your trekking, your tour guide will provide you a cloth bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, caramels, etc. Every morning, we’ll refill it so that you can enjoy your snacks during the walk.

One cloth snack bag per person

To avoid the usage of plastic bags that contaminate our environment, we'll give you a cloth bag for your snacks.

Hygiene Products

You’ll be provided with a small towel and soap before each meal to clean your hands.

Transportation

• Day 1: Pick up from your hotel and transfer to Soqma, the trek’s starting point.
• Day 4: One-Way Bus Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
• Day 4: Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.

Train Tickets

• Day 3: From Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
• Day 4: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

Personal Belongings Transportation

On days 1,2, and 3, cargo mules will carry all the camping equipment and your baggage allowance (7 kg / 15.4 lb). Muleteers will be responsible for your duffle bag and personal items.

What Is Not Included?

Extras and important equipment.

You will need a sleeping bag for camping. Trekking poles are optional but highly recommended. If you don’t have them, don't worry; you can rent them from Salkantay Trekking.

• Sleeping bag: US$ 20.00
• Walking poles (pair): US$ 20.00

Huayna Picchu Mountain - If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).

You can climb the famous mountain you always see in the photos behind the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It’s 45 minutes uphill, and coming back down can be scary if you fear heights. You can take this excursion once your guided tour to Machu Picchu ends. The permit must be issued at least one month in advance due to high demand. Consider that there could be changes to protect your integrity, mainly due to weather conditions.

• The ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.

Machu Picchu Mountain - If you want to visit this famous mountain it has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person (remember to book at least one month in advance).

Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers less steep, wider, and visually less frightening trails than Huayna Picchu, and it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can secure for you if we have time in advance.

• The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain has an extra cost of US$ 60.00 per person.

Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 4)

Personal hiking clothing and gear, travel insurance, tips for our staff.

Tipping is the norm on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, something extra is always welcome, especially considering the hard work they do. Typically, group participants collect their tips to hand out to the horsemen and chefs together.

Additional costs or delays beyond our control

Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to a safety concern, illness, pandemia, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, act of God, etc.

We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.

How many days do I need to acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?

It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before exerting yourself on a trek. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the trek starts to help you adjust and avoid possible problems with altitude sickness while on the trek.

You might have already been in another area of Peru at a high altitude before arriving in Cusco. In that case, we still recommend you have a whole day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travel, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cusco before departing for the trek.

Here some suggestions for activities to do in the Cusco vicinity before starting your adventure trek:

City Tour Cusco

Sacred valley of the incas, rainbow mountain peru, briefing or informative meeting.

All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.

If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler's checks as forms of payment for the balance.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive a canvas case or duffel bag during your briefing. Our horses will carry them, and the horsemen will hand them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).

A maximum of 7 kg / 15.4 lb is allowed for each duffel bag, including the weight of your sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothes, and other personal items.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.

Pick up of guests

Please note:

• All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
• Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
• Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
• Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.

Return to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!

• In Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus that’ll take you for 25 minutes to the small city of Aguas Calientes. The buses are boarded according to arrival.
• In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will give you the train tickets where the boarding time will be shown. Make sure you’re on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1:45 hours.
• Once you arrive at the station, our representative, identified with the Salkantay Trekking clothing, will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco or directly to your hotel. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1:30 hours.
• In Cusco, depending on your hotel’s location, we’ll take you to a smaller car from our company (Hyundai H1) to transfer you faster to your hotel.

Note: Your tour includes a One-Way Consettur Bus Ticket Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu, so you can choose to use it from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu or from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. If you want a round-trip bus ticket, you’ll need to pay an extra of US$ 12.00.

Group Tours

Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.

It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.

Strikes and demonstrations

Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.

Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost objects

Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.

WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?

RECOMMENDED

"Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.

2024 Land Cost

Group Price: US$ 600.00 per person.

Required Pre-payment: US$ 200.00 per person.

Balance (Cusco): US$ 400.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).

This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.

Notice that PayPal charges a fee of 5%, which we ask the client to cover since it's due to the use of its service. This tax is just for online deposits so that you will pay the remaining in cash (the briefing day in Cusco) without charges.

All the related treks to Machu Picchu end in or before Aguas Calientes, so you’ll spend the last night in a hotel in the town rather than camping (including a shared room in a standard 3-star hotel). If you need a hotel upgrade or prefer a single room, you can pay an extra fee. Please enquire for more details.

Extras & Upgrades

There are complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip.

• Huayna Picchu:  US$ 60.00
• Machu Picchu Mountain:  US$ 60.00
• Huchuy Picchu Mountain:  US$ 45.00
• Single Supplement (Hotel at Aguas Calientes):  US$ 30.00
• Extra Night at Aguas Calientes:  US$ 50.00
• Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo):  US$ 70.00

Extensions & Offers

There are several extensions you can include to your Peru Adventure.

• Rainbow Mountain:  US$ 100.00   US$ 80.00
• Sacred Valley:  US$ 100.00   US$ 80.00
• City Tour:  US$ 50.00 US$ 40.00

Additional Items

There are additional items you can include in this trip. Below is a quick list of prices.

• Sleeping bag::  US$ 20.00
• Inflattable mattress:  US$ 20.00
• Walking poles (pair):  US$ 20.00

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.

Student Discount

US$20.00 off

Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to [email protected] .

Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.

Our Pledge |  Your privacy is respected and protected. The Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.

Personal Details

Trip details.

Remember |  One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.

Note |  Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!

Feel free to reach us via email at [email protected] or by calling us directly at (+51) 958 191 179

Every Day: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

Triunfo Street 346 - Main Square of Cusco, Peru

• Email [email protected]

Related Peru Treks

Alternative journeys you may be interested in.

Here you have other options that will suit your needs from the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu

Sky Camp - Salkantay - Machu Picchu

Salkantay trek classic.

The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an alternative to the Inca Trail. It is considered by most to be the best alternative route. We think it’s the best route! Not only because of the rampant beauty you will encounter, but also because of the lack of people. Because it is more rugged and remote, the Salkantay Trek is significantly less populated than the Inca Trail.

Wayllabamba - Warmihuañusca - Machu Picchu

Inca trail classic.

Hike the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the best trekking route in all of South America. The Inca Trail is one of the most famous routes in the world. Dare to discover this astounding experience and receive the greatest reward of all: visiting the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Lares Trek - Machu Picchu

Lares trek classic.

The former capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Peru’s city of Cusco is a fabulous base from which to explore fascinating archeological and historical sites, as well as enjoy time in nature. Although the city has much to be proud of, many of the area’s delights can be found beyond the city limits. Here are some of the best day trips to take from Cusco for a fabulous Peruvian adventure to remember.

Abra Malaga - Jungle Domes - Machu Picchu

Classic inca jungle.

Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days is ideal for people with a passion for adventure with newly recharged energy; what defines this Inca Jungle Trail is trekking, Biking, Rafting, and Zipline! We will go through trail and archaeological Inca sites similar to those on the Inca Trail until we arrive at the magical town of Aguas Calientes. Finally, we will visit the historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu

Perolniyoc - Ancascocha - Machu Picchu

Ancascocha classic.

The Ancascocha trek journey is relatively easy compared to some others, so it is an excellent option for less experienced or less athletic trekkers. A few companies only offer the Ancascocha Trek because it is so off of the beaten path. It is less traveled than the original Inca Trail and is considered one of South America's best hikes by many who know it well.

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• Cusco City Tour (Half Day)
• Classic Sacred Valley Tour (Full Day)
• Maras Moray Tour (Half Day)
• Complete Sacred Valley Tour (Full Fay)
• Rainbow Mountain Trek (Vinicunca – Full Day)
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• Ausangate Trek (4 Days)
• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days)
• Lares Trek (4 Days)
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• Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days)
• Choquequirao Trek (5 Days)

Inca Quarry Trail: Complete Guide

Welcome to Kawsay Peru Travel , your gateway to unforgettable adventures in the heart of Peru! Today, we embark on a virtual journey, exploring the captivating Inca Quarry Trail. Let’s delve into the unique aspects of this trail and discover why it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Is it Worth Choosing the Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu?

When it comes to reaching the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, many opt for the classic Inca Trail . However, the Inca Quarry Trail offers a less-traveled and equally enchanting alternative. As we unfold the layers of this ancient route, you’ll find a sense of seclusion and discovery that adds a special touch to your Machu Picchu experience.

What Other Wonders Do We See Along This Hike?

The journey along the Inca Quarry Trail is not just about reaching the destination but also about embracing the wonders en route. From ancient quarries that whisper stories of the Inca civilization, Inka urban centers witnessing the greatness of this civilization, in addition to natural wonders such as the Perolniyoq waterfall, an impressive view of the sacred mountain Veronica and the Urubamba River that bathes the corners of the sacred valley, and with some luck the majestic flight of the condor may accompany us one of the days. Each step reveals a piece of history and natural beauty.

Which Best Time to Hike the Inca Quarry Trail?

Timing is everything, and the Inca Quarry Trail has its optimal seasons. Whether you prefer lush green landscapes or drier conditions, understanding the best time to hike ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable trek.

If you prefer avoiding rain, the best time to undertake the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which typically spans from late April to early October. This period offers more stable weather conditions with minimal rainfall, providing a more enjoyable and safer trekking experience. However, doing it in the wet season which is from November to March everything turns green which is spectacular for views and photos, but the Trail becomes more challenging.

How Crowded Is It?

Unlike the more popular trails, the Inca Quarry Trail offers a quieter experience, allowing you to connect with nature and history without the hustle and bustle. Discover the tranquility that sets this trail apart.

Horses Instead of Porters

For a unique twist, consider the option of horses instead of traditional porters of the classic Inka trail. This not only lightens your load but also adds a touch of local authenticity to your journey. On the other side you will support the local economy by using their animals which are well treated.

How Is the Route and How Hard Is It?

Get ready for a diverse terrain that includes challenging ascents, rewarding descents, and a variety of landscapes. Understanding the route and its level of difficulty ensures you’re well-prepared for the adventure ahead.

Usually the second day is the most challenging since you have to climb the pass to 4 449mts./14 596 ft. and then descend to the campsite. But all the efforts are worth it because of the amazing experience of each day.

How Fit Do I Need to Be?

While the Inca Quarry Trail does require a reasonable level of fitness, it is accessible to most hikers. Tailor your preparation to the trail’s demands and enjoy the journey at your own pace. It will be very important to adapt to the altitude at least two days before doing this hike.

Some Facts About the Inca Quarry Trail

• *Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• *Distance: Covering approximately 26 Km (16 miles).
• *Duration: Usually takes 2 nights camping and 3 days hiking.
• *Permits: there’s no need
• *Top Elevation: 4 449mts./14 596 ft. Kuichikasa pass

What Do I Pack?

Prepare for the adventure by packing essentials tailored to the Inca Quarry Trail. Sure, I can answer you in English. Here is a list of some items that you should pack for the Inca Quarry Trail:

• A backpack for your essentials.
• A sleeping bag suitable for cold climates, a four-season one will be ideal.
• A water bottle or hydration bag with capacity for at least two liters of water.
• Waterproof and worn hiking boots with good support and grip on the ankle.
• Comfortable, breathable clothing that you can layer, such as t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, socks, underwear, etc.
• A warm jacket, fleece, hat, gloves and scarf for cold nights and mornings.
• A light raincoat or waterproof poncho for rainy days.
• Sun hat, sunglasses, sun cream and lip balm to protect you from the sun.
• A headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
• A toiletry bag with your personal items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc.
• A small towel and wet wipes for personal higiene.
• A first aid kit with basic medications, such as pain relievers, anti-diarrheal pills, plasters, etc.
• Snacks, such as chocolate, nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, etc. to keep you energized during the walk.
• A camera or phone with charger and external battery to capture the incredible views.
• Your passport (the original, not a copy) in a ziplock bag.
• Some cash in Peruvian soles for tips, souvenirs or emergencies.
• A positive attitude and sense of adventure!

Golden Tips to Have the Best Experience

• Start Early: Make the most of your day by setting out early and savoring the trail at a relaxed pace.
• Connect with Locals: Embrace the local culture by interacting with the communities along the trail.
• Camera Ready: Capture the magic of the journey with a camera or smartphone to immortalize your memories.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay refreshed throughout the trek.
• Mind the Altitude: Acclimate to the elevation to ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• Book your tour with a reputable Travel Agency to ensure a safe and enriching experience. Embark on the Inca Quarry Trail with Kawsay Peru Travel, and let this adventure be a chapter in your travel story. We’re here to turn your exploration dreams into reality. See you on the trail!

Inca Quarry Trail Tour

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Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
• User Ages: 12+ years

Embark on a journey to Machu Picchu through a recently uncovered and less frequented trail. Over the course of this 4-day trek, you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery, featuring cascading waterfalls, ancient Inca ruins, and the opportunity to traverse a stunning remote Sun Gate. Explore captivating archaeological sites along the way, concluding your adventure in Ollantaytambo.

Make Your Way to Machu Picchu on a Newly Discovered Route!

This four-day trek offers you amazing scenery with waterfalls and Inca ruins, as well as the chance to pass by a beautiful remote Sun Gate and visit breathtaking archaeological sites en route to Ollantaytambo. The Inca Quarry Trek is one of the newest and least crowded trekking routes to Machu Picchu. This wonderful trek takes you past high waterfalls, Inca ruins, and beautiful scenery.

This challenging trek is easier than most treks to Machu Picchu and is a good option for less experienced trekkers. However, it is still important to be in good physical condition. The elevation changes make the hike strenuous as there are two high passes during the hike.

Trek Briefings:  All travelers are required to visit the Cuzco office for a mandatory briefing on your trek one day prior to departure. At this meeting, you will receive detailed information on the route, a list of what to bring, confirm your pick-up for the morning of the trek, and be able to ask questions.

Please note: You will have a guide during the trek and on the Machu Picchu tour. However, during your bus and train transfers, you will not be accompanied by a guide.

Day 1: Cuzco to Rayanniyoc, Peru Depart from Cuzco to Rafca, Trek from Socma through Perolniyoc to Rayanniyoc (L/D)

Commencing our journey, we’ll pick you up from your Cuzco accommodation around 6:00 – 6:15 am and head towards the town of Rafca (2800m). After a 30-minute drive, we reach the village of Socma (3000m), our trek’s starting point. Here, we meet the muleteer who will accompany us during the hike. Following a brief break and organizing our belongings, we embark on the trek towards the Inca site of Perolniyoc (3200m). After approximately 2.5 hours, we arrive at Perolniyoc for lunch, exploring the captivating waterfall and archaeological ruins atop the valley. Continuing for another 30 minutes, we reach Rayan-Niyoc (3,600m), where we settle in, have dinner, and camp overnight in the chilly climate.

Day 2: Rayanniyoc to Choquetacarpo, Peru Rayanniyoc to Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo (B/L/D)

Start the day with an early breakfast before tackling a challenging trek to the trek’s first high pass at 4,400 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking mountain vistas. Witness local people cultivating their fields despite the high altitudes. After about 4 hours of walking, we reach the pass, pausing to absorb the panoramic views. Lunch is served at a camp around 4,300m before continuing the hike to the trek’s highest point at 4,500m. Revel in the spectacular views before descending for approximately 3 hours to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), offering imposing views over the valley and Veronica mountain. Soon after, we reach Choquetacarpo (3600m), our second camp. Settle in, enjoy dinner, and camp overnight.

Day 3: Choquetacarpo to Aguas Calientes, Peru Trek from Choquetacarpo to Cachicata Inca Quarry & Ollantaytambo, train to Aguas Calientes (B/L/D)

After breakfast, we descend to the Inca quarry of Cachicata (3820m), witnessing the Incas’ quarry work. This site, used for constructing Ollantaytambo, features various points of interest, including large buildings, unfinished quarried stones, chullpas (burial houses), and a cave with intact Inca mummies. Continuing our descent for about 3 hours, we reach the small town of Ollantaytambo, the trek’s endpoint. From there, take the train to Aguas Calientes, where your guide will meet you at the station, provide instructions for the next day, and accompany you to your hotel. Check in, have dinner, and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Cuzco, Peru Explore Machu Picchu & Return to Cuzco (B)

Early in the morning, take the bus to Machu Picchu, entering as it opens. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, delving into the history of the Incas and Machu Picchu. After the tour, explore the site at your leisure, take photos, or opt for the optional hike up Huayna Picchu (must be booked in advance). Return by bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train to Ollantaytambo. Take a bus transfer back to Cuzco, with a late arrival at the Plaza San Francisco. Please make your way to your chosen accommodation.

Machu Picchu Guided Site Visit:

The one and only, this is the most spectacular (and not to mention most popular) archaeological site in all of South America. Your guide will take you on a two-hour tour of Machu Picchu, walking you through the most important sites and covering the history of the place. Then you will have free time to explore on your own and take pictures at your leisure.

Take an OPTIONAL hike up the steep peak named Huayna Picchu, which is located inside the Machu Picchu archaeological site. This sometimes muddy peak takes about 45 – 60 minutes to hike up and awards you with unforgettable views of Machu Picchu from a coveted perspective. Keep in mind that if you want to take this optional hike, you must now purchase your ticket at least two weeks in advance for an additional cost in order to get one of the 400 passes (200 people are allowed up at 7:00 am and 200 more at 10:00 am). Please send us an email directly to request this extra ticket. If desired, an extra night in Aguas Calientes town can be arranged. Please let us know whether you would like to stay an extra night when booking your tour.

-Activities: 1

*Hikking Adventure *4 days Inca Quarry trek to Machu Picchu

-Transport: 2

*Accommodation pick-up, all tour transport *Cuzco accommodation pick-up *All transportation during tours

-Accommodation: 3

*2N camping *1N in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

*3B / 3L / 3D

*Professional English-speaking guide on trek & Machu Picchu tour

-Extras: 10

*Briefing, entry, equipment, assistance *Pre-departure briefing *Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu archaeological site *Foam sleeping mat *Horsemen and horses to carry tents, food, cooking and camping equipment plus a total of 5 kilos for each trekker. (This includes 2.5 kilos for your sleeping bag & mattress plus 2.5 kilos of personal items.) *Equipment: *Tents (2 people will share a tent) *Basic sleeping pad *Shared camping equipment, *Dinner tent, kitchen tent, tables and chairs, table settings *First aid kit & emergency oxygen bottle

-Not Included-

*Breakfast day 1, Lunch day 4 *Sleeping bag (available for rent in Cuzco) *Trekking poles( available for rent in Cuzco) *Guide for bus and train transfers (these portions are on your own) *Optional Huayna Picchu trek (200 soles) must be booked at least 2 weeks in advance *Optional Machu Picchu mountain hike (200 soles) must be booked at least 1 week in advance *Cuzco accommodation drop-off *Personal expenses *Travel insurance *Tips (guide, horseman, cook)

Typical Meals on the Trek

On all of our treks to Machu Picchu, we search for great cooks who provide you with the best tasting meals on the mountain, with specialty menus and the freshest local ingredients available. Here is an idea of what you will be eating during your trek. A vegetarian option is available upon request (please advise at least two days in advance).

• Breakfast:  Hot porridge, quinoa or oats, fried eggs, omelet or pancakes with fresh bread, fried bananas, and boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk
• First Course:  Quinoa, corn, noodle, asparagus, mushroom or vegetable soup, stuffed avocado or potatoes
• Second Course:  Chicken breast, beef stew, quinoa, fried rice, hamburgers, fried chicken, spaghetti bolognese, typical dishes: aji de gallina (chili pepper chicken), escabeche de pollo (marinated chicken) or ajiaco de olluco (spicy potato stew)
• Desserts:  Fried plantains, chocolate pudding, chocolate or vanilla cake, and boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk
• Snacks:  Boiled water for hot tea, coca tea, coffee, chocolate, and milk along with popcorn, cookies, crackers

Additional Information

• Accommodation Options:  During the trek, single travelers will share a tent with another traveler of the same sex, and couples will have a tent to themselves.
• Physical Requirements: This hike is demanding and strenuous. t’s important to be in good physical condition. The elevation changes make the hike strenuous as there are two high passes during the hike.
• Suggested Packing List – Bring or Rent in Cuzco:  Hiking poles, rain pants, rain poncho, trekking boots, sandals, warm socks, sweater, thermals, hat, gloves, sun hat, sunblock, sunglasses, flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card (there is limited to no electricity available during the trek), waterproof bags for your camera, hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit, water bottle. Bring extra cash for snacks, water, and Gatorade, which doubles or triples in price along the trail.
• Essentials to Bring:  Original passport, visa (if applicable), insurance card, personal medications. Travelers who booked their trip using one passport, then renewed or replaced it afterward, must carry their old passport or a photocopy with them on the trip.

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Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu

Cachicata's proximity to Machu Picchu   makes trekking around it an attractive alternative to the oversubscribed Inca Trail . Cachicata is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in this trek will appreciate the Huarocondor terraces, the water fall, incas ruins, beautiful landscapes, panoramic views, monuments, andean terraces, Intipunku (Sun gate), Inca trail original , Inca quarry . 

During the Inca Quarry trek you will enjoy the nature of the Andean highlands. Continue the hike will arrive to Inca Ollantaytambo archeological village and ruins, where you will take the train to Machu Picchu . Spend a night in Agua Calientes town

The last day you will visit the "Lost City of the Incas" -  Machu Picchu . Explore the Inca Citadel. Guided tour and in the afternoon you will take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, there private transportation to Cusco. 

Our driver will drop off in your hotel. Come this new Inca Path and Inca Quarry trek!!

The Inca emperor Pachacuti conquered and razed  Ollantaytambo ; the town and the nearby region were incorporated into his personal estate. The emperor rebuilt the town with sumptuous constructions and undertook extensive works of terracing and irrigation in the Urubamba Valley; Cachicata was the stone quarries used for the building of   Ollantaytambo  and it's huge and magnificent carvings, ruins monoliths and stone structures. These stones were often transported mysteriously to other local areas for the building of special ceremonial places in the mountains and valleys.

Quick Itinerary of Inca Quarry:

Day 01: cusco - huarocondo - pachar - corimarca (l, d).

Day 02: Corimarca - Queñacancha (B, L, D)

Day 03: Queñacancha - Cachicata  - Aguas Calientes (B, L, D)

Day 04: Machu Picchu - Cusco (B)

Important info about your trek:.

• 3days hiking with professional guide, chef, muleteer and horses
• Discover the Inca ruins and monuments
• View the sun rise over Machu Picchu
• Visit the stone quarries of the built to Ollantaytambo
• Hike part of the original Inca Trail
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu

Crew : A Inca Trail Machu representative in Cusco and professional guide in Cachicata Trek and Machu Picchu

Accommodation : Camping (2 nights), Hotel (01 night)

Meals : 03 Breakfasts, 03 Lunches, 03 Dinners and 02 afternoon tea

Transportation : Private transport, van, train

Packing List:

• Passport: Carry it is very important
• Inmigration Card
• ISIC card:  If you booked as a student
• A good hiking shoes: Comfortable and useful on all terrain
• Waterproof: Especially in rainy seasons
• Sunscreen: Avoid the ultraviolet ray

Interesting Information

• Exploring Inca ruins
• The trip on Salkantay
• Road on the Golden Cradle
• Machu Picchu after Lares Trek
• Inca Quarry Altitude

We drive from Cusco to Pachar located in the Sacred Valley, arrive Huaroncondor to trailhead, here we will meet with muleteer and horses and we will prepare the camping equipment, then we climb up the stairs and visit to Huarocondor terraces. continue the trek to Raphcca, 2,900 m.a.s.l (9,514ft.) From here we hike up the valley, along the route we appreciate inka terraces,  water channels, Quechua comunities and endemic flora and fauna. We follow an steep trail that eventually bring us to a tall waterfall where we can pause to refresh our body and mind. Walking further, we visit the little known Inka site of Corimarca, our first campsite.

Estimated trekking time:  4 - 5 hours Trekking distance:  8  Km Max. elevation:  3, 700  m Min. elevation:  3, 000  m Difficulty:   Moderate

Day 02: Corimarca - Queñacancha (B, L, D)

We climb across open meadows, reaching a zone of high altitude shrubland known as Puna, approaching the pass of Chancachuco 4,400 m.a.s.l (14,435ft). This part of the trek offers panoramic views of the highest peaks in Cusco region. Our route continues across a high plateau, we pass mountain lakes where we may see andean and wetland birds, descending to our second campsite at Qeuñacancha, 4080 m.a.s.l (13,385ft).

Estimated trekking time:  5-7 hours Trekking distance:  12 Km Max. elevation:  4, 400  m Min. elevation:  4, 050  m Difficulty:   Challenging

Day 03: Queñacancha - Cachicata - Aguas Calientes (B, L, D)

We hike downhill following the trail until we join the Inka water channel which comes from Maracocha lake, from here we reach the temple call Intiwatana, which is located on the edge of the mountain called Apu Alambre, in front of the Veronica snow peak. Then we continue downhill to Choquetacarpo an archaeological site, which was most likely the residence of architects who managed the Inca quarries and performed ceremonies at Intipunku, after lunch we wend our way downward, exploring different sectors of one of the biggest Inka quarries, where massive carved blocks of pink rhyolite lie scattered in disarray. The quarried stones, testimony to a great building project that was never finished and were destined for the Inka site of Ollantaytambo. There we will rest and have lunch. In the afternoon we will take the train to Aguas Calientes. This is a spectacular journey that starts in the Quechua highlands and slowly descends to lush tropical vegetation as we near Aguas Calientes. Total journey time about 2 hours. We'll spend the night in a hostal in Aguas Calientes where you'll no doubt enjoy the opportunity to soak under the hot showers!! Early night.

Estimated trekking time:  4 - 6  hours Trekking distance:  11  Km Max. elevation:  4, 050  m Min. elevation:  2, 840  m Difficulty:    Moderate

Wake up very early and we will climb by foot to Machu Picchu . I'm sure you'll agree that, although it's tough getting up, it's well worth the effort to see the "Lost City of the Incas" at its quietest in the early morning light. You'll have plenty of opportunity to take photos and have some peaceful time alone to enjoy the sun rising from behind the mountains. Guided tour of Machu Picchu and then you can explore this astounding and mysterious Inca settlement by yourself. In the night we take the train to Ollantaytambo and transfer you to your hotel.

• Pre-trek briefing
• Tourist transport to Huaroncondor (Head trail to Cachicata Trek )
• Accommodation: Campamento (02 noches) y Hostal (1 noche)
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
• Professional guide
• Camping equipment: Double tent, inflatable thermarest mattress and sleeping bag
• Horses for carrying all heavy gear and 5 kg for your personal belongings
• Meals: 03 Breakfasts, 03 Lunches, 03 Dinners, 02 afternoon tea
• Bus up and down to Machu Picchu
• A round trip by tourist train (Expedition Service) from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo
• Tourist transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Not Included

• First breakfast
• Last lunch in Aguas Calientes
• A shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu ($ 12 - one way, $24 - a round trip)
• Tip and extra expensive to souvenir

Meals budget : Allow USD 20 - 30 for meals not included

Single room : Please note that if you have booked the "Single Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single tent for all night stops.

Local flights : All local flights are not included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted.

Highlights by Archaeological Sites

• Explore the Machu Picchu citadel
• Visit the Stones quarries
• Visit Corimarca

Best moment from the Trek

• Cherish the archaeology from Stone quarries of Ollantaytambo

Encampment Equipment

Additionals.

• Walking sticks or poles cost $20 to rent.
• Daypack for your hike U$ 10
• Rain Poncho U$ 10 
• There are emergency porters available for rent along this trek if you are unsure you will be able to complete the hike, cost $80.

Doubts and Frequent Questions about Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu

• "Raphcca" at 2,900 m.a.s.l.
• "Chancachuco" at 4,400 m.a.s.l.
• "Qeuñacancha" 4,080 m.a.s.l
• "Huayna Picchu" at 2,720 m.a.s.l.
• Raphcca to Corimarca: 8 Km (Trekking time: 4 - 5 hours)
• Corimarca to Qeuñacancha: 12 Km (Trekking time: 5 - 7 hours)
• Qeuñacancha to Hot Springs: 11 Km (Trekking time: 4 - 6 hours)

🌟 Flash Sale: Up to 12% off Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-Day Trek - Book Now and Embark on the Adventure of a Lifetime! 🌟

Inca Quarry Trek is the perfect alternative for those who like to explore much less crowded routes off the beaten path. This ancient Inca trail was built by the Incas 500 years ago, and it is still being used today by the local people. 

• Full Itinerary
• Packing list

Cachicata Quarry Trail Trek 4 Days - Overview

The Inca Quarry Trail , also known as the Cachicata Trek , is a lesser-known but equally impressive alternative to the popular Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This trek takes you through the beautiful Andean landscape, Inca ruins, and an ancient quarry that supplied stones for the construction of Ollantaytambo.

During the Cachicata Trek, you will learn about life in these isolated villages and the Inca culture while enjoying the different landscapes from the Sacred Valley to the high Andean mountains, and spend an unforgettable day exploring Machu Picchu – one of the most incredible locations on the planet.

Tour Highlights:

• Visit the Perrolniyoq waterfalls
• Explore the largest Inca Quarry
• Visit the Sungate in Ollantaytambo
• Participate in a Pachamanca barbecue.
• Panoramic Vistadome train to return
• Book with Confidence and Flexibility

Inca Quarry Trek 4 days at a Glance

Day 1: cusco – racca – soqma waterfalls – korimarca.

After being collected from your hotel in Cusco at 7:00 am, we will drive to Racca’s village to start the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu . The first-day hike takes 6 hours, visiting Ñaupa Iglesia (2967m / 9734 ft), Soqma Village, Perolniyoc waterfalls, and Rayanpata Inca Site. We camp at Korimarca village (3611 m / 11847 ft).

Day 2: Korimarca – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo

Wake up with a cup of coffee or coca tea in your tent, have breakfast, and we will begin a 4-hour ascent to Charkahuaylla pass (4450m/14599ft). After lunch, we will visit the Intipunku Inca Site (Sungate) and enjoy the snow-capped mountains' amazing views. Camp at Choquetacarpo (3600m/11811ft).

Day 3: Choquetacarpo – Inca Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

After enjoying a delicious breakfast,  we will hike down for 3 hours to Cachiccata Inca Quarry, considered one of the largest Inca quarries from Cusco. Lunch is a special Pachamanca barbecue. Then, continue to Ollantaytambo and take the train to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in a hotel.

Day 4: Explore  Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

On the final day, wake up early and take the first bus up to Machu Picchu. The guided tour starts exploring the best of Machu Picchu;  the stone Inca temples and grand palaces. You will have time to explore by yourself, then take the Vistadome panoramic train back to Cusco—arrive around 7:30 pm.

• Pre-departure safety briefing
• Pickup and drop off from the hotel
• Private exclusive transportation with AC
• Entrance tickets to Quarry Trail
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• Bus tickets to Machu Picchu (Round trip)
• Professional English-speaking Tour Guide
• Second tour guide for groups 9+
• Comfortable camping equipment
• Porta-potty, tables, chairs
• Sleeping foam mattress, pillows, hot water bags, extra blankets
• Duffle bags where you can put up to 8 kilos of personal stuff
• Horses to carry food and equipment
• Emergency horse in case you struggle
• Trekking chef, porters, horsemen
• 2-nights camping in the mountains
• 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Pachamanca barbecue in Cachiccata
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
• Snack every day
• First aid kit, Oxygen bottle, satellite phones
• All taxes and booking fees included

Not Included

• First breakfast
• Lunch on the last day
• Sleeping bag, air mattress, trekking poles (can be hired from us))
• Huayna Picchu Mountain hike (optional)
• Machu Picchu mountain hike (optional and different from Machu Picchu citadel)
• Gratuities (optional)
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)

Extra hikes after the Machu Picchu tour:

• Huayna Picchu  –  tickets cost an additional $75 per person. To book this mountain, you need to book far in advance; climbing takes 2 hours round trip.
• Montaña Machu Picchu  –  tickets cost an additional $75 per person. You need to book in advance, and It is the highest mountain around Machu Picchu with a total of 3 hours hike round trip.

Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days Full Itinerary

Day 1: cusco – racca – socma – korimarca.

TreXperience team will pick you up from your hotel at 7:00 am and drive for 2 hours to the Racca community in the Sacred Valley (you must have breakfast in your hotel for this tour ). The Quarry Trail trek starts by visiting the ancient Inca shrine of Ñaupa Iglesia (2967m / 9734 ft). This is, by far, one of the most mysterious Inca sites in the whole region. Then, continue hiking for 2 hours to the community of Socma (3188 m / 10459 ft), where lunch will be prepared by your trekking chef using fresh local products.

After lunch, explore the village, interact with the local villagers, and understand their humble lifestyles and cultures. The second part of our trek is a 2 to 3-hour hike uphill to Perolniyoc waterfall – one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Cusco, with a drop of 328 feet into the rock. The views from this location of the Socma Valley, Maras Plateau, and snow-capped mountains are spectacular. The campsite is near the archeological in Korimarca village (3611 m / 11847 ft)

• Campsite Altitude : 3611 m / 11847 ft
• Distance : 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Duration : 7 hours
• Meals : Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation : Camping
• Difficulty : Moderate

Day 2: Korimarca – Intipunku – Choquetacarpo

Wake up bright and early with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea. Today is the most challenging and yet the most beautiful day of your  TreXperience !  After breakfast, it’s a 4-hour uphill hike to Charkahuaylla pass (4450 m/14599 ft). You can take a well-earned break at the summit and enjoy the fantastic views of the Urubamba mountain range’s snow-capped peaks and the mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas. At the same time, your tour guide performs a traditional offering ceremony to the mountain Apus (mountain spirits). Afterward, continue the Quarry trek in the mountains to the Andean lake of Marcacocha (4000 m /13100 ft). This is a perfect place to break for lunch.

Next, you will hike for 2 hours to Apu Buena Negra (4370 m / 14300 ft), the second and last mountain. Upon reaching the summit, your efforts will be rewarded with one of the region’s most spectacular views. Then, continue downhill for two more hours to Intipunku (Sun Gate), a beautiful doorway that overlooks the majestic Veronica mountain (5,893 m / 19,334 ft). Our campsite is just a few minutes further at Choquetacarpo (3600m/11811ft).

• Campsite   Altitude : 3600 m / 11811 ft
• Highest altitude : 4450 m / 14599 ft
• Distance : 15 km / 9.5 miles
• Duration : 8 hours
• Meals : Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation : Camping
• Difficulty : Moderate to challenging

DAY 3: Choquetacarpo – Cachicata Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Choquetacarpo campsite is a perfect place to enjoy the sunrise with a cup of coffee. After breakfast, hike for 3 hours to the Cachiccata Quarry: the Inca Empire’s biggest quarry. Here your tour guide will teach you all about the incredible techniques of the ancient Inca stone masons as well as about their lives and customs. You’ll be amazed by the enormous rocks that the Incas would transport and carve without the help of modern technology. This quarry was abandoned together with Machu Picchu and many other Inca sites during the Spanish invasion.

As we follow the ancient Inca route used to transfer the rocks to Ollantaytambo, we’ll stop for a Pachamanca Barbecue lunch and interact with local villagers in the Cachiccata community. Here our private bus will be waiting to take us to Ollantaytambo to explore these ancient streets and the water channel that has been in use since Inca times. After dinner, take the 7:00 pm train to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a hotel.

• Aguas Calientes : 2040m/6692ft
• Hiking Distance : 7 km / 4.5 miles
• Duration : 5 hours
• Meals : Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation : Hotel
• Difficulty : Easy

DAY 4:  Discover Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

On our final day, get up early and prepare for the highlight of your tour. After breakfast in the hotel, we will take the first bus to Machu Picchu. You will explore the temples, palaces, and streets. After the guided tour, take some time to explore your own or climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked as far as possible).

Once you finish exploring Machu Picchu, you’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, and enjoy lunch (Not Included). In the afternoon, take the Vistadome Panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo and a private van back to Cusco. Drop off at your hotel around 7:30 pm.

• Duration of Guided tour : 3 – 4 hours
• Meals : Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty : Easy

Price for the Cachicata Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu

Price per person:.

• US$ 790 - Adults
• US$ 750 - Children and students

To book the Cachicata Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco with any card and without booking fees. 

Student Discount:

• 40$ off per person

All travelers under 17 have a $40 discount. If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get the discount with your Student ID. Please send us an email to receive a code for the discount.

Valid Student ID for Machu Picchu

To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:

• 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
• The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
• The ID must have a valid expiration date

Invalid Student IDs

Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:

• Traveler is older than 25
• Student Id without expiration date
• ISIC cards are not valid. 

Similar tours you might be interested:

• Private Inca Trail 4 days
• Short Inca Trail 2 days
• Luxury Inca Trail 4 days
• Rainbow Mountain Hike

Cachiccata Quarry Trek Packing List

When packing for the Cachiccata (Inca Quarry) Trek, it is crucial to bring the right clothing, gear, and equipment to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Here is a suggested packing list for the trek:

• Hiking boots with good ankle support
• Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing (e.g., quick-dry shirts and pants)
• Thermal or wool base layers for colder temperatures
• Fleece or down jacket for insulation
• Waterproof rain jacket and pants
• Underwear and sports bras (quick-drying)
• Hiking socks (moisture-wicking or wool)
• Hat for sun protection
• Beanie or warm hat for cold nights
• Gloves or mittens
• Sandals or comfortable shoes for evenings at camp

Gear and equipment:

• Backpack (30-40L) for day use (with rain cover)
• Trekking poles (optional but helpful for steep sections)
• Water bottle or hydration system (2-3 liters capacity)
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
• Dry bags or plastic bags to keep belongings dry
• Camera or smartphone with extra batteries or a portable charger
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Insect repellent
• Basic first-aid kit (including personal medications, adhesive bandages, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any necessary prescription medications)
• Altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor)
• Travel towel (quick-drying)
• Biodegradable wet wipes or toilet paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Reusable or biodegradable plastic bags for trash

Personal items:

• Passport (with a photocopy)
• Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• Cash (in Peruvian soles) for tips, souvenirs, and any additional expenses
• Travel insurance information
• Snacks and energy bars
• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
• Earplugs and eye mask for better sleep at camp

Remember to pack light and prioritize essentials, as you will be carrying your daypack while hiking, and porters or pack animals will have limited capacity for carrying additional items.

Cachiccata (Inca Quarry) Trek Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the 4-day Cachiccata (Inca Quarry Trail) Trek:

How difficult is the Cachiccata Trek?

The Cachiccata Trek is considered moderate in difficulty. While it involves steep ascents, descents, and high-altitude conditions, it is not as physically demanding as the Classic Inca Trail. A reasonable level of fitness and some experience with high-altitude trekking are recommended.

When is the best time to hike?

The best time to hike the Cachiccata Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The weather is generally sunny and dry during these months, making for more favorable trekking conditions. From November to March, this trail is available, and you can also book as long as you come prepared for rainy days. 

Do I need a guide for the Cachiccata Quarry Trek?

While a guide is not mandatory for the Cachiccata Trek, it is highly recommended. A professional guide will provide valuable historical context, ensure your safety, and help you navigate the trails. Many trekkers book the trek through a tour operator, which typically includes a guide, transportation, camping equipment, and meals. You need a professional tour guide to enter Machu Picchu. 

TreXperience will provide a professional English-speaking tour guide for the entire tour.

Are permits required for the Cachiccata Trek?

Permits are not required for the Cachiccata Trek. However, booking your trek in advance is still essential, especially during the peak trekking season, to secure your spot with a reputable tour operator and ensure entrance tickets to Machu Picchu are available.

What is the highest altitude on the Cachiccata Trek?

The highest altitude on the Cachiccata Trek is the Kuychicassa Pass, at approximately 4450 m (14599 ft) above sea level.

How do I get from the Cachiccata Trek to Machu Picchu?

At the end of the Cachiccata Trek, you will reach the town of Ollantaytambo. From there, you will take a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The following day, you will visit the famous site of Machu Picchu, either by bus or hiking up the m

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Inca Quarry Trail Is A Trek Adventure To Machu Picchu. Choose Ancascocha, Moonstone And Ccachicata To Visit Peru

•     Sun Gate Inqa Quarry
•     Moonstone Trek
•     Ancascocha Trek
•     Inqa Quarry Trek

Inca Quarry Trail Hike to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Alternative Trek by ancient Inca's path to Machu Picchu

The alternative trek uncrowded on way to get to Machupicchu

Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu in 5 days

Inca Quarry Full Day Trek

The best way to explore the sun gate is by horseback

Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days Experience

Goes through original rough seldom-visited Andean villages

Are you thinking of visiting Machu Picchu through the famous Inca Trail?

We must tell you that to get to Machu Picchu on foot there are several alternatives , because if you are reading this text in March to May, you may see the tickets sold out until November. (This topic will be covered later.)

One of the new alternatives is the Inca Quarry Trail, which has surely been mentioned by some friends or acquaintances who have already made this experience unforgettable.

Near the Sun Gate and Veronica Snow Mountain in the background

This route, unlike the Inca Trail, does not lead directly to Machu Picchu (The Inca Trail does, and allows you a wonderful view of the Inti Punku), however, you will visit Machu Picchu on the last day of the tour.

Then, you can try the combined alternative, I nca Quarry Trail and Inca Trail.

Why is it an alternative to the Inca Trail?

Because of its beautiful landscapes and it is one of the most beautiful walks in Peru and Latin America , however it is not very crowded (unlike the Inca Trail that sometimes has many travelers) and few travelers have done it. Its beauty has caught the attention of many connoisseurs of walks and that is why you are here.

Andean Landscape of Inca Quarry Trail

We have said that it does not lead directly to Machu Picchu. To clarify, the tour can start in Ollantaytambo, then visit the Inca Stone Quarry (Inca Quarry) to reach the Sun Gate. The following days you can visit other places depending on the tour (Moonstone Trek, Ancascocha Trek, or the Inca Quarry Trek).

The one day before last one,  you arrive (or return) to Ollantaytambo, take the train and the next day ( Last day of the Tour ) you visit Machu Picchu very early, which is recommended.

Starting, arriving or returning to Ollantaytambo depends of the tour.

Complicated with these options?

Don't worry, here is a summary of the options:

The 4-day Inca Quarry Trail:

We start in (Of course we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco) Socma in the Urubamba Valley, the second you visit the quarries and arrive at the Sun Gate , the third to Ollantaytambo  to Aguas Calientes and finally on the fourth day you will visit Machu Picchu

Incsa Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, wonderful trek

View more information of Inca Quarry Trail, the trek adventure to Machu Picchu.

The 5-day Moonstone Trek:

We start in (Of course we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco) Quillarumiyoc and arrive in Chillipahua. The second day we made the way to Chancachuco. The third we go to the Sun Gate and visit the quarries. On the fourth day, from Cachicata we go to Ollantaytambo and then to Aguas Calientes. Finally on the fifth day we visit Machu Picchu.

View more information of Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu.

Ancascocha Trek of 4 days:

We start in (Of course we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco) Ollantaytambo, visiting the quarries. The second day we woke up at the Sun Gate and go to the Ancascocha Valley. The third we go through Huayanay and Paucarcancha. On the fourth day we go to Km 82, Ollantaytambo and then to Aguas Calientes. Finally on the fifth day we visit Machu Picchu.

Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu

View more information of Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu.

Inca Quarry Trail Full Day Trek.

This walk does not reach Machu Picchu, but it takes you to the Sun Gate, an unforgettable view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Andean snow-capped mountains such as "Veronica". The tour lasts all day and visits the quarries.

Sun Gate and Veronica Snow

View more information of Inca Quarry Trail, Full Day Trek

Inca Quarry Trail plus the Inca Trail of 5 days:

This trek is an option that combines both options in 5 days and includes Machu Picchu. The first day we start in (Of course we will go for you to your hotel in Cusco) Ollantaytambo to Socma Rayan. The second day we go to Paso Buena Negra and Choquertkarpu. The third day we visited the quarries and Cachiccata.

On the fourth day we go by train from Ollantaytambo to the beginning of the Inca Trail, after a few hours of walking, we will see Machu Picchu, in a beautiful and unforgettable panoramic view. The next day (Fifth day), we will visit Machu Picchu again and then return to our hotel.

Inca Trail Plus Inca Quarry To Machupicchu 5 D/ 4 N

View more information of combined Inca Quarry an Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Is this trek too difficult?

Inca Quarry Trail, ancient paths

The walk through the Inca Quarry Trail is less demanding than the Inca Trail, but you must always take into account this recommendations:

• The maximum height is 3700 meters above sea level.
• The tour can have up to 5 days.
• The availability of Machu Picchu and the Inca trail is limited between April and September, it is advisable to make a reservation 1 to 3 months in advance.
• The recommended dates are between March and September.
• The walk can be up to 25 km.

Inca Trail vs Inca Quarry Trail

The trek is similar to the Inca Trail, with colorful views of the Andean landscape, mountains, green and yellow. The small towns far from the city and places as high as Charcahuallya at 4450 meters above sea level (On the Inca Trail the highest place is Death Woman Pass at 4200 meters above sea level) make the difference for the Inca Quarry Trail. You can see mountains with snow-capped peaks like the Veronica when you arrive at the Sun Gate that make the Inca Quarry different.

Sacred Valley View from Cachicata

The Andean landscapes of the Inca Quarry are what most attracts the attention of the travelers who have made the trek. Along with the small number of travelers who make the route, the landscape , the places, the silence, and the experience is intimate, just for you.

The distance of the Inca Quarry is 25 km on average and that of the Inca Trail is 43 km , ancient Inca roads are also used (you have no idea of ​​the There are many ancient roads in Cusco, discovered and undiscovered.) For this reason, the Inca Trail may be more demanding for some travelers

Unlike the Inca Trail, t he Inca Quarry uses the service of horses to carry luggage. In the Inca Trail is ported res, since it is an area protected by the government. And in the same way, our guides and services will be aware of you at every moment of the trip.

Then, are you ready for this experience? Contact Us for more information.

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Exclusive Tour with Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in a unforgettable 2 days

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 290 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Availability | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude: 2400m / 7874ft

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 890 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude: 4600m / 15093ft

Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu, Short Version

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 870 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude:

Enjoy the Humantay Lake in full day tour. The andean and glacial lagoon is waiting for you

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 45 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude: 3400m / 11155ft

The Short Inca Trail or Inca Trail 2 Days gets more time to do the trek and visit Machu Picchu

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 395 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Availability | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude: 2754m / 9036ft

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 455 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude: 3800m / 12468ft

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Difficulty: | View Itinerary | View Prices ( From US $ 480 .00 ) | What's Include? | Your Packing List | View Reviews of TripAdvisor | Max Altitude: 4600m / 15093ft

+51 915 244 141

[email protected]

• New Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu
• Climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Inca Trail & Alternative Trek Packing List
• Booking Conditions

Contact us by Whatsapp: +51 915 244 141

Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days / 3 nights

Starting at Per Person : $ 580. 00

The Inca Quarry Trek 4 day / 3 nights  is one of the best alternate routes to Machu Picchu . On the Inca Quarry trek, you will visit some little-known Inca ruins like Ñaupa Iglesia, Qorimarca site, and the Perolniyoc waterfall  and trek through amazing landscapes as you make your way to Machu Picchu . This trek will also take you to an amazing Inca temple Inti Punku above Ollantatambo that was built as a shrine to the snow-capped mountian Veronica. The quarry itself will give you an insight into the incredible craftsmanship and engineering skills of the Incas. If you dare, you will even get to peer inside Incan tombs which still contain the human skeletal remains of those who chose to sacrifice themselves to the sacred mountain. You will be impressed by the history and panoramic views that this tour has to offer.

• 100% Operated by Inti Sun Trek, we never put you with other tour operators.
• Porters that will carry your personal belongings (up to 6kg/ 12lbs) – no extra fee
• You will hike only with your day pack which is way more comfortable than carrying a big bag!
• Small intimate group, will provide you a big adventure
• Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Cusco
• Hike through the Vilcabamba Mountain Range and pass through stunning landscapes, varying from the tropical Cloud Forest, to the high Andes on this beautiful
• Camp the first night, surrounded by stunning views of the snow-capped peaks mountain.
• Pass through different micro-climates. Your scenery will constantly be changing.
• Experience the most popular itinerary of the Alternative Treks.
• Enjoy more the nature than big groups of tourist.

Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4D / 3N

Overview Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days / 3 nights

Day 1: cusco – raf´qa – soqma – q´orimarca.

Early in the morning, at 5:00am, we will start our bus ride to Tinki, the starting point of this hike. From Tinki, a place filled with a great number of native professional mountain climbers, we will walk along the plains surrounding the Ausangate mountain. Our destination for the day will be Pachchanta a local community of llama and alpaca herders.

• Meals: Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time -Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping with 4 season tents
• Distance: 12kms/7.5 miles
• Time: 6 hours approximately
• Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 2: Q´orimarca – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo

• Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping Facilities with 4 season  tents
• Distance: 15kms/9.5 miles
• Time: 7 hours approximately
• Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult

Day 3: Ancient Quarry- Veronica Temple – Ollantaytambo-Train to Aguas Calientes.

• Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
• Accommodation:  in Aguas Calientes
• Distance: 8kms/5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Aguas Caliente- Machu Picchu- Cusco

• Machupicchu elevation: 2400 meters / 7873 ft
• Difficulty:  Easy
• Weather:  warm

New Regulations

In January 2019 , changes to the Machu Picchu visitation rules were implemented. Now, entrance tickets to the citadel are sold for specific time slots, starting at 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, and 2:00 PM.

With this new entry system, visitors board the bus to Machu Picchu one hour or 30 minutes before the visitation time printed on their ticket. This way, they do not have to endure unnecessary queues in Machu Picchu Pueblo, nor do they contribute to crowding at the entrances to the Inca city.

Meanwhile, visitors who wish to walk to Machu Picchu must depart one and a half hours before their designated visitation time.

In January 2021, new visitation routes or circuits were introduced at Machu Picchu with the aim of preserving the archaeological site for future generations. Each visitor follows a circuit according to the type of entrance ticket they have purchased, whether it’s for visiting Machu Picchu only, Huayna Picchu mountain, or Machupicchu mountain.

For more detailed information about the different circuits and specific entrance schedules, we invite you to read this link on Schedules and New Circuits for Visiting Machu Picchu or to contact us directly . We can provide you with all the necessary information and address any questions you may have.

Day 1: CUSCO – RAF´QA – SOQMA – Q´ORIMARCA

Highlight of the day: Takes us to the hypnotizing Perolniyoc Cascade, a wonderful opportunity to stop, take photos and have a snack.

We leave Cusco early in the morning and drive for 2 hours to Choquequilla, a small ceremonial place where the Incas historically would honor the moon. A short drive from here takes us to Rafq’a, time to lace up your boots at the starting point of our trek where we meet the horsemen for our hike. We hike for about 1 hour to reach the small transverse and typical community of Socma. Just a hop, step and jump ahead, takes us to the hypnotizing Perolniyoc Cascade, a wonderful opportunity to stop, take photos and have a snack. Our goal is to reach our campsite at 3700m or 2139ft at about lunch time. After lunch we set off to explore the Q’orimarca archeological site, which was used to serve as a check point during the times of the Incas.

PLEASE NOTE: Many alternative treks to Machu Picchu only offer beautiful landscapes along the way, but this trek also offers tours of many Inca sites!

Day 2: Q´ORIMARCA – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO

Highlight of the day: This is the most challenging but most rewarding day of the hike

This is the most challenging but most rewarding day of the hike. A 3 hour walk takes us to the top of the first pass, known as Puccaqasa (4370mts). After enjoying the picturesque views of the undulating valleys below, we descend down for 30 minutes, just in time for lunch. Rested and full of energy again, we head onward and upward for about 2 hour to the highest pass of the trek: Kuychicassa (4450m/14599ft). From here, we head down for 2 hours to the site that the Incas called Inti Punku, (meaning Sun Gate) with its imposing views over the valley and the horizon is engulfed by the Veronica Mountain. Our campsite is a short distance away at Choquetacarpo (3600m/11811ft)

Day 3:  Ancient Quarry- Veronica Temple – Ollantaytambo-Train to Aguas Calientes.

Highlight of the day: We can personally witness the workmanship of the Incas, which they could not complete due to the Spanish Conquest.

Day 3 is all downhill hiking, with our first stop at the Kachiqata Quarry where we can personally witness the workmanship of the Incas, which they could not complete due to the Spanish Conquest. Midday we arrive at the town of Kachiqata, the end of this challenging and fascinating trek. From here we visit the original Inca settlement Ollantaytambo and in the afternoon we travel by train to Aguas Calientes where we stay overnight at our private hotel.

Highlight of the day: Exploring the amazing Machu Picchu and learning all of its secrets.

After breakfast, our guide will pick you up from your hostel/hotel and lead you to the bus station where you will board a bus to Machu Picchu . At Machu Picchu, you will have a 2 hour walking tour of this mysterious city, followed by free time for your own exploration. In this time, you may also choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you have reserved a spot. Once you have completed your tour of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can stop for lunch. Finally, after an amazing journey, you will head to the train station to take the train for your return trip to Cusco.

Group Tour – $580 USD per person

Group tour -$560 per person (without hotel in aguas calientes).

The cost of the tour packages are based on double or matrimonial room. For an individual room an 15  dollars extra payment has to be made.

To book the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, you need to make an initial payment of 200.USD per person, the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or Cusco with any credit card

Please notice : Our Trek service begins and ends in your hotel in Cusco

Important Notice Regarding Student Discounts: 

The ISIC card is  no longer valid  for purchasing Machu Picchu or Inca Trail tickets with a student discount.

Students can still obtain this discount with their  student identification card  issued by the university where they study, which is the only valid document for this end at this time. For more information, please visit the following link:  http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/items/estudiantes.html

Returning train Included in the cost of this tour/trek is the Expedition train,  which departs either at 6:20 pm or 7:00 pm and DEPENDING ON AVAILABILITY.

Can I get an early train ticket? We can also book an afternoon train that departs 2:55 p.m. or 4:22 p.m. at an extra cost of US $35 per person the train we will book DEPENDS ON AVAILABILITY. Please,  notice that 35 dollars extra you will pay also will cover your private transportation to bring you back from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco

There is also an option to upgrade your train to the Vistadome train  which is the extra US $75 per person. Please let us know your preference at the time of booking the tour. Unfortunately, none of the trains go straight to Cusco—they run either to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. In either case, we will transfer you back by bus to Cusco.

Can I change my return train ticket by myself? At the time of your tour, it may be possible to make changes to your return train ticket if you don’t want to take the 18:20 p.m train. You will have to take your train ticket personally to the train station in Aguas Calientes and ask them to change the return ticket for an early one. You will probably be asked to pay an extra administration fee, which will depend on the train service and departure time. Please notice that once you will change your returning train you will responsible to cover your own transportation back to Cusco

How long is the journey back to Cusco? You will be traveling for approximately 3 hours before you arrive back in Cusco. First, you will travel for 1.5 hours by train to the Ollantaytambo train station. Then you will be picked up by your driver outside of the train station. The driver will be holding a sign with your name on it so that there will be no confusion. If you do not see the driver initially, wait for them outside of the train station. Once the driver has picked you up, you will travel for another 1.5 hours in a private van/car to your hotel/hostel in Cusco. Arrival time in Cusco will depend on train availability. You will receive your return train tickets once your guide has finished your walking tour of Machu Picchu.

Included Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days / 3 nights

• Basic hotel night in Aguas Calientes double or triple rooms,  private bathrooms, hot showers, wifi, and storage while you visit Machu Picchu
• Weight allowances: 6kl/12lb per trekker (weights to be carried by horses and mules you will trek only with your day pack which is way more confortable than carrying a big bag!)
• Horse (to carry tents and cooking equipment and the 6 kl/12lb of personal belongings)
• Wrangler’s health insurance paid for by INTI SUN TREK
• Transport: collection from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private transportation to the starting point of the trek
• A Professional tour guide who is fluent in English
• Machu Picchu entrance fees
•  Included in the cost of your tour is one-way bus tickets up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on the day you will visit citadel. However, bus tickets down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes after your walking tour in Machu Picchu are not included, in the interest of reducing your costs. You may either walk back down to Aguas Calientes (about one hour) or pay for the bus tickets at the Machu Picchu site exit.
• Two hours walking tour in Machu Picchu
• Personal tents: We use 4 men, tents that only need to be shared by 2 people. This allows some room to spread out and keep your duffels safely with you.
• Sleeping mattress(pad)
• Meals cooked by an experienced chef: breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks!
• Delicious food rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking
• All our food is prepared from organic vegetables and fresh ingredients
• Vegetarian/special diet options available
• Water (we will provide you with boiled and filtered cold water during the trek starting on  the second day. However, you will need to bring a container to carry your water in. Also, you need to ensure that you pack a sufficient amount of water for the first day of the trek.
• We strongly recommend to bring your Camel Back and water canteen  due to that government of Peru will not allow disposable plastic bottles anymore on the Inca trail and in Machu Picchu.
• Wake up tea: every morning at the campsites we will wake you up with a cup of coca tea and coffee
• Daily snacks- day 1,2 and 3: our snacks consist of local fruits, biscuits, chocolate, Caramels we will give this snack at the beginning of each day trek
• First aid kit including an emergency oxygen bottle and a horse you may ride on if the altitude effects your ability to complete the trek
• Dinner in Aguas Calientes on Day 3
• Breakfast in Aguas Caliente on Day 4
• Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Not included:

• Sleeping bags
• Breakfast on the first morning.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Drink( coke, mineral water or cerveza) in the dinner in Aguas Calientes on the 3 day
• Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the final day
• Entrance to the thermal springs in Aguas Calientes (20 soles)
• Tip for the guide. cook, and wranglers

Packing list

What you need to bring:, essentials:.

• Original passport
• Sleeping bag
• Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
• Good daypack ( smaller, the better)
• Water storage:  we strongly recommend to bring your Camel Back and water canteen  due to that government of Peru will not allow disposable plastic bottles anymore on the Salkantay Trek and in Machu Picchu.
• Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

FOR YOUR DUFFEL:

Porters will carry up to 6 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us these two items weigh 3.5 kg.

•  2-3 wicking t-shirts
• 2-3 hiking pants
• 4 sets of undergarments.
• 4 sets of hiking socks
• 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night
• 1 Rain jacket and pants
• Headlamp: essential
• Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
• Comfortable shoes for camp
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
• Quick-dry towel. We provide small ones, you might enjoy something a little larger.
• Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to clean – might make you feel fresh if you had a little soap.
• Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
• Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.

TOILETRIES:

• Face moisturizer
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothbrush and paste
• Toilet paper
• Personal medication
• First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.

INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:

Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always recommend the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, no bag larger than 25L will be allowed in. If larger, you will need to store outside citadel gates.

• Water beginning from your second day will supply all the water needed. This water will be boiled, filtered and then cooled, before distributing. You must supply your own water bottles or Camel Back. We recommend carrying about 2L worth. We will refill our waters at each meal
• Music (iPhone)
• Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste
• Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips

Before you go

What will the personal porter carry.

For the Inca Quarry trail, ,we will provide you with a duffel bag at the briefing for the Trek the night before we depart. to put all of your belongings in. By using standardized bags, we will ensure that all of your belongings will fit properly on the horses. The duffel bags easily fit 6 Kilograms /12 pounds per person including your sleeping bags.

However, You will still need to carry your day pack with all of your essentials like water, sunscreen, passport, etc

When will I receive my duffel bag to put my belongings in?

We will lend you one of our specially designed duffel bags at the briefing for the Trek the night before we depart. We use these bags to insure that they fit securely and comfortably on the porters´ backs.

Pre-Trek Briefing

All briefings are done at our office at 6:00 PM the night before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Inti Sun Trek office team. Briefings are approximately 30 -45 minutes long.

Renewal or change passport number?

If you plan to renew or change your name on your passport between making your trek booking and starting your trek, you can book your trek or tour with your current passport number or name, but you must send us a copy of your old passport and a copy of your new passport when you have them. We can then make the change with the government before you arrive. The extra cost to make the change is US$25 per person. (This will cover the change in number or name for your Inca Trail Permit, Machu Picchu Entrance, and train.)

If you do not advise us of the change or do not want to pay the fee, bring the original of both passports (the old and new one). You can enter Peru with your new passport but you must show the government authorities your old passport in order to enter the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu or train. If you cannot do so, you will not be allowed to start your trek by the government officials. All names and numbers must match!!

Inti Sun Trek is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city,we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Very small hotels and Air BNBs are often located on streets that cars can not pass through. They also are often located up on the hillside, with long steep climbs to the property, difficult to maneuver with luggage. We highly recommend that you do not stay at one of these places.

Hiking in the Andes:

Is something that everyone can do no matter what age, but it is never easy. You will need some level of fitness to be able to complete it comfortably. Each trial involves inclines that can take your breath away if you are not in shape and downhill hiking that can be tough on one’s knees. Walking sticks are encouraged for everyone. Please remember the group treks are open to everyone, all abilities, so be patient and help those struggling with some kind words.

Storage during your trek to Machu Picchu:

Most of our trekkers leave their belongings that they do not want to bring on the trek in the hostel they were previously staying in. These hostels/hotels usually have a secure, locked room where you can securely store your belongings. If you do not trust your hostel, we would be more than happy to store your belongings for you Make sure your bags have some kind of identification on them so they are easy to locate.

Your Safety is our first concern:

Trekking the Andes is not your typical vacation. And most people who come to visit us have little to no experience of life this high up in the mountains. We understand the large responsibility we have in ensuring that you are well taken care of every step of the way.

Each year Inti Sun Trek guide has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training every February – every single guide attends. When guiding you, they will have with them a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. They know how to make you feel better. It is important to be very honest with your guide as soon as you are experiencing any discomfort. If you suffer from any medical conditions, please let your guide know during the briefing so he is prepared to give you extra attention, if needed.

In case something unexpected happens and you feel you can no longer complete the trek, they will figure out the safest and quickest way off the course and to a clinic. You will never be left alone, you will have a member of the team escort you every step of the way until safely with a doctor. When you are feeling up to it, we will make sure that you still have the chance to visit Machu Picchu and re-connect with your group, traveling by train comfortably.

Getting to Cusco:

The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.

The best way to get to Cusco is by air and there are several options in airlines. LATAM tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic. Bus travel is always available and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.

Travel Insurance:

To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Obtaining travel insurance before you leave home is strongly encouraged and very easy. This is a great way to protect yourself while visiting Peru.

Altitude sickness is serious and has the potential to ruin your trip. The biggest mistake you can make is to fly directly to Cuzco and expect to hike the next day. Give yourself several days to adjust to the altitude first. You will thank yourself for this during the trek.

The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. This is why we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek. If you have more time, even better. Cusco is an amazing city with a lot to do, so you won’t be bored.

With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office and we will help you get to a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids which help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly. Drink lots of water. And enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you unfortunately get sick, let your guide know right away – all guides are trained in how to help you get through it.

Of course weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December – just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, please make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant. You will notice that there is a large variation between the minimum and maximum temperatures on the trek. In general, when the sun is out it will be very hot. In this heat, you need to drink plenty of fluids to remain hydrated. The early hours of the morning and night can be very cold. As a result, you need to be prepared for just about every weather condition.

What to wear for the trek:

One of the most important investments for this trek is a sturdy pair of hiking boots. Your feet will thank you after the long trek if your shoes are well worn in and waterproof. The temperature varies throughout the trek, so it is best to dress in layers. Avoid cotton, as cotton does not dry quickly and wet clothing will be a problem when the temperatures drop pack for four seasons. Many of the treks through the Andes involve many micro-climates and you will need to be prepared for all seasons. a t-shirt, a long sleeve shirt, a sweater/microfleece, and a waterproof jacket. These items will provide you with enough warmth and will allow you to “peel off” layers as it gets warmer or your body temperature increases. Layers are always key as they are easy to adjust to the different temperatures. And evenings will always be cold, so please be prepared with a warm winter-weight jacket.

During the rainy season:

Rain pants are a good idea as we will encounter a lot of mud, rivers, and rain. A plastic poncho is also great because it will keep you and your pack dry. You can also pack your belongings inside of plastic bags to ensure that your belongings stay dry.

Do I need to bring hiking boots: Hiking boots are recommended, as they provide ankle support to reduce the risk of injury, especially when trekking in the wet season (December – March). However, it is important that your boots are comfortable and well worn-in. Many people prefer to trek in tennis shoes but extra care should be taken. We do not recommend trekking in sandals, using new boots, or renting boots prior to the trek. Make sure the shoes are sturdy enough for the duration of the trek and will not fall apart.

Can I use walking sticks on the Inca Quarry Trek:

Many people like to hike with trekking poles or walking sticks. This is fine as long as the poles will not cause damage to the stone paving along the trek. If the trekking poles have metal spikes, then these must be protected by rubber tips. We recommend bringing some spare rubber tips with you. These rubber protectors can be purchased in Cusco or Ollantaytambo. Wooden walking sticks are fine as long as you bring them with you from home. Recently, government authorities have stopped trekkers from using wooden sticks that could have come from local forests to prevent deforestation of the protected Andean region.

Strikes in Peru:

A popular way for the people in Peru to communicate unhappiness with the government is to strike. This area sees quite a few strikes a year that can sometimes affect the logistics involved in our tours. Most strikes are well organized and planned in advance so the office will have at least a few hours to arrange the needed

Changes for logistics: Often this involves leaving for your trek the night before. Please understand we will do everything we can to get you to and from the trail and will give you the information you need as soon as we have it. We will always get you to and from the trail very safely.

Environmental Impact:

We Use biodegradable soap and transports all our garbage back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to look after the trail and pick up any waste from other groups, as well. We also use environmentally-friendly chemical portable toilets that allow us to pack waste out. We believe in leaving no footprint behind.

Equipment provided by Inti Sun Trek

We use only high quality camping equipment for our Peru treks such as Inca Trail, Salkantay trek, Lares Trek and alternative treks!! Inti Sun Trek provides for the treks in Peru, the tent, sleeping bag, dinning tent and toilet tent.Be assured that our equipment is of quality and resistant to all types of land.

We have specialists who choose carefully the tents and implements to be used during your trip to make it an unforgettable and pleasant experience.Below we will show you the characteristics and attributes of our camping equipment. Inti Sun Trek uses the best quality camp team and equipment, complying with the requirements of the specialist in outdoors ensuring in this way the comfort of our travelers according to the requirements of developing our activities in the mountains of the Andes.

View all equipment travel

Equipment you can rent from Inti Sun Trek

In addition to them, we offer rental items such as sleeping bags, small backpacks, inflatable mattresses, trekking poles, only which can be requested at the time of making your reservation.

These are available for rent from us

Packing List

This Inca Trail Packing List will help you to prepare for your outdoor adventure in one of the most stunning regions of South America.

Luggage for the Inca Trail Trek and Alternative trek is generally divided as follows:

• 1.- Your main suitcase or backpack, can be left in the storage of the of Cusco hotel. most of the tourist generally stay at the same hotel before and after the trek
• 2.- A small daypack that you will use to carry daily essentials such as a jacket, camera, water and sunscreen

We hope that this packing list for Machu Picchu will be useful for any trek you choose and you can do only a few small variations that can suite better for you

View all packing list

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Machu Picchu Full Day

It includes: Professional guide, hotel pickup, private transportation, train tickets, bus to Machu Picchu, and entrance to Machu Picchu

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Expeditions

• Inca Quarry Trek

Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights

Difficulty: Moderate

Start/End Point: Cusco

Price: From $675 USD

WITH VERY FEW TOURISTS, THE INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU IS ONE OF THE BEST KEPT SECRETS IN ALTERNATIVE TREKKING OPTIONS.

Winding through the rock quarry where the Inca gathered stones, this challenging trek is designed for those who wish to get off the beaten path.  See and experience different ecosystems with a wide variety of birds, flowers, and plants while experiencing the ancient culture in remote, small villages, hardly ever seen or visited by foreigners.

This is a full-service trek where you only carry a day pack.  All gear, food, and tents are carried by porters and pack animals.

2 Trekkers (Private):  $1000 USD per person 3+ Trekkers:  $675 USD per person

Only your $200 non-refundable deposit is due to reserve your space!  Final payments are due 30 days before your trek.

✓ Transportation from end to end

✓ English speaking guide

✓ All meals as listed (can accommodate dietary restrictions with proper notice)

✓ Duffle bags for items to be carried by porters (up to 15lbs/7kilos per person).

✓ Clean water at every meal stop

✓ Accommodation at a 3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes

✓ All entrance fees and permits

✓ Tents – 2 people/tent (single occupancy available for additional charge)

✓ Sleeping Mat

✓ Basic First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank

Does not include:

X Gratuity for staff

X Accommodation in Cusco

X Travel insurance

X Lunch & Dinner Day 4

X Walking sticks (available for rent for $12)

X Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb (can be reserved in advance available for additional fee of $85 per person)

X Sleeping Bag (can be rented for $30)

Full Itinerary

Day 1: cusco- soqma.

Hiking time:  6-7 hours (including breaks and photo ops!)

• We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and head for the trail!  This trek starts in a community where you’ll have time to chat with some locals while our staff packs the equipment.
• Today’s hike is mostly uphill and pretty challenging, but the scenery can’t be beat.  We’ll pass a tall a waterfall on the way to our destination for the day – a mysterious cliff-top Inca Site called Perolniyoc.
• After enjoying the unbelievable view, we’ll continue on up the mountain to our campsite for dinner and good night’s sleep.

Walking Distance:  10km/6 miles Elevation:  Walking from 3,200m/9,842ft to 3,700m/12139ft Difficulty:  Challenging, uphill Weather:  Cold in the morning, warm afternoon, windy

DAY 2: SOQMA – INCA QUARRY

Hiking time:  7-8 hours (including breaks and photo ops!)

• Today is the day to test your high-altitude fitness!  We have a 3 hour climb to the first mountain summit – Soqma – where you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the full Sacred Valley below. A short 15 minute walk from here will take us to our delicious Peruvian lunch.
• Just when you think the views can’t get better, we’ll hike on rocky switchbacks to our second summit overlooking the rock quarry and the incredible Andes.
• We’ll finish the afternoon with an easy hike to our campsite in the middle of the rock quarry where you’ll find partially shaped ancient Inca stones.  Don’t worry though – our sleeping pads are thick enough to give you a good night’s sleep even on the rocky terrain.

Walking Distance:  14 km/9miles Elevation:  3700m/12139ft to 4450m/14600ft to 3600m/11811ft Difficulty:  Difficult, uphill most of the way. Steep switchbacks downhill. Weather:  Cold in the morning, warm afternoon, windy

DAY 3: INCA QUARRY – AGUAS CALIENTES

Hiking time:  3-4 hours (including breaks and photo ops!)

• After a challenging few days, today will be a breeze with our short, downhill walk to the Ollantaytambo train station.
• We’ll kick up our heels for a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes where you’ll check into a hotel and have a nice hot shower and comfy bed for the evening.
• We’ll have dinner together in town to celebrate your accomplishment

Walking Distance:  5km/3miles Elevation:  3600m/11811ft to 2040m/6693ft Difficulty:  Easy, down hill. Weather:  Warm; chance of rain.

Day 4 – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

• Today is the highlight of the trek. We recommend waking up early to catch the first bus around 5:30am. After entering Machu Picchu, you will have a two-hour guided tour of the most important sites in the city.
• Following the tour, there will be free time to explore the site at your own pace or do any of the short  alternative treks  to the Inca Bridge or the Sungate. If you purchased a ticket  in advance  to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will complete those hikes at this time  (tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are NOT included and must be purchased separately) .
• At the designated time, your guide will meet you down in the village of Aguas Calientes to pick up your duffel bags from the hotel and take you to the train station for your ride back to Ollantaytambo. A private van will take you back to your hotel in Cuscso from the train station.

Walking distance:  varied! You can spend as much time as you like exploring Machu Picchu city or taking an additional hike. Elevation:  2400/7874ft Difficulty:  Moderate. Machu Picchu city is large and requires many trips up and down stairs to see it all. Weather:  Hot and humid (bring a lot of water and rain gear)

• Ancascocha Trek
• Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, & Machu Picchu Trek
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek
• Short Inca Trail Trek
• Classic Inca Trail Trek
• 5-Day Inca Trail Trek
• Lares Trek (4 Days)
• Lares Trek (5 Days)
• Salkantay Trek
• Savage Trek
• Vilcabamba Trek
• Waqrapukara & Rainbow Mountain Trek
• Classic Choquequirao Trek (4 Days)
• Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek (7 Days)
• Huayhuash Trek
• Machu Picchu Tour Package (5 Days)
• 2-Day Inca Trail Package + Machu Picchu (5 Days)
• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Package (10 Days)
• Machu Picchu Adventure Package (9 days)
• Bike Tour Full Day
• Four Inca Ruins Tour Full Day
• Humantay Lake Full Day
• Machu Picchu – 1 Full Day
• Palcoyo Full Day
• Rainbow Mountain Full Day
• Sacred Valley Full Day
• Seven Lakes Full Day
• Custom Trips
• Schedule a Call

• Hiking/Trekking
• January - March
• Challenging
• 42 km/26.098 miles

Inca Quarry trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

Whether you are looking for an alternative trek to Machu Picchu and you don’t like crowds, the Inca quarry trek to Machu Picchu 4 days is absolutely for you, it is one of the newest hikes that offer you attractions such as unparalleled views of snowcapped peaks, waterfalls, archeological Inca sites, valleys. AB Expeditions offers you this wonderful trek. Going with us you, will spend time with local farmers during your trek to Machu Picchu.

• WHAT TO PACK
• IMPORTANT INFO

INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHUPICCHU 4 DAYS ITINERARY

Day 1. cusco – soqma.

We will pick you up at your hotel around 06:00 am. We proceed to drive nearly 1 hour and a half to Warocondo. During the bus ride, you can observe the white snowcapped mountains of Salkantay and Veronica: the Holy Gods of the Incas.   Also, you will glimpse the spectacular views of the upper part and lower valleys with colorful landscapes.

After one hour and half of driving, we will make the first stop in Warocondo town, on where you can purchase last-minute supplies such as water, this town is very well known for the LECHONES (roasted pork), it is regarded the best on Cusco. Then we keep driving along with the quinoa plantation and arrive in the town Soqma where our hike starts.

After trekking for about one hour you will observe a wonderful waterfall called Perolniyoc. Also, your guide will show you some medicinal plants that the local farmers use along the way. You can pick some plants and make your own tea like locals. Then we will go uphill until to get Q´anabamba and Willkarakayfrom which your professional guide will explain to you, From here you will continue to the campsite which will take you for couple of hours, once you get campsite you have lunch.  After lunch you will have some time to take a nap, then your guide will take you to visit the local family where you will learn about their traditions, culture, etc.

QUICK FACTS:

• Distance covered:  11 km (6.8 miles).
• Time: 4 to 6 hours.
• Lowest elevation: 3000m (9,743 feet).
• Highest elevation:  3700m (12,149 feet).
• Level of difficulty:  Moderate.
• Inca ruins: Today you will see the ruins of Q´anabamba and Willkarakayfrom afar and stop to visit the ruins of Patallaqta.

Day 2. Rayan – Highest Pass – Cachicata (Inca Stone Quarry)

Early wake-up call with a cup of coca tea in your tent by one of our porters. After a delicious breakfast, we leave the campsite towards the first pass called Pukaqasa (4380m t- 14,370 ft) which will take us for about 3 and a half hours, after we reach the pass we will descend down for 30 minutes where we meet our chef for lunch. We begin with our hike again for another 2 more hours of gradual uphill to the next pass named Kuychicasa (4450m – 14,600ft).  It is the longest day of the trek to Machu Picchu but the most regarding, because of the spectacular views of snowcapped mountains. The last 2 hours all descend to the campsite, on the way we will visit a small Inca ruins called Intipunku meaning sun gate, arriving at camp Cachicata (3600m – 11,811ft)  around 5 pm.

• Distance covered: 11 km (6.8 miles).
• Time:  4 to 6 hours.
• Lowest elevation:  3600m (11,811 feet).
• Highest elevation: 4450m (14,600 feet).
• Level of difficulty:  Demanding.
• Inca ruins: Seen in the distance.

Day 3. Cachicata – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Today we will explore the Stone quarry of Cachicata, it is an extensive site that served as a stone quarry for the construction of Ollantaytambo, where you will be able to see all the work of the Incas, there are large rocks left half-finished and abandoned in the entire area,  Inca mummies, burial houses or called Chullpas are seen here too.  After a guided tour you start the descend down for about 3 hours to Ollantaytambo following the original Inca ramp that Incas built for transporting the stones to Ollantaytambo. Arrive at the town for the last lunch with our chef. You will have some time in this town to explore or visit the local bar? Where the local ladies serve Chicha meaning corn beer considered sacred by the Incas.  In the afternoon you will catch the train to Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night.

• Distance covered: 15 km (9,3 miles).
• Time:  8 to 10 hours.
• Lowest elevation: 2700m  (8,8 feet).
• Highest elevation: 3600m (11,811 feet).
• Level of difficulty:  Modérate.
• Inca ruins:  Today you will explore the ruins of Sayaqmarcas as well as Wiñayhuayna.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Tour

Day four is the most magical day: Machu Picchu. We will wake up early to take the first bus up to Machu Picchu and see the sunrise over the ruins.

Your guide will spend around 2 hours explaining the highlights of Machu Picchu.   Afterward, you will have time to explore by yourself the ruins and hike Huaynapicchu if you have booked this option. (This is a separate entrance ticket that costs $15 per person). Finally, you will return to Aguas Calientes and take a train back to Ollantaytambo, and then bus back to Cusco.   Once in Cusco, we will transfer you back to your hotel.

• Distance covered: 6km (3.7 miles).
• Time: 5 to 7 hours: 2-hour trek and 3-hour tour in Machu Picchu.
• Lowest elevation:  2400m (7,874 feet).
• Highest elevation:  2700m (8,858 feet).
• Inca ruins: Machu Picchu.
• English speaking guide, plus an assistant guide for big groups.
• Professional cook and an assistant cook for a big group and horseman for the mules and horses.
• Mules which carry group gear and large duffels provided by the company, for personal belongings.
• All food on the trek, which incorporates traditional Peruvian cuisine as well as modern fusion cuisine and specific dietary needs.
• Boiled water and snacks.
• Large Dining tent, table, stools, all cutlery, and kitchen tent.
• Tents to overnight, and Thermarest. Two-person tents are provided for a single person and three-person tents for double people to provide plenty of space for personal gear.
• Additional horses for riding can be provided for an additional cost.
• First aid kit, including oxygen.
• A pre-trek briefing.
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
• Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Round trip Train ticket Ollantaytambo-Aguas Calientes-ollantaytamo.
• Private van from your hotel in Cusco to Soqma(the starting point of hiking).
• Private van from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Not Included

• The first breakfast as well as lunch on the 4th day in Aguas Calientes.
• Personal trekking gear including, backpacks, trekking poles, sleeping bags. However, they may be rented from the company.
• Gratuity for guides, cooks, and horseman.
• Personal riding horse. Additional horses may be rented according to the needs of the individual and group.

WHAT TO BRING FOR INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 

• Original Passport and Original Green ISIC international student cards if you are students.
• Water-resistant trekking shoes and sandals.
• Warm clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, socks).
• Waterproof clothing (poncho).
• Synthetic or cotton clothing (socks, trousers, shorts, t-shirts).
• Sunhat and sunglasses.
• Sun cream and insect repellent.
• Water bottles such as Nalgene.
• Basic medications.
• Walking sticks.
• Swimsuit and towel.
• Personal items.
• Personal snacks.

IMPORTANT INFO FOR INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 

If you have reserved the service of Inca Quarry trek to Machu Picchu with your old Passport and then you have renewed it and obtained another, you most likely will have a different passport number. Please let us know so we can update this information. This modification has to be made prior to your trip to Peru (at least 10 days before your trip). As soon as you have your new passport please inform AB Expeditions of this change. Otherwise, this update or modification will have an additional fee of USD 12.00 and it will create a big inconvenience to update it at the last minute.

If you do not bring your passport, you won’t be allowed in the trail. Also, if you bring your new passport and failed to inform us and this information was not updated, you won’t be allowed in the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu.

Those passengers who booked their trip using the discounted price for  Student Holders must bring their original and valid student card (not a copy and not expired). This document must be shown at the Inca Trail Control Gate. Unfortunately, if you do not bring your card, you will be denied entry to the Inca Trail as the permits won’t be valid without your card.

It is very important that our passengers inform us before their trip of any medical restriction, food restriction, allergies, special diets, current medication, health issues, or anything that we need to consider to make your trip enjoyable and without concerns.

If you have medical restrictions for some or all the activities detailed in your booking please contact your doctor and inquire about the risks of doing said activities.

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Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu – 4D/3N

In addition to all the amazing scenery, flora, and fauna, you will visit the Perolniyoc Inca site, several small communities in the region and the Cachiqata quarry.

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu  is where the stones were carved to build Ollantaytambo. You can still see rocks that were cut by the stone masons in the Inca times.

After three days of hiking you will make your way to Aguas Calientes by train. On the fourth day you will visit the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu.

Our standard Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu package includes a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, lodging in a nice hotel in Aguas Calientes on night 3, and dinner at a great local restaurant in Aguas Calientes. Your private Machu Picchu Tour is also included.

Action Peru Treks is highly recommended by  TripAdvisor   and   Trustpilot . Join hundreds of happy trekkers who have experienced the adventure of a lifetime!

Pre-trek briefing (required):  We provide a full pre-trek briefing at our office or at your hotel in Cusco. This gives you the chance to ask questions about the trek itinerary. Briefings are scheduled for the day before your trek starts.

Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, to ensure you arrive in time for the briefing.

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan

We leave Cusco early in the morning and drive 1 hour and 45 minutes to Soqma (3,205 m/10,512 ft). This is the starting point of our Inca Quarry hike to Machu Picchu and where we meet the horsemen that will join us during the hike.

We begin the hike with a 1 ¾ hour walk to the Perolniyoc cascade lookout. This is a perfect opportunity to stop for photos and a snack. The waterfall that you will see at this location is breathtaking!

We will then hike a further 35 minutes until we visit the Inca site of the same name, where we will have a brief tour. This will be our lunch site.

After a refueling lunch, we will ascend 45 minutes until our camp at Rayan (3,700 meters/12,136 ft).

• Meals: Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Minimum altitude: 3,205 m/ 10,512 ft
• Maximum altitude: 3,700 m/ 12,136 ft
• Distance to walk: 8 km/5 miles
• Approximate walking time: 3-4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Area: Dry Mountain

Day 2: Rayan – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo

After an early breakfast, we ascend 3 hours to the first pass of the trek, known as Puccaqasa (4,370 m/ 14,333 ft). At the top of the pass, there are incredible views of the Sacred Valley . This is a perfect place to take pictures!

We then head downhill for 25 minutes to our lunch location. After lunch, we hike 2 hours with alternating ascents and descents.

The final 20 minutes of this segment will take us uphill to the highest pass of the trek, Kuychicassa (4,457 m/ 14,619 ft)

From here we trek downhill for 2 ½ hours to a site the Incas called Inti Punku, (meaning Sun Gate), where there is a spectacular view of Mount Veronica (5,682 m/ 18,637 ft) and the Sacred Valley of the Incas .

Our campsites is 30 minutes downhill from Inti Punku at Choquetacarpo (3,600 m/ 11,808 ft).

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Minimum altitude: 3,600 m/ 11,808 ft
• Maximum altitude: 4,457 m/ 14,619 ft
• Distance to walk: 13 km/ 8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 8-9 hours
• Difficulty: moderate

Day 3: Choquetacarpo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

We will have an early breakfast and then walk one hour downhill to the Cachiqata quarry (3,525 m/ 11,562 ft), where we observe the location where stones were cut for Ollantaytambo. We will have a tour and talk about how you can still see remains of stone work that was interrupted by the Spanish conquest.

From the quarry we descend for 3 hours until we reach Ollantaytambo (2,840 m / 9,315 ft). We will have lunch in Ollantaytambo.

In the afternoon we travel by train to Aguas Calientes. When we arrive you will check in to your hotel room.

The natural hot springs in town are an unbeatable way to spend a late afternoon/early evening if time is available before dinner. Dinner will be at a local restaurant in town.

•  Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel
• Minimum altitude: 2,840 m / 9,315 ft
• Maximum altitude: 3,525 m/ 11,562 ft
• Distance to walk: 11 km/ 7 miles
• Approximate walking time: 4 hours

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

You will have breakfast at your hotel before we take a bus along the winding road to Machu Picchu , the Inca city that was lost to the jungle but rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham.

Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983, Machu Picchu exceeds all expectations. Perched high on an inaccessible hilltop the citadel is protected by huge cliffs and the raging Urubamba River .

Once there you will be given at 2-hour walking tour of the site.

If you have elected to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (the Huayna Picchu cost is not included in your Inca Quarry Trek price), you will begin the hike at 10 a.m.

If you are not climbing the mountain you will have some time to be at the site, before you return to Aguas Calientes by bus.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes you will board the expedition train to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy.

From Ollantaytambo or Poroy, you will travel by private van to Cusco and we will drop you off at your hotel. Arrival time in Cusco depends on the time of your train ticket.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Maximum altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
• Minimum altitude: 2,440 m/8,052 ft
• Bilingual English speaking tour guide (additional tour guide for groups of nine people or more)
• Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days before your trek.
• Pick up from your hotel and transportation to Soqma
• Four-person tent for every 2 people.
• Kitchen tent
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Toilet tent
• Muleteers and horses to carry all the equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc.)
• Horse to transport 8 kg of your personal gear
• Duffle bag for your personal gear
• Emergency horse in case we need it
• Three breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners
• Hot water for washing.
• Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
• Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
• Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
• Return Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or to Poroy
• One night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)
• Entrance to Machu Picchu
• Round trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

NOT included

• Sleeping bag – you can rent one from us
• Day 1 Breakfast
• Day 4 Lunch in Aguas Calientes
• Ticket for Huayna Picchu mountain (this ticket can be purchased for an extra USD $75 per person)
• Tips for the crew (guide, chef, wranglers)
• Travel Insurance (highly recommended)

What to bring

• Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
• Down or synthetic feather sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
• Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, tops, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, thermal underwear, light long pants, gloves, poncho, rain jacket)
• Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
• Sun block, factor 35+ recommended
• Sunglasses and sun hat
• Camera with spare batteries – batteries run down faster at high altitudes
• Book to read (you will have some time at every camp to read your favorite book)
• Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented from us)
• Insect repellent

PRICES & ADD-ONS

Group: usd $690 per person private: usd $750 per person.

Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?

• Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
• If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
• Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Action Peru Treks is able to join that person with additional groups.
• Under 18 years Discount: USD $20
• Under 7 years Discount: USD $35
• Hiking Poles – USD $25 (pair)
• Sleeping Bag – USD $30 per person
• Private Tent – USD $40 per person
• Return Vistadome Train – USD 60 per person
• Hiram Bingham Train– USD 400 per person
• Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Inkaterra El Pueblo Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra (4-star hotel) – USD $115 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Private Tent – USD $40 per person

Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 2024 FAQs.

What is the inca quarry hike to machu picchu.

Follow the steps of the ancient Inca civilization on the Quarry Trail which is gaining recognition for its lesser-known ruins and off-the-beaten path cultural interactions.

Hike through the Sacred Valley along the far-less-travelled Quarry Trail, a trail etched by the Incas and in local use today.

Visit ancient ruins and unravel some of the mysteries of how stone was excavated to build the structures still standing in the nearby town of Ollantaytambo. Pass over mountain peaks and witness spectacular Andean scenery.

How far in advance should I reserve my permit for the Inca Quarry hike?

Unlike the Classic Inca Trail , where there is a limit of 500 hikers per day and so permits can be sold out up to six months in advance, there are no limits for the Quarry trek.

This makes it an excellent alternative if you’d been hoping to hike the Inca Trail but have found that there isn’t any space. 

The only restriction you’ll face is on the availability of entry tickets to Machu Picchu, so it’s still worth booking at least a few weeks in advance, particularly if you’re travelling between May and September.

Is a permit required to trek the Quarry hike to Machu Picchu?

No permits are currently required to hike the Quarry hike. However, you will need a ticket to enter Machu Picchu at the end of the trek. Also, if you plan on hiking any of the three mountain trails within Machu Picchu, you will also need to buy these tickets in advance too.

Again, be mindful, that tickets for Huayna Picchu sell out months in advance, as there is a limit of just 200 people per day. So, you may need to be a little more organized than usual if you plan to hike this trek. 

Does the Quarry hike include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket?

Yep, the cost of entry is included in the trip price and it’s the responsibility of Action Peru Treks to take care of all that and provide you with the ticket on the day you’re entering the site.

Is there a waiting list for sold out Machu Picchu permits?

No, there is no waiting list for permits. Permits are only available for purchase through the Peruvian government.

Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be refundable or transferred to another individual.

Is it possible to enter Machu Picchu with a different name?

No, you need to carry your valid passport to enter the city.

What is the terrain like? And how difficult is the Quarry hike?

The difficulty of the Quarry hike is “Challenging”.

The Quarry trek is around 32 km (20 miles) long. For travelers interested, you must be physically capable for a trek like this.

Altitude effects aside, it is multiple days of 6+ hours of hiking through rough terrain and often up or down hill. But anyone who exercises regularly will manage just fine! It is exhausting but it’s certainly not unbearable.

All guides carry oxygen canisters, so if you start to feel altitude sickness you can rest and get some much-needed O2. If you’re an avid hiker or used to the altitude you won’t have a problem.

For everyone else, make sure you feel confident in your hiking abilities and you’ll do amazing.

Which campsites do you use along the trek?

Campsites may change depending on booking time and availability, weather conditions or on restrictions undertaken for safety reasons by our trekking team.

We generally camp in less trafficked areas so that trekkers can enjoy the natural beauty of the trek and minimize environmental impacts. Our regular campsite is Rayan and Choquetacarpo.

What do I need to carry on the Inca Quarry hike to Machu Picchu?

We recommend that travelers carry the items that they will need each day while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film.

Our horses will carry 8 kg of each of your personal gear including the camping equipment during the trek.

We will give you a duffel bag for those belongings at the time of your pre trek briefing.

We generally ask trekkers to bring only the necessary items that they will need for the trail and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or at our office.

Where do I store my luggage during the Inca Quarry to Machu Picchu?

Your Cusco hotel will store your luggage for free while you will be on the trek. We can also store your extra luggage at our office in Cusco.

How big are the groups Inca Quarry hike to Machu Picchu?

Our groups are usually small. Average is 3 to 5 people and maximum 16 people plus the trekking team.

When Is the Best Time to Hike the Quarry hike?

The end of the rainy season (April) and the beginning of the dry season (May) are generally considered the best times to hike the Quarry trek.

The surrounding landscape is still green and lush from months of downpour and the chances of being caught out in the rain are significantly lower.

Is the Quarry hike to Machu Picchu always open?

It’s possible to hike the Quarry trek all year round, but for the best conditions (and to get those iconic views at Machu Picchu on the final day), try to avoid the rainy season, which is between November and March.

Are there toilets and showers at the campsites?

We provide you with a pop-up tent and eco-friendly portable toilet that is clean and sanitary.

Shower is not available during the hike portion and your first opportunity to take a hot shower would be at the hotel once you arrive in Aguas Calientes in the afternoon of the day 3.

Altitude and acclimatization

We recommend travelers spend a few days in Cusco before doing the trek to help adjust to the high altitude.

It’s better to acclimatize in Cusco, not the Sacred Valley, because the higher elevation of the city at 11,120 ft (3,400 m) is more akin to those at the start of the Quarry trek.

Altitude sickness is caused by a rapid change in elevation without the necessary time for acclimatization.

Mild symptoms are common and include lingering headache, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Every person responds differently to the change in altitude and unfortunately there is no way to prevent it or predict how seriously it may affect you.

What is the food like on the Quarry trek?

A cook accompanies each group on the trek and prepares breakfast, three course lunches and dinners. The meals are quite exquisite considering that all of the ingredients and cooking supplies are carried from Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Each trekker is also provided with snacks to take with them on the trek.

Vegetarian and vegan meals are also available upon request.

Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice.

Is drinking water supplied?

Yes, our trekking team will provide drinking water every morning and at each meal (except for the first day until the lunch spot). Each evening, water is collected from nearby streams, boiled, and left to cool overnight.

A reusable water bottle or hydration pack works well for this. We recommend that travelers bring their own refillable bottles to limit plastic waste along the Trail.

What equipment is supplied by us along the trek?

We supply the sleeping tents (4 person tents for two travelers), dining tents, tables, chairs, toilet tents, cooking equipment, water purifiers, sleeping pads, and other camping equipment.

Our outfitter purchases the highest quality equipment in Peru and older equipment is evaluated and replaced on a regular basis.

What are the guides like?

Our team are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere.

They are from the surrounding Cusco and the Sacred Valley areas and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the Inca indigenous language of Quechua. Most have 8-10 years of experience leading hikes to Machu Picchu and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area.

How can I prepare for the Quarry hike?

The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek.

We recommend 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week in the 2-3 months leading up to your departure.

Take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs or hills for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness.

Are there any ATMs?

There are no ATMs along the Quarry trail. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for tipping and lunch in Aguas Calientes.

There are also some ATMs in Aguas Calientes if you need to withdraw additional cash.

What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the Quarry hike?

Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/scrapes, etc.).

They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 1000 travelers along the trek each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike.

In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, the client has been escorted back to Cusco and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Machu Picchu via train a few days later. Cusco city has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there.

Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.

Is there internet access on the Quarry hike?

Nope, and this is one of the best things about it.

Instead, you and your group will spend evening conversing over metal cups of hot tea or coffee, playing card games, or lazing in nature together.

Your last chance to use the internet or have a reliable phone signal will be in Huarocondo (the nearest town to the start of the hike), and your first opportunity will be at Ollantaytambo before taking  the train down to Aguas Calientes town.

How much money should you bring on the Quarry trek?

The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your trip, but there are a few costs along the way for which you’ll need to bring cash:

• Snacks and drinks from stallholders
• Toilet entry fees (usually 2 soles at Machu Picchu)
• Tips for porters and guides
• Lunch on day 5 at Aguas Calientes.

It’s sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins.

We’d say at least 300 soles per person for the trek-specific section.

Will I get altitude sickness on the Quarry trek?

Many of the most popular places in Peru, such as Cusco and Huaraz, are at high altitude; this means that for anyone planning a trip to Peru understanding altitude sickness (and how to avoid it) is incredibly important.

In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travelers in South America.

The best way to minimize the likelihood and impact of altitude sickness is factoring in enough time into your Peru itinerary to acclimatize to the conditions.

This means that it is incredibly foolish to arrive in Cusco, which is at 3,399m (11,152 feet) above sea-level, and leave the next day to do a strenuous hike or even start the Quarry trek. Your body needs the time to adjust to the altitude!

A good rule of thumb is to give yourself and your body two easy days at altitude to acclimatize to the change, and to keep yourself well hydrated throughout.

What about medication?

Obviously, medical attention and facilities along the trek are pretty much non-existent so you need to bring any of your own required medication with you and keep it on your own person or in the daypack.

What climates can I expect on the Quarry trek?

Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra Mountain region.

Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance. 

While the average daily temperature may only vary a few degrees Celsius between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temperature range is often huge.

You can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 10-25°C (50-77 °F), falling as low as -10 °C (14°F) at night especially at the first camp site.

How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu for a maximum of four hours and must follow one of three predetermined routes. Admission is not allowed after 4pm. Additionally, all visitors must always be accompanied by a guide.

The early morning is one of the best times to savor the views and atmosphere of Machu Picchu.

The mystical morning light over the enigmatic site is spectacular. Try and catch the sunrise at the sanctuary, you won’t regret the early wakeup call!

AVAILABLE ADD-ONS

• Huayna Picchu Permit – USD $75 per person
• Return Vistadome Train – USD $60 per person
• Return Hiram Bingham Train– USD $420 per person
• Day 1 – Cusco – Soqma – Rayan
• Day 2 – Rayan – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo
• Day 3 – Choquetacarpo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
• Day 4 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
• Beginning altitude:  2,840 m / 9,315 ft.
• Maximum altitude:  4,457 m / 14,619 ft.
• Hike Total Distance:  32 km/ 20 miles
• Overall trek difficulty:  Moderate

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Packing up the Pieces

Hike the Stunning Inca Quarry Trail to the Sun Gate

• Author: Megan Anderson
• Created: August 7, 2020 1:00 pm
• Updated: June 9, 2023 4:10 pm
• day trips from Urubamba
• Maps and Overviews
• Ollantaytambo
• Peru Day Hikes
• Sacred Valley

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• Distance Instructions
• Travel mode

• Distance 5 miles
• Time 3 h 0 min
• Speed 2 mph
• Min altitude 9209 ft
• Peak 12756 ft
• Climb 4078 ft
• Descent 568 ft

This is a map and basic overview on how to hike along the stunning Inca Quarry trail to Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate in Ollantaytambo . The following itinerary makes for a strenuous day hike from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley in Peru . Adventure hikers may wish to camp out just below the Sun Gate to savor those incredible views of the surrounding mountains and wake up above the clouds.

As the Inca Quarry Trail to the Sun Gate becomes more popular, there are organized day tour options that depart from Cusco . Alternatively, there are many Sacred Valley tour companies including one that offers a horseback riding option. However, the trail is decently marked and seeing more foot traffic than in the past and is easy to do independently without mules or horses.

Here's how to hike the worthwhile Inca Quarry Trail to the Ollantaytambo Sun Gate of Inti Punku.

⁉️ If downloading the map, please verify that the map is correct and follows the waypoints. Oftentimes, there are daily updates to the site, map platforms, and other external issues that may cause a bug in downloading. Be mindful that this map is solely for entertainment purposes. See my full disclosure here . Always hike responsibly and respect the mountains by following a no-trace philosophy, avoid hiking alone, be conscious of the weather and personal limitations, and do not stray from the visible trail

Inca Quarry Trail to Inti Punku | Day Hike

• This trail begins from the Ollantaytambo Inca Bridge
• Total Mileage: 10.5 Miles
• One-Way Mileage: 5.25 Miles
• Due to a tough, but steady ascent
• Excursion Duration: Round-trip this full day hike will take 7 - 9 hours, depending on fitness level
• Trail Marker: There is no official signage, but the trail is fairly well trekked with random sign posts scattered along the way. On a clear day, it's possible to see the outline of Inti Punku on the mountain top.
• This trail has little to no shade coverage. It's best to tackle this hike early in the morning to avoid the intense afternoon sun.
• Enough water, a water filter to fill-up water bottles, snacks
• Stocked-up first-aid kit
• Good hiking shoes with ankle support
• Hiking poles if you love them
• Offline Inca Quarry Trail map, chargers, battery packs, etc.
• Long sleeves and layers to protect from the sun and the changing temperatures when reaching Inti Punku

Personal Tip | Plan on this trek to take around 7-9 hours .  This includes an hour at the Sun Gate and a few breaks along the scenic trail. Day trip hikers who are fit and are carrying only a light day pack may reach the top in only 3 hours.  If planning to camp at the top, add an extra hour or two for the weight of your pack since there is no place to refill water at the campsite.

What's the Difference Between the Inca Quarry Trail vs. Inca Trail?

There is oftentimes confusion with the Inca Quarry hike vs. the Inca Trail. There are many places throughout Peru that the Incas quarried stone for famous sites, but the path near Ollantaytambo can be visibly seen while hiking the mountainside. Inti Punku means "Sun Gate" when translated from Quechua. Find a Sun Gate at both the village of Ollantaytambo and at the Lost City of Machu Picchu .

The Inca Quarry Trail leads to the Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo and has incredible views of the Sacred Valley, Apu Veronica, and beyond. In fact, this is one of the best things to do in Ollantaytambo.

The Inca Trail also leads to a Sun Gate, but this is the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu which is completely different. Inti Punku Machu Picchu is the main entrance for those who are hiking the Classic Inca Trail or the Short Inca Trail.

So while you will hear or see Inti Punku Machu Picchu and Inti Punku Ollantaytambo, the hiking routes are two totally different treks.

Inti Punku Ollantaytambo is oftentimes being offered as an alternative trek to Machu Picchu. Hike the mountainside, but you'll still have to hop on a train in Ollantaytambo that drops at Aguas Calientes , the gateway village to Peru's World Wonder of Machu Picchu.

More Alternative Machu Picchu Treks | Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek | Lares Trek Here's a One Day Lares Valley Hiking Route

When to Hike the Inca Quarry Trail to Inti Punku

This hiking adventure can be completed any time of the year. During rainy season, expect muddy paths and be mindful of rock slides. In the dry season, be conscious of your water supply. It's important to note that the last water fill up is marked on this Inca Quarry Trail map and is early into the hike. Make sure to have plenty of water and account for the extra water weight.

During dry season this is essential. If planning to camp, make sure to fill up all water containers.

Overview of Inca Quarry Trail Day Hike

First, to reach the trailhead, leave the adorable village of Ollantaytambo and head towards the Inca Bridge .  The orange and green bridge is a landmark and is located right before the village. Next, cross the bridge and take a right. There is a general map to reference.

Begin on the trail. Soon after, reach the Mirador Descanso . Here, find a bench with a shelter. Next, pass by the impressive Inca Quarries . These interesting remains is where the Inca Quarry Trail got its name from.

Continue past the quarries and veer to the trail to the left. There will be a simple sign post, so head towards the Canteras . Next, come to a beautiful trail outlined with rocks.  In this area, find the large rock of Llactallactayoc . This makes an excellent place to break.

After a break, pass by the large landmark rock and keep towards the left of it. Continue to follow the trail uphill to two sets of Inca ruins. After these lovely ruins, continue to the right to meet up with last stretch of trail.

Finally, continue uphill to the incredible Inti Punku , the Sun Gate above Ollantaytambo. Savor in those incredible views of Mount Veronica and the other breathtaking glacial peaked mountains.

For now, the Ollantaytambo Sun Gate is free to enjoy and there is no entrance fee.

If doing the Inca Quarry Trail as a day hike, head back down the same way you came up. Coming down is quicker. Plan on around 2-3 hours, depending on gear and fitness ability. Otherwise, set up a tent and savor in this untouched and special place in the Sacred Valley.

Psst... need a place to stay in Ollantaytambo? Casa Quecha Hostel has simple rooms, a warm family, a lovely garden, and plenty of places to pitch a tent!

Inca Quarry Trail 2 Day Trek | Add-On Hike

Adventure hikers may wish to continue over the steep mule pass from Inti Punku. This more advanced route will eventually meet the Raqaypata Archaeological Site . From the site, continue down to the Sacred Valley Waterfall of Perolniyoc. Pass by the peculiar site of Ñaupa Iglesia , and finally end in the tiny village of Pachar. The trailhead ends at the Sacred Valley Brewery, Cerveceria del Valle , so this is a perfect place to grab a beer and enjoy the garden

Get Inspired | More details on this intrepid add-on hike to Perolniyoc | Map for Reference & Download

This is a great 2 day trek for those who chose to camp at Inti Punku and want to come down a different route than the standard Inca Quarry Trail.

Follow the Old Inca Quarry Trail to Inti Punku

Interested in tackling this steep, but worthwhile hike along the Inca Quarry Trail in Ollantaytambo to Inti Punku? Get all the logistics, how to reach the trailhead, tips and tricks, and more photo inspiration! Follow along with this detailed blog post:

Hike to the Epic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) above Ollantaytambo

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• Ñaupa Iglesia | A Peculiar Dimensional Portal near Pachar
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1. Inca Bridge

Start at the Inca Bridge. Cross the bridge and turn right to begin the trail to the Quarries.

2. Mirador Descanso

Viewpoint with covered shelter

3. Water Spot

Dry Season: Last chance to refill waters (filter required)

4. Inca Quarries

Quarries of the Incas (Canteras)

Official Sign Post. Veer to the left (uphill) path to continue to the Sun Gate.

6. Llactallactayoc

Quechua for "city within a city." Follow the rock outlined path. The largest rock is Llactallactayoc. Pass by on the left hand side to continue on the uphill trail to the Sun Gate.

Two sets of Inca ruins. One site is mostly overgrown, but makes for excellent photos. Pass by the site and look for the well-marked trail, which scales along hillside to the right.

8. Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

The beautiful Sun Gate or Inti Punku. Mount Veronica looms in the backdrop.

Here’s how to hike the worthwhile Inca Quarry Trail to the Ollantaytambo Sun Gate of Inti Punku.

• Excursion Duration: Round-trip this full day hike will take 7 – 9 hours, depending on fitness level
• Trail Marker: There is no official signage, but the trail is fairly well trekked with random sign posts scattered along the way. On a clear day, it’s possible to see the outline of Inti Punku on the mountain top.
• This trail has little to no shade coverage. It’s best to tackle this hike early in the morning to avoid the intense afternoon sun.

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

What’s the Difference Between the Inca Quarry Trail vs. Inca Trail?

There is oftentimes confusion with the Inca Quarry hike vs. the Inca Trail. There are many places throughout Peru that the Incas quarried stone for famous sites, but the path near Ollantaytambo can be visibly seen while hiking the mountainside. Inti Punku means “Sun Gate” when translated from Quechua. Find a Sun Gate at both the village of Ollantaytambo and at the Lost City of Machu Picchu .

Inti Punku Ollantaytambo is oftentimes being offered as an alternative trek to Machu Picchu. Hike the mountainside, but you’ll still have to hop on a train in Ollantaytambo that drops at Aguas Calientes , the gateway village to Peru’s World Wonder of Machu Picchu.

More Alternative Machu Picchu Treks | Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek | Lares Trek Here’s a One Day Lares Valley Hiking Route

This hiking adventure can be completed any time of the year. During rainy season, expect muddy paths and be mindful of rock slides. In the dry season, be conscious of your water supply. It’s important to note that the last water fill up is marked on this Inca Quarry Trail map and is early into the hike. Make sure to have plenty of water and account for the extra water weight.

Psst… need a place to stay in Ollantaytambo? Casa Quecha Hostel has simple rooms, a warm family, a lovely garden, and plenty of places to pitch a tent!

• Huchuy Qosqo Trek | Take the Climb from Lamay up to “Little Cusco”

Disclosure: This is part of my Hikes & Adventures series , which means these treks can be strenuous and challenging. These are my experiences and I am not an expert. Please have all the proper equipment, verify the weather conditions, use professional resources, do your own research, and take into consideration your own physical abilities and/or limitations. These guides are for entertainment purposes only. Please see my full disclosure for more information here .

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• FULL-DAY TOUR ( Moray, Salt Ponds of Maras & Pisac)
• SACRED VALLEY TOUR from OLLANTAYTAMBO to CUSCO

Peru’s Sacred Valley – Just one hour away from Cusco, it’s a destination full of adventure, culture, and glimpses into local Andean life; nestled in the verdant foothills of the snow-capped Andes, with a stunning landscape, dotted with little villages and ruins. Explore Pisac and Ollantaytambo to witness and wander around stunning hillside Incan ruins, visit Chinchero to experience a traditional market day in the valley. Do not miss the ancient salt pans, known as the Maras Salt Mines and the Inca experimental terraces of Moray.

Rainbow Mountain Treks & Tours

Hike to the incredible rainbow mountain or vinicunca mountain in peru.

• Rainbow Mountain Trek & Red Valley 2 Days
• Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Days
• Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountains 4 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days 

Vinicunca Mountain — also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, or more simply Rainbow Mountain — was discovered four years ago when the snow covering it melted, revealing the natural beauty of the rock beneath. A visit to Rainbow Mountain is an absolute must for all those who love stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. This hike to Rainbow Mountain offer you one of the earth’s most amazing natural wonders in Peru.

Inca Quarry Trek

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Private Guided Tours To Machu Picchu — Travel to Peru and enjoy  Machu Picchu  “The most spectacular legacy of the Inca Empire” with our private tours and customized in Peru, the trip to Machu Picchu is an absolute highlight of Peru, with Peru’s depth of history and spectacular views. 

Embark on a bucket list journey to Machu Picchu and Cusco alongside the country’s finest travel guides and uncover the Incan cities in the famous Sacred Valley of Peru, in the remoteness of the mountains, interacting with the local Quechua people, and live their culture, music, language, and cuisine for an unforgettable experience in Cusco, Peru. Looking for a great and unique adventure? Peru and Machu Picchu will give you a once in a lifetime experience”. 

Travel with confidence

Book with flexibility and peace of mind, and live epic adventures and authentic travel experience in Peru by taking our incredible itineraries.

Locally Owned & Operated

We Operate 100% of Our Tours & Treks! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!

Small Group & Private Tours

We focus on small group and custom private tours; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experience.

We Focus on Details

Your experience is our top priority, we are the experts in customizing all tours, trips, treks and a travel package curated just for you.

Knowledge and Expertise

Our professional guides experienced, chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

RWECOMMENDED TOURS

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Tour Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

5 Days & 4 Nights Tour Package | Starting From: $ per person

5 Days Tour

From: $ per person Explore all the most beautiful places of Cusco the Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu in th

BEST PRIVATE MACHU PICCHU GUIDED TOURS & CUSTOM EXPERIENCES IN PERU

Here is the best of what is on offer on Machu Picchu private tours, take advantage of our full Day Sacred Valley Tours where you will encounter magnificent Inca ruins and temples, beautiful terraced mountains and shop in wonderful Indian Markets. Scroll down our main list of Machu Picchu Private Tours that we have selected for you to reach this wonderful place, these tours are completely customizable and make multi-day tours according to your interest and budget. Contact us to get more info or shoot us an e-mail [email protected]

5 Day Machu Picchu Tour and Rainbow Mountain

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountain

In this 5 days tour through Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain you will be able to see all the most beautiful places that Cusco has to offer.

Explore the best of Cusco city, the Sacred Valley tour, Machu Picchu Citadel, and the Rainbow Mountain with an Authentic Local Expert. Discover the ancient landmarks of the Inca Empire and unamissable destinations of Cusco with a private guide on a 5-day tour from Cusco.

Max Altitude:

5,200 m /17,060 ft

Activity Level:

Moderate (high altitude)

Group Size:

Min 2 ppl, Max 8 ppl

Your tour and trips to  Machu Picchu  on private service either by foot or train journey with local experts in Peru, are unique. Because you will  explore Machu Picchu  “One of Peru’s most enthralling destinations with a thriving culture and spellbinding scenery” with English-speaking guides who have worked taking travelers and tourists on famous hiking trails such as: Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, Choquequirao Trek,  Ausangate Trek ,  Lares Trek  and Expeditions through the Peruvian Andes for countless times.

In addition, they have been in  Machu Picchu more than 600 time s, which guarantees that your trip will be a unique and 100% satisfying experience in life.

Our personalized tours to  Machu Picchu  and travel packages are the best itinerary of your trip to Peru that will allow you to experience some of the best places in Cusco such as: walking through the streets and hidden and typical places of Cusco, walking through the ancient ruins in the Sacred Valley, and  rainbow mountain  of Peru “ Vinicunca ”. Each package is guaranteed to offer top-value tours.

Choose your tours and places you would like to explore in  Cusco , from year-round departures on the popular journeys and less popular hikes, and find the perfect Machu Picchu tour package for your upcoming Peru vacation. Private tours and hikes to Machu Picchu!

Machu Picchu Travel Guide

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Machu Picchu Inca Citadel — The Best Tourist Attraction In The World

Machu Picchu Inca site  is a phenomenal icon of Peru and a  World Heritage Site by UNESCO  since 1983. Nowadays it is one of the seven new wonders of the World and the most important attraction of Peru . The Inca citadel perched 2400 m / 7,874ft. above the Urubamba Valley. We understand that for most people, visiting  Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and on Machu Picchu private tours, we will make sure every detail is perfect.

• Machu Picchu is of great value to Peru not only for its touristic attraction or demonstration of an ingenious native culture, but also because of the diverse ecosystem. Spread over 32 thousand hectares, the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picch u is believed to nurture about 10% of the fauna and 22% of the flora found in Peru. On the citadel itself you just may bump into one of these woolly creatures.
• The word most often repeated by visitors to Machu Picchu is impressive. To visit Machu Picchu is the opportunity to be exposed to the architectural feat of the Incas, a unique combination of man and nature. The craftsmanship of the Incas to cut large stones into polygonal shapes make this structure a splendor to observe.
• The backdrop to the panoramic views of Machu Picchu, this mountain provides the best vantage point. Meaning “young mountain” in Quechua, Huayna Picchu reaches 2,667 meters high, making it over 200 meters taller than the “old mountain”, Machu Picchu. Though the climb up does not require any technical skills, the 1000-foot ascent is quite steep.

Best way to visit Machu Picchu

A) tour to machu picchu by train.

Tre most popular way to visit  Machu Picchu  is embarking on a scenic journey by train along the bank of the  Urubamba River . Passing through the  Sacred Valley and small isolated villages with spectacular vistas of Peru´s Andes and snow-capped mountains before arriving at Machu Picchu village and at a more leisurely fashion – compared to those choosing to hike to  Machu Picchu . For visiting the phenomenal icon of Peru “Machu Picchu” high above.

B) Tour to Machu Picchu on Foot – Hiking the Inca Trail

The most popular  hiking trail in South America – perhaps the world . Is the high-altitude Inca Trail to Machu Picchu nearly 14,000 feet with an amazing view through the cloud forest toward the  Sun Gate  to arrive to the sacred city of  Machu Picchu . Also, we offer  Alternative Inca Trails  “Off the Beaten Path” to Machu Picchu with a unique experience. All travelers must acclimatize before starting the trek in  Cusco  and the  Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Explore one of the most legendary Inca roads that link the city of Cusco with the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail. Of course, there are plenty of other trail options but all will lead you through beautiful landscapes and ancient ruins.

At the Puerta del Sol the clouds and fog begin to dissipate to uncover the citadel; this experience, and all of majestic Machu Picchu, is a priceless encounter. Located at 7,972 feet above sea level (2,430 meters), the citadel is actually at a lower altitude than the city of Cusco (11,152 feet)

On our Machu Picchu private tours and trips, we´ll visit Cusco  and explore the  Sacred Valley of the Incas  and catch the train to  Machu Picchu  village located along the  Urubamba river  bank. For the adventurous, hiking the Classic  Inca Trail to Machu Picchu- is one of Peru´s most famous trek and South America  – perhaps the world. You can discover Machu Picchu for yourself with  Peru Spirit Adventure . Contact us to start planning your trip to the Lost City of the Incas “Machu Picchu”.  We are an expert local company based in Cusco for helping to design the perfect tour by train, on foot  – Hiking the Inca Trail or Alternative Inca Trail Off the Beaten Path. “Machu Picchu tours”

Machu Picchu Tours Photo Gallery

How to plan the BEST Sacred Valley Tour from CUSCO

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Faqs About Machu Picchu Tours

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Cusco Alternative Treks – Inca Trail Alternative Treks

Hiking the  Cusco alternative treks to Machu Picchu  is “off the beaten path” that  combines spectacular high Andean scenery  with own charm & unique vistas some of Cusco alternative treks  culminate at the glorious ruins of Machu Picchu  and some of them no. Most treks last four or five days and we offer enhanced holidays.  All treks require several days acclimatization to high altitude & a good level of fitness . Also, Hiking the Inca Trail can be very challenging.

Active  Peru Spirit Adventure  offers a wide range of Cusco alternative treks to Machu Picchu with unique experiences to little known and less touristy places that will take you away from the beaten track. The hiking adventure in the Andes is our passion that we would like to share with you . Contact an expert local company to assure trip planning is seamless to Cusco alternative treks or Classic Inca Trail. Please take a look below for available options of the Cusco alternative treks.

Inspiring Stories

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Peru Spirit Adventure

100% direct local tour operator.

Thank you so much for reaching out to us. We will respond to all email inquiries within 24 hours. We are also reachable by chat and phone and look forward to connecting.

Our main email:  [email protected] / [email protected] Address:  Urb. Picchu Alto J – 5, Cusco – Peru​ Mobile:  +51 957 326 998 | +51 965 730 786 WhatsApp:  +51 957 326 998

Please give at least two alternative start dates in order of preference. Write none if there are no other dates available for you View Payments Details

Sacred Valley Private Tours & Tailor Made with Local Experts

Connect with peru spirit adventure – 100% direct local tour operator.

Thank you so much for reaching out to us. Please complete the contact form below to tell us more about your dates, interests, the number of travelers, pick-up and drop-off places etc. We will do our best to help you organize your trip. You can be assured you will hear from us within 24 hours. Our Sacred Valley tour is available only in Private Service that offer you  the flexibility to design your own trip exactly how you like it, as well as the duration of the visit in each case, not being subject to a larger group itinerary and timings.

Terms & Conditions

Thank you for booking and/or traveling on a Peru Spirit Adventure tour with Peru Spirit Adventure. We are 100% local Cusqueñan company and legally recognized by Peruvian law. These Terms and Conditions apply to any travel products and/or services purchased from Peru Spirit Adventure. A contract is entered into once PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE receives your booking form and deposit, and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE. All Peru Spirit Adventure based treks and tours are operated by Peru Spirit Adventure.

BOOKING & PAYMENT

To reserve any of our tours and treks services, the customer must submit his or her personal information and a deposit. The personal information we require is the following: Full name (as appears on passport), Date of Birth, Nationality, Gender, and Passport number.

• A picture of their passport photo page. A camera phone picture or similar is acceptable.

Once the customer confirms their reservation, we will send an email within 24 hours with a confirmation of their tour or trek and the deposit amount and also, details of the services included and not included in the service price. Once we send this information to the customer, if we do not receive any response from the customer it will be assumed by the company that the customer has accepted all terms and conditions. We provide a full pre-tour briefing at your hotel in Cusco. This gives the customer the chance to ask any questions they may have about the tour or trek itinerary. — ABOUT THE BRIEFING:  The night before your tour or trek, there will be a pre-tour talk (briefing) at your hotel in Cusco at either 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm. (exact time will be confirmed by email). Once you receive your briefing time, if we do not hear back we will assume it is confirmed by you. Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, ensuring you arrive in time for the briefing. If your tour or trek begins on a Monday then the briefing will be scheduled for the Saturday before.

• Please note that it is difficult to change the briefing time and date at short notice. Therefore, if we receive a request for a briefing change less than 48 hours prior to the scheduled briefing, we most likely will not be able to change the briefing time or date. We will, however, do everything we can to change to try and accommodate the schedule change.

We use PayPal for sending deposits, that way you can use your credit card. There is a 6% fee for deposits using PayPal (for the international transfer). We also use Western Union for sending deposits, Deposits through Western Union have variable fees. The deposit amount depends on the type of itinerary you will book, as follows;

• For all trek and multi-day tours,  we require a deposit of $250 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Rainbow Mountain tours & hikes  we require a deposit of $100 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Humantay Lake Day Trip,  we require a deposit of $100 USD per person — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Sacred Valley Tours & Trips,  we require a deposit of $100 USD (for the group) — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For the Cusco Half Day Tours,  we require a deposit of $50 USD (for the group) — Deposits for tours and treks are non-refundable and non-transferable to another individual. There are no exceptions.
• For large groups, we accept wire transfer for deposits and final balances due. If you would like more information about the wire transfer option, please email us at  [email protected]

FINAL PAYMENTS:  We accept cash and PayPal for final payments. A client may not depart for the tour or trek until payment in full is received, either in cash or by PayPal.

• Cash payments  are due the day before tour or trek departure and can be paid at the pre-tour or trek briefing. We accept US dollars and Peruvian soles for cash payments. If you will pay in US dollars.  Take note.  The Peruvian banks are extremely strict about the “quality” of dollars they will accept. Therefore, we have to request that your bills are what they call “unbroken”. Broken bills will not be accepted. Broken means — any tear (even as small as 3 mm) or excessive wrinkling
• PayPal payments  are due one week before the tour or trek departure.  a)  There is an 8% fee on balance due payments using PayPal.  b)  If the balance via PayPal is not paid by 3 days prior to trek departure, the PayPal fee will be 10%. Our PayPal email is: [email protected]
• All banking fees will be covered by the client

CANCELLATION POLICY FOR TOURS & TREKS:

Notification

• Notification of cancellation must always be made in writing by the person that made the booking and paid the deposit to  [email protected] .
• Your deposit for the tours and treks are 100% non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, as you approach your tour start date, there may be additional cost due. There are no exceptions due to the fact, that  PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE  expends a great deal of expense purchasing permits, entrance tickets, and making deposits for reservations or services, most of which are non-changeable, non-transferable, and non-refundable by government regulation. We also do not accept medical notes of any kind, as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.

CANCELLATION FEES

• Cancellations made 30 days in advance have no charge (with the exception of the non-refundable deposit) with the following exception:
• Inca Trail treks
• In the case of cancellation, the customer will not receive a refund of their deposit
• If the customer cancels between 30 and 10 days before their trek, they must pay 50% of the total trip cost.
• If the customer cancels between 10 and 3 days before their trek, they must pay 80% of the total cost.
• If the customer cancels 2 days or less before their trek, they must pay 100% of the total cost.
• In the exceptional case that a customer decides to leave once they have started the trek, no refund will be given. The customer must also pay any additional expenses they incur such as food, lodging, and transportation. On the last day, the customer will be able to rejoin the group and participate in the Machu Picchu tour.
• If after the tour has started a client cannot participate in the trek or tour (due to sickness, physical problems, etc.) no refund will be given. The customer must also pay any additional costs they incur for transportation, lodging, and food. On the last day, the tourist will be able to rejoin the group and participate in the Machu Picchu tour.
• In the case of natural disaster that prevents a service being completed, the customer will receive a 50% refund.
• In the case of a natural disaster that requires a change in the trek route, but the trek is still completed, there will be no refund.
• In the very unlikely circumstance that your service is not completed due to a fault of Peru Spirit Adventure, you will receive a full refund (including your deposit).

INCA TRAIL TOURS

• PERMITS:  Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Peru Spirit Adventure (or any agency).
• In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Peru Spirit Adventure will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
• Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

CHANGES MADE BY CLIENT

• Please note that for the Inca Trail, permits are not-changeable, not-transferable, and not-refundable. Dates can never be changed by government policy.

With the exception of the Inca Trail treks, we are generally able to change a trek date.

• To change the date of your non-Inca Trail trek, there is a fee of US $75 per person if the change occurs more than 30 days prior to trek departure.
• If the change occurs 21 to 30 days prior to trek departure, the fee is US $100 per person.
• If the change occurs 10 to 20 days before trek departure, the fee is US $150 per person.
• Changes less than 10 days prior to trek departure will have varying fees, which can be discussed at the time the change is being made.
• Changes made must be to another group trek for a minimum of 2 individuals. If a single traveler needs to change dates, and there is not an existing option for that date, the change will not be possible.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

• We highly recommend travel insurance for all of our customers.
• Coverage should include baggage loss, accident, emergency air rescue and trip cancellation. Trip cancellation insurance should reimburse you for non-recoverable air or land expenses should you cancel your trip due to personal or family illness, as well as covering any medical or emergency evacuation expenses if you become ill during your trip.
• In the case of illness or injury on one of our treks or tours, we are trained to provide emergency first aid and arrange transportation to a proper medical facility. However, we are not responsible for the cost of those transportation services or the cost of medical care.

ABOUT YOUR PASSPORT IN MACHU PICCHU, HUAYNA PICCHU AND ON THE INCA TRAIL:

• Once you book your tour, we send your information immediately to “Machu Picchu Park” in order for permits to be issued as soon as possible.
• You will need to bring your actual passport for all services. A photocopy will not be accepted.
• If your passport number changes between reserving your spot and the start of your trek, you will need to bring your old as well as your new passport to the start of the Trek.
• If any of the information on your passport does not match the information we were previously provided, you won’t be able to start the trek.
• If you arrive in Cusco and did not advise us that you have a new passport number, and that your information has changed, Peru Spirit Adventure will not be held responsible. In this situation it will be the responsibility of the customer to pay the extra expense of returning to Cusco or Machu Picchu (transportation, food and other expenses).

TRAVEL IN PERU:   Peru Spirit Adventure  operates in regions, where standards of accommodation can vary. Transportation and other services might not be like those you would normally have back home. However, we strive with all due care and skill, to provide the best service for our clients. Traveling in Peru requires flexibility, patience, broad-mindedness, good humor and an understanding that changes may be made without notice due to circumstances or occurrences beyond our control. For example: a strike, protest, landslide, bad weather, etc. ( Force Majeure ). By booking any of our tours & treks, you agree to allow  Peru Spirit Adventure  to make necessary changes without liability.

FORCE MAJEURE

Force Majeure is any event that PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE cannot with all due care foresee, control or avoid. This covers events such as war or threat of war, riot, civil strike, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, fire or all similar events beyond our control. In this case, PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE will not accept liability and reserves the right to change, postpone or even cancel trips. (This is a last option, of course!)

By booking any of our adventure trips (Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Lares, Salkantay, Ausangate, Choquequirao, Rainbow Mountain trek and more) you assume the risks associated with personal accidents, medical emergencies, air travel problems etc. For these treks, PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE Agency accepts no responsibility.

FULL TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR ADVENTURE TOURS & TREKS

• You must advise Peru Spirit Adventure of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
• You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
• All balances need to be paid in either cash or PayPal (see “ FINAL PAYMENTS ” section above).
• In order to receive a student discount, you must send your valid University ID to Peru Spirit Adventure at the time of booking. ID must have your name, photo and valid expiration date. Any card without an expiration date will not be accepted. You will then be required to bring your student card with you on the trek – they will not allow you to pass through the checkpoint without this original card.
• You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
• Cancellations: Your deposit is 100% non-refundable. If you need to cancel for any reason, as you approach your tour start date, there may be additional cost due. There are absolutely no exceptions (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us (see  “CANCELLATION FEES”  section above).
• PERMITS: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE (or any agency).
• All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
• If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter airlifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment.
• PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Peru Spirit Adventure cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
• PERU SPIRIT ADVENTURE does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.

VERY IMPORTANT:

• We strongly suggest spending time at high altitude (above 3000 meters / 9842 feet)- in Cusco or another high altitude area for a minimum of 2- 4 days before undertaking your trip. This is in order to minimize the possible effects of altitude sickness. By drinking plenty of fluids, adding sugar to your drinks, eating food high in carbohydrates, avoiding cigarettes, alcohol, and drinking coca tea (ancient traditional leaf) will help your body acclimatize.
• We recommend you arrive in Cusco 48 hours or more before trek departure because occasionally we need to leave earlier than scheduled in case of strikes or other events out of our control (see ‘Force Majeure’ section below)

RIGHT TO USE PICTURES

You accept and grant to Peru Spirit Adventure – Tour Operator the right to use your images, photos, and videos that show or describe during your participation in any tour, trekking or adventure, in any advertising of any type, without payment of any additional consideration.

Thanks again for choosing us and we look forward to seeing you in Cusco!

Peru Spirit Adventure Team!

Who is  Peru Spirit Adventure ? We are a small tour operator company owned by a local  Peruvian experts  with more than 10 years of experience as a guide.  Our office is based in Cusc o, a city in the Peruvian Andes and is located near the central square, Plaza del Armas. Our team is made up of  knowledgeable  and  passionate  tour guides from  Cusco  and  Andes  with many years of experience  Read more

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Inca Quarry Trail Vs Inca Trail – Which One Is Better?

Not many people have heard of the Inca Quarry Trail. Unlike some of the more popular Inca Trail Alternatives , limited companies sell this hike.

So what are the differences between the Inca Quarry Trail Vs the Inca Trail?

Both hikes offer beautiful scenery and pass by ancient Incan ruins .

The Inca Trail is famous for a reason, however, there are definite benefits to taking the trail less traveled.

Inca Quarry Trail Vs Inca Trail FAQs

At first, this might seem like a daunting choice. But don't despair, there are plenty of pros and cons to the Inca Quarry Trail and the classic Inca Trail. 

What is The Inca Quarry Trail?

The Inca Quarry Trail is a 4-day hike to Machu Picchu . The trail gets its name from the Kachiqata Quarry. The site was used by Incan Stone Masons as a source of stone for making tools.

The massive stone blocks from Kachiqata were used to build Ollantaytambo and other nearby sites. Hikers will get to visit the quarry and learn about Incan masonry on the 3rd day of the trail.

As with other multi-day hikes in the area, most tours start at Cusco . Only three days of the Inca quarry trail are spent hiking. The fourth day of the tour is the visit to Machu Picchu. If you have already visited Machu Picchu, you can skip the fourth day and return to Cusco on day 3.

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What Are The Main Differences Between The Inca Quarry Trail And The Inca Trail?

The main differences between the Inca Quarry Trail and the Inca Trail come down to several important factors: distances, geography, hiking difficulty and restrictions, archeological sites and overall costs.

Let's look at these main differences in greater detail. 

Routes and Difficulty

The classic 4-day Inca Trail is longer than the Inca Quarry Trail. The Inca Trail is 45km (28 miles) over 5 days while the Inca Quarry Trail is 28km (16 miles) over 3 days.

The classic Inca Trail starts from KM 82 and ends at Machu Picchu. The Inca Quarry Trail also begins close to Ollyantambo, usually at the village of Soqma. The Inca Quarry trail ends back at Ollantaytambo. From here, you are transported to Hydroelectric and Aguas Calientes.

On the Inca Trail, you will walk through remote areas. Hikers walk through a diversity of habitats including the Andean cloud forest.

The Inca Quarry Trail is entirely through the Andean Highlands. The trail passes through rural communities including Soqma on the first day. You can expect rocky peaks, granite boulders, and agricultural settlements.

On both trails, you get stunning viewpoints of valleys and snowy peaks.

See : How difficult is the Inca trail

Maximum Altitude

The Inca Quarry trail has slightly higher points than elevations on the Inca Trail . On day two of the Inca Quarry Trail, there are two high summits. These two passes are Puccaqasa (4370m/14 340ft) and Kuychicacassa (4450m/14600ft).

The Kuychicacassa pass is about 230m higher than Dead Woman’s pass on the Inca Trail (4215m/13828ft).

Costs And Availability

The Inca Trail is notoriously difficult to book. Only 200 tourist permits for the Inca Trail are issued per day and these sell out up to a year in advance. If you do manage to book a spot, you can expect to pay between $600-$1500 per person.

The Inca Quarry Trail is one of the lesser-known trails in the area. No permit is required for this hike. This makes it easy to arrive in Cusco and arrange a trail within days.

Companies book the Inca Quarry Trail as infrequently as once a month! This means you are almost guaranteed a private hike. Prices start at $500 per person (with a minimum of 2 people).

• How much does the Inca trail cost
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Accommodation and Facilities

For both trails, you will be camping along the route. Expect simple tents which can be shared by two people.

Campsites are heavily regulated on the Inca Trail. You will set up a tent alongside hundreds of hikers from various tour groups. The plus side to these organized camps is that there are bathroom facilities with (cold) showers available to hikers (read more about Inca trail camps ).

On the Inca Quarry trek, you will spend the first two nights camping. The third night is in a basic hotel in Aguas Calientes . Campsites are not regulated on this trail. Your group's tents will likely be the only ones in sight. If you camp near local houses, you may be able to pay homeowners to use the bathroom or take a shower.

Where to stay? Here are 5 of my favourite accommodation options in Cusco: 

• Sonesta Hotel (great 4 star hotel)
• Antigua Casona San Blas
• El Mariscal Cusco (very good value)
• Hotel Paradis (good 3 star hotel)
• Quechua Hostal Recoleta (cheap and cheerful)

See more Cusco accommodation options .

Horses and mules are not allowed on the Inca Trail. Most Inca Trail tour operators give you the option of hiring a local porter or carrying your own bag.

On the Inca Quarry trail, there are horses to take bags. You will be given a tog bag and allowed to pack up to 5kg to go on the saddle. Don’t worry, you will not have to lead a horse along the trail. Expert horsemen come as part of the team. Depending on local availability, you may be able to pay extra for a ride over tough sections.

A Side By Side Comparison Of The Inca Quarry Trail Vs Inca Trail

Highlights and negatives of the inca quarry trail, highlights of the inca quarry trail.

Despite (and because of) its obscurity, the Inca Quarry Trail has a lot going for it. Not least of all the beautiful Andean mountain landscapes and Mount Veronica. Look out for condors and even pass by a waterfall on the route.

In terms of people on the trail, there is almost no comparison. The Inca Trail is Latin America's most popular hike. 500 people, including guides and porters, embark on this trail each day.

The quarry trail feels more exclusive. There is a good chance that local farmers are the only other humans you will meet along the way.

A key highlight of the Inca Quarry Trail is seeing three unique archeological sites. You will visit the storerooms of Q’orimarca and the ‘other’ Sun Gate which looks out over Mount Veronica. Most notably, you can take a tour of the Kachiqata quarry.

Kachiqata quarry is a unique opportunity to learn about how the Incas extracted and carved stone. This site is incomplete as the Incas were intercepted here by the Spanish. Your guide may even show you skulls of stone masons that remain in the nearby caves.

Negatives of the Inca Quarry Trail

The main negative of the Inca Quarry Trail vs the Inca Trail is that the quarry trail does not end directly at Machu Picchu. On day 3 of the Inca quarry tour, you will be collected and transported to Aguas Calientes. On day 4, you will still have the opportunity to visit the famous ruins.

Another thing you miss out on on the Inca Quarry Trail is the diversity of landscapes. The classic Inca Trail passes through cloud forests as well as Andean mountain scapes. On the Quarry Trail, you do not get to see tropical jungle or forest habitats.

Should you hike The Inca Quarry Trail instead of the Classic Inca Trail?

Do you want bragging rights to one of the world’s most famous trails? Can you plan well in advance? The Inca Trail should be your first choice. This route goes through more remote areas. It is highly rated for its many archeological ruins and new surroundings every day.

The Inca Quarry Trail is for those who want a more exclusive hiking experience and aren’t set on entering through Machu Picchu’s Sun gate. Those who select the quarry trail will be rewarded with wide-open mountain scenery. Visit a ‘secret’ sun gate and discover the authentic Andes countryside.

Either way, it’s a win-win situation.

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. She enjoys sharing her passion for all things nature-related. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

However, up to now, the main carriers of catalytic additives have been mineral sorbents: silica gels, alumogels. This is obviously due to the fact that they consist of pure homogeneous components SiO2 and Al2O3, respectively. It is generally known that impurities, especially the ash elements, are catalytic poisons that reduce the effectiveness of the catalyst. Therefore, carbon sorbents with 5-15% by weight of ash elements in their composition are not used in the above mentioned technologies. However, in such an important field as a gas-mask technique, carbon sorbents (active carbons) are carriers of catalytic additives, providing effective protection of a person against any types of potent poisonous substances (PPS). In ESPE “JSC "Neorganika" there has been developed the technology of unique ashless spherical carbon carrier-catalysts by the method of liquid forming of furfural copolymers with subsequent gas-vapor activation, brand PAC. Active carbons PAC have 100% qualitative characteristics of the three main properties of carbon sorbents: strength - 100%, the proportion of sorbing pores in the pore space – 100%, purity - 100% (ash content is close to zero). A particularly outstanding feature of active PAC carbons is their uniquely high mechanical compressive strength of 740 ± 40 MPa, which is 3-7 times larger than that of  such materials as granite, quartzite, electric coal, and is comparable to the value for cast iron - 400-1000 MPa. This allows the PAC to operate under severe conditions in moving and fluidized beds.  Obviously, it is time to actively develop catalysts based on PAC sorbents for oil refining, petrochemicals, gas processing and various technologies of organic synthesis.

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

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