Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is a remarkable 4-day trek that offers a less crowded alternative to the classic Inca Trail. This immersive journey takes hikers through stunning landscapes and ancient Inca sites, including the Cachicata quarry. Accompanied by professional guides, adventurers will camp under the stars and eventually reach the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu. While the trek is suitable for moderately fit hikers, it promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• The Inca Quarry Trail, also known as the Cachicata Trail, is a 4-day trek that provides a less crowded alternative to the classic Inca Trail.
• The trek offers an immersive experience into the ancient Inca world, with visits to archaeological sites like Pumamarca, Inkaraqay, and the Inca quarry at Cachicata.
• The journey culminates in the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the architectural prowess of the Incas.
• The trek is suitable for less experienced hikers and includes accommodations such as camping and a hostel stay, as well as daily meals and water supply.
• The tour has specific requirements, including a minimum age of 18, a minimum group size of 2, and the need to purchase tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain in advance.

Trekking the Inca Quarry Trail

Although the Inca Quarry Trail, also known as the Cachicata Trail, is less crowded than the classic Inca Trail, it offers a truly immersive experience into the ancient Inca world.

Trekkers will explore well-preserved Inca ruins, walk through stunning Andean landscapes, and even discover ancient quarries where the Incas sourced their building materials.

The 4-day trek is relatively easy, making it suitable for less experienced hikers. Hikers will be accompanied by a professional bilingual guide, cook, and horseman, ensuring a comfortable and supported journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Exploring Inca Archaeological Sites

One of the highlights of the Inca Quarry Trail is the opportunity to explore well-preserved Inca archaeological sites along the way.

The Inca Quarry Trail offers the chance to explore well-preserved Inca archaeological sites during the trek.

Trekkers will encounter:

• The ancient ruins of Pumamarca, an Inca administrative center with impressive stone structures and terraces.

• The sacred site of Inkaraqay, featuring Inca agricultural terraces and a religious shrine.

• The stunning Inca quarry at Cachicata, where the Incas sourced stone for their monuments.

• The impressive Inca Trail that leads directly to the iconic Machu Picchu, allowing trekkers to connect with this famous pilgrimage route.

Machu Picchu, the Pinnacle of the Journey

Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, crowns the Inca Quarry Trail journey. Trekkers will witness the breathtaking ruins perched atop a mountain ridge, surrounded by the majestic Andes.

This UNESCO World Heritage site exemplifies the Inca’s architectural prowess and engineering feats. After 4 days of trekking, visitors can explore the impressive stone structures, terraced agricultural fields, and ceremonial plazas that once housed an estimated 1,000 residents.

The sheer scale and grandeur of Machu Picchu leaves a lasting impression, making it the perfect culmination to the Inca Quarry Trail experience.

Accommodation and Meals

During the Inca Quarry Trail trek, trekkers will stay in a mix of camping accommodations and a hostel.

The Inca Quarry Trail trek offers a mix of camping and hostel accommodations for trekkers.

This includes:

• 2 nights camping with personal double tents, inflatable mattresses, sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows

• 1 night in a hostel in Machu Picchu village

• Daily water supply (excluding first 4 hours)

• Dining and toilet tents, cooking equipment, and bottled gas

Meals throughout the trek are provided, including 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners prepared by a professional cook.

What’s Included and Excluded

The tour package includes an extensive array of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable trekking experience. This includes private transport, camping gear, porter-carried luggage, and all meals.

Hikers won’t have to worry about logistics as the experienced bilingual guide, cook, and horseman handle the details.

However, the tour doesn’t cover international/domestic flights, travel insurance, and optional activities like climbing Huayna Picchu. Plus, the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu and gratuities for staff are excluded.

Travelers should also purchase Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance.

Tour Requirements and Accessibility

What’re the tour requirements for the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu?

The trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

The minimum age is 18, and a minimum of 2 people per booking is necessary.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants must sit on laps.

• Minimum age: 18

• Minimum group size: 2 people

• Fitness level: Moderate

• Not suitable for: Pregnant travelers, wheelchair users

Tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be purchased in advance, and a single room option is available upon request for an additional fee.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu tour is priced from $730.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

Free cancellation is available up to 3 days in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing flexibility.

The tour has a minimum booking of 2 people, with a minimum age of 18. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, as a moderate fitness level is required.

Single room options are available for an additional fee upon request. Tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be booked in advance separately.

The Sum Up

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu offers a less crowded, immersive journey through stunning landscapes and ancient Inca sites. Accompanied by professional guides, trekkers will camp under the stars and eventually reach the breathtaking Machu Picchu, leaving them with unforgettable memories. It’s a captivating trek suitable for moderately fit hikers seeking a unique Inca experience.