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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.
Overview
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. This trek is perfect for travelers looking to explore stunning landscapes, Inca ruins, and tranquil surroundings. Here’s why it’s a must-do trek:
Inca Archaeological Sites: Visit lesser-known Inca ruins like the impressive Runkurakay and the Inca Quarry
Breathtaking Scenery: Trek through beautiful valleys, forests, and past high waterfalls
Peaceful Experience: A quieter route with fewer crowds compared to the Inca Trail, offering a more serene and personal journey
Final Destination: Reach the world-famous Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
This hidden gem in the Cusco region offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to enjoy a less crowded trek while still taking in the rich history and natural beauty of the Andes. The Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu is the perfect choice for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
Itinerary
Itinerary:
Pre-trek briefing
A day or two before your Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 days 2 nights, your guide will meet you at your hotel for a quick briefing. You’ll review the trek details, ask any questions, and ensure you’re ready for the adventure.
Day 1: Cusco – Socma – Charcahuaylla.
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. Once we’re fueled up, we’ll begin our hike through a lush valley dotted with farmhouses and terraced fields.
After around 40 minutes of walking, we’ll arrive at a stunning waterfall. This is the perfect spot to pause, enjoy the cool mist, or even take a refreshing dip under the falls. Following a delicious picnic lunch, we’ll continue our trek 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.
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.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
Accommodations: Camping.
Distance: 11 km (6.8 miles).
Walking Time: Approx. 5 to 6 hours.
Difficulty: Moderate (Upward hike).
Terrain: Dry mountain landscape.
Day 2: Charcahuaylla – Inti Punku – Ancient Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.
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. We’ll hike down for about 2 hours to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), an important Inca site offering spectacular vistas.
Next, we’ll make our way to Choquetacarpo (3,600m/11,880ft), where the descent continues toward the Cachicata Inca Quarry (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.
We’ll enjoy lunch with a panoramic view of the mountains and valley, before continuing our hike downhill for 3 hours until we reach the town of Ollantaytambo. 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.
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).
Bring for the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 Nights:
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:
Daypack (e.g. Eagle Creek Afar Backpack) – to carry your personal essentials.
Original passport.
Travel insurance.
Lighter trekking boots.
2 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.
3 pairs of underwear and 3 pairs of socks.
3 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
Permits are required for your selected start date. The cost of the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days 2 Nights varies based on group size and is valid from March 2025 to January 2026, with prices quoted in USD.
2-3 Trekkers: $469 per person
4-5 Trekkers: $449 per person
6 or more Trekkers: $429 per person
*** Important: The price includes up to 6 kilograms of your personal belongings, which will be carried by the mules. No need to hire an additional porter.
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:
Inka Terra (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$15.00.
Sleeping bag – US$15.00.
Private Tent – US$20.00.
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.
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