Cusco, Intipunku
4 days -3 night
Trekking, History, Adventure
12 people
Moderate to Demanding
Camping, Hotel
English, Spanish
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Days / 3 Nights |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Challenging |
| Max Altitude | 4,200 m / 13,779 ft |
| Group Size | 2–10 Travelers |
| Start / End | Cusco / Cusco |
| Accommodation | 2 Campsites + Hotel in Aguas Calientes |
| Meals | 4B – 3L – 3D |
| Best Season | April – October |
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.
Our first stop is Ñaupa Iglesia, an enigmatic Inca ceremonial site carved into the mountainside.
We begin hiking toward the traditional village of Socma. After around two hours of walking, our trekking chef prepares a fresh lunch in nature.
In the afternoon, we continue hiking to the spectacular Perolniyoc Waterfall, a dramatic 100-meter cascade hidden in the valley. Then continue to arrive at our campsite near the ruins of Korimarca.
Wake up with hot coca tea or coffee at your tent before starting the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek.
After breakfast, we begin a 4-hour ascent to Charkahuaylla Pass (4,450 m / 14,599 ft), the highest point of the route.
We continue toward the beautiful Marcacocha Lake, where a fresh lunch awaits surrounded by peaceful Andean scenery.
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.
After descending, we arrive at our second campsite in Choquetacarpo, where dinner and mountain silence create the perfect ending to the day.
Enjoy sunrise over the mountains with your morning coffee before continuing toward one of the most important archaeological sites of the trek.
A 3-hour hike takes us to Cachicata Quarry, the largest Inca stone quarry used to build Ollantaytambo.
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.
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.
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.
Your professional guide leads a complete visit through Circuit 2, exploring the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and royal sectors of the citadel.
If booked in advance, you may also choose to climb:
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.
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.
To make your 4-day trekking experience to Machu Picchu more comfortable, The Andean Way provides a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing.
This bag is carried by our trekking team between campsites, so you will only have access to it in the evenings.
Use it for:
This is the backpack you carry during the hike each day. Keep it light but practical, since it will accompany you throughout the trek.
The Cachicata Inca Quarry Trek passes through remote mountain areas with no shops, weak phone signal, and limited access to supplies.
Weather changes quickly on this alternative trek to Machu Picchu, especially between high mountain passes and warmer Sacred Valley sections.
Remember: large backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu, so a medium trekking daypack is ideal.
These items will be available once you arrive at camp.
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.
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.
When choosing between the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the Cachicata Quarry Trail, the difference lies in experience, availability, and crowd levels.
👉 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.
One of the highlights of this route is visiting the Intipunku of Ollantaytambo, often overlooked by traditional routes.
Altitude is one of the most important factors when doing any multi-day trek in Cusco and the Andes.
This trek is rated as moderate difficulty, making it accessible to most travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Your experience at Machu Picchu depends on the official circuit assigned at booking.
The following items are not allowed inside Machu Picchu:
Respecting these rules helps preserve the sanctuary for future travelers.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
During the Cachicata Quarry Trek, you will:
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.
No. Most of the Cachicata trekking route has no phone signal or Wi-Fi, allowing you to fully disconnect and enjoy the Andean landscapes.
Highly recommended for safety, navigation, and historical context. The Andean Way provides a professional guide for the entire trip, including the Machu Picchu tour.
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”).
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