TRUSTED SITE
Discover the Sacred Stone Route on this extraordinary 4-day expedition that traces the path of ancient Inca stonemasons to Machu Picchu. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Quarry Trail takes you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, past hidden waterfalls, ancient ruins, and the legendary Cachiqata Quarry where massive stone blocks known as "tired stones" were abandoned mid-transport during the Spanish conquest. This adventure combines challenging high-altitude passes, including Kuichiqasa at 4,450m with views of the majestic Nevado Veronica, with visits to rarely seen archaeological sites like Inti Punku (Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo) and Racaypata. Complete your journey with a scenic train ride through the cloud forest to Aguas Calientes, followed by an unforgettable guided tour of Machu Picchu at sunrise. This trek is perfect for adventurers seeking a unique, less-traveled route to the Lost City of the Incas.
Trek from Cusco (3,400m) through Soqma to Perolniyoc Waterfall, ascending to Rayan camp. Cross the challenging Puccaqasa and Kuichiqasa Passes (4,450m) with views of Nevado Veronica, then descend through Inti Punku to Choquetacarpo. Explore Cachiqata Quarry before descending to Ollantaytambo (2,792m), then take the scenic train to Aguas Calientes (2,040m) for your Machu Picchu visit (2,430m).
The Sacred Stone Route & Andean Landscapes
The Inca Quarry Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights is an extraordinary expedition that follows the ancient path of Inca stonemasons to Machu Picchu. This unique adventure takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, past hidden waterfalls, ancient ruins, and the legendary Cachiqata Quarry where massive "tired stones" remain frozen in time.
Experience dramatic high-altitude passes with views of Nevado Veronica, explore rarely visited archaeological sites like Inti Punku and Racaypata, camp under pristine mountain skies, and complete your journey with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes before your sunrise visit to Machu Picchu.
Your adventure begins with an early morning collection from your hotel in Cusco for a scenic private drive to the trailhead at Soqma. Enjoy the changing Andean landscapes as we leave the city behind.
Here, you will meet your trekking team and the horses that will carry your gear a distinctive feature of this route compared to others. After organizing equipment and a brief orientation, we begin our trek.
The trail immediately impresses with a hike to the spectacular Perolniyoc Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading down the cliffside. This breathtaking natural wonder is a perfect first highlight of the journey.
Continue to the archaeological site of Racaypata perched high above the valley. Your guide will explain the historical significance of these ancient Inca ruins with stunning panoramic views.
Enjoy a revitalizing lunch prepared by our trekking chef with spectacular views of the valley. Refuel for the afternoon climb ahead.
The afternoon involves a steady climb toward our first campsite. The path offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding agriculture and local communities, allowing you to connect with the rural rhythm of the Andes.
You will arrive at the Rayan campsite in time to settle in and witness the sunset painting the mountains in gold. The evening concludes with a wholesome dinner prepared by our trekking chef. At this altitude, away from city lights, the stargazing is exceptional.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. After a nutritious breakfast, we prepare for the demanding ascents ahead through some of the most spectacular Andean scenery.
We begin the ascent to the Puccaqasa Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the valleys below. The trail winds through high-altitude grasslands and rocky terrain as we gain elevation.
We push on to the highest point of the expedition, the Kuichiqasa Pass at 4,450m. The majestic Nevado Veronica looms large on the horizon, offering breathtaking photo opportunities and a sense of immense accomplishment.
The highlight of the day is reaching Inti Punku. Unlike the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu, this structure sits high on a ridge with a direct line of sight to the Veronica mountain and the pyramid-shaped Pakaritampu. It is a mystical place to rest, meditate on the ancient Inca geometry, and soak in the energy of the Sacred Valley spread out below you.
Enjoy a well-deserved lunch with spectacular mountain views before beginning the descent to our campsite.
We descend from the heights to our campsite at Choquetacarpo. This location is historically significant and offers a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner and share stories of the day's conquest before retiring to your tent for your final night under the Andean stars.
This morning we prepare for an exciting day that includes exploring the unique site that gives this trek its name and a scenic train journey through the cloud forest.
We explore the unique Cachiqata Quarry, the site that gives this trek its name. Here, you will see massive stone blocks known as "tired stones" that were abandoned in transit by the Incas, as well as ancient "chullpas" (tombs) tucked into the cliffs. Your guide will explain the fascinating stone-cutting techniques and the logistical interruptions caused by the Spanish conquest that left these giants frozen in time.
We descend into the fertile Sacred Valley to the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo. This charming town retains its original Inca street layout and is a living testament to ancient urban planning.
Enjoy a delicious lunch in this historic town before preparing for the next leg of your journey. Take time to explore the charming streets and local shops.
In the afternoon, we trade our hiking boots for a comfortable seat on the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. The ride follows the winding Urubamba River, transitioning from high Andean scenery to the lush, green vegetation of the cloud forest.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, you will check into your hotel and enjoy a hot shower a welcome luxury after days on the trail. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy a celebratory dinner at a local restaurant, preparing for the grand finale at Machu Picchu the next morning.
The day you have been waiting for begins before dawn. We take one of the first buses up to the Machu Picchu citadel to witness the morning light illuminating the ruins.
Your expert guide will lead a comprehensive 2-hour tour through the temples, terraces, and sacred precincts, explaining the history, architecture, and mysteries of this New Wonder of the World.
After the guided tour, you will have some time to absorb the beauty of the site, take photos, and explore on your own before we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes.
We descend by bus to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can enjoy lunch (not included) and explore the small town before boarding your return train.
The journey concludes with a train ride back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic views of the Urubamba River and cloud forest one last time.
A private transfer takes you from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco. You will arrive in the evening, tired but inspired, carrying memories of the hidden quarries and the lost city of the Incas.
The Quarry Trail offers a unique perspective on Inca history that the Classic Trail doesn't. You'll visit the actual Cachiqata Quarry where Inca stonemasons cut massive stones for Ollantaytambo, see the famous "tired stones" abandoned during the Spanish conquest, and experience Inti Punku (Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo) with direct views of Nevado Veronica. Unlike the permit-limited Classic Trail, the Quarry Trail is less crowded and uses horses instead of porters to carry gear.
The Quarry Trail is rated as challenging. Day 2 is the most demanding, crossing two high passes including Kuichiqasa at 4,450m. You'll hike approximately 26km over 3 trekking days with significant altitude gains and losses. We recommend being in good physical condition and spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting. The trek is suitable for most fit hikers with some prior hiking experience.
No! One of the great advantages of the Quarry Trail is that horses carry your main luggage (up to 7kg per person in a duffel bag). You only need to carry a daypack with your water, snacks, camera, rain jacket, and personal items for the day. The horses transport camping equipment, food, and your personal duffel to each campsite.
We provide high-quality 4-season tents (2-person occupancy), foam sleeping pads, a dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, and toilet tent. Campsites at Rayan and Choquetacarpo offer stunning mountain views. You'll need to bring or rent a sleeping bag rated to -10°C. Nights can be cold (down to -5°C), but mornings are beautiful and peaceful.
On Day 3, you'll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with private bathroom, hot water, and Wi-Fi. This is a welcome luxury after two nights of camping! You'll have the evening free to explore the town, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and prepare for your early morning visit to Machu Picchu.
Yes! Our professional trekking chef can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most other dietary requirements. Please inform us of your dietary needs when booking so we can prepare accordingly. Meals during the trek are fresh, plentiful, and surprisingly gourmet given the remote setting!
We recommend booking 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak season (May-September). Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Quarry Trail doesn't require government permits, but popular dates fill up quickly. Booking early also ensures we can secure your preferred Machu Picchu entrance time and any optional add-ons like Huayna Picchu.
A 50% deposit ($385) is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance can be paid before your departure at our Cusco office. Cancellations made 30+ days before receive a full refund minus processing fees. Cancellations 15-29 days before receive 50% refund. Less than 15 days, no refund is possible due to non-refundable tickets and reservations. We strongly recommend travel insurance.
Peruvian regulations require passport information to purchase Machu Picchu entrance tickets. Names must match exactly as printed in your passport. Train tickets also require passport details. After booking, we'll ask you to send a clear photo of your passport data page so we can process your Machu Picchu tickets promptly.
We carry an emergency horse specifically for this situation. If you're struggling with a section, you can ride the horse to the next point. Our guides are trained in high-altitude first aid and carry oxygen. In case of serious altitude sickness, we have evacuation protocols in place. Your safety is our top priority.
Phone signal is very limited or non-existent during the trek until you reach Ollantaytambo on Day 3. There are no charging facilities at campsites, so bring a portable power bank if you need to charge devices. The hotel in Aguas Calientes has electricity and Wi-Fi. Consider this a digital detox opportunity!
Yes! Huayna Picchu can be added for $60 per person, subject to availability. These tickets sell out months in advance, so book early if interested. The climb takes 2-3 hours round trip and offers incredible views of Machu Picchu from above. You must be comfortable with heights and steep stairs.
A 50% deposit ($385) is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance can be paid before departure at our Cusco office. We accept credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers through WeTravel's secure platform.
30+ days before: Full refund minus processing fees. 15-29 days before: 50% refund. Less than 15 days: No refund due to non-refundable tickets and reservations. Rescheduling may be possible subject to availability.
Treks operate in all weather conditions. In case of severe weather, natural disasters, or government restrictions making the trek unsafe, we will offer rescheduling or alternative arrangements. No refunds for weather-related modifications.
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking (up to 4,500m), emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly recommended. Peru Reservations is not liable for costs arising from medical emergencies, evacuations, or trip interruptions.
Participants must be in good physical health and disclose any medical conditions. We reserve the right to exclude participants if health conditions pose risks. Pregnant women and those with serious heart/respiratory conditions should not attempt this trek.
Peru Reservations acts as an agent for transportation, accommodation, and other services. We are not liable for injury, loss, or damage arising from third-party services, participant negligence, or circumstances beyond our control.
By booking this tour, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms and conditions.
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