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Cachiccata Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Cachiccata Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

The stone quarry that built Ollantaytambo

Overview

A little-known trail above Ollantaytambo through the Rayan community to the Inca Sun Gate of Cachiccata and the quarry where the Incas cut the giant stones of the Temple of the Sun, followed by the train to Machu Picchu.

Highlights

  • Cachiccata Inca quarry and Sun Gate
  • Views over Ollantaytambo and Veronica glacier
  • Rayan Andean community
  • Guided visit to Machu Picchu

Cachicata Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N is a rewarding adventure for travelers who want a quieter, more meaningful route through the Andes before arriving at Machu Picchu. Also known as the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu, this experience takes you through remote mountain landscapes, ancient pathways, waterfalls, and the historic quarry of Cachicata, creating a journey that feels both authentic and unforgettable.

Unlike more crowded trekking routes, the Cachicata Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N offers a deeper connection to the history of the Sacred Valley. Along the way, travelers discover archaeological remains, dramatic Andean scenery, and a trail that feels far more personal than the classic alternatives. The maximum altitude reached on this trek is approximately 4,450 m / 14,600 ft, making it an excellent choice for hikers looking for a high-altitude adventure with cultural depth.

Unlike more commercial trekking routes, the Inca Quarry Trail offers a stronger sense of cultural depth. The experience is not only about reaching the final destination, but also about everything that unfolds along the way: the mountain views, the archaeological remains, the ancient quarry, and the feeling of walking through places that still preserve a quieter rhythm of life. For travelers searching for a 4 day trek to Machu Picchu that feels more personal and less crowded, this route offers the perfect balance of scenery, history, and adventure.

Itinerary

  1. Day 1Cusco – Socma – Rayan community

    You will be pick up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:30 am, two hours van ride from downtown Cusco where we will arrive to village of Soqma in order to start  Cachiqata - Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu. Once arrived to the trail head.The trek we will start with healthy delicious breakfast and then continue with our journey toward to Perolniyoc water falls, and Inca site. over (3611 m / 11847 ft). Where we'll explore and have a history information about the impressive Rayanpata Inca site. so fifteen minutes walk from site we will have delicious organic lunch prepared by our professional master chef.

    Once enjoyed we will continue hiking to first camping site to Rayan alto for 1 hour uphill, where you will pass first night in the tents.

    Trek Overview:

    • Tour Location: Cusco Ollantaytambo, Peru
    • Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours
    • Transport time: 50 minutes
    • Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
    • Start/End Time:  Pick up is at 5.00 am from your hotel and you will be finishing the Hike at 2 pm
    • Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
    •  Starting Altitude:  3500 / 11,482 ft
    • Climate: cold
    • Total, Walking Distance: 8 km / 5 ml
    • Highest Altitude:  3700 m.a.s.l / 12,136 ft
    • Overall Difficulty: Moderate
  2. Day 2Rayaniyoc – Sun Gate - Inca Quarry

    Wake up with a cup of coffee or coca tea in your tent, and then have healthy energetic breakfast, and begin the 4-hour ascent to Charkahuaylla pass (4450m/14599ft), and in 30 minutes we will have our second organic lunch. After lunch, you will visit the Intipunku Inca Site (Sungate) and enjoying the amazing views of the Veronica snow-capped mountain, and the Vilcanota range - the andes mountains. from the Sun gate you will hike downhill for 2 hours the Camp would be at buena negra spot (3600m/11811ft), one of the wonderful place with such nice views to Sacred Valley.

    Trek Overview:

    • Tour Location: Cusco Ollantaytambo, Peru
    • Hiking time: 8 hours
    • Transport time: none
    • Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
    • Start/End Time:   at 6.30 am and you will be finishing the Hike at 3 pm
    • Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
    •  Starting Altitude:  3400 / 11,155 ft
    • Climate: Cold - warm
    • Total, Walking Distance: 16 km / 9.94 ml
    • Highest Altitude:  4,450 m.a.s.l / 14,240 ft
    • Overall Difficulty: Moderate
  3. Day 3Qhachiccata Inca Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

    After enjoying a delicious breakfast, descend for 1 hour to Cachiccata inca Quarry considered one of the largest Inca quarries from where our ancestors the incas took the materials to build the impressive ollantaytambo inca town. After exploring the Quarry we will have to descend for 2 hours to qhachichiccata community where you will enjoy lunch. The lunchs is a particular Pachamanca the traditional Cusco dish. Then continue to Ollantaytambo inca living town where you will have time to explore and take the train to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in a hotel.

    Trek Overview:

    • Tour Location: Cusco Lares Trek, Peru
    • Hiking time: 3 hours
    • Transport time: none
    • Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
    • Start/End Time:  Pickup is at 8 am and you will be finishing the Hike at pm
    • Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
    •  Starting Altitude:  3350 m / 10,990 ft
    • Climate: Cold
    • Total, Walking Distance: 3 km / 1.86 ml
    • Highest Altitude:  3200 m.a.s.l / 10,560 ft
    • Overall Difficulty: easy
  4. Day 4Machu Picchu – Return Cusco

    On the final day, wake up early and take the first buses up to Machu Picchu. The guided tour starts between 7 to 8 am where our professional licenced tour guide, provide you exceptional introductions and then explore the stone Inca temples and grand palaces, plazas, residential houses and much more.

    Once you finish the tour circuit your guide will take you back to aguas calientes town and if you want shared the last lunch with your tour guide, which are not included, and finally take the expedition panoramic train back to Cusco. Arriving around 7:30 pm to your hotel.

    Trek Overview:

    • Tour Location: Cusco Machupicchu, Peru
    • walk time: 4 hours
    • Transport time: 50 buses up and down in aguas calientes
    • Tour Type: Day tour – natural - History
    • Start/End Time:  Pickup is at 5.30 am from your hotel and you will be finishing at 7 pm
    • Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
    •  Starting Altitude:  2000 / 6,561 ft
    • Climate: warm
    • Total, Walking Distance: Day tour walk inca city
    • Highest Altitude:  2400 m.a.s.l / 7874 ft
    • Overall Difficulty: easy

Included

  • Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide throughout the entire trek and Machu Picchu visit.
  • Official Cachiccata (Inca Quarry) Trek trail permit.
  • Official Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
  • Muleteers and pack animals to carry camping equipment.
  • Professional trekking chef (Master Chef) during the entire trek.
  • Private transportation from Cusco to the trailhead.
  • Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
  • Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Private transportation from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Healthy organic breakfasts.
  • Organic buffet lunches.
  • Organic buffet dinners.
  • Dinner at a tourist restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
  • Snacks and drinking water during hiking days.
  • Round-trip bus tickets in Aguas Calientes (up and down to Machu Picchu).
  • Pre-departure safety briefing at your hotel before the trek.
  • First-aid kit and emergency assistance throughout the trek.

Not included

  • Trekking poles.
  • Sleeping bags.
  • Air mattresses.
  • Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the last day.
  • Tips for muleteers, trekking chef, tour guide, and driver (optional and voluntary).
  • Personal expenses and extra services not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended).

Recommendations

  • Arrive in Cusco at least two days before the trek to acclimatize properly.
  • Bring your original passport for permits, train travel, and Machu Picchu entry.
  • Wear well-broken-in hiking boots with good traction and ankle support.
  • Dress in layers to adapt to cold mornings, warm afternoons, and mountain weather.
  • Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
  • Bring a warm sleeping bag suitable for cold nights in the Andes.
  • Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the trek.
  • Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before and during hiking days.
  • Carry a small daypack for personal items, water, and snacks.
  • Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small personal expenses.
  • Consider renting trekking poles for added stability on steep sections.
  • Follow your guide’s instructions and respect local communities and archaeological sites.

Important information

  • Bring your original passport: it is checked at the Machu Picchu entrance and at train stations.
  • This tour reaches high altitude. Spend at least two nights in Cusco before departure to acclimatize and drink plenty of water.
  • Travel insurance covering trekking and medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
  • Hotel pickup in Cusco historic center. The exact pickup time is confirmed the evening before at the briefing.
  • A pre-departure briefing takes place in Cusco the day before (18:00) to meet your guide and pay any balance.

FAQs

How difficult is the Cachiccata Quarry Trek?

The Cachiccata Quarry Trek is considered moderate and is suitable for travelers with good physical condition. While it does not involve technical climbing, it includes mountain passes, stone paths, and altitude changes. Proper acclimatization is important, and previous hiking experience is recommended. Our guides maintain a steady pace and provide full support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

What is the difference between the Cachiccata Trek and the Classic Inca Trail?

The Cachiccata Trek is a quieter alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, with fewer hikers and more open landscapes. It focuses on Inca quarry sites, ancient terraces, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and Veronica Mountain. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, this route offers a more peaceful trekking experience while still ending at Machu Picchu.

What is the best time of year to do the Cachiccata Trek?

The best time to hike the Cachiccata Quarry Trek is during the dry season, from April to October. Weather conditions are more stable, trails are safer, and views are clearer. June to August are the busiest months and require early booking. March and November are good shoulder-season options with fewer travelers and occasional rain.

Are meals and camping equipment included during the trek?

Yes, all meals during the trek are included and prepared by a professional trekking chef. This includes healthy breakfasts, organic buffet lunches, dinners, snacks, and drinking water. Muleteers carry the main camping equipment, allowing you to hike comfortably with only a light daypack throughout the trek.

Is travel insurance required for the Cachiccata Quarry Trek?

Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation. Although our team provides first-aid support and professional guidance, having travel insurance offers additional peace of mind during this multi-day trekking adventure.

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