Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

The Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights offers a unique and peaceful alternative to the crowded Inca Trail. This trek combines stunning landscapes, fascinating Inca history, and a chance to experience local Andean culture, making it the perfect choice for those looking for an authentic journey to Machu Picchu.

Beyond its spectacular mountain scenery, the Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights offers a deeper exploration of the Peruvian Andes, combining ancient archaeological sites, high mountain passes, and authentic Andean culture.

From the beautiful Perolniyoc ruins and the breathtaking views at Inti Punku to the historic Cachiqata Quarry and the unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, every day reveals a different side of the Inca world, creating one of Peru’s most complete and rewarding multi-day trekking experiences.

⭐ Highlights

• Hike one of Peru’s most scenic alternative routes to Machu Picchu.
• Discover the fascinating Cachiqata Quarry, where the Incas carved stones for Ollantaytambo.
• Visit the archaeological sites of Perolniyoc and Inti Punku.
• Cross spectacular high mountain passes with panoramic views of the Andes.
• Experience authentic Andean culture while hiking through remote mountain communities.
• Enjoy peaceful trails with far fewer hikers than many traditional trekking routes.
• Travel through the historic Inca town of Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes.
• Explore the magnificent Machu Picchu with an experienced local guide.

Inca Quarry at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc – Rayan

Travel from Cusco to the traditional community of Soqma before beginning your hike through beautiful valleys, waterfalls, and ancient Inca sites. Visit the impressive archaeological complex of Perolniyoc and continue to the peaceful campsite at Rayan, surrounded by spectacular Andean scenery.

Day 2: Rayan – Puccaqasa – Kuychicassa – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo

Enjoy one of the most rewarding days of the trek as you cross two spectacular mountain passes with breathtaking panoramic views. Continue to the famous Inti Punku (Sun Gate) before descending to the peaceful campsite at Choquetacarpo, nestled in the heart of the Andes.

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

Descend through spectacular mountain landscapes to the remarkable Cachiqata Quarry, where you’ll discover the impressive stonework of the Incas. Continue to Ollantaytambo before boarding the scenic train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Start the day with an early visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu, where your guide will reveal the history and secrets of the Lost City of the Incas. After free time to continue exploring, return by train to Ollantaytambo before transferring back to Cusco.

Why Choose This Trek 

• Experience one of Peru’s most rewarding off-the-beaten-path trekking adventures.
• Discover remarkable archaeological sites rarely visited by most travelers.
• Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery throughout the entire journey.
• Hike through peaceful Andean landscapes away from the busiest trekking routes.
• Learn about Inca engineering at the ancient Cachiqata Quarry.
• Spend your final night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Travel with experienced local guides who share the history and traditions of the Andes.
• Perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable multi-day trek to Machu Picchu.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan

Highlight of the Day: Explore the beautiful Perolniyoc archaeological site while hiking through waterfalls, ancient terraces, and breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Our adventure begins early in the morning as we depart from Cusco on a scenic 1 hour and 45-minute drive to Soqma (3,205 m / 10,512 ft), the official starting point of the Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights, one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, we’ll meet our experienced horsemen, who will accompany us throughout this Andean trekking adventure, carrying camping equipment and supplies to ensure a comfortable hike.

We begin our hike with a moderate 1¾-hour walk toward the Perolniyoc Cascade Lookout, a breathtaking viewpoint and one of the most photogenic spots on the Inca Quarry route. The impressive waterfall and surrounding Andean scenery make this an ideal place for photos and a short break.

After enjoying the views, we continue hiking for approximately 35 minutes to reach the Inca archaeological site of Perolniyoc, an important historical stop along this off-the-beaten-path trek. Here, we’ll explore the ruins and learn about their significance in Inca history before enjoying a well-deserved lunch surrounded by mountain landscapes.

In the afternoon, we begin a gradual 45-minute uphill hike to our campsite at Rayan (3,700 m / 12,136 ft). This high-altitude campsite offers panoramic views of the Andes and provides a peaceful setting to rest and acclimatize, marking a rewarding first day on our Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu.

• Meals: Lunch/Dinner.
• Accommodations: Camping.
• Maximum altitude: 3,700 m / 12,136 ft.
• Distance to walk: 8 km / 5 miles.
• Approximate walking time: 3 to 4 hours.
• Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 2: Rayan – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo

Highlight of the Day: Cross the spectacular mountain passes of Puccaqasa and Kuychicassa before enjoying unforgettable panoramic views from Inti Punku.

After an early breakfast, we begin our ascent toward the first high-altitude mountain pass, Puccaqasa (4,370 m / 14,333 ft).

This demanding Andean hiking section is one of the most rewarding moments of this alternative trekking route in the Sacred Valley, offering spectacular panoramic views, dramatic mountain scenery, and vast open landscapes—perfect for outdoor photography and quiet contemplation.

From the summit, we descend for approximately 25 minutes to our remote lunch area, where we’ll rest and refuel before continuing along this off-the-beaten-path trail, far from the crowds of traditional routes.

After lunch, the journey continues with a 2-hour hike through rolling alpine terrain, combining gentle ascents and descents as we approach the highest pass of the route, Kuychicassa (4,457 m / 14,619 ft). This section highlights the essence of a true high-Andes adventure, surrounded by untouched landscapes and a profound sense of solitude.

From the pass, we begin a scenic 2½-hour descent toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate), one of the most iconic Sacred Valley viewpoints. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Veronica (5,682 m / 18,637 ft) and the expansive valley below—one of the most emotionally rewarding moments of the trek.

Our campsite is located just 30 minutes downhill from Inti Punku at Choquetacarpo (3,600 m / 11,808 ft). Set within a peaceful mountain environment, this campsite offers an ideal setting for acclimatization, rest, and preparation for the next day of this immersive Andean trekking experience.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.
• Accommodations: Camping.
• Maximum altitude: 4,457 m / 14,619 ft.
• Distance to walk: 13 km / 8 miles.
• Approximate walking time: 8 to 9 hours.
• Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 3: Choquetacarpo – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the Day: Discover the fascinating Cachiqata Quarry, where the Incas carved enormous stones for the construction of Ollantaytambo.

After a nourishing Andean breakfast, we begin our descent with a 1-hour downhill hike toward the Cachiqata Quarry (3,525 m / 11,562 ft), one of the most important Inca stone quarry sites in the Sacred Valley.

This historic archaeological area offers insight into Inca engineering techniques and the unfinished stonework originally intended for the construction of Ollantaytambo, abandoned after the Spanish conquest.

From the quarry, we continue our descent for approximately 3 hours along an ancient Inca route, gradually reaching the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo (2,840 m / 9,315 ft), surrounded by terraced mountainsides and well-preserved Inca architecture.

After a well-deserved rest and a traditional lunch in Ollantaytambo, we continue in the afternoon with a scenic train ride through the Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.

After checking into your hotel accommodation, you’ll have time to relax and unwind, with the option to visit the natural hot springs before enjoying dinner.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.
• Accommodations: Hotel.
• Maximum altitude: 3,525 m / 11,562 ft.
• Distance to walk: 11 km / 7 miles.
• Approximate walking time: 4 hours.
• Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Highlight of the Day: Experience the unforgettable beauty of Machu Picchu during a guided tour of one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures.

Start the day early with breakfast at your hotel before taking one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, allowing you to enter the site early in the morning.

Upon arrival, your guide will provide a two-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel, covering its most important areas and explaining its history, architecture, and function. Visit the three main sectors of the site: the agricultural terraces, the residential zone, and the religious area, gaining a clear understanding of how the Inca civilization organized life at this mountain sanctuary.

After the guided visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch (not included). Depending on your train schedule, you may explore the town, visit the local market, stop at the museum, or relax in the hot springs.

In the afternoon, board your train and travel along the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley, passing through narrow canyons and scenic landscapes. During the journey, you may see the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, located high on the mountainside.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of the journey.

Important Note: Machu Picchu archeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The mountain requires a separate permit for those wishing to hike it. If you are interested in adding this experience, please let us know in advance so we can arrange it for you.

• Meals: Breakfast.
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m (6,691 ft).
• Highest Elevation: 2,440 m (8,052 ft).

✅ Included

• Pre-departure briefing at your hotel (1–2 days before trek)
• Pick-up from your hotel and private transport to Soqma
• Bilingual English-speaking tour guide (additional guide for groups of 8+)
• Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
• Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• One night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• One-way bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
• Four-season camping tent
• Comfortable foam sleeping mattress
• Kitchen tent
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Professional chef
• Wranglers and horses for carrying all group gear (food, tents, tables, etc.)
• Personal duffel bag
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
• Hot water for washing each day
• Daily boiled and cold water to refill bottles
• Emergency oxygen bottle
• First Aid Kit
• All local taxes.

❌ Not Included

• Breakfast on Day 1
• Lunch and dinner on Day 3 (in Aguas Calientes)
• Sleeping bag (available for rent)
• Trekking poles (available for rent).
• Entrance to the Aguas Calientes hot springs.
• Personal snacks and hydration supplements.
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permit (optional).
• Personal travel insurance.
• Tips for your guide, cook, and trekking staff (optional but appreciated).
• Tips for guide, cook, and porters (optional but appreciated)

🎒 What to Bring

The Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is a high-altitude adventure, and proper preparation is essential. Since the trek begins early in the morning, it’s important to pack thoughtfully. Here’s a list of recommended items to ensure a comfortable and successful trek:

• Daypack (e.g. Eagle Creek Afar Backpack) – to carry your personal essentials.
• Original passport.
• Travel insurance.
• Lighter trekking boots.
• 3 pairs of trekking pants.
• Clothing layers to adapt to varying temperatures, especially at night.
• Rain jacket.
• Warm winter jacket.
• Thermals: wool socks, gloves, scarf, and woolen hat.
• 4 pairs of underwear and 3 pairs of socks.
• 4 t-shirts and 2 long-sleeve shirts.
• Lightweight sleeping bag liner.
• Travel-size tissues and wet wipes.
• Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
• Bug spray.
• Reusable water container or hydration pack (Camelbak or similar).
• Camera and film.
• Headlamp.
• Bandages or moleskin.
• Personal toiletries.
• Medication.
• Plastic bags.
• Lip balm.
• Sunglasses.
• Portable charger or power bank.
• Personal medications.
• Extra money (for souvenirs, drinks, and tips for your trek staff).

Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights, subject to availability.

Price: USD $619 per person

✔ Small-group experience for greater comfort and personalized service
✔ Professional guides and full trekking logistics included

⚠️ Limited availability due to Machu Picchu Fee. Early booking is highly recommended.

Private Service

A more personalized experience with flexible pacing and tailored logistics.

• 2 Persons: $689 per person
• 3 Persons: $659 per person
• 4 Persons: $629 per person
• 5 Persons: $609 per person
• 6 or more Persons: $589 per person

* All our tours are priced in US dollars.

Booking and Payment

To confirm your reservation for the Inca Quarry Trek, a deposit is required in advance.

• Deposit: USD 40% per person (to secure your spot)
• Balance: The remaining amount can be paid online or in Cusco before the trek

We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer another payment method, feel free to contact us for assistance.

Discounts

• Ages 18 to 25: $25 USD discount (valid student ID required)
• Under 18 years old: $25 USD discount
• Under 11 years old: $30 USD discount

Optional Extras (must be booked in advance)

• Machu Picchu Mountain: $75 USD
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD

Hotel Upgrades (per person / per night)

• Inkaterra (5-star hotel): $215 per person per night
• El Mapi (4-star hotel): $105 per person per night
• Hotel Santuario (3-star+): $65 per person per night

Train Upgrades

• Vistadome train: $65 USD per trip (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
• Hiram Bingham train: $585 USD per trip (Aguas Calientes – Poroy)

Equipment Rental

• Hiking poles: $20 USD
• Sleeping bag: $25 USD
• Private tent: $30 USD

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights

1.- Why choose the Inca Quarry Trek instead of the classic Inca Trail?

The Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is a powerful alternative for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu through a quieter, more exclusive route. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, this trek avoids heavy foot traffic while still offering spectacular Andean landscapes, authentic Inca ruins, and cultural immersion, creating a more personal and meaningful journey.

2.- What type of landscapes can I expect during the trek?

Throughout the trek, travelers experience a wide variety of high-Andean ecosystems. In addition, the route passes through lush valleys, dramatic mountain passes, alpine plains, waterfalls, and panoramic Sacred Valley viewpoints. Consequently, each day feels visually different, making this one of the most scenically diverse alternative treks in the Cusco region.

3.- How physically demanding is the Inca Quarry Trek?

The trek is considered moderate, making it ideal for travelers with basic hiking experience. However, it does include high-altitude passes and sustained ascents. For this reason, the itinerary is carefully designed to allow proper acclimatization, ensuring a challenging yet balanced adventure that remains accessible for most active travelers.

4.- What makes the Cachiqata Quarry an important stop on this trek?

The Cachiqata Quarry is a historically significant site where the Incas extracted and shaped massive stones for the construction of Ollantaytambo. Visiting this area allows travelers to understand Inca stone-working mastery, transportation techniques, and the historical events that led to the abandonment of this impressive quarry after the Spanish arrival.

5.- Is this trek suitable for travelers interested in history and culture?

Absolutely. The Inca Quarry Trek is deeply rooted in Inca archaeology and Andean cultural heritage, offering access to ancient ruins, ceremonial sites, and traditional villages. It is especially appealing to travelers who value historical context and cultural storytelling alongside physical adventure.

6.- How does this trek support a more authentic Andean experience?

By following remote mountain paths and less-traveled valleys, this trek provides genuine interaction with local Andean communities and landscapes untouched by mass tourism. Travelers gain insight into traditional lifestyles, rural customs, and the spiritual connection between the Andean people and their environment.

7.- What is special about reaching Inti Punku on this route?

Reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate) is one of the most rewarding moments of the trek. From this point, travelers enjoy expansive views of Mount Veronica and the Sacred Valley. Consequently, this viewpoint becomes a moment of reflection, marking both physical achievement and spiritual connection to the Inca landscape.

8.- How does the trek connect to Machu Picchu at the end?

After completing the trekking portion and descending into Ollantaytambo, the journey continues by scenic train through the Urubamba Valley to Aguas Calientes. The following day includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu, ensuring a seamless transition from high-Andean trekking to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites.

9.- Is the Inca Quarry Trek worth it?

Absolutely. The Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights is one of Peru’s most rewarding multi-day hiking adventures, combining spectacular mountain scenery, ancient Inca archaeological sites, authentic Andean culture, and a memorable visit to Machu Picchu. Its peaceful trails and rich historical significance make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable trekking experience beyond the traditional routes.

10.- Who is the Inca Quarry Trek best suited for?

This trek is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Andean adventure that combines moderate physical challenge, Inca history, breathtaking scenery, and a crowd-free route. It is especially recommended for those who value quality, exclusivity, and meaningful travel experiences over mass tourism.

Travel Information

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. This guide includes the most important information to help you prepare for your adventure, from altitude acclimatization and luggage storage to Machu Picchu entry procedures and useful travel tips.

Please take a few minutes to read the following information before your trek. Proper preparation will help you enjoy every stage of your journey with confidence while making the most of this unforgettable experience in the Peruvian Andes.

Briefing Before the Trek

All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco at approximately 5:00 PM, one or two days before your trek begins. The meeting lasts around 30 to 45 minutes and is an important part of your preparation.

During the briefing, your guide will review the itinerary, provide your duffel bag, explain important trekking information, and answer any questions you may have before your adventure begins.

Acclimatization in Cusco

Proper acclimatization is essential before starting the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu. Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,152 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the altitude.

We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek. Staying well hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding excessive alcohol will help reduce the risk of altitude sickness and make your trekking experience much more enjoyable.

What to Do Before Your Trek

During your acclimatization days, we recommend exploring some of Cusco’s nearby attractions before beginning your trek.

• Cusco City Tour
• Sacred Valley Tour
• Moray and Maras Tour
• Q’eswachaka Inca Bridge Tour
• Humantay Lake Tour

These excursions are excellent for adjusting to the altitude while discovering Peru’s fascinating history, breathtaking scenery, and living Andean culture.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please complete the payment at least two days before your trek begins to confirm your reservation.

Whenever possible, we recommend paying the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. Several ATMs are available along Avenida El Sol if you need to withdraw cash.

Credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal are also accepted; however, a 5% service fee applies to electronic payments.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive your duffel bag during the briefing.

Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in)

Maximum Weight: 6 kg (13 lb), including your clothing, sleeping bag, and personal belongings.

Our trekking team will transport your duffel bag between camps, allowing you to hike comfortably with only a small daypack.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu currently operates with timed entrance tickets and designated visitor circuits to help preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The assigned circuit and entrance time for the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu depend on ticket availability and the regulations established by the Ministry of Culture.

If you’d like to visit an additional circuit or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, please let us know when booking. Additional permits are subject to availability and extra cost.

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes, demonstrations, or road closures may occur in Peru and are beyond our control.

If any unexpected situation affects your itinerary, our operations team will make every reasonable effort to provide suitable alternatives while prioritizing your safety, comfort, and overall travel experience.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property.