Inca Quarry To Machupicchu 4 Days 3 Nights
Have you ever wondered how mountains were moved to build an Empire? Don’t look for the answer in books; find it beneath your boots. We invite you to the most authentic and visually stunning expedition in the Andes: the Inca Quarry Trail.
This is not a route for conventional tourists. It is a summons for those seeking the true engineering of the Sun. Here, time froze at the exact moment the Inca Empire was interrupted. You will walk through a 500-year-old “construction zone” where colossal rose granite blocks seem to be waiting for the stonemasons to return from their rest to be carried to their final destination. It is a raw, powerful immersion into the greatest human endeavor in the Americas.
Overview
Cachicata is not just a quarry; it is 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 Peru 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.
Expedition Highlights
- The “Tired Stones” Museum: Walk through a 500-year-old workshop of giant pink granite blocks frozen in time.
- The Secret Sun Gate: A mystical portal framing Mount Veronica, offering the Andes’ most exclusive, crowd-free view.
- Guardians’ Chullpas: Explore ancient burial towers where master Inca craftsmen were laid to rest overlooking their work.
- Condor-Eye Views: Experience a breathtaking 3,000-foot vertical drop view over Ollantaytambo and the Sacred Valley.
- Impossible Engineering: Discover the gravity-defying ramps used to transport 40-ton stones across the mountains.
Inca Quarry Trail Tour Summary:
DAY 1: CUSCO – HUAROCONDO – SOCMA – RAYAN PATA
- Hiking Distance: 5 miles / 8 km.
- Trailhead Altitude: 10,500 ft / 3,200 m.
- Lunch Spot: Socma Village (High Andean lunch).
- Campsite Altitude: 12,139 ft / 3,700 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate (Gradual ascent).
- Weather: Warm / Sunny.
- Highlights: Perolniyoc Waterfall & the pre-Inca ruins of Raqaypata.
DAY 2: RAYAN COMMUNITY – KUYCHICASA PASS – INCA QUARRY
- Hiking Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km.
- Highest Point (Pass): 14,599 ft / 4,450 m.
- Lunch Spot: Chancachuco Valley (Scenic wilderness).
- Campsite Altitude: 11,548 ft / 3,520 m (Cachicata).
- Difficulty: Challenging (Conquering the “Top of the World”).
- Weather: Cold and windy at the pass / Crisp mountain air at camp.
- Inca Sites: Inti Punku (Sun Gate) & Ancient irrigation canals.
DAY 3: INCA QUARRY – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
- Hiking Distance: 4.3 miles / 7 km.
- Highest Point: 11,548 ft / 3,520 m.
- Lunch Spot: Ollantaytambo (The Living Inca Town).
- Hotel Altitude: 6,561 ft / 2,000 m (Aguas Calientes).
- Difficulty: Moderate (Steep descent through history).
- Weather: Warm / High jungle humidity.
- Highlights: Exploring the “Tired Stones” at the Quarry & Train journey to the Sanctuary.
DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
- Distance: Private tour within the Citadel.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,873 ft / 2,400 m.
- Cusco Altitude: 11,154 ft / 3,400 m.
- Difficulty: Easy / Cultural immersion.
- Weather: Warm and Humid.
- Highlights: Sunrise at the Citadel (Circuit 2) & return via the Scenic Expedition Train.
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
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc Waterfall – Rayan Pata
To begin your spectacular Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu, we will pick you up from your hotel (in Cusco, Urubamba, Pisaq, or Ollantaytambo) around 6:00 a.m.
After pickup, we will enjoy a scenic drive directly to the trailhead in the village of Soqma (10,515 ft / 3,205 m). Here, we will meet our team of horsemen and prepare the equipment to begin our adventure.
From Soqma, we will begin a gradual 2-hour uphill hike until we reach the impressive Perolniyoc Waterfall (approx. 11,647 ft / 3,550 m), a 25-meter drop that dominates the landscape. We will continue for another two hours until we reach the Inca site of Rayan Pata (approx. 12,467 ft / 3,800 m), an important ceremonial and sacrificial location. Your expert Ali Peru Treks guide will explain the fascinating history of this site while you explore.
We will continue along the trail until we reach our lunch spot, where our professional chef will be waiting for you with a delicious and nutritious lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients.
After a well-deserved lunch and a short nap, the chef will provide you with drinking water. We will then prepare for a final two-hour hike toward Rayan Village. We will set up our camp in a privileged location with stunning mountain views at 12,795 ft (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: Perolniyoc Waterfall and Rayan Pata Inca site.
- Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner.
Day 2: Rayan Community – Kuychicasa Pass – Inca Quarry
You will wake up at our Rayan camp (12,795ft / 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 ($14,600$ ft / $4,450$ m).
Upon reaching the summit of Kuychicasa, your effort will be rewarded with a spectacular view of towering glaciers and snow-capped peaks dominating the Vilcabamba Mountain Range. We will have plenty of time to soak in this majestic panorama and capture incredible photographs before continuing our journey.
Historic Descent and Arrival at the Quarry
From the pass, 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 archaeological significance of this sacred site.
Finally, we will arrive at the picturesque Cachicata camp (11,811ft / 3,600m) 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. 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 Inca Quarry.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea Time & Dinner.
Day 3: Inca Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
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 Ollantaytambo (9,160 ft / 2,792 m).
Here, your Ali Peru Treks guide will show you the vast scope of the Inca labor, including huge, half-carved stones abandoned throughout the area. You will also have the opportunity to see Inca mummies and funerary houses (chullpas), gaining deep insight into Inca building and burial practices.
Descent via the Original Inca Ramp After a guided tour, we will begin the descent (approximately three hours) to Ollantaytambo. We will follow the original, 500-year-old ramp built by the Incas to transport these gigantic stones. It is a fascinating journey through ancient engineering history.
Farewell Lunch and Cultural Time We will arrive in the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo for our final celebratory lunch with the Ali Peru Treks chef.
Afterward, you will have free time to explore. We recommend visiting a local bar to try Chicha (corn beer), considered a sacred drink by the Incas, served by local women.
Heading to Machu Picchu In the afternoon, you will take the train destined for Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m). The train ride is panoramic and relaxing. We will spend the night in our hotel in Aguas Calientes, ready for the final exploration of Machu Picchu the following day.
- Starting Altitude (Cachicata): 11,811 ft / 3,600 m
- End of Hike (Ollantaytambo): 9,160 ft / 2,792 m
- Final Destination (Aguas Calientes): 6,692 ft / 2,040 m
- Total Distance: Approx. 4.3 miles / 7 km
- Hiking Time: 3 hours
- Difficulty Level: Easy (Steady downhill)
- Highlight: Cachicata Inca Quarry Exploration & Original Inca Ramp.
- Transport: Train to Aguas Calientes.
- Meals Included: Breakfast and Farewell Lunch.
Day 4: 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 Peru Treks guide will lead you on a 2-hour tour. We have secured Circuit 2 for you, widely considered the most complete and classic route.
What does this circuit include? First, your guide will take you to the strategic viewpoints to capture the iconic, classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu that you’ve been dreaming of. Then, you will explore the citadel, learning about the history and culture of the Inca Empire while visiting the main temples, sacred plazas, and urban sectors.
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.
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 Peru 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 2 (Classic/Complete 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.
- Accommodation: N/A (Service ends at your Cusco hotel).
Includes
Included
- Entrance Ticket to Machu Picchu: Circuit 2 (Classic Route) – This is the most complete route, guaranteeing the iconic postcard photo and a deep tour of the main temples.
- Accommodations: Includes one night in a 3-star hotel: Hatun Inti Classic (or similar) in Aguas Calientes, plus two nights of premium high-altitude camping.
- Pre-Departure Briefing: A professional meeting at your hotel the day before your trek at 5:00 PM to review the route, safety, and equipment.
- Professional Guides: Expert university-accredited guides (English/Spanish) with 5 to 12 years of experience in high-mountain rescue and Andean history.
- Professional Mountain Chefs: Specialists in modern Andean cuisine, providing fresh, organic, and nutritious meals with strict hygiene protocols.
- Field Staff & Horses: We include horsemen and pack horses to carry all group gear and your personal duffel bag (up to 7kg / 15 lbs).
- Emergency Horse: An additional horse is always available to support hikers in case of fatigue or health issues during the trek.
- High-End Camping Equipment: * Professional 4-season tents (weatherproof).
- Dining tent with tables, chairs, and all utensils.
- Private portable bathroom tents with water pumps at all sites.
- Transportation: * Private van from Cusco directly to the trailhead in Soqma.
- EXPEDITION Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (Day 4).
- EXPEDITION Train return to Ollantaytambo and private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Water Service: Boiled and purified water provided from the first lunch to the last breakfast.
- Emergency Gear: Satellite phones (global reach), 10km range radios, and complete first aid kits with medical oxygen.
- Small Details: We include a travel pillow, rain poncho, and backpack cover for every hiker.
Not Included
- Optional Mountain Hikes ($80 USD per person):
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: A challenging 45-minute climb to the summit and 40 minutes back down. (Must be booked 2-3 months in advance).
- Machu Picchu Mountain: A steep 90-minute hike to the highest peak and 60 minutes down for a 360° panoramic view.
- Sleeping Bags & Inflatable Mattresses: This trek requires a sleeping bag. If you do not bring yours, you can rent from us:
- Sleeping Bag: 25 USD.
- Inflatable Air Mattress: 20 USD.
- Walking Poles (Pair): Available for rent for 15 USD. Highly recommended for the descent.
- Final Lunch: The last meal in Aguas Calientes on Day 4 after your tour is not included.
Packing List
Ali Perú Treks – Direct Local Operator
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey to Machu Picchu through the ancient quarries, we have prepared this essential guide. Proper preparation is the key to mastering the Andes.
ALWAYS WITH YOU” ITEMS (DAYPACK
These items must be kept in your personal daypack (250L to 30L) and should be easily accessible during the hike:
- Original Passport: It must be the same document used for your booking.
- Valid University ID: (If you booked with a student discount).
- Water Storage: 2-3 Liters. (Camelbak bladders or reusable bottles are mandatory to reduce plastic waste).
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in, and with good ankle support (vital for the technical descent from the quarry).
- Headlamp: Essential for moving around the campsite and for the early morning start toward Machu Picchu.
- Rain Gear: High-quality poncho or waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex recommended).
- Cash: Small denominations in Soles (local currency) for tips or last-minute purchases in local communities.
THE “DUFFEL BAG” SYSTEM (INCLUDED)
As a Direct Local Operator, Ali Perú Treks provides you with a duffel bag during the pre-trek briefing. We INCLUDE pack horses that will carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your belongings.
Note on Animal and Staff Welfare: Due to Peruvian law and ethical standards, duffel bags must not exceed 7 kg. Please consider that your sleeping bag (approx. 2 kg) goes inside, leaving you 5 kg (11 lbs) for your clothing and personal hygiene items.
Inside your Duffel Bag (Carried by the horses):
- Technical Clothing: 2 moisture-wicking t-shirts, 2 pairs of hiking pants, 4 sets of underwear, 3 pairs of merino wool hiking socks.
- Insulation Layers: Fleece, thermals, and a high-quality down jacket (Temperatures at the Cachicata Quarry can drop to 32°F / 0°C).
- Accessories: Waterproof gloves and a wool hat (essential for the freezing mornings at the Kuychicassa Pass).
- Camp Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or sandals to wear at the campsite after the hike.
- Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least 5°F / -15°C (Available for rent at Ali Perú Treks if you do not own one).
- Power Bank: Mandatory. There is no electricity along the entire quarry route.
- Personal Hygiene: Quick-dry towel, biodegradable soap, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
- Skin Care: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, and moisturizer (the Andean air is extremely dry).
- Insect Repellent: Necessary for the final day in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
PRO TIPS FROM ALI PERÚ TREKS
Since you will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach the campsite in the evening, keep these items handy:
- First Morning’s Water: Please bring your own water for the first morning; we provide boiled/purified water from the first lunch onwards.
- Energy Snacks: Protein bars, chocolate, or dried fruits to maintain your blood sugar levels during the ascent to the highest pass.
- Trash Bags: We practice “Leave No Trace.” All your waste must return with you.
- Camera and Extra Batteries: The views of Mount Veronica and the Cachicata Sun Gate are some of the best in the world.
Travel Info
Travel Information
Trekking through the Ausangate massif is one of the most rewarding experiences in the world, but it is also among the most physically demanding due to the extreme altitude. At Ali Perú Treks, your health and safety are our absolute priorities.
Ali Perú Treks – Direct Local Operator
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey to Machu Picchu through the ancient quarries, we have prepared this essential guide. Proper preparation is the key to mastering the Andes.
The Pre-trek Briefing (Mandatory)
The Briefing is not optional; it is a mandatory technical safety meeting.
- Location: Ali Perú Treks Main Office in Cusco.
- Time: 5:00 PM the day before your departure.
Objective: You will meet your official guide, receive your Duffel Bag for the pack horses, and undergo a final gear check. If you do not attend, we cannot guarantee your departure due to the complexity of high-mountain logistics.
Payment Protocols & Secure Platforms
At Ali Perú Treks, we prioritize financial transparency and the security of your data.
- Reservation Deposit: Required exclusively to secure Machu Picchu permits and train tickets.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance must be settled during the Briefing at our office in Cusco.
- WeTravel Platform: For your peace of mind, we process payments through WeTravel, the most secure and recognized travel payment platform in the world. This allows you to perform transactions using international credit/debit cards with bank-grade encryption, guaranteeing that your money and data are 100% protected.
Mountain Logistics: The Duffel Bag System
During the briefing, we will provide you with a special canvas duffel bag:
- Capacity: Up to 7 kg (15 lbs). This includes your sleeping bag and extra clothing.
- Transport: Our horses and muleteers will carry this bag from campsite to campsite. You will only hike with your daypack (water, camera, snacks, and rain gear).
- Extra Luggage: You may leave your large suitcases in our secure storage at the Ali Perú Treks office in Cusco at no additional cost.
The Circuit 2 Guarantee (Machu Picchu)
We operate with the highest standards at the citadel:
- Classic Route: Your entry is guaranteed for Circuit 2. This is the most complete tour available and the only one that allows you to take the famous postcard photo from the upper section and visit the main temples. We do not accept limited circuits (such as 1 or 4) for our clients.
Connectivity & Power (No Electricity)
- Total Disconnection: On the Inca Quarry route, we cross remote wilderness areas. There is no electricity at the campsites.
- Power Banks: It is mandatory to bring a charged portable battery. Your phone and camera are your responsibility until we reach the hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 3.
Superior Accommodation
Hatun Inti Classic: Your last night before Machu Picchu will be at the Hatun Inti Classic Hotel (3 stars) or similar. Orthopedic beds, hot showers, and a buffet breakfast are included to help you recharge before sunrise at the sacred city.
Expert Verdict for Your Peace of Mind
“The combination of an in-person Briefing, the use of the WeTravel platform, and the Circuit 2 guarantee positions Ali Perú Treks as the most reliable operator in the region. We don’t just sell tours; we manage safe and memorable expeditions.”
Faqs
Frequently asked questions
Where is the initial meeting point?
We begin with a mandatory Briefing at our office in Cusco at 5:00 PM the day before your tour. Here, you will receive your duffel bag and meet your expert guide.
Why is the $200 deposit mandatory?
This amount secures the immediate purchase of your Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entry tickets and train tickets. These have extremely high demand and government-imposed limited capacity.
Can I pay the remaining balance with a credit card?
The balance is preferred in cash (USD or Soles) during the briefing. If you wish to use a credit card, a service fee of 5% to 8% will apply.
What happens if I cancel my trip?
The $200 deposit is non-refundable. It is used to purchase non-transferable and non-refundable government permits and tickets in your name.
Does Ali Peru Treks outsource to other agencies?
No. We are 100% direct local operators. You book with us, and you hike with our staff, our chefs, and our horses.
What level of physical fitness do I need?
This is a moderate to challenging trek. We reach altitudes of 14,600 feet. We recommend good cardiovascular health and previous experience hiking at altitude.
How many days of acclimatization do you recommend?
As experts, we suggest a minimum of 2 days in Cusco before starting to avoid altitude sickness (soroche).
Is there electricity to charge my camera or phone?
There is no electricity at the mountain campsites. You must bring a high-capacity Power Bank. Outlets will only be available at the hotel in Aguas Calientes (Day 3).
What is the most appropriate footwear?
Sturdy trekking boots with good grip and ankle support are essential, as the descent from the quarry to Ollantaytambo is steep and rocky.
Is it necessary to rent trekking poles?
Yes, highly recommended. They help protect your knees during the technical descent from the Cachicata Quarry. We rent the pair for $15 USD.
What type of tents do you use?
Professional 4-season tents designed to withstand strong winds and sub-zero temperatures at the high passes.
What is the food service like?
We offer gourmet mountain cuisine. Our chef prepares hot, organic, and nutritious dishes, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.
What kind of bathroom facilities are on the route?
Ali Peru Treks includes private portable toilets with water systems at every lunch spot and campsite. We do not rely on precarious public latrines.
Is the sleeping bag included?
It is not included, but it is mandatory. You can bring your own or rent one of our high-mountain sleeping bags for $25 USD.
What is the benefit of the inflatable mattress?
The foam mat we include is basic. The inflatable mattress ($20 rental) offers superior thermal insulation and a real rest on uneven ground.
What emergency equipment do you carry?
Every group carries a satellite phone, high-frequency radios, a first-aid kit, and high-capacity medical oxygen.
What happens if I cannot continue hiking?
An emergency horse is included in the service. It can carry you through the most difficult sections if you suffer from exhaustion or altitude sickness.
Is the water drinkable during the trek?
We provide water starting from the first lunch. The water is boiled, filtered, and cooled by our kitchen team so you can safely refill your bottles.
Why is Circuit 2 better than the others?
It is the most complete circuit. It allows you access to the upper area for the classic postcard photo and covers the main temples of the citadel.
What time will I be back in Cusco on Day 4?
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