General Introduction

Inca Quarry Highlights

• 🏔 Hidden alternative trek to Machu Picchu through remote Inca trails
• 💦 Visit the stunning Perolniyoc Waterfalls
• 🏛 Explore Ñaupa Iglesia, Inti Punku, and Cachicata Quarry
• 🔥 Enjoy a traditional Andean Pachamanca lunch
• 🚆 Return on the Touristic train with amazing views
• ☀ Guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel

4-Day Inca Quarry Expedition at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Racca – Socma – Korimarca

• Early morning hotel pickup in Cusco
• Scenic drive to Racca, the starting point of the trek
• Visit the mystical Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial site
• Explore Soqma village and the stunning Perolniyoc Waterfalls
• Discover the hidden Rayanpata archaeological site
• Overnight camping at Korimarca surrounded by mountain views

Day 2: Korimarca – Intipunku – Choquetacarpo

• Early breakfast with hot coffee or coca tea
• Challenging ascent to Charkahuaylla Pass (4,450 m)
• Fresh lunch in the middle of the Andean mountains
• Visit Inti Punku, the Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo
• Panoramic views of glaciers and the Sacred Valley
• Overnight camping at Choquetacarpo

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

• Morning hike to the ancient Cachicata Inca Quarry
• Learn about Inca stonework and ancient construction methods
• Traditional Pachamanca earth-oven lunch experience
• Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
• Train ride to Aguas Calientes
• Overnight in a comfortable hotel

Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

• Early bus to Machu Picchu for peaceful morning views
• Entrance included to Machu Picchu Sanctuary
• Guided tour with a professional local guide
• Bus to Aguas Calientes
• Return to Cusco

Why Book This Tour?

• Hidden alternative route away from crowded trekking paths
• Unique visit to the famous Cachicata Inca Quarry
• Small groups for a more personal experience
• Comfortable camping plus hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Travel with a 100% Local Operator
• Professional local guides with deep cultural knowledge

Full Itinerary: 4-Day Cachicata Inca Quarry Path

Day 1: Cusco – Racca – Socma – Korimarca

🚐 Early Morning Pickup from Cusco

Your Cachicata Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu begins with a 7:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel for about two hours toward the peaceful community of Racca in the Sacred Valley.

🏛 Visit the Mystical Ñaupa Iglesia

Our first stop is Ñaupa Iglesia, an enigmatic Inca ceremonial site carved into the mountainside.

🥾 Trek Through Socma & Lunch in Nature

We begin hiking toward the traditional village of Socma. After around two hours of walking, our trekking chef prepares a fresh lunch in nature.

💦 Perolniyoc Waterfall & Korimarca Camp

In the afternoon, we continue hiking to the spectacular Perolniyoc Waterfall, a dramatic 100-meter cascade hidden in the valley. Arriving at our campsite near the ruins of Korimarca.

📍 Day 1 Summary

• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 7 hours
• Camp Elevation: 3,611 m / 11,847 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Korimarca – Intipunku – Choquetacarpo

☕ Morning Coffee & Mountain Ascent

Wake up with hot coca tea or coffee at your tent before starting the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek.

⛰ Climb to Charkahuaylla Pass

After breakfast, we begin a 4-hour ascent to Charkahuaylla Pass (4,450 m / 14,599 ft), the highest point of the route.

🍽 Lunch at Marcacocha Lake

We continue toward the beautiful Marcacocha Lake, where a fresh lunch awaits surrounded by peaceful Andean scenery.

☀ Explore Inti Punku of Ollantaytambo

In the afternoon, we hike to the impressive Inti Punku (Sun Gate) of Ollantaytambo, a hidden viewpoint with breathtaking views of the Veronica Glacier and Sacred Valley landscapes.

⛺ Overnight at Choquetacarpo Camp

After descending, we arrive at our second campsite in Choquetacarpo, where dinner and mountain silence create the perfect ending to the day.

📍 Day 2 Summary

• Distance: 15 km / 9.5 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 8 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 4,450 m / 14,599 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

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

🌄 Sunrise at Camp

Enjoy sunrise over the mountains with your morning coffee before continuing toward one of the most important archaeological sites of the trek.

🏛 Discover the Cachicata Inca Quarry

A 3-hour hike takes us to Cachicata Quarry, the largest Inca stone quarry used to build Ollantaytambo.

🔥 Traditional Pachamanca Lunch

We descend along the ancient stone-dragging path to the local community of Cachicata, where we enjoy a traditional Pachamanca barbecue, one of the most authentic culinary experiences of the Andes.

🚆 Train to Aguas Calientes

Later, we visit the historic streets of Ollantaytambo before boarding the evening train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

📍 Day 3 Summary

• Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours
• Town Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

☀ Early Morning Visit to Machu Picchu

After breakfast, we take the first shuttle bus to the world wonder of Machu Picchu, arriving early for peaceful views and the best morning atmosphere.

🏛 Guided Tour of the Lost City of the Incas

Your professional guide leads a complete visit through Circuit 2, exploring the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and royal sectors of the citadel.

⛰ Optional Extra Hike

If booked in advance, you may also choose to climb:

• Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Machu Picchu Mountain

 Train Return to Cusco

We take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some free time before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transportation returns you safely to your hotel in Cusco, with arrival around 7:30 PM.

Day 4 Summary

• Guided Tour Duration: 2 hours approx
• Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
• Meals Included: Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Return: Private Transfer to Cusco

Included

• Safety briefing before departure
• Hotel pickups and drop-offs
• Soqma community entrance fee
• Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entry ticket
• Round-trip bus tickets to the citadel
• Touristic train tickets (round trip)
• Expert English-speaking guide
• Professional camping gear
• Foam mats, pillows, blankets, and hot water bags
• Duffle bag for 7kg of personal belongings
• Support horses for gear and food
• Emergency horse for hikers in need
• Mountain chef and support crew
• 2 nights of mountain camping
• 1 night in a 3-star hotel (Aguas Calientes)
• Pachamanca feast in Cachicata
• 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
• Daily trekking snacks
• Safety kit: Oxygen, satellite phone, first aid

Not Included

• Sleeping bags
• Trekking poles
• Lunch on last day
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets
• Travel insurance coverage
• Tips
• Hotel in Cusco

Rentals & Upgrades for an extra cost

• Option to upgrade to Panoramic train (only one way – return train).
• Huayna Picchu Mountain (2‑hour and half round‑trip hike).
• Machu Picchu Mountain (3‑hour round‑trip hike).
• Sleeping bag
• Trekking poles

Suggested Packing List – Cachicata Inca Quarry Trek

This route takes you through high Andean passes, remote Inca trails, mountain campsites, and finally to the magical citadel of Machu Picchu—so packing smart is essential. Since this is a multi-day trekking adventure, we recommend bringing only what you truly need for the hike.

🎒 Duffel Bag & Daypack Information

To make your 4-day trekking experience to Machu Picchu more comfortable, The Andean Way provides a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing.

– Duffel Bag (7 kg / 15 lb limit)

This bag is carried by our trekking team between campsites, so you will only have access to it in the evenings.

Use it for:

• Extra clothing
• Toiletries
• Sleeping bag
• Camp shoes
• Warm layers

– Daypack (Recommended 25–35L / Max 5 kg)

This is the backpack you carry during the hike each day. Keep it light but practical, since it will accompany you throughout the trek.

• Water
• Snacks
• Sunscreen
• Camera
• Rain jacket
• Extra clothing layers
• Personal essentials

✅ Essential Items

The Cachicata Inca Quarry Trek passes through remote mountain areas with no shops, weak phone signal, and limited access to supplies.

• Original physical passport
• Local currency (Peruvian Soles)
• Rain jacket or poncho
• Power bank / portable charger
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Basic toiletries
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system

👕 Recommended Clothing

Weather changes quickly on this alternative trek to Machu Picchu, especially between high mountain passes and warmer Sacred Valley sections.

• High-top trekking boots
• Quality hiking socks
• Thermal base layers
• Breathable trekking shirts
• Quick-dry trekking pants
• Warm fleece jacket
• Comfortable underwear
• Light sleepwear for campsites

🎒 What to Carry in Your Daypack

Remember: large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu, so a medium trekking daypack is ideal.

• Waterproof / windproof jacket
• Sun hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Warm beanie
• Gloves
• Headlamp
• Insect repellent
• Camera + spare batteries
• Light snacks
• Trekking poles
• Personal medications

🧳 What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag

These items will be available once you arrive at camp.

• Camp sandals or light shoes
• Warm down jacket
• Long-sleeve shirts
• Extra trekking clothes
• Sleeping bag
• Personal toiletries
• Extra socks and underwear

Pro Trekking Tip

Packing correctly helps you enjoy the full experience from the waterfalls of Perolniyoc to the ancient stone quarries of the Incas and finally the unforgettable sunrise at Machu Picchu. Travel light, hike smart, and let the adventure begin.

Practical Information: Cachicata Inca Quarry Trek

Planning your Cachicata Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is more than logistics—it’s about understanding the journey you’re about to live. This alternative trek blends history, culture, and raw Andean landscapes, offering a quieter and more authentic route to one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

🆚 Inca Trail vs Quarry Trail – Which Trek is Right for You?

When choosing between the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Cachicata Quarry Trail, the difference lies in experience, availability, and crowd levels.

– Classic Inca Trail

• Requires booking 4–5 months in advance due to limited permits
• Closes every February for maintenance
• Famous for entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku)
• More crowded, especially in peak season

– Cachicata Quarry Trail (Alternative Trek to Machu Picchu)

• Available year-round, no government permits required
• More off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer tourists
• Explores hidden Inca sites, waterfalls, and ancient quarries
• Ends in Ollantaytambo before the scenic train to Machu Picchu
• Ideal for travelers seeking a less crowded, cultural trekking experience in Peru

👉 If you’re looking for a unique, peaceful, and immersive trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco, the Quarry Trail is one of the best alternatives available.

☀️ The Two Sun Gates – A Unique Perspective

One of the highlights of this route is visiting the Intipunku of Ollantaytambo, often overlooked by traditional routes.

• This Sun Gate near the Cachicata Quarry served as an ancient Inca checkpoint
• Offers breathtaking views of Mount Verónica and the Sacred Valley
• Provides a different historical perspective compared to the famous Machu Picchu Sun Gate

⛰️ Acclimatization & Altitude Tips

Altitude is one of the most important factors when doing any multi-day trek in Cusco and the Andes.

• Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days before your trek
• Take light tours such as the Sacred Valley or Cusco City Tour
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before hiking
• Eat light meals and rest well

🥾 Trek Difficulty – What to Expect

This trek is rated as moderate difficulty, making it accessible to most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.

• Includes high-altitude passes and gradual ascents
• Some steep sections, especially on Day 2
• Less physically demanding than the Classic Inca Trail
• Balanced mix of hiking, culture, and scenic exploration

🎟 Machu Picchu Entry Circuits

Your experience at Machu Picchu depends on the official circuit assigned at booking.

• Circuit 1: Best panoramic views and classic photos
• Circuit 2: The most comprehensive visit (upper + lower sections)
• Circuit 3: Focus on lower areas and access to mountain hikes

The following items are not allowed inside Machu Picchu:

• Pets (except certified assistance dogs)
• Alcohol or drugs
• Weapons or hazardous items
• Drones (without special permits)
• Professional tripods
• Climbing or sitting on archaeological structures

Respecting these rules helps preserve the sanctuary for future travelers.

 Final Travel Advice

If you’re searching for an authentic trekking experience in Peru, far from the crowds but rich in history and landscapes, this journey is designed for you.

1. How difficult is the Cachicata Quarry Trek?

This is considered a moderate trekking route in Cusco. It includes some steep ascents and high-altitude sections, but it is generally easier than the Classic Inca Trail. A basic fitness level is recommended.

2. How far in advance should I book this trek?

We recommend booking your Cachicata Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu at least 2–3 months in advance, especially during the dry season (April to October), to ensure availability of Machu Picchu tickets and train services.

3. What is the best time to do the Cachicata Quarry Trail?

The best time for this trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco is during the dry season (April to October), when you’ll enjoy clear skies and better trail conditions. The rainy season (November to March) is greener but can be more challenging.

4. Is altitude sickness a concern on this trek?

Yes, since the trek reaches high elevations, altitude acclimatization in Cusco is essential. We recommend arriving 2–3 days before your trek, staying hydrated, and taking it easy before starting the hike.

5. Are there hotels or camping during the trek?

During the Cachicata Quarry Trek, you will:

• Camp for the first 2 nights with full equipment
• Stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes on the final night

6. Is this trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Cachicata Quarry Trail is suitable for beginners with good physical condition. It’s a great option if you want a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail with a balanced level of challenge.

7. Is there internet or phone signal during the trek?

No. Most of the Cachicata trekking route has no phone signal or Wi-Fi, allowing you to fully disconnect and enjoy the Andean landscapes.

8. Is a guide necessary?

Highly recommended for safety, navigation, and historical context. The Andean Way provides a professional guide for the entire trip, including the Machu Picchu tour.

9. What is Pachamanca?

It is a traditional Andean cooking technique where food (meat and tubers) is baked underground using heated stones. It is a cultural ritual of gratitude to the earth («Pacha»).