From Cusco: Full-Day Inca Quarry Trail Hike to Cachicata

Set out on a captivating adventure with the Inca Quarry Trail hike from Cusco to the ancient site of Cachicata. This full-day trek showcases the stunning Andean landscape, offering breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and the iconic Inca Bridge. Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, you’ll explore the rich history and culture of the region, with an optional detour to the renowned Inti Punku. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this 12-hour journey promises to leave you in awe of the Inca’s engineering prowess and the natural beauty that surrounds you.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours In Ollantaytambo.

Key Points

• This full-day guided hike takes you through the Andean landscape to the ancient Inca quarry site of Cachicata from Cusco.
• The hike lasts 6-7 hours and reaches a maximum altitude of 10,531 feet, requiring a good level of physical fitness.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional bilingual guide, box lunch, and emergency assistance.
• Highlights along the hike include the Inca Bridge, Urubamba River views, and the option to visit the Sun Gate.
• Participants must be at least 12 years old and have no pre-existing medical conditions or mobility issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This tour offers a full-day Inca Quarry Trail hike to the archaeological site of Cachicata. Priced from $173 per person, the 12-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco’s historic center.

Led by a professional bilingual guide, hikers will explore the Inca Bridge in Ollantaytambo, admire views of the Urubamba River and Ollantaytambo ruins, and have the option to visit Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for spectacular vistas.

The hike covers 6-7 hours with a maximum elevation of 10,531 feet. Inclusions are a box lunch, first aid, emergency horse, and walking sticks.

The tour’s not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues and requires a good physical condition.

Hiking Experience

The scenic hike to Cachicata offers travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning Andean landscape.

Led by a professional guide, the hike includes a visit to the impressive Inca Bridge in Ollantaytambo and provides breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and the archaeological site.

For those seeking an even more spectacular vantage point, an optional detour to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) is available.

Hikers can expect to spend between 6-7 hours on the trail, reaching a maximum altitude of 10,531 feet (3,209 m.a.s.l.).

The journey isn’t suitable for those with physical limitations, as a good level of fitness is required to complete the full hike.

Inclusions and Equipment

What does the tour package include and what equipment is provided?

The full-day Inca Quarry Trail hike to Cachicata includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a professional bilingual tour guide. A box lunch is provided, and a first-aid kit and oxygen are available in case of emergencies.

The tour also offers an emergency horse for assistance if needed. Walking sticks can be rented at an additional cost.

However, gratuities and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price. Participants should come prepared with suitable hiking attire, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash for any extra expenses.

Participant Restrictions

According to the tour details, this Inca Quarry Trail hike isn’t suitable for certain participants.

The hike isn’t recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility impairments, wheelchair users, those with pre-existing medical conditions, or individuals with low fitness levels.

The tour operator emphasizes the need for good physical condition to complete the hike successfully.

Special rates don’t apply to Peruvian or foreign passengers staying over 60 days in Peru, and sales taxes may be applicable based on local operator guidelines.

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Preparation and Recommendations

To prepare for the Inca Quarry Trail hike, you’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing.

Cash is also recommended, as there may be opportunities to purchase souvenirs or additional items along the way.

Pets aren’t allowed on the tour, so you’ll need to make arrangements for them before departure.

It’s important to be in good physical condition to complete the hike, which can last 6-7 hours and reach an altitude of over 10,500 feet.

Special rates may not apply to Peruvian citizens or foreign passengers staying more than 60 days in the country, and sales taxes may be added per local operator guidelines.

Getting to the Trailhead

Departing from their Cusco hotel, travelers commence their journey to the Inca Quarry Trail trailhead. The shuttle provides convenient pickup, whisking them away through the historic city center.

As they wind through the scenic Sacred Valley, they’ll catch glimpses of the Urubamba River and lush mountain landscapes. Upon reaching the trailhead in Ollantaytambo, the group will have a chance to explore the impressive Inca ruins before setting off on their hike.

This well-organized transfer ensures a seamless start to the day’s adventure, allowing travelers to focus on the stunning natural wonders that await along the Inca Quarry Trail.

Highlights Along the Hike

The Inca Quarry Trail offers a wealth of captivating sights along the way, starting with the impressive Inca Bridge in Ollantaytambo. As hikers ascend, they’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the Ollantaytambo archaeological site. An optional detour to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) provides even more spectacular vistas.

Highlight	Description
Inca Bridge	An engineering marvel that once served as a strategic crossing point
Urubamba River	A picturesque river flowing through the Sacred Valley
Ollantaytambo	An important Inca fortress and village with well-preserved ruins
Inti Punku	The iconic Sun Gate overlooking the Sacred Valley
Cachicata	The final destination, an ancient Inca quarry site

Along the way, hikers will marvel at the impressive scale and craftsmanship of the Inca constructions, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Amidst the wealth of information provided, visitors may find themselves with a number of questions.

What’s the maximum altitude reached on the hike? The maximum altitude is 10,531 feet (3,209 m.a.s.l).

Are there any restrictions on who can participate? Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility issues, wheelchair users, those with pre-existing medical conditions, or those with low fitness levels.

Can walkers be rented? Yes, walking sticks are available for an additional cost.

What’s included in the tour? The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional bilingual guide, a box lunch, first aid, and emergency assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks or Drinks on the Hike?

Yes, participants can bring their own snacks and drinks on the hike. The tour includes a box lunch, but hikers are welcome to pack additional sustenance to fuel their journey along the scenic Inca Quarry Trail.

Do I Need to Have Previous Hiking Experience?

While previous hiking experience is not required, a good level of physical fitness is necessary to complete the 6-7 hour hike. Participants with mobility issues or low fitness levels may find the tour challenging.

Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

There is no minimum group size for the Inca Quarry Trail hike to Cachicata. The tour is offered daily regardless of the number of participants, though a certain minimum turnout may be required to guarantee the tour runs.

Can I Leave Personal Belongings in the Vehicle During the Hike?

Participants can leave personal belongings in the vehicle during the hike. The tour operator provides a secure storage space where hikers can leave items they don’t want to carry on the trail.

Is There an Option to Rent Hiking Gear On-Site?

According to the tour details, walking sticks are available for an additional cost, but there’s no mention of renting other hiking gear on-site. Participants are advised to bring their own suitable footwear and clothing for the hike.

Recap

The Inca Quarry Trail hike to Cachicata offers an unforgettable full-day adventure from Cusco. Trekkers can expect breathtaking Andean landscapes, the chance to explore the ancient Inca site, and the option to visit the iconic Inti Punku. With a knowledgeable guide, scenic views, and necessary support, this challenging yet rewarding hike is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Inca experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: