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Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days / 2 Nights
The Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 Nights is one of the newest trekking routes in the Cusco region, located near Ollantaytambo. This trek offers a unique journey through beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, Inca ruins, and stunning landscapes.
With a moderate difficulty level, the Inca Quarry Trek is a great option for less experienced trekkers, making it more accessible than some of the more challenging routes. It’s also a fantastic choice for those looking to avoid crowds, as this trail remains relatively quiet compared to other popular treks.
In short, the Inca Quarry Trek provides an ideal blend of adventure and tranquility, perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience before reaching the famous Machu Picchu.
This trek also offers amazing opportunities for photography and connecting with nature. TInca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days / 2 Nightsravelers can enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by Andean landscapes and historical sites along the route.
The Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 days 2 nights is one of the most exciting and scenic trekking routes in the Cusco region, offering an off-the-beaten-path alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. Beyond the spectacular mountain scenery, the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Cusco’s least-visited trekking routes while discovering the ancient Cachicata Quarry, impressive Inca archaeological sites, and traditional Andean communities. As an excellent alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, this adventure combines history, nature, and authentic cultural experiences before culminating with a guided visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu. Travel from Cusco to the traditional village of Socma before beginning your hike through waterfalls, ancient Inca terraces, and beautiful Andean landscapes. Explore the archaeological site of Qorimarca while learning about its fascinating history. Continue to the peaceful campsite at Rayan, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. Cross the impressive Huayna Negra Pass, the highest point of the trek, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes. Continue to Inti Punku and the remarkable Cachicata Quarry, where the Incas carved massive stones for Ollantaytambo. Descend to Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay. 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. Enjoy free time to continue exploring or take photographs before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and transferring back to Cusco.
Highlight of the Day: Hike through beautiful Andean landscapes while discovering the fascinating archaeological site of Qorimarca before camping beneath the stars. The Inca Quarry Trek begins with an early pick-up from your hotel or hostel at 5:30 a.m. From there, we will drive for about 1.5 hours to the small village of Socma, where we’ll stop for breakfast and meet our horseman before starting this unforgettable Machu Picchu hike experience. Once we’re fueled up, we’ll begin our trek through a lush valley dotted with farmhouses and terraced fields — the perfect introduction to the Andes before continuing your Machu Picchu trip. After around 40 minutes of walking, we’ll arrive at a stunning waterfall, an ideal place to pause, enjoy the cool mist, and even take a refreshing dip under the falls. Following a delicious picnic lunch, we’ll continue hiking for another hour to explore the lesser-known Inca site of Qorimarca. Located high on a shelf above the Socma Valley, Qorimarca was likely built to oversee agricultural activities in the region and offers insight into Inca life before the time of Machu Picchu. From here, we’ll begin a 3-hour uphill hike to reach our first campsite at Charcahuaylla, where we’ll set up camp for the night and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery — a memorable part of your Machu Picchu group tour adventure. Highlight of the Day: Cross the spectacular Huayna Negra Pass and explore the historic Cachicata Quarry, where the Incas shaped massive stones for Ollantaytambo. After breakfast, we’ll continue our trek for 1.5 hours across the high plateau to reach Huayna Negra Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,300m (14,190ft). From here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the valley below before we begin our descent one of the most rewarding moments of any Machu Picchu hike. We’ll hike down for about 2 hours to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), an important Inca site offering spectacular vistas and a meaningful stop on many Machu Picchu trips. Next, we’ll make our way to Choquetacarpo (3,600m/11,880ft), where the descent continues toward the Inca Quarry or Cachicata (3,420m/11,286ft). This quarry was used by the Incas to supply stones for the construction of Ollantaytambo. Here, you’ll see large unfinished stones and abandoned construction projects that provide a fascinating glimpse into the Incan building process and the history surrounding the Machu Picchu region. We’ll enjoy lunch with a panoramic view of the mountains and valley before continuing our hike downhill for 3 hours until Ollantaytambo Town. You’ll have some free time to explore this historic town, with its well-preserved Inca ruins and charming streets. In the evening, we’ll catch the 7:00 p.m. train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Once there, you’ll have a late dinner at a local restaurant and discuss the plans for visiting Machu Picchu with your guide. If preferred, you can upgrade your accommodation to a hotel for added comfort during your stay in Aguas Calientes, making your Machu Picchu trip even more enjoyable. Highlight of the Day: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu during a guided tour of one of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders. Start your morning with an early breakfast before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to see the sunrise over the Inca citadel a highlight of any Machu Picchu hike and one of the most unforgettable moments of Machu Picchu trips. Once inside, your professional guide will lead a two-hour tour through the most important sectors of the site, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Plaza, and the Inca Palace. You will also visit the agricultural terraces and other residential and ceremonial areas that reflect the advanced engineering and urban planning of the Inca civilization, making this a key experience for travelers on a Machu Picchu group tour. After the guided visit, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to relax, walk through the town, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included), a perfect break before continuing your Machu Picchu trip. In the afternoon, board the train to Ollantaytambo, traveling along the Urubamba River surrounded by mountains and Inca terraces. Upon arrival, you will continue your journey by tourist bus back to Cusco, concluding an unforgettable day in the heart of the Andes and the Machu Picchu region. Important Note: The Machu Picchu archaeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes require separate permits. Please let us know in advance if you wish to add one to your visit.
The Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 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:
We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Inca Quarry Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights daily, subject to availability. ✔ Small-group experience for greater comfort and personalized service ⚠️ Limited availability due to Machu Picchu Fee. Early booking is highly recommended. A more personalized experience with flexible pacing and tailored logistics. * All our tours are priced in US dollars. To confirm your reservation for the Inca Quarry Trek, a deposit is required in advance. We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer another payment method, feel free to contact us for assistance. The Inca Quarry Trek is a scenic trekking route in the Cusco region that takes travelers through Andean valleys, waterfalls, and ancient Inca sites before reaching Machu Picchu. It is known as a quieter and more authentic Machu Picchu trek compared to classic routes. The Inca Quarry Trail has a moderate difficulty level, making it suitable for travelers with basic hiking experience who want a rewarding Machu Picchu hike without extreme physical demands. Daily ascents are gradual and allow proper acclimatization to Andean altitude. Yes, this route is considered one of the best Inca Trail alternatives, offering fewer crowds, impressive Inca ruins, and diverse landscapes while still ending at Machu Picchu. It is ideal for travelers seeking a more personal trekking experience in Peru. The Inca Quarry Trek is considered a moderate trek and is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. Although some sections involve uphill hiking at high altitude, the itinerary is well paced, allowing plenty of time to rest, enjoy the scenery, and fully appreciate the experience. The Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu offers a quieter and more authentic experience than many popular trekking routes. Along the way, you’ll discover the ancient Cachicata Quarry, impressive archaeological sites, traditional Andean communities, and spectacular mountain scenery before reaching the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu. No, the Inca Quarry route is an off-the-beaten-path trek in Peru, making it ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful hiking experience away from the busy Machu Picchu trails. Most days are spent trekking in quiet and open landscapes. Yes, this guided trek in Peru includes entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, professional guides, and transportation from Aguas Calientes as part of the overall Machu Picchu tour experience. This ensures a smooth and well-organized visit to the site. The highest point of this Cusco trekking tour is Huayna Negra Pass at 4,300 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is also one of the most scenic highlights of the trek. This 3-day Machu Picchu trek is suitable for beginners in good physical condition, as it offers moderate hiking days, proper acclimatization, and experienced local guides. No technical trekking skills are required. The tour includes one night of camping during the trek and a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, allowing travelers to rest comfortably before visiting Machu Picchu. Accommodation can be upgraded upon request. The best time to hike this trekking route in Peru is during the dry season from April to October, when weather conditions are ideal for mountain hiking and Machu Picchu visits. During these months, trail conditions are generally more stable. This route offers a unique combination of adventure, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it one of the best trekking tours in Cusco for travelers seeking a less crowded path to Machu Picchu. It is especially appealing for those who value tranquility and authentic landscapes.
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. 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. 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. During your acclimatization days, we recommend exploring some of Cusco’s nearby attractions before beginning your trek. These excursions are excellent for adjusting to the altitude while discovering Peru’s fascinating history, breathtaking scenery, and living Andean culture. 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. 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. 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 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. The Inca Quarry Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days / 4 Nights is an alternative trekking route to Machu Picchu that combines the remote… 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…Overview
Tour Overview
⭐Highlights
Inca Quarry Trek at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Socma – Qorimarca – Rayan
Day 2: Rayan – Huayna Negra Pass – Inti Punku – Cachicata Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Why Choose This Tour
Itinerary
Inca Quarry Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Socma – Charcahuaylla.
Day 2: Charcahuaylla – Inti Punku – Ancient Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Inclusions
✅ Included
❌ Not Included
🎒 What to Bring
Prices
💰 Prices
Price: USD $509 per person
✔ Professional guides and full trekking logistics included
Private Service
Booking and Payment
Discounts
Optional Extras (must be booked in advance)
Hotel Upgrades (per person / per night)
Train Upgrades
Equipment Rental
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Inca Quarry Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights
1.- What is the Inca Quarry Trek?
2.- How difficult is the Inca Quarry Trail?
3.- Is the Inca Quarry Trek a good alternative to the Inca Trail?
4.- Is the Inca Quarry Trek suitable for beginners?
5.- Why choose the Inca Quarry Trek instead of other treks?
6.- Is this Machu Picchu trek crowded?
7.- Does this trekking tour include entry to Machu Picchu?
8.- What is the highest point of the Inca Quarry route?
9.- Is the Inca Quarry Trek suitable for beginners?
10.- What accommodation is included during the trek?
11.- What is the best time to hike the Inca Quarry Trail?
12.- Why choose the Inca Quarry Trek instead of other Machu Picchu treks?
Before You Go
Travel Information
Briefing Before the Trek
Acclimatization in Cusco
What to Do Before Your Trek
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
Duffel Bag or Canvas Case
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule
Pick-Up of Guests
Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco
Group Tours
Strikes and Demonstrations
Lost Objects
Contact Us
Book Now
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