Getting to the Heart of Inca Greatness : The Inca Quarry Trek

Do you want to hike to Machu Picchu and don’t know which trail or route to choose?

Can you imagine walking the same routes that the Incas had walked to get to Machu Picchu before the Spaniards arrived? If you want to experience and hike on a less crowded trail than the famous Inca Trail, we present you the Inca Quarry Trek. Have you heard about this peculiar trekking route? For sure yes.

It starts in Socma and ends in Ollantaytambo, where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Nevado Veronica through the Inti Punku or Sun Gate, in addition to discovering Inca constructions.

Discover with Inkayni Peru Tours this exclusive hike on the way to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

WHAT IS THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

The Inca Quarry trail was an option to reach the Sacred Valley in the Incas’ time. They use these trails which started from Cusco and connected many other towns and locations. In this case, this Inca Trail to hike starts in Socma, but there are several ways around the area in the surrounding towns.

Furthermore, it is a shorter and less crowded route than the Classic Inca Trail. The scenery is undoubtedly spectacular but different than the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek. Along the route, you’ll come across mountain passes, foxes, alpacas and some other wild mammals.

This hike is relatively easy compared to other treks to Machu Picchu, making it an excellent option for less experienced hikers and even for people without trekking experience.

Inca Quarry Trek

WHERE IS THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL LOCATED?

The Inca Quarry Trek is located between Socma and Ollantaytambo. The route comes across with different Quechua communities, Inca constructions and natural resources.

The Inca Quarry trail is divided into two sections:

• The first three days focus on trekking more than 25 miles above the surrounding mountains over 13,000 ft / 4,000 m!
• Nevertheless, you’ll visit and explore Machu Picchu on the last day.

HOW LONG IS THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL?

It depends. Some years ago I did the same route in just one day! It was a really tough trek of 14 hours until reach Ollantaytambo from Socma.

However, Inkayni Peru Tours has been thinking and working with itineraries proper for tourists who want to spend a great time in the Peruvian Andes. That is the reason you can find traditional and own itineraries to offer.

WHAT IS THE ALTITUDE OF THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL?

The Inca Quarry Trek route ranges between 2,790 m / 9,103 ft and 4,449 m / 14,596 ft. Furthermore, the trailhead is at 3,204 m / 10,512 ft.

HOW LONG IS THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

The Inca Quarry hike is approximately 26 km / 16 mi whereas the Inca Trail is 43 km / 28 mi long.

WHERE DOES THE INCA QUARRY TREK START?

The Inca Quarry trek generally starts in Socma (3,250 m/10,662 ft). Socma is driving 80 minutes far away from Cusco. This town is very small and its population is just 250 people.

Dry Puna Grassland on the Inca Quarry Trail

WHERE DOES THE INCA QUARRY TREK END?

The trek ends in Ollantaytambo town. Nevertheless, the tour we offer includes Machu Picchu on the last day. If you don’t hire any tour, you can go to Machu Picchu or return to Cusco from Ollantaytambo.

To reach Machu Picchu from Ollantaytambo, you can board a train or hike on the Inca Trail or Short Inca Trail. It’s up to you! Always remember that you have to book your train and Machu Picchu’s entrance ticket ahead of time.

Ollantaytambo town is a living Inca Town.

HOW HARD IS THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL?

It’s mild to tough owing to the distance and altitude along the trail. Therefore, altitude sickness is real, so we advise you to acclimatise well for at least two days in Cusco before starting the trek.

WHAT TO DO IF I SUFFER FROM ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

We recommend that the first thing you do is relax since our team is at your disposal and trained for this type of mishap.

Also, to prevent altitude sickness it is advisable to consume coca leaves, but how? Generally, coca leaves are consumed in teas and should not exceed 3 cups per day. Another way to consume it is in coca candies, and you can even chew the coca leaves directly.

HORSES ON THE TRAIL

Yes. Horses carry all the necessary trekking equipment for the whole trek. On the other hand, trekkers just must be aware of carrying just their packdays with their personal items inside.

HOW IS THE ROUTE TO THE INCA QUARRY?

There are different itineraries for the Inca Quarry Trek. However, generally, you will pass through the town of Socma, the Perolniyoc waterfall and the ruins of Corimarca on the first day, the Pucaqasa and Kuychicassa Passe, Inti Punku (The Sun Gate) and the Cachicata Quarry on the last day.

DAY 1: SOQMA – PEROLNIYOC – RACAYPATA – RAYAN

The starting point is the village of Socma (3,000 m/9,842 ft.). From there we will walk for about three to four hours to the Perolniyoc waterfall.

When you arrive at the Perolniyoc waterfall, you will be able to submerge yourself in its crystalline waters to refresh yourself for a while. Then we will continue to the archaeological site of Racaypata, where the scenery will take your breath away.

Finally, you will walk until you reach Rayan, where you can camp and contemplate the night sky.

Attractions on the Inca Quarry hike

DAY 2: RAYAN – SUN GATE (INTI PUNKU) – CHOQUETAKARPO

The second day is the most challenging, as you will walk through the highest points of the route. However, it is also the most rewarding because you will witness the Urubamba mountain range and the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

In the first section, you will cross the Pucaqasa Pass (4,379 m/14,366 ft). And then go a little higher to the Kuychiccasa Pass (4,450 m/14,599 ft), the highest point on the hike to the Inca Quarry. From here the trail is downhill and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach the Inti Punku (The Sun Gate), at this point you will enjoy splendid views of the snow-capped Veronica.

At the end of the day’s hike, you will camp at Choquetacarpo (3,600 m/ 11,811 ft).

Remember: The Inti Punku (Sun Gate) on this route is not the same Sun Gate as near Machu Picchu.

Attractions on the Inca Quarry hike

DAY 3: INCA QUARRY – OLLANTAYTAMBO – MACHU PICCHU

You will walk for approximately 1 hour along the downhill trail section until you reach Cachicata.

Cachicata is the main Inca quarry. It was a place where the ancient Inca stonemasons carved and polished the rocks to build the Temple of the Sun in Ollantaytambo.

After that, you will continue walking to the Sacred Valley of the Incas for 3 hours, where Ollantaytambo is located. In the afternoon you will take a train to Aguas Calientes.

Hike to the Inca Quarry

DAY 4: VISIT TO MACHU PICCHU

You will wake up early, around 5:00 a.m. to have breakfast and take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu.

Inside the citadel, the assigned guide will give you all the information and history about Machu Picchu. If you have time available and want to know Machu Picchu from another angle you can opt for additional hikes to Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu (these hikes must be booked in advance and have an additional cost).

Panoramic view of Machu Picchu

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE INCA QUARRY TRAIL?

Definitely in the dry season (May – December), especially June, July and August.

During the day, there is a high probability of sunlight all day, but the nights are really cold.

ATTRACTIONS OF THE INCA QUARRY TREK

You will walk through the most impressive landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, enjoy imposing snow-capped peaks, visit remote communities such as Socma and visit historical sites such as the famous ruins of Q’orimarca.

PEROLNIYOQ WATERFALL

This is a prominent waterfall near Socma. It is a beautiful two-level waterfall located in a small wet valley below a huge rock cliff.

From the start in the town of Socma, you will walk for approximately 60 minutes on a rustic trail until you see the Perolniyoq waterfall.

Perolniyoq waterfall

RAQAYPATA RUINS

It is an archaeological complex of the Inca period, located on top of the mountain at 3,560 meters. This place was used as a warehouse and administrative place during the Inca empire; you can also see a set of sophisticated hydraulic systems for agriculture that is still in operation today.

Furthermore, it rises above the Perolniyoc waterfall.

Racaypata Ruins near Perolniyoc waterfall

QUICK TOUR OF OLLANTAYTAMBO

You can enjoy a brief tour of the living Inca City of Ollantaytambo. This is the closest approximation to an Inca city in the past.

With cobblestone streets and open irrigation ditches still used after five centuries.

Be sure to purchase a ticket for the night train departing at 9:00 p.m. to Aguas Calientes to avoid unnecessary rush.

The Living Inca City of Ollantaytambo

VERONICA SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAIN

It is the highest peak in the Urubamba Mountain Range and part of the Eastern Cordillera of the Peruvian Andes.

It is located at an altitude of 5,893 meters/ 19,334 feet and 50 kilometres from Cusco, northwest of Ollantaytambo.

Panoramic view of Veronica Mountain

CAMPING

During the three-day hike to the Inca Quarry there are no hotels. Travel agencies use tents to organize groups.

It is possible to enjoy a unique nightscape at either of the two camps in Rayan and Choquetakarpo.

Campsites on the Inca Quarry hike

MAIN QUARRY

This quarry is the largest. It is a huge rocky area where the Incas did immense work. The most striking feature of this quarry is a huge piece of red granite in a circular shape with a circular slit in the centre.

The Main Quarry

THE INTI PUNKU OF CACHICATA

The Inti Punku or “Gate of the Sun” of Cachicata is located at the top of the mountain, at 3,886 m / 12,749 ft.

This structure was built in honor of the sun, which normally welcomes the winter solstice’s first rays. From this point, you can appreciate an impressive view of the Sacred Valley and the snow-capped Veronica.

Inti Punku in Ollantaytambo

CHULLPAS OF CACHICATA

They’re small circular structures located on the top of huge granite stones. They have a small entrance oriented towards sunrise.

Chullpas of Cachicata

HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

Anyone undertaking a three-day trek at 3,500 meters or more needs a reasonable level of fitness, as at high altitudes it is harder to breathe, easier to get tired and there is a risk of altitude sickness.

There is no way to guarantee avoiding altitude sickness with only one or two days in Cusco. It is a big mistake to hike in the mountains without being properly acclimatized. Instead, take some time for short tours of Cusco and walk slowly.

However, a slow and gradual ascent is not always possible, so certain medications can prevent this.

CAN THE INCA TREK QUARRY BE DONE WITHOUT A GUIDE?

The answer is yes, but it is advisable to book with a travel agency. Why?

The Inca Quarry trek takes approximately three days, during which you will need to carry everything you need for camping and food. In addition, it is necessary to coordinate transportation to take you to the starting point in Socma. If you intend to explore Machu Picchu, you will need to organize your itinerary efficiently.

Necessarily personal organization may not represent a significant saving, so consider hiring a tour. In this way, you will avoid logistical and transportation worries, focusing only on fully enjoying your trip.

WHAT TO PACK FOR THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

As it is a long trek, we recommend taking only what is necessary. We advise you to pack the following:

• Trekking, hiking or trail running shoes.
• Trekking socks.
• Bring layers of clothing: a long-sleeved polo shirt, a light jacket and a waterproof jacket.
• A hat or a cap.
• A rain poncho.
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Carry a 2 liter water bottle (if you contract with a travel agency, they usually provide water).
• Trekking poles (optional).

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO DO THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

The cost of the Inca Quarry trek varies according to the travel agency you choose, for example: The minimum cost of the tour is 580 dollars to 720 dollars.

In Inkayni Peru Tours, we offer you the best option with the best prices to live an unprecedented adventure in the Inca Quarry trek.

IS IT NECESSARY TO RESERVE THE INCA QUARRY TREK IN ADVANCE?

No, there is not an entrance limit for the Inca Quarry hike. Likewise, it is not necessary to have a tourist ticket and pay for it.

HOW TO BOOK THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

Don’t know how to book? Here are some guidelines for you:

STEP 1: CHOOSE A RELIABLE TRAVEL AGENCY

It is important to be careful when choosing an agency, read carefully the itinerary and the inclusions. We advise you to check reviews from other travelers.

Inkayni Peru Tours is your best option. Why? Because we offer quality tourist services and guarantee personalized attention.

STEP 2: CONTACT THE AGENCY

Once you have chosen a travel agency you trust, you can contact them. Generally, they communicate via WhatsApp, Messenger, email or phone calls.

Through these channels, you can talk to your travel agent about any questions you may have and the details of the tour.

STEP 3: CONFIRM AVAILABILITY AND BOOK

Be sure to check availability for the dates you plan to travel. And if you have any doubts, ask your travel agent for more details.

STEP 4: MAKE THE PAYMENT

Keep in mind that booking policies may vary from agency to agency, so understand every detail. Some travel agencies ask for a certain percentage as a down payment or require full payment for the tour.

Take your time to research and make sure you are making the right decision for your needs and expectations.

FOOOOTTOTOOOOOO

How to book with a travel agency

IS THE INCA QUARRY HIKE WORTH IT?

Of course it is! The Cantera Inca trek offers unparalleled scenery route, breathtaking views and a hike that is not too difficult.

We can compare the Inca Quarry Hike with the Huchuy Qosqo Trek and even the Lares Trek. However, there are other treks such as the Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek and Choquequirao Trek which are superior to the Inca Quarry Trek.

If you are looking to explore ancient Inca trails, delight in nature and discover ancient structures, this trek is the ideal choice!

Sun Gate or Inti Punku in Ollantaytambo

IS THE INCA QUARRY HIKE DANGEROUS?

Yes, like any traditional hike at high altitude, there are certain risks involved; therefore, it is essential to take precautions and be properly prepared.

Some of the possible risks are:

• The trek takes place at a relatively high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness or soroche in some hikers. It is therefore important to be well acclimatized before starting the hike. It is also important to make a gradual ascent so that your body adapts to the altitude change.
• The weather is unpredictable in the region, heavy rains can occur during the dry season, so you should always pack a rain poncho and warm clothing.
• Although the trek is not challenging, you should always walk carefully and respect Mother Nature.
• Most trekking takes place far from towns and cities and medical services.

To minimize risks, we recommend you:

• Make sure you are physically fit to trek.
• You are recommended to hire a travel agency.
• Take the necessary clothing and equipment into account for weather conditions and altitude.
• Keep yourself informed about which months are recommended for the Inca Quarry Trek.
• Respect the instructions of your travel agency (if you travel with one) and leave no trace.

We also advise you to always respect the mountains, following the philosophy of “leave no trace“, this means do not throw or leave waste while doing your hike, we must respect mother nature and preserve the landscape.

Panoramic view of Inti Punku

You may also be interested in:

👉 FIND OUT HOW TO GET TO MACHU PICCHU.

👉 THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HIKE THE CACHICATA TREK OR INCA QUARRY TRAIL IN THE SACRED VALLEY

You have discovered how to get to Machu Picchu by trekking the Inca Quarry Trek! Also, you have learned and explored what attractions you’ll come across along the route.

The question is, are you prepared for this trek? If the answer is no, you can find more blogs and important information about Peruvian Treks on Inkayni Peru Tours‘ blog.

Our country is waiting for people from abroad. We have many options within our territory. Having the Andes Mountain Range in our country, trekking activities are targets for adventurous people who wish to climb above 4000 and even 5000 m.a.s.l.