4 Day Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu

The 4-Day Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is an extraordinary trekking adventure that transports adventurers back in time. Traversing ancient Inca paths, this captivating journey unveils a hidden world of archaeological wonders and breathtaking landscapes. From the historic city of Cusco, trekkers embark on an immersive cultural odyssey, discovering the ingenious engineering of long-forgotten quarries and seeing the rich heritage of the Inca civilization. But the true highlight awaits as the trail culminates with an early morning visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, where the secrets of this legendary lost city are unveiled, leaving travelers with an unparalleled sense of awe and connection to the past.

Key Points

• The Inca Quarry Trail is a 4-day trekking experience that takes travelers to the iconic Machu Picchu site, showcasing the Inca’s advanced stone-cutting skills.
• The trek follows original Inca paths, offering opportunities to encounter archaeological ruins and immerse in the region’s cultural heritage.
• The itinerary includes scenic drives, challenging treks through diverse landscapes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu, providing a comprehensive Inca experience.
• The tour is operated by Kawsay Travel Peru, known for its personalized approach and commitment to sustainability, with small group sizes.
• The package includes round-trip transportation, professional bilingual guides, entrance fees, and personal trekking equipment, ensuring a hassle-free and inclusive journey.

Overview and Highlights

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu offers a comprehensive 4-day trekking experience that showcases the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Peru.

Highly recommended by 100% of travelers, this personalized tour provides small group sizes and a commitment to sustainability.

The package includes essential amenities, transportation, and support for local communities.

Explorers will encounter original Inca paths, significant archaeological ruins, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

With a focus on personalized service and preserving historical sites, this trek delivers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes.

Itinerary Breakdown

On the first day, travelers depart Cusco at 5:00 AM for a scenic 2-hour drive (62 km / 38.5 miles) to Huarocondo. From there, they’ll drive to Pachar and prepare for the trek.

The hike then begins from Pachar to Corimarca, allowing them to explore original Inca paths and ruins.

The second day brings a more challenging trek through varied landscapes, with encounters of multiple Inca ruins of historical significance.

On the third day, the group treks to the Inca Quarries, a significant archaeological site, before continuing to Ollantaytambo and taking the train to Aguas Calientes.

The final day starts with an early visit to Machu Picchu for a guided tour.

Day 1: Cusco to Corimarca

Travelers depart Cusco at 5:00 AM for a 2-hour scenic drive (62 km / 38.5 miles) to Huarocondo. Upon arrival, the group prepares for the trek, loading up on essential supplies.

The hike from Pachar to Corimarca follows the original Inca paths, offering a glimpse into the past:

• Towering cliffs and lush vegetation create a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.
• Explorers encounter remnants of Inca ruins, sparking imagination about life centuries ago.
• The trek covers varied terrain, from gentle slopes to more challenging ascents, keeping the journey engaging and diverse.

This first day lays the foundation for the immersive Inca Quarry Trail experience.

Day 2: Corimarca to Queuñacancha

This challenging trek through varied landscapes awaits explorers on the second day. Trekkers will encounter multiple Inca ruins with historical significance, seeing the region’s rich cultural heritage. The trek showcases the diverse terrains of the Andes, from lush highlands to rugged mountain passes.

Terrain	Elevation
Lush Highlands	3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Mountain Passes	4,400 m / 14,435 ft
Inca Ruins	–
Panoramic Views	–
Ancient Pathways	–

With the guidance of experienced trekking leaders, explorers will navigate this challenging but rewarding day, gaining a deeper appreciation for the engineering feats and resilience of the Inca civilization.

Day 3: Queuñacancha to Aguas Calientes

The trek from Queuñacancha to Aguas Calientes brings explorers to the renowned Inca Quarries, a significant archaeological site that unveils the masonry techniques and engineering marvels of the ancient civilization.

Trekkers will encounter numerous Inca ruins with profound historical significance, marveling at the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Inca people.

The journey culminates in the charming town of Ollantaytambo, where explorers can wander through the ancient streets and uncover the remnants of a once-thriving Inca settlement.

The day concludes with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the iconic Machu Picchu.

• Discover the Inca Quarries, a testament to the civilization’s advanced stone-cutting skills
• Explore the well-preserved ruins of Ollantaytambo, a former Inca stronghold
• Ride the train to Aguas Calientes, anticipating the grand finale at Machu Picchu

Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

On the final day, explorers embark on an early visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, the grand finale of the Inca Quarry Trail.

With a guided tour, they’ll explore the key structures and learn about the remarkable Inca engineering and architecture.

After this unforgettable experience, they’ll take a scenic train ride back to Cusco, with an optional stop in Ollantaytambo to further enjoy Inca history.

Throughout the journey, the guides provide personalized attention, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching end to the 4-day adventure.

With their commitment to sustainability and preserving local culture, Kawsay Travel Peru delivers an authentic and memorable Machu Picchu experience.

Inclusions

As part of the comprehensive Inca Quarry Trail package, travelers can expect round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco.

The tour also includes:

• A professional bilingual guide to provide valuable insights and historical context throughout the journey.
• Entrance fees for the Inca Quarry Trail and the iconic Machu Picchu site.
• Travel insurance and personal trekking equipment, ensuring a worry-free experience.

Plus, the package offers the flexibility to include any extra snacks or beverages that travelers may desire during the trek.

Additional Information

For the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, a maximum of 9 travelers are permitted per tour. This ensures a personalized experience and allows the guides to provide attentive support.

The trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as the terrain can be challenging at times. Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, the operator, Kawsay Travel Peru, offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Inca Quarry Trail?

The Inca Quarry Trail is considered a moderate difficulty level, requiring a moderate physical fitness level. The trek involves challenging sections through varied landscapes, including encounters with multiple Inca ruins along the way.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trek?

Travelers can bring their own snacks and beverages on the Inca Quarry Trail trek. The tour package includes additional snacks and drinks, but hikers are welcome to supplement with their own provisions to ensure they have the sustenance they need throughout the multi-day journey.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The Inca Quarry Trail tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions. However, participants should be in moderate physical condition to handle the challenging hike. The tour operator can provide guidance on the suitability for different age groups.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu. The tour operator can assist with booking additional nights at hotels or hostels, allowing more time to explore the historic sites at your own pace.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Inca Quarry Trail Tour?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts. This provides travelers with flexibility in case their plans change. The concise cancellation policy ensures a hassle-free booking experience.

Recap

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich Inca heritage. This personalized trekking experience offers a deep culture, with guided visits to archaeological sites and the iconic Machu Picchu. With a focus on sustainability and small group sizes, the Inca Quarry Trail promises an adventure that connects travelers to the enduring legacy of the Incas.