4 Day Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu

The 4-Day Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is a unique trekking experience that takes adventurers through the stunning landscapes of Peru. Operated by the reputable Kawsay Travel Peru, this moderate trek offers a chance to explore lesser-known Inca ruins and take in the rich cultural heritage of the region. With personalized attention in small groups and all necessary logistics covered, hikers can focus on soaking in the breathtaking vistas and uncovering the fascinating history behind the ancient Inca citadel. But the real question is, what secrets await along this captivating journey?

Good To Know

• 4-day trekking experience through the Andes, exploring lesser-known Inca ruins along the Inca Quarry Trail.
• Experienced, bilingual guide provided, with all transportation, entrance fees, equipment, and travel insurance included.
• Highlights include scenic drives, hikes through high Andean terrain, visits to Inca archaeological sites, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Moderate difficulty level, suitable for hikers with good fitness, with a maximum group size of 9 for a personalized experience.
• Commitment to supporting local communities and minimizing environmental impact, with a focus on sustainable tourism practices.

Tour Overview

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu is a 4-day trekking experience that offers travelers a unique and immersive journey through the heart of the Andes.

Operated by the reputable Kawsay Travel Peru, this tour takes hikers along an off-the-beaten-path route, providing the opportunity to explore lesser-known Inca ruins and breathtaking landscapes.

With a maximum group size of 9 and an experienced, bilingual guide, the tour ensures a personalized and enriching experience.

The trail’s moderate difficulty level makes it accessible to hikers with a good fitness level, while the included transportation, equipment, and insurance provide a hassle-free adventure.

Whether you’re seeking a culturally-immersive experience or simply a breathtaking journey through the Andes, the Inca Quarry Trail is an excellent choice.

Inclusions and Amenities

As part of the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu package, Kawsay Travel Peru provides a comprehensive set of inclusions to ensure a seamless and worry-free experience for their guests.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cusco, an experienced and bilingual guide, all necessary entrance fees, and even travel insurance coverage.

Plus, the package offers personal trekking equipment and supplementary snacks or beverages to keep adventurers fueled throughout the journey.

The inclusions are:

1. Round-trip transportation from Cusco
2. Professional, bilingual guide
3. Entrance fees for Inca Quarry Trail and Machu Picchu
4. Travel insurance, trekking equipment, and snacks/beverages

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day of the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, travelers embark on a scenic 2-hour drive from Cusco to the trailhead at Pachar.

There, they’ll have the opportunity to adjust to the altitude before setting off on a moderately challenging 6-hour hike to the first Inca ruins at Corimarca.

The second day takes hikers through the high Andean terrain with an 8-hour trek to Queñuacancha.

On day three, the group explores the archaeological site of the Inca Quarries before visiting the historic town of Ollantaytambo and taking a train to Aguas Calientes.

The final day is spent touring the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, followed by a scenic train ride back to Cusco.

Day 1: Cusco to Corimarca

How does the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu adventure begin? The journey starts with a scenic 2-hour drive from Cusco to the trailhead at Pachar. This initial stage allows travelers to adjust to the high altitude and prepare for the adventure ahead.

The first day’s hike takes hikers through the Inca ruins of Corimarca, a moderately challenging trek that lasts around 6 hours. Along the way, travelers can expect:

1. Breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean landscape.
2. Opportunities to learn about the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire.
3. A chance to acclimatize to the high altitude.
4. The first glimpse of the impressive Inca Quarry Trail.

Day 2: Ccorimarca to Queuñacancha

The second day’s trek takes hikers through the challenging high Andean terrain from Ccorimarca to Queuñacancha, spanning a distance of approximately 8 hours. Along the way, travelers will be rewarded with stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush alpine meadows. The route requires a good level of physical fitness, as the ascent can be strenuous at times. To help prepare, here’s a quick overview of the day’s highlights:

Time	Distance	Elevation Gain
2 hours	4 km	500 m
2 hours	4 km	300 m
2 hours	4 km	200 m
1 hour	2 km	100 m
1 hour	2 km	50 m

The reward at the end of the day’s trek is the chance to explore the remote and well-preserved Inca ruins of Queuñacancha.

Day 3: Inca Quarries to Aguas Calientes

From Queuñacancha, the group embarks on a 5-hour trek to the Inca Quarries, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the impressive engineering feats of the Inca civilization.

Along the way, they’ll encounter:

1. Intricate stone carvings and partially excavated structures that showcase the Inca’s mastery of stonework.
2. Stunning vistas of the surrounding Andean peaks, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the historical exploration.
3. An opportunity to learn about the quarrying techniques used to source the massive stone blocks for Machu Picchu and other Inca sites.
4. A visit to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, where they’ll enjoy a 5-hour tour of the well-preserved Inca architecture and infrastructure.

After the Inca Quarries, the group completes the day with a train ride to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return

On the final day, travelers embark on the much-anticipated guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

With their knowledgeable guide leading the way, they’ll explore the awe-inspiring ruins, learning about the site’s history and significance.

They’ll marvel at the meticulously crafted stonework, terraced gardens, and panoramic views that make Machu Picchu one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

After the tour, it’s time to begin the scenic train journey back to Cusco, where the adventure began.

Travelers can reflect on the incredible four-day trek through the Andes and the unforgettable experience of visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tour Experience and Support

Travelers can expect a personalized experience on the Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu, with a maximum group size of 9 people.

The tour provider, Kawsay Travel Peru, is committed to supporting local communities and preserving the trail. Their experienced, bilingual guides enhance the journey with historical insights and provide the necessary support throughout the trek.

Some key features of the tour experience include:

1. Sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact.
2. Knowledgeable guides who share their expertise on Inca history and culture.
3. Travel insurance provided for added peace of mind.
4. Personalized attention to ensure a comfortable and memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, this tour is suitable for solo travelers. The provider has a maximum group size of 9, ensuring a personalized experience. Solo travelers can easily book and enjoy this trek to Machu Picchu with an experienced guide.

How Much Additional Spending Money Should I Bring?

To determine how much additional spending money to bring, consider your personal spending habits and any optional activities you’d like to participate in. Generally, $20-$50 per day is a reasonable estimate for incidental expenses on this tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage Size or Weight?

The tour operator typically recommends bringing a small to medium-sized backpack or duffel bag for the trek, as luggage must be carried by porters. There aren’t strict weight limits, but it’s best to pack light and only bring essentials.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your specific interests. The provider is flexible and willing to accommodate requests, such as focusing on particular historical sites or cultural experiences, within the overall 4-day itinerary.

How Much Time Do I Need to Explore Machu Picchu on My Own?

You’ll have about 5 hours to explore Machu Picchu on your own during the guided tour. That’s plenty of time to see the key sights and take in the impressive ruins at your own pace.

The Sum Up

The Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu offers a unique and immersive trekking experience. Participants will enjoy stunning Andean landscapes, explore lesser-known Inca ruins, and learn about the rich history and culture along the way. With personalized attention, all-inclusive amenities, and breathtaking highlights, this moderate trek is a must-do for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable journey to one of Peru’s most iconic destinations.