Inca Quarry + Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu 5 Days 4 Nights
This is not merely a hike; it is a profound pilgrimage through the “Workshops of the Empire,” where the trail is surrounded by spectacular views of eternal glaciers and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. While the masses follow conventional routes, Ali Perú Treks leads you directly to the source of Inca power.
Imagine the experience of visiting an Inca Quarry, the exact site where the engineers of the Sun extracted and carved the colossal blocks used to build the majestic site of Ollantaytambo. Over five days, you will witness the raw ambition of the Incas at the Cachicata Quarries, conquer high-altitude passes in absolute silence, and culminate your journey with a triumphant entry on foot through the famous Sun Gate, the original entrance the Incas used to enter Machu Picchu.
Prepare yourself for the most legendary revelation in the world of travel: emerging through the Inti Punku to see the citadel unfold before your eyes in all its glory.
Overview
Cachicata and the Short Inca Trail are not just paths; they are a living time capsule. Here, the thunder of bronze chisels seems to have stopped just yesterday. It is a surreal landscape where the raw nature of the Andes and the impossible architecture of the Incas merge into a single, breathtaking embrace. With Ali Perú Treks, you won’t just hike the mountain; you will decipher the ancient stone code that made the Incas the most masterly architects in the hemisphere.
Highlights:
- The “Tired Stones” Open-Air Museum: Walk through a 500-year-old workshop of giant rose-granite blocks frozen in time, exactly where the Inca masons left them.
- The Double Sun Gate Experience: This is the only expedition that grants you two legendary entrances: the mystical Cachicata Sun Gate framing Mount Veronica, and the iconic Machu Picchu Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
- Guardians’ Chullpas: Explore ancient cliffside burial towers where master Inca craftsmen were laid to rest, overlooking their monumental work for eternity.
- Condor-Eye Vistas: Experience breathtaking, 3,000-foot vertical drops with panoramic views over the Sacred Valley and the “Living Inca City” of Ollantaytambo.
- Impossible Engineering: Discover the gravity-defying ramps used to transport 40-ton stones across rivers and mountains without the use of the wheel.
- The Royal Pilgrimage: Seamlessly transition from the solitude of the quarries to the world-famous Short Inca Trail, visiting the emerald terraces of Wiñay Wayna.
- Triumphant Entrance: Arrive at the Citadel of Machu Picchu on foot through the original Inca portal, experiencing the sanctuary just as the Inca royalty did five centuries ago.
Tour SummaryInca Quarry Trail + Short Inca Trail (5 Days / 4 Nights)
DAY 1: CUSCO – SOCMA – PEROLNIYOC – RAYAN PATA
- Logistics: Pickup from your hotel at 5:00 AM for a 2-hour private drive to Socma.
- Morning: Energetic breakfast followed by a 2-hour hike to the Perolniyoc Waterfall. Exploration of the Raqaypata Inca site.
- Afternoon: 2-hour ascent to Rayan Pata for a gourmet lunch.
- Campsite: 12,139ft/3,700 m. Relax with spectacular valley views.
- Highlights: Hidden waterfalls and high-altitude Andean hospitality.
DAY 2: RAYAN PATA – KUYCHICASA PASS – INCA QUARRY
- Hiking Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km.
- Highest Point:14,599ft / 4,450 m (Kuychicasa Pass).
- Morning: Challenge yourself reaching the “Top of the World” with views of the Veronica Glacier.
- Afternoon: Descent through the scenic Chancachuco Valley toward the ancient quarries.
- Campsite: 11,548ft / 3,520m (Cachicata).
- Highlights: Panoramic glacier views and the original Inti Punku of Cachicata.
DAY 3: INCA QUARRY – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
- Hiking Distance: 4.3 miles / 7 km (Descent).
- Morning: Detailed exploration of the “Tired Stones” and the logistics of the Inca masons.
- Afternoon: Lunch in Ollantaytambo, the Living Inca Town. Scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (6,561ft / 2,000 m).
- Highlights: Understanding Inca engineering and changing landscapes from highlands to high jungle.
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES – KM 104 – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU
- Hiking Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- Highest Point: 8,923 ft / 2,720m (Sun Gate).
- Activity: Early train to KM 104 to start the Short Inca Trail. Visit the cliffside ruins of Wiñay Wayna.
- The Moment: Triumphant entry through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to see the Citadel at sunset.
- Accommodation: Return to Aguas Calientes for a second night in the hotel.
- Highlights: Entering Machu Picchu on foot, just as the Inca royalty did.
DAY 5: MACHU PICCHU CITADEL – CUSCO
- Activity: Comprehensive private tour of the Sanctuary (Circuit 2).
- Afternoon: Return to Ollantaytambo via the Scenic Expedition Train, followed by private van transport to your hotel.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,873 ft / 2,400 m.
- Difficulty: Easy / Cultural immersion.
- Highlights: Sunrise at the Citadel and expert historical narration.
When is the Best Time to Hike?
Choosing the right window for your Inca Quarry Expedition is essential for a legendary experience:
- The Dry Season (April to October): This is the elite window for trekking. You will experience the most stable weather, intense blue skies, and unparalleled views of the Veronica Glacier. Ideal for photography and high-altitude comfort.
- The Rainy Season (November to March): The Sacred Valley turns into a deep emerald paradise. While you should prepare for rain, the waterfalls like Perolniyoc are at their most powerful and majestic. You will enjoy a much more private and intimate experience on the trail.
Expert Insight: Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Inca Quarry Trail is OPEN in February. It is the perfect professional alternative for those who wish to reach Machu Picchu during the maintenance month of the traditional route.
Why Choose Ali Perú Treks?
- Direct Operator: 100% guaranteed departures. We never outsource; you are with us from start to finish.
- Expert Guides: Local specialists in Inca history and architecture.
- Professional Chef: Fresh, gourmet, and high-energy meals throughout the entire trek.
- Total Safety: Oxygen tanks and emergency protocols included with every group.
- Small Groups: Personalized and flexible service (maximum 10 travelers).
- Door-to-Door Service: Pick-up and drop-off directly at your hotel in Cusco.
- Hike Lighter: Horses included to carry your personal gear (up to 15 lbs / 7 kg).
- Ethical Tourism: Direct support for the Huayllaccocha community and fair wages for our team.
- Optimized Return: Train schedules coordinated so you can return to Cusco early to rest.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc Waterfall – Rayan Pata
To kick off your spectacular Ancascocha Trek & Short Inca Trail, the Ali Perú Treks team will pick you up directly from your hotel (in Cusco, Urubamba, or the Sacred Valley) at 5:00 a.m. We will enjoy a scenic drive to the village of Soqma (10,515ft / 3,205 m), where our professional chef will welcome us with a delicious, nutritious breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients. Here, we will meet our team of horsemen and prepare the gear to begin our adventure.
From Soqma, we will begin a gradual 1-hour uphill hike until we reach the impressive Perolniyoc Waterfall (approx. 11,647 ft / 3,550 m), a 25-meter cascade that dominates the landscape. We will continue for another two hours until we reach the Inca site of Raqaypata (Rayan Pata), an important ceremonial and administrative center. Your expert guide will explain the fascinating history of this site while we explore its enclosures.
After the visit, we will continue to our lunch spot to enjoy a mountain feast. Following a short break, we will complete the final 2-hour stretch toward Rayan Village. We will set up our camp in a privileged location with stunning mountain views at 12,795 feet (3,900 m).
- Van Transport: 3 hours (Cusco to Soqma).
- Total Distance: Approx. 5.6 miles / 9 km.
- Hiking Time: 6 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (Steady ascent).
- Starting Altitude (Soqma): 10,515 ft / 3,205 m.
- Max Altitude (Camp): 12,795 ft / 3,900 m.
- Elevation Gain (Net): +2,280 ft / +695 m.
- Highlights: Breakfast in Soqma, Perolniyoc Waterfall, and Raqaypata Inca site.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 2: Rayan Community – Kuychicasa Pass – Inca Quarry
You will wake up at our Rayan camp (12,795 ft / 3,900 m) with a hot cup of coca tea served directly in your tent by the Ali Perú Treks team. After a nutritious breakfast, we will begin a steady 4-hour ascent to conquer the highest point of the day: Kuychicasa Pass (14,600ft / 4,450 m).
Upon reaching the summit of Kuychicasa, an unparalleled visual reward awaits: an incredible view of towering glaciers and snow-capped peaks dominating the horizon. We will have plenty of time to enjoy the majesty of the Andes and take spectacular photographs. Afterward, we will continue our journey for an additional 30 minutes to reach our lunch spot, where we will enjoy a comforting mountain feast surrounded by this high-altitude landscape.
Following lunch, we will begin a 2-hour descent. Along the way, we will encounter the historical jewel of the day: the Intipunku ruins, the ancient “Sun Gate” of the Incas. Your guide will explain the deep astronomical and archaeological significance of this site, which served as a sacred portal to the Sacred Valley.
Finally, we will arrive at the picturesque Cachicata camp (11,811ft / 3,600 m) around 5:00 p.m., strategically located right next to the famous Cachicata Inca Quarry. We will welcome you with a comforting happy hour (tea time), followed by an exquisite dinner prepared by our chef. The panoramic views from here, overlooking the quarry and the Sacred Valley in the distance, are unmatched.
- Total Distance: Approx. 9.9 miles / 16 km.
- Hiking Time: 8 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Challenging (High pass crossing).
- Starting Altitude (Rayan): 12,795 ft / 3,900 m.
- Highest Point (Kuychicasa): 14,600 ft / 4,450 m.
- Campsite Altitude (Cachicata): 11,811 ft / 3,600 m.
- Elevation Gain (Net): +1,804 ft / +550 m.
- Elevation Loss (Net): -2,789 ft / -850 m.
- Highlights: Kuychicasa Pass (Glacier views), Intipunku Ruins, and sunset at the Inca Quarry.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea Time & Dinner.
Day 3: Inca Quarry – Ollantaytambo (The Living Inca Town)
We begin the day exploring the impressive Cachicata Quarry (11,811 ft / 3,600 m), an extensive archaeological site that served as the primary stone source for the construction of the Ollantaytambo fortress. Your Ali Perú Treks guide will show you the vast scope of Inca labor, including the massive, half-carved blocks known as the “Tired Stones.” You will also have the unique opportunity to observe ancient Inca mummies and funerary towers (chullpas), gaining deep insight into the building and burial practices of this civilization.
After the guided tour, we will begin a 3-hour descent to the valley. We will follow the original, 500-year-old ramp specifically engineered by the Incas to transport these gigantic granite monoliths. It is a fascinating journey through the history of ancient engineering.
We will arrive in the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo to enjoy a comforting lunch at a selected spot to relax after the hike. In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore the town’s cobblestone streets. We highly recommend visiting a local “Chichería” to try Chicha (corn beer), the sacred drink of the Incas.
To wrap up the day, we will enjoy an exquisite dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor regional gastronomy in a cozy atmosphere. We will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Ollantaytambo, ensuring a restful night’s sleep so you are ready to begin the Short Inca Trail adventure the following morning.
- Starting Altitude (Cachicata): 11,811ft / 3,600 m.
- End of Hike (Ollantaytambo): 9,160 ft / 2,792 m.
- Total Distance: Approx. 4.3 miles / 7 km.
- Hiking Time: 3 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Easy (Steady downhill).
- Highlights: Cachicata Quarry Exploration & Original Inca Ramp.
- Accommodation: Comfortable Hotel in Ollantaytambo.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (Local Restaurant).
Day 4: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes
Today marks the beginning of your pilgrimage along the legendary Inca Trail! Your tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in Ollantaytambo at 5:30 a.m. You will be accompanied by the same expert guide who has led you through the previous days, ensuring personalized and reliable service. After enjoying a nutritious breakfast included at your hotel, we will head to the station to board the train to KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival, we will cross the bridge over the Urubamba River toward the checkpoint. It is essential that you bring your original passport, as it is mandatory for passing the official control. Immediately after the checkpoint, we will visit the first archaeological site: Chachabamba ($6,890$ ft / $2,100$ m).
Following this visit, we will begin a 4-hour ascent through beautiful landscapes and unique biodiversity until we reach the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, an architectural jewel embedded in the mountain with spectacular emerald terraces. At the end of the visit, we will enjoy a nutritious Box Lunch, specially designed by our team to provide you with the energy needed for this stretch.
After lunch, we will continue with an additional 1-hour hike to reach Inti Punku (The Sun Gate). Here, you will witness your first triumphant view of Machu Picchu at sunset. Following the original trail for one more hour, we will finally arrive at the Machu Picchu Citadel to capture the classic photos with the best light of the day and without the crowds.
To conclude the day, we will take the shuttle bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. We will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate the day’s effort and spend the night at the comfortable Hatun Inti Classic Hotel (or similar).
- Transport: Train to KM 104 and Shuttle Bus to Aguas Calientes.
- Total Distance: Approx. 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours of active trekking.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Starting Elevation (KM 104): 6,889 ft / 2,100 m.
- Maximum Altitude (Sun Gate): 8,923 ft / 2,720 m.
- Accommodation: Hatun Inti Classic Hotel (or similar) in Aguas Calientes ($6,692$ ft).
- Highlights: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, and Classic Photos at the Citadel.
- Meals Included: Breakfast (Hotel), Box Lunch, and Dinner (Local Restaurant).
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Today will be a wonderful day! The time has finally come to visit the Wonder of the World.
After an early breakfast at your hotel, the most anticipated day begins. We handle the logistics for your comfort: you will only carry your daypack with the essentials. Your hotel in Aguas Calientes will safely store your main luggage until our return.
You will take the Consettur bus for a scenic 25-minute ascent up the mountain, which brings you directly to the entrance gate. Once inside the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu (7,972 ft / 2,430 m), the magic begins. Your expert Ali Perú Treks guide will lead you on a 2-hour tour. We have secured Circuit 3 for you, a route that offers an intimate look at the lower sector of the sanctuary, including the agricultural and urban heart of the citadel.
What does this circuit include? Your guide will take you to explore the lower terraces and the sacred constructions that define this sector. You will learn about the history, advanced engineering, and deep spiritual culture of the Inca Empire while visiting the most significant structures of this area. It is a fantastic way to experience the majesty of the site from a unique perspective.
Optional: Huayna Picchu Mountain. If you reserved the extra add-on ticket in advance, after the guided tour you will have time to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (8,835 ft / 2,693 m). It is a steep but rewarding adventure with unique aerial views of the entire sanctuary.
After the tour, we recommend taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train departure. This will give you enough time to find a restaurant and enjoy lunch in town (Note: Lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included, giving you the freedom to choose according to your taste and budget).
Finally, you will board your return train to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2 hours), enjoying the last views of the Sacred Valley. At the station, our Ali Perú Treks staff will be waiting for you with our private transport to take you back to Cusco. We will close this unforgettable 5-day adventure by dropping you off right at your hotel door.
- Main Destination: Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary
- Altitude (Machu Picchu): 7,972 ft / 2,430 m
- Altitude (Huayna Picchu): 8,835 ft / 2,693 m (Optional)
- Circuit Included: Circuit 3 (Royalty / Lower Sector Route)
- Guided Tour: 2 hours
- Bus (Up/Down): 25 min each way
- Train (Aguas Calientes ➔ Ollanta): Approx. 2 hours
- Transport (Ollanta ➔ Cusco): Approx. 2 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast (at hotel). Lunch not included.
Includes
Included
At Ali Perú Treks, we provide a premium, “all-inclusive” experience. Our logistics are specifically designed so you can focus entirely on the high-altitude adventure while we handle every technical detail.
Expertise & High-Mountain Logistics
- Pre-Trek Briefing: A comprehensive meeting with your expert guide at our Cusco office the day before your trek to finalize all details.
- Professional Trekking Guides: Highly experienced, university-accredited guides fluent in English and specialists in Andean history and engineering.
- Support Team (Muleteers & Horses): Our team of arrieros and horses carry all group equipment, food, and your personal gear.
- Personal Duffel Bag: We provide a duffel bag for up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal gear, carried by our horses for the duration of the trek.
- Private Transport: Door-to-door service. Pickup from your hotel in Cusco and private transport directly to the trailhead in Soqma.
- Clean Water: All necessary water is provided (boiled, purified, and cooled) from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 breakfast.
Elite Accommodations & Comfort
- High-Quality Tents: Durable, 4-season high-mountain tents (designed for 4 people, but used only for 2 for maximum comfort and space).
- Spacious Dining & Social Tents: A roomy dining tent complete with comfortable chairs, a table, and a social atmosphere for meals.
- Hotel in Ollantaytambo (Day 3): We include a night in a comfortable hotel in Ollantaytambo. This allows you to rest in a real bed and recharge before starting the Short Inca Trail.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Day 4): 1 night of accommodation at the Hatun Inti Classic Hotel (or similar), a hand-picked, comfortable hotel.
- Comfort Extras: We include a sleeping pillow, backpack rain cover, and a rain poncho for every hiker.
Gourmet Mountain Dining
- Expert Mountain Chefs: Chefs who prepare delicious modern Andean, traditional Peruvian, and international meals.
- Special Diets: We cater to all dietary restrictions (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free) at no extra cost.
- Meals Included: All meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 5 breakfast, including an exquisite Box Lunch on Day 4 and a celebratory dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
The Machu Picchu Finale
- Official Entrance Permits: This tour includes the Short Inca Trail permits. According to Peruvian government regulations, these permits automatically designate either Circuit 1 or Circuit 3 for your visit to the Citadel.
- Bus Ticket: One-way bus service from the Machu Picchu Citadel down to Aguas Calientes.
- Return Train Ticket: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Voyager class; upgrades available).
- Private Return Transport: Private van from Ollantaytambo station back to your hotel door in Cusco.
Safety Equipment
- Oxygen & Communication: Each group carries an Oxygen Tank and a Satellite Phone for 24/7 emergency communication with our Cusco office.
- First Aid Kit: A full professional medical kit including emergency supplies and basic medication.
Not Included
- Optional Rentals: Professional Sleeping bag ($25) and a pair of trekking poles ($15) are available for rent.
- Final Lunch: The final lunch in Aguas Calientes after your Machu Picchu tour on Day 5 is not covered.
- Personal Expenses: Tips (for guides, cooks, and muleteers), travel insurance, and personal souvenirs.
Additional Mountain Hikes: Tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are NOT included in the trek price. These are optional upgrades.
CRITICAL BOOKING ADVICE
Tickets for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are extremely limited. To guarantee a spot, you must book at least 4 to 5 months in advance. These tickets are sold by the government on a first-come, first-served basis and sell out quickly.
Packing List
Ali Perú Treks – Local Expertise & Professional Service
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey through the Andes and the cloud forest, we have prepared this essential guide. Proper preparation is the key to enjoying this high-altitude expedition.
The Essentials (In your Daypack)
These items must be on your person or in your daypack at all times, especially for the checkpoint on Day 4:
- Original Passport: Must be the same document used for your booking.
- Valid University Card: (If you booked with a student discount).
- Good Daypack: A 25L to 35L backpack is ideal. (Note: Large hiking packs over 40L are not allowed inside Machu Picchu).
- Water Storage: 2–3 Liters (Reusable bottles or Camelbaks are mandatory; plastic bottles are restricted).
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in, and with excellent ankle support.
- Rain Gear: A high-quality rain jacket or poncho (weather can change in minutes).
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen (high SPF), sun hat, and sunglasses.
- Personal Cash: Small denominations in Soles for , snacks, or souvenirs.
Your Duffel Bag (Carried by Horses)
As a 100% Direct Local Operator, we provide a duffel bag during your briefing. We INCLUDE a personal porter/horse service to carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your belongings.
Important on Porter Welfare: By Peruvian Law, duffel bags cannot exceed 7 kg. A sleeping bag (approx. 2 kg) and a foam mattress (provided by us) take up space, leaving you about 4 kg for personal clothing.
Inside your Duffel Bag:
- Clothing Layers: 3 moisture-wicking t-shirts, 2 pairs of hiking pants, 1 set of thermals (for cold nights).
- Cold Weather Gear: A warm down jacket and a fleece. (Temperatures at the Rayan campsite can drop to 0°C / 32°F).
- Accessories: Waterproof gloves and a warm beanie (essential for the Kuychicasa Pass).
- Footwear for Camp: Comfortable sneakers or sandals to rest your feet.
- Socks & Underwear: 4–5 pairs of high-quality hiking socks and sets of undergarments.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -15°C (Available for rent if you don’t have one).
- Quick-dry Towel: For personal hygiene at the campsites.
Toiletries & Health
- Insect Repellent: Essential for Day 4 and Day 5 in the cloud forest and Machu Picchu.
- Skin Care: Lip balm and moisturizer (the Andean air is extremely dry).
- Hygiene Kit: Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
- Personal Medication: Band-aids, moleskin for blisters, and altitude pills (Diamox) if recommended by your doctor.
- Power Bank: To charge your phone/camera (there is no electricity until the hotel on Day 3).
Expert Tips for the Trail
The “First Morning” Rule: Please bring your own water for the first 4 hours of Day 1. We provide boiled and filtered water from the first lunch onwards.
Stay Dry: Put your clothes inside plastic bags within your duffel bag to ensure they stay dry even in heavy rain.
Headlamp: Essential for navigating the campsites at night or early morning starts.
Leave No Trace: Bring a small bag for your personal trash; we are committed to preserving the beauty of the Andes.
Aquí tienes la sección de Travel Info unificada y optimizada. He consolidado toda la logística de pagos, el briefing obligatorio, la preparación física y los detalles de sostenibilidad en una guía profesional y clara para los clientes de Ali Perú Treks.
Travel Info
Travel Information
At Ali Perú Treks, we want you to be perfectly prepared for your 5-day adventure. This guide covers everything from your arrival in Cusco to the final details of your trek.
Mandatory Pre-Trek Briefing
The Pre-Trek Briefing is mandatory and takes place at our Cusco office one night before your scheduled departure.
- Final Prep: This is the perfect time to resolve any last-minute questions about gear, altitude, or dietary needs.
- Logistics: You will meet your expert guide to finalize day-by-day details, weather updates, and safety protocols.
- Duffel Bag Delivery: We will provide you with your official Ali Perú Duffel Bag. You must pack your 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal gear here for our horses/porters to transport.
Booking, Deposits & Payments
- Secure Deposit: To guarantee your departure and secure limited Machu Picchu and Inca Trail permits, a non-refundable deposit of $200 USD per person is required.
- Payment Platform: We use WeTravel, a highly secure platform. You can pay easily using your credit or debit card with full transaction protection.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance can be paid in our Cusco office during your briefing. We accept cash (US Dollars or Soles)
Altitude & Physical Preparation
- Acclimatization: We reach an altitude of 14,600 ft (4,450 m). We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek to adjust. Drink plenty of water and traditional Coca tea.
- Fitness Level: This trek is rated Moderate to Challenging. While you don’t need to be an elite athlete, good cardiovascular health will make your journey much more enjoyable.
Luggage & Storage
- During the Trek: You will only carry your daypack. Your 7 kg duffel bag will be handled by our support team.
- Excess Luggage: Most hotels in Cusco offer free luggage storage. Alternatively, you can safely store your extra suitcases at the Ali Perú Treks office for the duration of your trek.
Weather & Connectivity
- Vast Landscapes, Variable Weather: Expect freezing temperatures at the first two campsites (0°C / 32°F) and humid, warmer weather in the cloud forest (Days 4 & 5). Dress in layers!
- Disconnect to Reconnect: There is no electricity or cell service during the first three days. You can recharge devices and access Wi-Fi at your hotels in Ollantaytambo (Day 3) and Aguas Calientes (Day 4).
Social Responsibility & Sustainability
- Staff Welfare: As a 100% Local Operator, we treat our arrieros and chefs like family. We ensure fair wages, high-quality gear, and healthy meals for our entire team.
- Leave No Trace: We are committed to environmental preservation. We carry out all waste generated and strictly limit plastic use.
- Tips (Gratuities): While optional, tipping is a traditional way to thank the crew for their hard work. Usually, a group pool is collected and distributed at the end of the service.
Important Notice on Permits
Non-Transferable: Once issued by the Peruvian Government, Inca Trail permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Your name and passport number must match your booking document exactly.
Electricity & Connectivity
- Off the Grid: There is no electricity or cell service during the first three days of the trek. This is your chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
- Recharging: You will have access to Wi-Fi and electricity at your hotel in Ollantaytambo (Day 3) and Aguas Calientes (Day 4).
- Pro Tip: Bring a high-capacity power bank to keep your camera and phone charged for photos.
Arrival in Cusco & Acclimatization
The highest point of our trek is Kuychicasa Pass at 14,600ft (4,450 m).
- The 2-Day Rule: We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 48 to 72 hours before your trek. This allows your body to adjust to the thin air.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and traditional Coca tea. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during your first two days in the city.
Faqs
Frequently asked questions
What is the Pre-Trek Briefing?
It is a mandatory meeting held at our Cusco office the night before your departure (usually around 6:00 p.m.). You will meet your guide, receive your duffel bag, coordinate your hotel pickup, and resolve any last-minute technical questions.
Which Machu Picchu circuits are included?
By law, Short Inca Trail permits automatically include access to Circuits 1 and 3:
- Circuit 1: Provides access to the upper platforms for the classic postcard photo.
- Circuit 3: Allows for an in-depth exploration of the lower sector, including the royal houses and main temples.
Can I leave my extra luggage at your office?
Yes! While you are on the mountain, you can safely leave your larger suitcases at our Cusco office or at your hotel. You will only take your daypack and the provided 7 kg duffel bag on the trail.
How difficult is the trek?
The trek is rated Moderate to Challenging. Day 2 is the most intense due to the crossing of the Kuychicasa Pass ($14,600$ ft / $4,450$ m). Being in good physical condition will allow you to enjoy the landscapes much more.
Do I need to bring my own water?
You only need to bring water for the first 4 hours of Day 1. From the first lunch onward, Ali Perú Treks provides boiled, filtered, and cooled water at every meal station until the end of the service.
Is there electricity or Wi-Fi along the route?
Not during the first three days. you will be in remote areas of the mountain range. You will have access to electricity and Wi-Fi at the hotels in Ollantaytambo (Day 3) and Aguas Calientes (Day 4).
Should I bring a Power Bank?
Highly recommended. Since there is no electricity at the campsites, a high-capacity Power Bank (portable battery) is essential to keep your camera or phone charged so you don’t miss a single photo.
How many people sleep in each tent?
Our tents are designed for 4 people, but we only use them for 2. This guarantees enough space for you to rest comfortably and store your personal gear.
What is the food like on the mountain?
We offer a gourmet service. Our chefs prepare fresh, nutritious meals daily. We cater to Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-free diets at no extra cost (please inform us upon booking).
Are there toilets during the trek?
At the campsites for the first two nights, we set up private portable toilets exclusive to our group. On the Inca Trail and at Machu Picchu, the site’s official facilities are used.
What happens if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained in first aid and always carry a professional medical oxygen tank and first aid kit. We have evacuation protocols in place and carry a satellite phone for emergencies.
Is the 7 kg weight limit for the duffel bag strict?
Yes, for the welfare of our horses and in compliance with the Porter Law. Your sleeping bag and mat go inside, leaving approximately 4 kg (9 lbs) for your personal clothing.
When is the best time to do this tour?
The dry season (April to October) offers clear skies and stable weather. The Andes are beautiful year-round, except in February when the Inca Trail closes for maintenance.
Do you include trekking poles?
They are not included, but you can rent a pair of professional carbon fiber poles from us for $15 USD for the entire trip.
Is a sleeping bag included?
No, but we offer high-altitude down sleeping bags (rated for $-15$°C / $5$°F) for rent at $25 USD.
How much should I tip the staff?
Tipping is voluntary but highly appreciated. It is a local tradition to thank the guides, chefs, and horsemen for their hard work through a collective group contribution at the end of their service.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but it is not included. You must request it when booking 4 to 5 months in advance. It has an additional cost of $80 USD.
What happens if I change my passport?
You must inform us immediately. It is mandatory to bring both passports (the old and the new one) on the tour, as the permit data must match your original ID.
Why choose Ali Perú Treks?
We are a 100% direct local operator. By booking with us, you eliminate middlemen, support the local economy, and guarantee expert, personalized service from start to finish.
Best Treks To Machu Picchu
Discover the best hiking trails to Machu Picchu and experience the magic of the Inca Trail.
