Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
Explore the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERUExplore the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu
Trip OverviewTrip Overview
Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, is a historic route that offers travelers a unique experience in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Less crowded than the famous Inca Trail, this trail allows you to explore the ancient quarries where the Incas extracted stone to build their imposing buildings. This circuit is one of the most memorable to discover the great landscape richness and culture of Peru, since in its circuit you will be able to learn more deeply about the mysticism and customs of the men of the Andes, and take a train trip to the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu.
Along the Inca Quarry Trail, visitors have the opportunity to observe impressive geological formations and natural landscapes that reflect the cultural and environmental richness of the region. The route not only provides a glimpse into Incan construction techniques, but also invites reflection on the connection between nature and past civilizations.
You can also find a new Puerta del Sol in all the Andes. Sun Gate or called Inti Punku, are structures built to honor the sun, usually at such an angle that they frame a distant mountain and welcome the first rays of the winter solstice. You can also see Inca mummies inside their tombs. Another great attraction of this route of the Inca quarry is the Perolniyoc waterfall, where you can take a dip, at the top you will appreciate the Inca ruins of Perolniyoc.
The journey along the Inca Quarry Trail is ideal for those seeking a more intimate and spiritual journey. In addition, being less traveled, it allows you to enjoy a more peaceful and contemplative environment. Without a doubt, this trail represents a fascinating alternative for those who wish to experience the Incan heritage at its best.
INCLUDEDINCLUDED
INCLUDED IN THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU:
- Pre-departure briefing 1 or 2 days before the trek
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
- Horseman’s and horses to carry our camping and kitchen equipment
- English Speaking Professional Guide
- 4 Season tents, with capacity of 4 persons, but used only by 2
- Sleeping pad
- 03 breakfasts, 03 lunches, 03 dinners
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Train from Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from the Train Station to Cusco
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes 1 night
- Bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (The circuit reserved for you will depend on availability at the time of booking.)
NOT INCLUDED IN THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL:
- Sleeping bag : you can rent in our office $ 20 usd
- Walking poles : posible to rent $ 20 usd
- Lunch at Aguas Calientes on the last day.
- Tips (Cook, horseman and guide)
- Travel insurance
- Huayna Picchu Mountain $ 80 usd
Trip HighlightsTrip Highlights
- The route of the Inca quarry, is very little visited, if you are looking for walks outside the common ones, this is the indicated one, you will enjoy the solitude and the beautiful sunsets, surrounded by mountains and snow-capped peaks such as Veronica.
- Visit one of the most famous quarries where the Incas obtained their lithic materials of great proportions, it is still possible to see many stones already worked ready to be carrried.
- You can visit some of the local communities, who still practice the ancestral agriculture of the Incas.
- You will have the best postcard photo of the mountain of Veronica from the Inti Punku (Sun Gate). This route offers you beautiful archeological sites such as Perolniyoc, Ñaupa Iglesia (Choque keel).
- Enjoy a train trip to Machu Picchu, the route has a change of landscapes from the sacred valley to the cloud forest.
- Delight your palate with the best Cusqueña and Peruvian cuisine, everything is prepared by our experienced chefs.
ActivitiesActivities
The Inca quarry route has a moderate to demanding level, the first two days, there will be an ascent to heights of more than 4,000 meters. And then you have a descent to the valley floor of Ollantaytambo (2,700 meters). The weather is varied, for example if you make the route in the winter months (May-August) it is quite cold (-5 ° C). In contrast in the valley floor and Machu Picchu it is not cold in any month of the year. Since in a short time you will have to make great ascents and descents, you are advised to be accustomed to making great walks, and prepare yourself as running in the morning or going to the gym. Be ready to withstand drastic changes in temperatures, such as intense sun, rain, snowfall. Be sure to arrive to Cusco days before where you can adapt to the height and thus avoid headaches or nausea.
AccommodationsAccommodations
- Comfortable trekking tents, 02 nights.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes, 01 night.
ItineraryItinerary
- Corn fields surrounded by picturesque houses
- Raqaypata, Archeological Site
- Valley of Soqma, Viewpoint photo stop
- Perolniyoq Waterfall
PACKING LISTPACKING LIST
WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE FOR THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL
warm jackets
Hydration bladder
wool socks
camera
scarf
first aid kit
hiking shoes
Dry bags
Trekking Poles
sun cream
Snack
sun hat
bathing suite
rain coat
Sandals
insect repellent
Passport
Down Jackets
toilet paper
daypack
Wool cap
head lamp
gloves
sun glasses
cap
extra cash
Trekking pantsFAQFAQ
ALL ABOUT THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
There’s the Inca Trail, the classic route, which is justifiably famous and everything, but there’s also the Quarry Trail. It’s actually one of the most beautiful walks in South America, at least among those in the know, but it doesn’t get a fraction of the crowds on the Inca Trail.
Here we answer your most frequently asked questions about the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu. If you have any other questions, you can do it by our mail.
The term quarry says it all. It is a 3-day hike over the mountains of Ollantaytambo, intending to visit the sun gate or Inti punku, and of course the Inca quarries on the mountainside overlooking the Urubamba River. But apart from visiting the quarries, there is also a visit to a waterfall and other small Inca sites on the way.
It's a four-day trek, about the same amount of time as the Inca Trail, but the last morning is just a transfer from Kachiqata to Aguas Calientes. You will only walk for about three days.
You’re still trekking through the best of the Andes, so expect soaring green peaks, granite boulders, isolated villages like Socma and archaeological sites like the famous Q’orimarca ruins. Many trekkers who’ve done both say The Quarry trail actually beats the Inca for pure scenery: you’ve got high passes like Puccaqasa (4,370m), views of the Nevado Veronica mountain and stunning valleys falling away on all sides.
If you want to beat most of the crowds (not that the Quarry Trail ever gets really busy), pick a shoulder season. May or October are good months. Peak time is the same as the Inca Trail, June, July and August. Weather here will be great, but you will be fighting for photo space at Machu Picchu. The difference is, you will have had the Andes to yourself for the last few days.
You’ll set off from Soqma, where you’ll meet the horsemen and guides that’ll be your best buddies for the next four days. Set off on the trail and you’ll soon hit the little town of Socma, then it’s on to the stunning Perolniyoc cascade lookout. A good spot for a selfie and a snack. After a rest, push on to the campsite, which sits about 3,700m above sea level.
The second day of the Quarry Trail is probably the toughest. You’ll climb to the pass of Puccagasa (4370m) for some of the best views in the Andes, then hike for about two hours to the highest point on the trek: the mammoth Kuychicassa pass (4450m). After that it’s downhill for a while (phew), two hours of easy walking down to a site the Incas called Inti Punku (which means the Sun Gate, although it’s not THE Sun Gate). You can see the Veronica mountain shooting into the sky from here. It’s magic. Camp out near Choquetacarpo, about 3,600m above sea level.
On the third day it’s mostly downhill . You’ll walk past Kachiqata quarry (hence the Quarry Trail). This is a rock quarry that the Incas never completed during the Spanish conquest. By midday you’ll be at Kachiqata town, where you’ll take a train to Aquas Calientes (with a dip in the hot springs on arrival). The next morning it’s a short bus ride and all the glory of Machu Picchu.
Anyone trekking for three solid days over 3,500m above sea level needs a reasonable level of fitness. Altitude sickness is a real risk, but we’ll try to acclimatize you with some time in Cusco before the trip. Most people complete the Quarry Trail without any problems. Drink lots of water as you go, pace yourself, wear polarized sunglasses and appropriate boots.
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATIONESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION ESSENTIAL TRIP INFORMATION
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip InformationBest Season to TravelBest Season to Travel
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and November, when the weather is dry and bright, with more frequent rainfall occurring between November and April.
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DecemberPRICE & AVAILABILITYPRICE & AVAILABILITY
PRICE & AVAILABILITY
To book this tour, a minimum of $ 300 USD per person is required, the remaining balance will be paid upon arrival in Peru, at the Cusco office.
Any other additional information, please coordinate with your travel agent.
Choose your preferred departure date to proceed.
What to expect from our
Treks in Peru
Nothing gets you closer to a country than walking through it, and we’ve got trips to suit walkers of all levels and interests.
How fit do I need to be?
All our Walking trips are graded from ‘Easy’ through to ‘Challenging to Tough’. On our online trip itineraries you’ll find a chart showing the daily walk distances, timings and information on the route including the terrain, altitude. Generally, no specific training is needed but you might feel more comfortable if you’ve got out walking a few times in the lead-up to your trip.
What will the group be like?
As with all our trips, every group is different but the ‘average’ group consists of roughly half couples and half solo travellers - all sharing a passion for exploring the world on foot. You’ll always have someone to keep you company along the route, but you don’t always have to walk together. Wherever possible your Andean Great Treks leader will allow everyone to walk at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route.
Will I need to walk every day?
Mostly of our hikes in the mountains in Peru and Cusco like the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Ausangate Trek, Lares Trek, Ancascocha Trek, Salkantay Trek , involves an average of walking hours of 7-8 hours per day, this timing includes stops for taking photos, lunch, breaks for recovery the energy, and the most important we adapt to your walking pace. This relaxed style of trip involves to know all the attractions in greater depth.
What about the logistics?
On nearly all our Walking trips, porters or mules will carry all the camping equimpent, so your main luggage will be transported for you. We recommend walk with a light rucksack, you will carry water, snacks, a camera, a small first aid kit and any extra clothing or sun protection. On more remote or challenging treks, additional guides are there to assist the leader tour guide and provide support to the group.
ANDEAN TREKS FAQS
HOW MANY DAYS OF ACCLIMATIZATION DO YOU RECOMMEND BEFORE STARTING A PROGRAM?
The acclimatization period is very important for our travelers to enjoy the experience. We suggest a minimum of 3 or 4 days of the previous stay in Cusco city, the Sacred Valley of the Incas or Machu Picchu. We recommend you check the acclimation programs we have prepared for you on our website.
WHAT ARE THE ALTITUDES IN THE CAMPING SITES ?
The average height of our camps in the trekking circuits is 3,500 masl. In fact, one of the circuits where you sleep at the highest altitude is the Ausangate Trek, where you will have days to set up the tents at a height of 4,300 meters. Remember that Peru has snowy peaks that reach up to 6,700 masl.
HOW CAN ALTITUDE AFFECT ME?
From 3,000 meters above sea level, the symptoms of "altitude sickness" vary according to each person, and may even not occur. However, among the most common are a headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite and insomnia. Therefore, upon arriving in the city of Cusco, located at 3,400 meters above sea level, we recommend our travelers to take a good rest, drink plenty of water, eat light meals and take slower walking. Also, it is necessary to avoid alcoholic beverages and cigarettes. The symptoms can be alleviated with high mountain medicines such as DIAMOX or similar products, but we suggest you consult with your doctor before the trip.
DO I HAVE TO CARRY MY OWN LUGGAGE?
While on the trail, hikers will need to carry a daypack (camera equipment, water bottle, extra layers, rain gear, and other accessories you might need on the trail.) Horses and llamas will carry your duffle bag to the next camping site.
WHAT ARE THE SECURITY MEASURES IN THE TRAIL?
The company makes the greatest efforts to provide a safe and unforgettable experience, for this reason, the trekking guides are constantly communicated with the central office through satellite phones, ensuring the welfare of each passenger. Our guides are trained in rescue techniques and first aid in emergency outdoor, these courses are developed annually and have the standards of the wilderness first respond. At all times we have oxygen and first aid equipment. In case of any eventuality a medical director will answer our questions 24 hours a day. In addition to the animals who carry the luggage we have horses to help walkers tired or eager to ride. We recommend getting a travel insurance.
ANDEAN GREAT TREKS TOURS DIFFERENCE
UNRIVALLED KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
Every Andean Great Treks holiday has been thoughtfully planned and crafted by our specialists. They draw on their own extensive travel experience and the guidance and expertise of our local partners to create superb holidays. Our specialists are committed to making every aspect smooth and enjoyable; they genuinely want to ensure that the holidays they create leave you with wonderful lasting memories.
AMAZING TOURS & AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES
Every Andean Great Treks traveller is accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you will be immersed in Historic cities, ancient ruins and unfamiliar landscapes are all brought to life by our carefully selected local guides. They want to share their expertise and help you make your own discoveries too; their sole mission is to ensure you enjoy every moment.
FLEXIBILITY & CHOICE
Giving you the freedom to make your holiday even more memorable. We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday and we pride ourselves on the choice and flexibility that we offer to enhance every aspect of your experience. Whether it’s getting to the airport, upgrading your room or booking an additional excursion, we can help.
GUIDED BY THE LOCAL GUIDES, TRUE EXPERTS!
Our guides are the stars of the show; it is their unrivalled knowledge, passion and expertise that will transform your tour experience from good to truly extraordinary!
Because the have grown up in the area and know it like the back of their hand, so they can help you experience whichever aspects most interest you. They’re passionate about sharing their corner of the world with you, and as you explore together, they’ll open your eyes to the intricate details, provide background to enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing, and share stories that will bring everything to life.
ALL OF OUR NATIONAL TOUR GUIDES...
- Have at least five years guiding experience
- Are fluent in English
- Are born and raised in Cusco, Lima, Manu Jungle, Puno
- Go through rigorous and ongoing training programmes
- Are at your service 24 hours a day
OUR TRAVELS SHAPE YOURS
“Your inspiration for a trip can be a single word or a highly evolved outline, but it's the conversations we have that help us understand the experience you're looking for. Meanwhile, I'm looking back on the time I spent at the destination.
‘The great thing about working with a specialist at Andean Great Treks is how they take your complete jumble of ideas and turn them into something absolutely spectacular.’
As you begin to share your ideas with your specialist, it will connect them immediately back to a time in their own travels. Conjuring a picture of the rest time they made that same discovery, reminding them how it felt.
Your specialist understands that, when the journey is right, it has the power to excite your emotions in the most profound ways after all, that was the effect on them.
They carry a treasure box of moments, captured over many journeys, into every suggestion they’ll share with you, as they ask you how you want to feel on your trip.
MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES, REAL CONNECTIONS
EXPERIENCES THAT CALL TO YOU
It’s what you do in a destination that helps bring it to life. It’s why we strive to choose experiences that help you connect to a place, absorbing a little of its complex character. Wherever your passions lie, we’ll recommend experiences that speak to you, and we’ll recommend the guide or local expert who’s most qualified to help you explore. Packing your holiday full of special experiences means some early starts and long days, but you can be sure that you’ll return home with many incredible memories! Read our Tours and check the Physical Ratings to see if the pace and activity levels are right for you.
STAYS WITH DIFFERENCE
We know that where you stay is a cherished part of your travels. So, we go to great lengths to find places to stay that exceed expectations, or go above and beyond the ordinary, whether in their character, hospitality, or location. Over the years, we’ve discovered the very best properties, trying and testing them, so we can choose the right one for you. We’ve nourished long-standing relationships with these establishments and the people who founded them, and we’ve stayed there many times often, we’ll even know which rooms have the best views (and reserve them for you).
TRAVELLING THE RIGHT WAY
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
WE EXPLORE WITHOUT AFFECTING THE ECOSYSTEM
We want travel to change us, and not the World
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
We want travel to change us, and not the World
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
DISCOVER MORE SIMILAR TOURS: INCA QUARRY TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
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