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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 more crowded Inca Trail. This trek takes you through stunning landscapes while immersing you in Inca history and culture. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient ruins and experience life in the high Andes.
Recently recognized by National Geographic as one of the top six alternative treks to Machu Picchu, the Inca Quarry Trek provides a less-traveled route to the iconic site, making it perfect for those seeking an authentic adventure.
Book your trek today for an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Overview
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.
Immersive Inca History: Explore ancient quarries, Inca ruins, and learn about the fascinating history of the Inca civilization.
Stunning Scenery: Trek through the beautiful Andes, passing lush valleys, towering mountains, and breathtaking landscapes.
Less Crowded Route: Enjoy a more peaceful, intimate trek, away from the busy Inca Trail, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter experience.
Top Trek Recognition: Recently named one of National Geographic’s Top Six Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu, the Inca Quarry Trek is quickly becoming a popular choice for adventurous travelers.
The Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is the perfect adventure for those seeking an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich journey to Machu Picchu. Book your trek today for a truly unforgettable experience!
Itinerary
Itinerary:
Pre-Trek Briefing
Before your Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights, you’ll have a briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days beforehand. They’ll meet you at your hotel to answer any questions and help with your final preparations.
Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Rayan
Our adventure begins early in the morning as we leave Cusco and drive for 1 hour and 45 minutes to Soqma (3,205 m / 10,512 ft), the starting point of our Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our horsemen, who will join us on this journey, helping carry gear and supplies.
We’ll start with a moderate 1 ¾ hour walk to the Perolniyoc Cascade Lookout, a fantastic spot for photos and a quick snack break. The stunning waterfall here is a highlight of the day. After enjoying the views, we’ll continue for another 35 minutes to the Inca site of Perolniyoc, where we’ll take a brief tour to learn about the area’s history. This will also be our lunch stop.
After a relaxing lunch, we’ll embark on a 45-minute ascent to reach our campsite at Rayan (3,700 m / 12,136 ft), where we will settle in for the night.
Meals: Lunch/Dinner.
Accommodations: Camping.
Minimum altitude: 3,205 m / 10,512 ft.
Maximum altitude: 3,700 m / 12,136 ft.
Distance to walk: 8 km / 5 miles.
Approximate walking time: 3 to 4 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Area: Dry Mountain.
Day 2: Rayan – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo
After an early breakfast, we’ll begin our ascent toward the first pass of the trek, Puccaqasa (4,370 m / 14,333 ft). The 3-hour climb will reward us with incredible panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, providing the perfect opportunity for photos and appreciation of the surrounding beauty.
We’ll then descend for 25 minutes to reach our lunch spot, where we can recharge for the next leg of the trek. Following lunch, we’ll hike for 2 hours through a series of ascents and descents, before reaching the highest pass of the trek, Kuychicassa (4,457 m / 14,619 ft). Here, we’ll take a moment to rest and enjoy the stunning views.
From the pass, we’ll descend for 2 ½ hours to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), a spectacular vantage point offering views of Mount Veronica (5,682 m / 18,637 ft) and the Sacred Valley below. This is a perfect spot to reflect on the journey so far.
Our campsite is just 30 minutes downhill from Inti Punku, at Choquetacarpo (3,600 m / 11,808 ft), where we’ll rest for the night.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.
Accommodations: Camping.
Minimum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,808 ft.
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
After a nourishing breakfast, we’ll begin our descent with a 1-hour downhill hike to the Cachiqata Quarry (3,525 m / 11,562 ft), where we’ll explore the fascinating stone-cutting site once used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo. Here, you’ll learn about the interrupted stonework caused by the Spanish conquest.
From the quarry, we’ll continue our descent for 3 hours to reach Ollantaytambo (2,840 m / 9,315 ft). We’ll take a well-deserved break and enjoy a delicious lunch in Ollantaytambo before continuing our journey.
In the afternoon, we’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel, where you can relax and unwind. If time permits, take a dip in the town’s natural hot springs, a perfect way to rejuvenate after the day’s trek, before enjoying dinner.
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.
Accommodations: Hotel.
Minimum altitude: 2,840 m / 9,315 ft.
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 – Cusco
On the final day of your trek, you’ll rise early to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu. At 5:00 a.m., we’ll head directly to the bus line to catch the first buses up to the ancient citadel.
As we arrive at the entrance, you’ll witness the sky gradually light up over Machu Picchu, and we’ll ascend to the top, soaking in the stunning views of the city. If the weather is clear, the sunrise over the ruins is a truly magical and unforgettable moment.
Once inside, your expert guide will take you on a 2-3 hour tour of the site, where you’ll visit key landmarks such as the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Palace, the Main Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Sun Dial. This immersive experience will give you a deeper understanding of the site’s history and significance.
For those who have booked a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your guide will coordinate the timing of your visit to the main site to ensure a smooth experience. If you’re not hiking the mountains, there are still several optional activities to enjoy (not included in the price).
Train Back to Cusco: In the afternoon, you’ll return to the Aguas Calientes train station to board your train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, we’ll transfer you by car to your hotel in Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast.
Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m (6,691 ft).
Highest Elevation: 2,440 m (8,052 ft).
Inclusions
Included:
Professional English-speaking guide.
Private bus to the trailhead.
Machu Picchu entrance fees.
Two-person tents with ample space for backpacks.
Sleeping mattress.
Meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks).
High-energy food, rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking.
Organic vegetables and fresh ingredients used in meals.
Vegetarian and special diet options available.
Boiled and filtered cold water (starting after lunch on day 1).
Round-trip expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
1-night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
Two-way bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back.
Bus from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Snacks and energy bars.
Horse support to carry tents and cooking equipment.
6 kg (13 lb) luggage allowance carried by horses.
Biodegradable soap.
First aid kit.
Oxygen bottle.
Not included:
Sleeping bags (high-quality, insulated for comfort).
Trekking poles.
Breakfast on the first morning of the trek.
Beverage of choice (Coca-Cola, mineral water, or beer) with your dinner in Aguas Calientes on day 3.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the final day.
Entrance to the thermal springs in Aguas Calientes.
Travel insurance.
Tips for the guide, cook, and wranglers (appreciation for their hard work).
What you need 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.
Extra money (for souvenirs, drinks, and tips for your trek staff).
Additional Notes:
Make sure to pack light and efficiently as you’ll only carry a small daypack during the trek.
Ensure your gear is suitable for both cold and warm conditions, as temperatures can vary widely.
Don’t forget your camera—there will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way!
Prices
The Inca Quarry Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is available for departure any day of the week, from March through January. Please note that we do not operate this trek in February due to the rainy season and necessary route maintenance.
Group Price: $589 per person
* We need a minimum of 2 people to run the tour. We guarantee that your tour will be limited to a maximum of 8 people.
Discounts:
18 to 25 years old: $25 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
Under 18 years old: $25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:
Inkaterra (5 star hotel) – US $480 per person per night (double occupancy).
Hotel El Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $145 per person per night (double occupancy).
Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).
Train Upgrades:
Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.
Rentals:
Hiking poles – US$20.00
Sleeping bag – US$25.00
Private Tent – US$30.00
Terms & Conditions
By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.
Booking:
Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.
Cancellations:
Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.
Cancellation By
Terms
91 days or more before departure
we will retain 50% of your deposit.
90 – 30 days before departure
we will retain 75% of the total tour cost.
29 – 0 days before departure
we will retain 100% of the total tour cost.
Inca Trail Tours:
Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.
Medical Information:
You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.
Tours and Treks:
All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee. You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
All tours are done in English.
Delays:
Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.
Thank you so much for choosing Cusco Journeys!!!
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