Overview

The Quarry Trail is a lesser-known alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a more secluded and peaceful trekking experience in Peru’s Sacred Valley. This route takes hikers through remote Andean villages, past ancient ruins, and along scenic landscapes, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu. The trail is less crowded, providing an authentic cultural experience with opportunities to interact with local communities. With its moderate difficulty, it’s suitable for trekkers looking for a quieter journey through Peru’s rich history and natural beauty, away from the more heavily trafficked paths.

Why Should I Hike The Quarry Trail With You?

• The Best Route: We offer a top route from Soqma to Ollantaytambo. You’ll see waterfalls, local people, Inca ruins, the Inca Quarry, glaciers, and beautiful landscapes.
• Small Groups: We limit our groups to a maximum of 8 people, unlike other companies that take larger groups.
• No Overloading Pack Horses: We’re the only travel agency offering a 4-day Inca Quarry trek that ensures our pack horses carry no more than 50 kilograms (about 100 pounds) to prevent mistreatment.
• Exclusive Group: We don’t combine our Quarry Trail groups with other companies.
• Altitude Adjustment: Our 4-day Quarry Trail itinerary is designed to help you adjust to the altitude.
• Respect for Horsemen: Our horsemen are treated with respect. They receive all necessary equipment from AB Expeditions, including proper gear, a fair salary, a decent tent, meals, trekking shoes, and winter clothing. We care about their health and well-being, and we’re involved in social projects to improve their lives.
• High-Quality Equipment: We provide the best gear, using only top brands to ensure you have comfortable nights in the mountains.
• Satellite Phones: Our guide always carries a satellite phone so you can stay in touch with your loved ones.
• Portable Toilets: We provide clean, eco-friendly, and comfortable toilets.
• Safe Transportation: Our vans are approved by the Ministry of Transport, equipped with first aid kits, oxygen, and GPS. Our drivers are well-trained and licensed.
• Hotel to Hotel Service: We pick you up and drop you off directly at your hotel in Cusco, ensuring you’re never left stranded.
• Reliable Travel Company: We are practical, punctual, and welcoming, whether you’re traveling alone or in a group. Check our reviews on TripAdvisor.
• 100% Local Company: AB Expeditions is a fully licensed, locally owned travel company.
• Highly Trained Guides: Our guides are well-trained and continuously update their knowledge. They love showing you the beauty of Ausangate in Peru.
• Logistics: We handle all the details, including transportation, permits, and tickets, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
• Group Discounts: If you’re in a group of 3 or more, we offer discounts. Just email us.
• Return Train Ticket: Your return train on day 4 is at 2:55 pm, so you’ll arrive in Cusco early enough to rest for your next tour.
• Light Travel: We include 7 kilograms of your personal belongings, so you can travel light.

INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHUPICCHU 4 DAYS ITINERARY

Day 1. Cusco – Soqma

We will pick you up at your hotel around 06:00 am. We proceed to drive nearly 1 hour and a half to Warocondo. During the bus ride, you can observe the white snowcapped mountains of Salkantay and Veronica: the Holy Gods of the Incas.   Also, you will glimpse the spectacular views of the upper part and lower valleys with colorful landscapes.

After one hour and half of driving, we will make the first stop in Warocondo town, on where you can purchase last-minute supplies such as water, this town is very well known for the LECHONES (roasted pork), it is regarded the best on Cusco. Then we keep driving along with the quinoa plantation and arrive in the town Soqma where our hike starts.

After trekking for about one hour you will observe a wonderful waterfall called Perolniyoc. Also, your guide will show you some medicinal plants that the local farmers use along the way. You can pick some plants and make your own tea like locals. Then we will go uphill until to get Q´anabamba and Willkarakayfrom which your professional guide will explain to you, From here you will continue to the campsite which will take you for couple of hours, once you get campsite you have lunch.  After lunch you will have some time to take a nap, then your guide will take you to visit the local family where you will learn about their traditions, culture, etc.

QUICK FACTS:

• Altitude Gain: 715 m /2345 ft.
• Altitude Loose: 99 m / 324 ft.
• Hiking Distance: 4 km / 2.48 miles.
• Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours.
• Lowest elevation: 3000m (9,743 feet).
• Highest elevation:  3700m (12,149 feet).
• Level of difficulty:  Moderate.
• Inca ruins: Today you will see the ruins of Q´anabamba and Willkarakayfrom afar and stop to visit the ruins of Patallaqta.

Day 2. Rayan – Highest Pass – Cachicata (Inca Stone Quarry)

Early wake-up call with a cup of coca tea in your tent by one of our porters. After a delicious breakfast, we leave the campsite towards the first pass called Pukaqasa (4380m t- 14,370 ft) which will take us for about 3 and a half hours, after we reach the pass we will descend down for 30 minutes where we meet our chef for lunch. We begin with our hike again for another 2 more hours of gradual uphill to the next pass named Kuychicasa (4450m – 14,600ft).  It is the longest day of the trek to Machu Picchu but the most regarding, because of the spectacular views of snowcapped mountains. The last 2 hours all descend to the campsite, on the way we will visit a small Inca ruins called Intipunku meaning sun gate, arriving at camp Cachicata (3600m – 11,811ft)  around 5 pm.

QUICK FACTS:

• Altitude Gain: 796 m /2611 ft.
• Altitude Loose: 1416 m / 4645 ft.
• Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles.
• Hiking Time:  4 to 6 hours.
• Lowest elevation:  3600m (11,811 feet).
• Highest elevation: 4450m (14,600 feet).
• Level of difficulty:  Demanding.
• Inca ruins: Seen in the distance.

Day 3. Cachicata – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Today we will explore the Stone quarry of Cachicata, it is an extensive site that served as a stone quarry for the construction of Ollantaytambo, where you will be able to see all the work of the Incas, there are large rocks left half-finished and abandoned in the entire area,  Inca mummies, burial houses or called Chullpas are seen here too.  After a guided tour you start the descend down for about 3 hours to Ollantaytambo following the original Inca ramp that Incas built for transporting the stones to Ollantaytambo. Arrive at the town for the last lunch with our chef. You will have some time in this town to explore or visit the local bar? Where the local ladies serve Chicha meaning corn beer considered sacred by the Incas.  In the afternoon you will catch the train to Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night.

QUICK FACTS:

• Altitude Gain: 81 m / 265 ft.
• Altitude Loose: 402m / 1318 ft.
• Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles.
• Hiking Time:  3 to 4 hours.
• Lowest elevation: 2700m  (8,8 feet).
• Highest elevation: 3600m (11,811 feet).
• Level of difficulty:  Modérate.
• Inca ruins:  Today you will explore the ruins of Sayaqmarcas as well as Wiñayhuayna.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Tour

Day four is the most magical day: Machu Picchu. We will wake up early to take the first bus up to Machu Picchu and see the sunrise over the ruins.

Your guide will spend around 2 hours explaining the highlights of Machu Picchu.   Afterward, you will have time to explore by yourself the ruins and hike Huaynapicchu if you have booked this option. (This is a separate entrance ticket that costs $15 per person). Finally, you will return to Aguas Calientes and take a train back to Ollantaytambo, and then bus back to Cusco.   Once in Cusco, we will transfer you back to your hotel.

INCLUSIONS

Included

• Personal Belongings: A 7-kilogram of your personal items.
• Camping Gear Transportation: Horses will carry all camping equipment.
• Meals at Campsites: Includes 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and 3 snacks, with options for vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-intolerant, and other dietary restrictions.
• Transportation to Machu Picchu: Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Machu Picchu Entry: Entrance fee to Machu Picchu is included.
• Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (Tara Machu Picchu or a similar establishment).
• Train Ticket: Round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.
• Satellite Phone: Available throughout the Quarry Trail for communication.
• Hotel Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off service at your hotel.
• Private Transport: Transportation from Cusco to Socma, the starting point of the trek.
• English-Speaking Guide: A guide will provide continuous radio communication during the 4-day Quarry Trail.
• Sleeping Comfort: Foam mattresses provided.
• Professional Chef: A chef will prepare meals during the trek.
• Dining Setup: A large dining tent with chairs, tables, and all necessary cutlery is provided.
• Kitchen Facilities: Includes a kitchen tent.
• Biodegradable Toilet: A portable, environmentally-friendly toilet (The Pett) will be available.
• Sleeping Tents: Four-season tents designed for two people, though they can accommodate up to four (Eureka Timberland).
• Going Train Ticket: Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes departs at 3:37 p.m.
• Return Train Ticket: Return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at either 14:55 or 15:20 hours.
• Return Transportation: Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco is included.
• Emergency Equipment: An oxygen bottle and first aid kit are available in case of emergency.
• Pre-Departure Briefing: A briefing will be held at 6:00 p.m. the day before departure, conducted by our tour guides.
• Morning Wake-Up Service: Hot herbal tea will be delivered to your tent each morning before breakfast.
• Duffle Bag: A duffle bag is provided for your 7 kg/14 pounds of personal items, including toiletries and a sleeping bag.
• Daily Hot Water: Hot water will be provided daily for personal cleaning.
• Rain Protection: A rain poncho is included to keep you dry.
• Machu Picchu Tour: A two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Clean Water: Boiled water for filling water bottles or Camelbacks will be provided after each meal.
• Water Filter: A water filter is provided for your use.
• Cover: Day pack covers are included to keep your belongings dry.

Not Included

• Last lunch on the day 4th in Aguas Calientes.
• Trekking poles: $20
• Sleeping bags: $20
• Gratuity for guides, cooks, and horsemen.

Frequents Asked Question About Quarry Trail

How to Book the Quarry Trek 4-Day with AB Expeditions?

To book the Quarry Trek 4-Day trip with AB Expeditions, click the “BOOK NOW” button, choose your departure date, and fill in your personal details for each participant. The final step is to pay using a credit or debit card. During the booking process, you can also select extras like the Huayna Picchu Mountain, Vistadome train, or Machu Picchu Mountain, which should be booked in advance because those ticket run out quickly too. Walking sticks and sleeping bags can be rented in Cusco the day before your trip.

Which Machu Picchu Circuit is Included in the Quarry Trek?

The Quarry Trek 4-Day includes Circuit 2 – the Classic Route. This route allows you to explore both the upper and lower parts of Machu Picchu, offering a comprehensive tour of the Inca city.

How to Pay the Outstanding Balance?

You can pay the remaining balance in cash (USD or soles) one day before your trip. Alternatively, you can pay with a Visa credit card (with a 5% service fee). Please inform us of your preferred payment method. Cash payments must be made one day before your trip.

How Difficult is the Quarry Trek?

The Quarry Trek is considered “moderate” in difficulty, primarily due to the elevation rather than the terrain. While it is not easy, the gradual ascents and descents make it less challenging compared to other treks to Machu Picchu.

Can I Store My Luggage?

Yes, you can store your luggage at our office or at your hotel during the Quarry Trek 4-Day. Bring only what you need for the hike.

Is There a Student Discount?

Per Peruvian law, to qualify for a student discount, you must be under 18 years old at the time of the trek. Students aged 11 to 17 receive a $30 USD discount, while children aged 2 to 11 receive a $40 USD discount. To get the discount, students must send a copy of their passport and student card when booking.

How Can I Prepare for the Altitude and Avoid Altitude Sickness?

To minimize the risk of altitude sickness, it is recommended that you arrive in Cusco at least two days before your trek. On the first day, explore thecity, visit museums or markets, or take a city tour. On the second day, consider hiking to Cristo Blanco or visiting Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. Eat light meals on the first day to help your body adjust to the altitude.

Can I Change My Departure Date After Booking?

Yes, you can change your departure date, but it will incur an additional cost of $100 per person to cover the new Machu Picchu ticket and penalties for changing the train ticket.

Do I Need to Bring My Original Passport?

Yes, you must bring your original passport for the Quarry Trek. The passport you use should be the same one you provided during the booking. Your passport will be checked at the Machu Picchu checkpoint and when boarding the train.

Updating Passport Numbers

If you are renewing your passport, send a copy of your old passport or any government-issued ID with the same name when booking. Once you receive your new passport, email us a copy to update your permit information.

Can I Stay in the Sacred Valley Before the Trek?

Yes, you can stay in the Sacred Valley before the Lares Trek. We recommend staying in Ollantaytambo. If you choose to stay in Urubamba, Calca, or Pisac, there will be an additional charge of $30.

Refund Policy for Cancellations

If Peru closes its borders, you will receive a full refund. However, if you cannot make the trip due to illness, a missed flight, a strike, or a natural disaster, $150 USD will be non-refundable. Once purchased, Machu Picchu permits and train tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, as they are issued by the Peruvian government and Peru Rail.

WHAT TO BRING FOR INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 

• Original Passport: Passport is vey important.  If you’ve changed your passport since booking, bring both the old and new ones.
• Student ID Card: If you got a student discount, bring your original International Student Identity Card.
• Sleeping Bag: Use a high-quality sleeping bag that works for temperatures down to -10°C. You can also rent one from us for $20 for the trip.
• Waterproof Walking Boots: Wear comfortable, waterproof trekking boots that you’ve already broken in. Lightweight boots are best.
• Waterproof Clothing: A plastic poncho is recommended and can be bought in Cusco.
• Backpack: Bring a backpack with clothes for the whole trek.
• Rain Gear: Pack rain gear like a jacket and pants, or a poncho. Plastic ponchos are available in Cusco.
• Footwear: Bring strong, waterproof trekking boots. Also, pack sandals or jogging shoes for camp comfort.
• Warm Clothing: Pack warm clothes like a jacket, fleece, and thermal wear for sleeping.
• Sun Cream: Bring hydrating cream or after-sun lotion for your face and body.
• Insect Repellent: Use repellent with at least 20% DEET. There’s no malaria risk reported.
• Handkerchiefs and Toilet Paper: Bring these for personal use.
• Flashlight/Headlamp: Pack a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries because batteries drain faster in the cold.
• Camera: Bring a camera with extra film and batteries, as cold weather can affect battery life.
• Hat or Cap: Pack a hat or cap for sun, rain, and cold.
• Sunblock: Use sunblock to protect your skin.
• Snacks: Bring personal snacks like biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, fresh fruit, or muesli. We provide a daily snack and meals, but personal preferences might differ.
• Water Container: Bring a water container and water for the first morning. Plastic bottles are not allowed at Machu Picchu; use a plastic or metal container instead.
• Small Towel: Pack a small towel.
• Cash: Carry cash in soles.
• Camping Pillow: For added comfort while sleeping.
• Basic Medicine: Carry a basic first aid kit with items like Panadol, medicated plaster, and medicated oil.
• Trekking Pants: Make sure they are lightweight so they dry quickly.
• Sun Hat: A hat will protect you from the strong sun in the Andes.
• Gloves: Weather can change quickly, and it may snow or get very cold, so bring gloves.
• Insect Repellent: The valley has many mosquitoes, so use repellent.

IMPORTANT INFO FOR INCA QUARRY TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 

Things To Know

• Guides: You will have a guide for the entire Inca Quarry hike and the Machu Picchu tour. Trips are available daily with groups of two or more people.
• February Travel: Many treks to Machu Picchu are closed in February due to landslides, but we still offer the Inca Quarry trek during this time because it is safe. Just be ready for rain.
• Essentials: Remember to bring your original passport, insurance card, and any personal medications. This trek will have a maximum of 8 travelers.

Duffle Bag

You will receive a duffel bag at our office after your briefing, which is the day before you leave. Horses will carry this bag, and you will only have access to it at the campsites. Pack clothes and personal items you won’t need during the hike. Keep essentials like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear in your day pack. The duffel bag should weigh no more than 7 kg.

Inca Quarry Trek Weather

The weather on the Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is typically variable, influenced by the region’s subtropical climate. During the dry season from May to September, temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with clear skies and lower humidity, making it the ideal time for trekking. In contrast, the wet season from October to April brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). Rain can make trails slippery and challenging, but the lush landscapes during this period are also spectacular.

Strikes

Strikes and roadblocks can happen in Peru and may affect your hike or the train service to Machu Picchu. We will try to keep your hike on track with possible adjustments:

• If a strike occurs on the first day of your 4-day Quarry tour, we will take you to the trailhead the night before.
• If a strike occurs on the last day of your hike, you will need to hike an additional 2 hours from Aguas Calientes to Hydroelectric. We will then drive 7 hours to Cusco, arriving around 11:00 pm.

Returning From Machu Picchu

Returning from  Machu Picchu to Cusco needs a lot of logistics. But it is already organized by us.

Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes:

• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.
• Frequency: Buses depart every 15 minutes.

Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy:

Your guide will provide you with your train tickets. Ensure you arrive at the train station 30 minutes prior to departure to allow time for boarding.

Travel Time:

• Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Aguas Calientes to Poroy: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Transfer from Train Station to Cusco:

At the Station: Look for our transfer representative, who will be waiting with the AB Expeditions logo.

• From Ollantaytambo to Cusco: The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• From Poroy to Cusco: The drive takes about 40 minutes.

Physical Requirements

This hike is moderate, so being in average physical condition is highly recommended due to elevation changes and one pass along the route.

Accommodation

Solo travelers will share a tent with someone of the same sex, while couples will have a tent to themselves.

Pre-Departure Briefing

A mandatory briefing at our Cusco office is required one day before your trek, at 6 pm. You will meet your guide, receive detailed trek information, and get a list of what to bring. The office is located at Marquez Street 250, Second Floor, Office 03, Cusco, Peru.

Tipping

Tipping is common but not mandatory. On the third day, please give tips to the horsemen and chefs. Additional tips are always appreciated. Typically, customers pool their tips for the chef and porters. For the tour guide, tip after the Machu Picchu tour based on your experience. Tips in soles are preferred for the horsemen and chefs, but guides can receive tips in either U.S. dollars or soles.

Suggested tips:

• Horsemen: 40 – 60 soles
• Cook: 110 – 140 soles