Classic Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days

Classic Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days: The Inca Quarry Trail, also known as the Cachicata Trail, is a lesser-known route to Machu Picchu, ideal for those seeking history and nature. Over the course of three days, you will explore Andean and jungle landscapes, visiting the archaeological site of Racaypata and the Cachicata Quarry, where the Incas extracted stones for Ollantaytambo. After a day exploring Machu Picchu, you will return to Cusco by train.

Highlights:

  • Enjoy Andean and jungle landscapes
  • Discover local flora and fauna
  • Visit the Inca Quarry and archaeological sites
  • Explore Machu Picchu with an expert guide

Location

Peru - Cusco

Duration

Full day

Altitude

3,200 m.s.n.m.

Group Size

2

Transportation

Private

Difficulty

Easy

Itinerary

DAY 01: CUSCO – SOQMA – PEROLNIYOC – RACAYPATA – RAYAN
Start your adventure with a visit to the Perolniyoc waterfall, followed by the archaeological site of Racaypata. Camp at Rayan and enjoy the Andean night sky.

DAY 02: RAYAN – PUCCAQASA – ABRA KUICHIQASA – SUN GATE – CHOQUETACARPO
Trek through Puccaqasa, reach the highest point at Abra Kuichiqasa, enjoy the views at the Sun Gate, and reach the camp at Choquetacarpio to rest.

DAY 03: CHOQUETACARPO – CACHIQATA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
Visit the Cachiqata Quarries, have lunch in Ollantaytambo, and take the train to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy dinner at an exclusive restaurant and overnight at the hotel.

DAY 04: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
Explore Machu Picchu with a guided tour. Return to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco.

Include

Permits and Tickets

  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 2)
  • Permits for the Inca Quarry Trek

Pre-Departure Information

  • Meeting at the office with the tour guide
  • Duffel Bag distribution (max. 7 kg)
  • Experienced tour guide
    • Official English and Spanish-speaking guides
    • Training in Tourism and knowledge of local history and culture
  • First aid kit
    • Guides trained in first aid
    • Oxygen and emergency medical kit
    • Rapid evacuation if necessary

Camping Equipment

  • Spacious tents
  • Tables, chairs, and cooking utensils
  • Portable toilet
  • Inflatable mattresses
  • Duffel Bag (max. 7 kg)

Extras

  • Rain poncho
  • Backpack cover
  • Inca Quarry Trek t-shirt at the end of the trek
  • Filtered water and daily snacks

Meals

  • 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
  • Special menu (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) available at no additional cost

Transportation

  • Private transport to Soqma
  • Bus to Machu Picchu (round-trip)
  • Tourist train between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes
  • Private transport back to Cusco

Mules

  • Transport of camping equipment and personal luggage (7 kg)

Accommodation

  • 2 nights in tents
  • 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes

Taxes and Fees

  • All taxes and fees included in the price

Ayni Adventure Difference

  • Ethical and responsible treatment of porters
  • Gender equality in the team
  • Sustainable and responsible tour operator

Not Include

  • Sleeping Bag: Rental available, suitable for temperatures down to -18°C (0°F). US$ 20.00 per person
  • Trekking Poles: Rental of trekking poles with rubber tips for rough terrain. US$ 20.00 per person
  • Lunch in Aguas Calientes and Dinner in Cusco (Day 4): Includes meal options
  • Travel Insurance: Optional
  • Tips for Staff: Tips are appreciated for porters and cooks
  • Additional Costs: May arise due to landslides, weather, itinerary changes, illnesses, pandemics, government policies, strikes, etc.

Recommendation

ESSENTIALS:

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months of validity).
  • Extra money (soles recommended) for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
  • Personal medication.
  • Water bottle or CamelBak (2-3 liters).
  • Sunscreen (SPF 70 or higher).

CLOTHING:

  • Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof).
  • Trekking pants and socks.
  • Thermal pants, warm jacket, and waterproof jacket.
  • Raincoat or poncho, gloves (waterproof or wool).
  • Sun hat, wool hat, neck gaiter or buff.
  • Sunglasses (UV protection).

EQUIPMENT:

  • Medium-sized backpack (15-25 liters) for water.
  • Large plastic bags for organizing.
  • Sleeping bag (-10°C recommended).
  • Towel (small provided).
  • Small bottle of soap.

RECOMMENDED:

  • Camera and charger.
  • Extra or portable battery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days in advance to acclimate and avoid altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been to another high-altitude area, a day of rest in Cusco is still recommended.

Recommended Activities in Cusco:

  • Cusco City Tour
  • Sacred Valley of the Incas
  • Maras Moray Tour
  • Southern Valley
  • Qeswachaka Tour

The informational meetings take place at our Cusco office (or at your hotel) at 5:00 pm, the night before the trek, lasting 30 to 45 minutes. If you are unable to attend, please arrange another time via email, phone, or at the office.

The remaining balance must be paid 2 days before the trek/tour to confirm the reservation. It can be paid in cash (dollars or soles) at our office in Cusco, or via credit/debit card or PAYPAL, with a 5% fee. We do not accept bank checks or traveler’s checks.

You will receive a 60 x 24 x 22 cm duffel bag during the informational session, which will be carried by the porters to each campsite. The maximum allowed weight is 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothing, and other personal items.

You can store your main luggage at our office or at your hotel at no additional cost. Items not needed for the trek can be safely stored at your hotel. Please keep valuables in the safe and get a detailed receipt for your security.

  • Pickup Location: Available only in the Historic Center of Cusco.
  • Pickup Time: Coordinated during the informational session, with a possible variation of 30 to 45 minutes due to traffic.
  • Access Challenges: Some narrow, cobbled streets make luggage transport difficult.
  • Recommendation: Book accommodation with good access to facilitate transportation.

Group treks include people of different physical conditions and ages, so the pace may vary. If the group wishes to modify the route, the guide will decide, after consulting with all participants, whether it is possible.

  • Bus to Aguas Calientes: 25-minute journey, boarding based on arrival time.
  • Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: Duration of 1 hour 45 minutes. The guide will hand over the tickets and you must be at the station 30 minutes before departure.
  • Transfer in Ollantaytambo: A representative from Tunqui Expeditions will take you to Cusco or your hotel, with a journey time of 1 hour 30 minutes.
  • Transport in Cusco: A small vehicle (Hyundai H1 or Sprinter) will be used depending on your hotel’s location for a faster transfer.

Strikes and protests are common in Peru and may affect tours by blocking roads or train tracks. We will try to maintain the original itinerary, even if it means advancing the departure. If it is necessary to cancel or modify the tour, the operations department will coordinate with you. Safety is our priority, and we will make decisions to protect it.

Please pay attention to where you leave your belongings, remember to take everything with you once you leave our transport, tents, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your items during the trek.

TALK TO AN SPECIALIST

One of our specialists will respond to your travel request as soon as possible.

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