Inca Quarry with short Inca trail 4 days

Q: How difficult is the Inca Quarry Trek with Short Inca Trail?

The Inca Quarry Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is rated moderate to challenging, due to high-altitude hiking and long trekking days. It’s ideal for travelers with good fitness looking for an alternative route.

Q: What is the altitude of the Inca Quarry Trek?

The highest point reaches approximately 4,450 m (14,600 ft). We recommend spending at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.

Q: Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?

Yes, a government-issued permit is required for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and spaces are limited. Booking in advance is essential, especially in high season.

Q: Is the Inca Quarry Trek less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail?

Yes, the Inca Quarry Trek is one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu, offering fewer crowds, remote Andean landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences before joining the Inca Trail.

Q: How much weight do pack horses carry?

Pack horses carry up to 6 kg (13 lbs) of your personal gear, allowing you to trek comfortably with just a daypack.

The Inca Quarry with Short Inca Trail 4 Days trek is a unique adventure in Peru that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. During this 4-day journey, travelers will explore ancient Inca quarries, hike the Short Inca Trail, and experience the wonder of Machu Picchu.

This trek is perfect for travelers who want a short, immersive Inca experience without committing to the longer Classic Inca Trail. You will walk along ancient stone paths, cross cloud forests, and discover hidden Inca ruins, all while enjoying stunning views of the Sacred Valley.

The Inca Quarry with Short Inca Trail 4 Days trek is designed for those seeking a balanced adventure: a mix of cultural exploration, moderate hiking, and once-in-a-lifetime historical experiences. With professional guides, well-planned logistics, and comfortable accommodations, this journey provides a memorable and hassle-free trek to Machu Picchu.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

Official Inca Trail Permit – Guaranteed entry to the Inca Trail
Entrance Tickets – To Machu Picchu.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide – Certified and experienced English & Spanish-speaking guide.
Pre-Trek Briefing – Detailed orientation the day before your trek.
Private Transportation – From your hotel in Cusco to the trailhead.
Entrance Tickets – To all archaeological sites along the trail and Machu Picchu.
Camping Equipment – High-quality tents (2 people per tent), dining tents, kitchen tents, and portable toilet.
Train from Ollantaytambo to km 104 inca trail
Meals on the Trail – 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners + snacks (vegetarian/vegan options available).
Experienced Cook & Mule driver and horses – To carry group equipment and prepare delicious meals.
Horse – To carry up to 6 kg of your personal belongings.
Boiled Water – Provided every morning and evening.
First Aid Kit & Oxygen – Carried by the guide for safety.
Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo – Expedition or similar class.
Private Transfer back to Cusco – From the train station.

Not Included:

Sleeping Bag & Trekking Poles – Available for rent; recommended for comfort on high-altitude trekking routes in Cusco.
Travel Insurance – Mandatory for trekking in Peru; should cover altitude hiking and emergency evacuation.
Flights to/from Cusco – International and domestic airfare not included.
Accommodation in Cusco – Hotel before and after the trek is not included.
Meals Not Mentioned – Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch/dinner after visiting Machu Picchu.
Personal Expenses – Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, and other personal purchases.
Tips for Guide, Cook & Porters – Optional but customary in trekking tours.
Additional Horse/Porter Service – For extra luggage beyond the included 6 kg allowance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Tickets – Optional hikes require separate permits and advance booking.
Personal Trekking Gear – Backpacks, clothing, rain gear, hiking boots, and other equipment not specified in inclusions.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Highlights:

Explore Ancient Quarries – Discover the Inca stones that built Machu Picchu.
Short Inca Trail – Hike through cloud forests and terraces in just 1–2 days.
Breathtaking Views – Stunning Sacred Valley landscapes and Andean mountains.
Guided Experience – Learn Inca history from expert bilingual guides.
Flexible Accommodation – Camp near Wiñay Wayna or stay in Aguas Calientes.
Photo Opportunities – Capture Machu Picchu and hidden ruins with fewer crowds.
Short but Complete – Full Inca adventure in just 4 days.

Day 1 :

Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc Waterfall – Q’orimarca – Paso Puccasa

The adventure begins early with pickup at your hotel in Cusco. From there, we will travel by private transport to Soqma, the starting point of the trek.

We begin our hike through the Soqma Valley, slowly ascending to the impressive viewpoint of the Perolniyoc waterfall. This is a magical place, ideal for resting and taking photographs with the backdrop of the imposing waterfalls.

This is one of the most revitalizing moments of the trip. The force of the water and the green surroundings create a unique sense of peace.

After a short break, we continue climbing to the archaeological site of Q’orimarca, which was a strategic checkpoint during Inca times. Here we will explore the ruins and learn more about their role in the Inca road network.

After exploring, we continue walking to our lunch spot. The trail continues to climb, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile.

Finally, we reach the first camp at Paso de Puccasa (4,370 m.a.s.l.), where the panoramic views are spectacular. Here we rest, enjoying a well-deserved break under the stars.

Day 2 :

Kuychicassa Pass – Intipunku – Kachiqata Quarries

After an early breakfast with coca tea (essential for the altitude), we begin the ascent to the highest point of the route: the Kuychicassa Pass (4,450 meters above sea level). This is the most demanding section of the route, but also the most rewarding.

From the summit, the views are breathtaking. You can see the snow-capped Mount Veronica (5,800 meters above sea level), one of the most imposing peaks in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

The descent takes us to the sacred site known as Intipunku (Gateway of the Sun). From here, the panoramic view of the valley and mountains is breathtaking.

During the journey, arriving at Intipunku is a magical moment. The energy of the place is special, and the absolute silence invites reflection and wonder.

Then, we continue descending towards the Inca quarries of Kachiqata, where the Incas extracted and worked stone for the construction of Ollantaytambo. Here, the remains of tools and unfinished blocks tell a fascinating story.

We calmly explore the quarries before having lunch and continuing on to our campsite. The night passes surrounded by history, rest, and the stars.

Day 3 :

Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Wiñay Wayna – Intipunku – Aguas Calientes

The day starts early with a cup of coca tea to wake us up. Then we walk to Ollantaytambo, where we take the train to kilometer 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

After registering, we began our hike to Chachabamba, an important archaeological site where we explored the perfectly preserved Inca structures.

The hike continues uphill until reaching the spectacular archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, known as “Forever Young.” Here we enjoy breathtaking views, agricultural terraces, and Inca temples.

The beauty of Wiñay Wayna will leave us speechless. The views of the valley and the structure itself are out of this world.

After a light lunch, we resume our hike to Intipunku (Gateway of the Sun), where we catch our first glimpse of the majestic Machu Picchu. This is one of the most eagerly anticipated moments of the trip.

We will descend leisurely to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where we will take some photos before heading to Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night in a hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

Day 4 :

Guided tour of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

The last day is the grand finale of this adventure.

After an early breakfast, we will board the bus to Machu Picchu for the official guided tour. We will explore the temples, plazas, and terraces of the Inca citadel, learning about its history, architecture, and mysteries.

After the tour, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and to explore the town before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation takes us back to Cusco.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

Official Inca Trail Permit – Guaranteed entry to the Inca Trail
Entrance Tickets – To Machu Picchu.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide – Certified and experienced English & Spanish-speaking guide.
Pre-Trek Briefing – Detailed orientation the day before your trek.
Private Transportation – From your hotel in Cusco to the trailhead.
Entrance Tickets – To all archaeological sites along the trail and Machu Picchu.
Camping Equipment – High-quality tents (2 people per tent), dining tents, kitchen tents, and portable toilet.
Train from Ollantaytambo to km 104 inca trail
Meals on the Trail – 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners + snacks (vegetarian/vegan options available).
Experienced Cook & Mule driver and horses – To carry group equipment and prepare delicious meals.
Horse – To carry up to 6 kg of your personal belongings.
Boiled Water – Provided every morning and evening.
First Aid Kit & Oxygen – Carried by the guide for safety.
Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo – Expedition or similar class.
Private Transfer back to Cusco – From the train station.

Not Included:

Sleeping Bag & Trekking Poles – Available for rent; recommended for comfort on high-altitude trekking routes in Cusco.
Travel Insurance – Mandatory for trekking in Peru; should cover altitude hiking and emergency evacuation.
Flights to/from Cusco – International and domestic airfare not included.
Accommodation in Cusco – Hotel before and after the trek is not included.
Meals Not Mentioned – Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch/dinner after visiting Machu Picchu.
Personal Expenses – Snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry, and other personal purchases.
Tips for Guide, Cook & Porters – Optional but customary in trekking tours.
Additional Horse/Porter Service – For extra luggage beyond the included 6 kg allowance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Tickets – Optional hikes require separate permits and advance booking.
Personal Trekking Gear – Backpacks, clothing, rain gear, hiking boots, and other equipment not specified in inclusions.

FAQs:

Expand all

How difficult is the Inca Quarry Trek with Short Inca Trail?

The Inca Quarry Trek + Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is rated moderate to challenging, due to high-altitude hiking and long trekking days. It’s ideal for travelers with good fitness looking for an alternative route.

What is the altitude of the Inca Quarry Trek?

The highest point reaches approximately 4,450 m (14,600 ft). We recommend spending at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.

Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?

Yes, a government-issued permit is required for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and spaces are limited. Booking in advance is essential, especially in high season.

Is the Inca Quarry Trek less crowded than the Classic Inca Trail?

Yes, the Inca Quarry Trek is one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu, offering fewer crowds, remote Andean landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences before joining the Inca Trail.

Where do you sleep during the 4-day trek?

You’ll camp for two nights with full equipment provided and stay one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.

What is included in the meals during the trek?

All meals on the trek are freshly prepared by a professional cook, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, with vegetarian and vegan options available.

How much weight do pack horses carry?

Pack horses carry up to 6 kg (13 lbs) of your personal gear, allowing you to trek comfortably with just a daypack.

What train is included after visiting Machu Picchu?

The return journey includes a scenic train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, typically in Expedition class or similar.

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Inca Quarry with short Inca trail 4 days

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Overview

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FAQs

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