Cachicata Quarries and Machu Picchu Hike - 4 Days

GENERAL INFORMATION

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights.

Starting point: Cusco City

Return point: Cusco City

Group size: Small group. Maximum 8 people, Average 4.

Type of Tour: Excursion, Hike, Archaeological and Cultural.

Difficulty level: Easy to intermediate.

Altitudes: 3,200 meters above sea level to 4,440 meters above sea level (highest point) and then descending to 2,700 meters above sea level.

Distance to cover: 115 km. / 71.4 miles

Availability: Daily departures

Price Cachicata Quarries and Machu Picchu Hike – 4 Days

Price 550.00 USD Per Person

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TOUR DETAILS

Information

INTRODUCTION

The Cachicata Trail is a hiking route that departs from the community of Socma, near Ollantaytambo, and leads to the Machu Picchu archaeological site. The route crosses high-altitude landscapes, waterfalls, Inca quarries, and mountain forest, with sections of original stone-paved Inca trail that preserve agricultural terraces, water channels, and ceremonial structures.

It is one of the least visited routes in the Cusco region, allowing travelers to hike with few other visitors. The difficulty is moderate, making it accessible for those without prior multi-day hiking experience.

The excursion begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, followed by private transport to the community of Socma, the starting point of the hike. The route ends at the Machu Picchu archaeological site, where there is free time to explore the complex before descending to the town of Aguas Calientes.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Cachicata Trail is one of the least visited alternative routes to Machu Picchu, allowing travelers to hike without crowds.
Walk sections of original Inca trail with well-preserved structures, terraces, and quarries, with guide explanations of the historical context of the route.
Visit the Machu Picchu archaeological site, managed by the Ministerio de Cultura del Perú with limited daily entry quotas.
Hike through high-altitude landscapes with views of waterfalls, valleys, and mountain forest.
Return train journey with views of the valley and cloud forest between Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo.
Suitable for couples, groups of friends, families, and travelers looking for a route away from the most crowded circuits.
All entry tickets and permits included.
Pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Free luggage storage at our office during the hike.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Book your Machu Picchu entry tickets at least 4 months in advance, as spots sell out quickly.
Plan to arrive in Cusco at least 1 day before the start of the hike to acclimatize. Keep in mind that Cusco is located at 3,400 m.a.s.l.
Prepare and review your personal gear before the departure date.
The day before the hike, visit our office in the historic center of Cusco at 7:00 p.m. for the pre-trek briefing with your guide, where the itinerary, required equipment, and trail conditions will be reviewed.
Leave any luggage you will not need during the excursion at the free storage facility at our office.
Carry valid identification documents, as these will be required at trail checkpoints and at the Machu Picchu entrance.

If you have any questions or would like more information about this Tour, do not hesitate to contact us: Mobile: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or write to: info@incredibleperutours.com

Itinerary

DAY 01: CUSCO-SOCMA-RAYAN

We depart early from Cusco by private transport toward the Sacred Valley, heading to the town of Socma, located a short distance from Ollantaytambo. Along the way we stop to observe pre-Inca petroglyphs in the area.

From Socma we begin the hike into the inner valley, passing through fields of potato, corn, and quinoa. The route offers the chance to spot native birds and plants, and the guide will share information about the customs of the local communities and some basic words in Quechua, the language of the Incas.

The hike leads to the Inca site of Perolniyoc, where the guide will carry out the guided visit. From there we continue a short distance to the Rayan campsite (3,650 m.a.s.l. / 11,975 ft), the end point of the day. In the afternoon there is the option to visit a local family in the area.

Accommodation: campsite.
Hiking time: approximately 5 hours.
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles.
Weather: cool.
Elevations: from 3,200 m.a.s.l. to 3,650 m.a.s.l.

DAY 02: RAYAN-CACHICATA QUARRIES

This is the longest section of the hike. We depart from the Rayan campsite and follow the valley uphill toward the first pass of the route. At higher elevations it is possible to see local crops that are still cultivated despite the altitude, as well as muña, an aromatic plant native to the area whose scent accompanies the morning section of the hike.

The ascent to the pass (4,440 m.a.s.l. / 14,567 ft) takes approximately 4 hours. At the pass we stop to rest and take in the panorama of the plateau before continuing for 20 more minutes to the lunch stop.

After lunch the terrain levels out and we walk across a plateau with glacial moraine formations, accumulations of rock deposited by glaciers during the last ice age. The landscape in this zone is distinctive and characteristic of high-altitude ecosystems.

We descend from the plateau to the Cachicata Inca quarry (3,820 m.a.s.l. / 12,532 ft), arriving in the afternoon. Along the way we pass an Inca site known locally as the gateway to the quarry sector.

Hiking time: approximately 6 hours.
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles.
Weather: cool.
Elevations: from 3,650 m.a.s.l. ascending to 4,440 m.a.s.l. and descending to 3,820 m.a.s.l.
Accommodation: campsite.

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DAY 03: CACHICATA-OLLANTAYTAMBO-AGUAS CALIENTES(Village)

This day is dedicated to exploring the Cachicata archaeological site. Despite its proximity to Ollantaytambo, it is a rarely visited destination. Cachicata was the main quarry used by the Incas for the construction of Ollantaytambo and preserves several points of interest: structures, quarry stones left unfinished and scattered across the site, chullpas (funerary structures), and a cave with Inca mummies still in their original location.

After the guided visit we continue along the mountain following the original platform used to transport the stones to Ollantaytambo, arriving in the town in the afternoon. From Ollantaytambo we board the train to Aguas Calientes (2,000 m.a.s.l.), where we spend the night at a hotel. Dinner is included at a local restaurant. During dinner the guide will provide information about the following day’s program.

Hiking time: approximately 3 hours.
Distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles.
Weather: warm.
Elevations: from 3,820 m.a.s.l. to 2,700 m.a.s.l. (on foot) and from 2,700 m.a.s.l. to 2,000 m.a.s.l. (by train).
Accommodation: hotel in Aguas Calientes.

4: AGUAS CALIENTES (VILLAGE)-MACHU PICCHU-CUSCO

After breakfast we leave the hotel at 5:30 a.m. and walk to the bus station. From there we take the tourist bus for 30 minutes up the winding road to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,400 m.a.s.l. / 7,874 ft).

The early departure allows us to arrive before most visitors who access the site by train, making it possible to witness the sunrise over the site if weather conditions allow.

Upon arrival we begin the guided tour of approximately 2 hours led by the professional guide, with explanations of the history of the site and its main structures. After the guided tour there is free time to explore the site independently. Subject to ticket availability, it is possible to hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain as an optional add-on.

In the afternoon we take the bus down for 25 minutes to Aguas Calientes, where there is time to have lunch at a local restaurant. At 6:00 p.m. we board the return train to Ollantaytambo, arriving at approximately 7:50 p.m. A tourist transport will take us back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival at 9:30 p.m. and a final transfer to your hotel.

Guided tour duration: approximately 2 hours.
Weather: warm.
Elevations: Aguas Calientes 2,000 m.a.s.l. / Machu Picchu 2,400 m.a.s.l.

Included services

THIS TOUR INCLUDES

Pre-trek briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before the hike at our office in Cusco.
Secure luggage storage at our office during the excursion.
Hotel pickup in Cusco.
Private transport from Cusco to Socma (starting point of the hike).
Professional English-speaking guide.
Additional guide for groups of 10 or more participants.
Cook and kitchen assistant for the preparation of all meals.
1-hour guided visit to the Cachicata Inca quarry.
Entry tickets to the Machu Picchu archaeological site and camping fees.
2-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
All meals during the hike: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners. Vegetarian and special diets available at no additional cost.
Boiled water to refill bottles and hot water for personal use.
Muleteers and horses for the transport of all camping equipment: tents, food, kitchen gear, and personal items.
Transport of up to 8 kg of personal luggage. Canvas bags provided at the briefing to organize your items.
Emergency horse available in case of illness or physical difficulty during the route.
Complete camping equipment:
- High-altitude sleeping tent for 4 people used by 2 for greater comfort and storage space.
- Thermarest inflatable sleeping mat.
- Dining tent with folding tables, camp chairs, and gas lamp.
- Kitchen tent with complete utensils for the preparation of all meals.
First aid kit and emergency oxygen cylinder carried by the guide.
One-way Expedition train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
Return Expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
1 night accommodation in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, in a single, double, or triple room subject to availability. All hotels include breakfast, private bathroom with hot water, Wi-Fi, and free luggage storage during the Machu Picchu visit.

Additional services:

The following services can be added up to one day before your trip by contacting us or visiting our office in Cusco:
Sleeping bag rental: USD 5 per day.
Trekking pole rental: USD 5 per day.
Vistadome Train upgrade: USD 60 additional.
Huayna Picchu Mountain entry ticket: subject to availability, limited to 400 spots per day. Request at the time of booking.

What should you bring

LIST OF PERSONAL ITEMS TO BE CARRIED

The weather on this route varies depending on altitude and time of day. At higher sections temperatures can be low, especially at night, while at lower elevations the climate is warmer. Below you will find the list of recommended items for this 4-day hike. If you do not have any of them, you can purchase or rent what you need in Cusco before departure, as the city has a good selection of stores specializing in trekking gear.

Documents

Original passport
Student ID if you are a student
Travel insurance (some copies)

Essential

Backpack.
Sleeping bag.
Bottle of water.
Water purifier tablets or filter
Some snacks, such as cookies, sweets, chocolates, nuts, energy bars, etc.
Some cash if you want to buy souvenirs from the Tour.

Clothes

Trekking boots and sandals.
Warm clothing: especially for the night such as thermal jacket, gloves, scarf, woolen socks
Wool cap for cold nights.
Waterproof clothing (raincoat and poncho)
Synthetic or cotton clothing (trekking pants, socks, shorts, 4 t-shirts)
Swimwear, for the hot springs.
Sun hat

Pharmaceutical articles

Personal medical kit with bandages and anti-inflammatory tablets
Insect repellent.
Sunblock
Moisturizing lip cream

Toiletries

Small towel.
Toothpaste and toothbrush
Soap/shower gel
Shampoo and conditioner
Brush/comb
Spray body deodorant
Toilet paper

Other elements

Flashlight
Sunglasses
Camera with memory cards and additional batteries.
Sticks with rubber tips (optional).
Switchblade
Some biodegradable plastic bags
Sense of humor.
Prior acclimatization in Cusco City is recommended for at least 2 days and good general health.

Frequent questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here you will find the Most Frequently Asked Questions from our Customers. Before doing anything, we invite you to carefully read these questions and answers, as well as all our links about this Tour. This will help you obtain information in a simple, quick and practical way.

1. WHAT ACTIVITIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE 4-DAY CACHICATA QUARRY TREK + MACHU PICCHU?

This tour usually includes hikes through mountain landscapes, a visit to the Inca quarries of Cachicata, observation of archaeological sites, camping along the route, a train ride to Aguas Calientes, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu. It also allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.

2. HOW DIFFICULT IS THE 4-DAY CACHICATA QUARRY TREK + MACHU PICCHU?

The 4-Day Cachicata Quarry Trek + Machu Picchu has a moderate level of difficulty. Good physical condition is recommended, as the route includes high-altitude hiking, uphill and downhill sections, and several hours of trekking per day.

3. WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO DO THE CACHICATA QUARRY TREK + MACHU PICCHU?

The best time to do the Cachicata Quarry Trek + Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from April to October, when there is less rain and better hiking conditions. The rainy season runs from November to March, but the tour can also be done with the proper equipment.

4. DOES THE 4-DAY CACHICATA QUARRY TREK + MACHU PICCHU INCLUDE ENTRANCE TO MACHU PICCHU?

Yes, most organized 4-Day Cachicata Quarry Trek + Machu Picchu packages include entrance to Machu Picchu and a guided tour. We recommend booking in advance, as Machu Picchu entrance tickets have limited availability, especially during the high season.

5. ARE THERE DISCOUNTS FOR CHILDREN AND STUDENTS?

Yes, for this Tour we offer discounts and special rates for babies, children and students.

Children under 2 years old accompanied by their parents travel free of charge.

Children between 3 and 8 years old have a discount of USD 100 after sending a scanned copy of the Passport at the time of Reservation.
Students also receive a USD 40.00 discount in the following cases:

→ School and University Students: for young people between 9 and 17 years old, only by sending a scanned copy of the Passport at the time of Reservation.

→ University Students: for young people up to 25 years old, only by sending a scanned copy of the Valid University Card. We accept all Cards from all universities in the world (students aged 26 and over are considered adults).

6. WHY DO MACHU PICCHU TICKETS SELL OUT SO QUICKLY?

Machu Picchu entrance tickets sell out quickly because there is a limited number of tickets available per day to protect the Inca citadel and preserve the archaeological site. Currently, the general capacity is approximately 4,500 visitors per day and may increase to 5,600 visitors per day during high season or special dates, according to the regulations of Peru’s Ministry of Culture. In addition, the most popular circuits, especially those offering the best panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the most complete routes inside the citadel, have limited availability and usually sell out first. For this reason, we recommend booking 4 months in advance, especially if you want to secure the best Machu Picchu circuits, travel during high season, or visit the citadel on a specific date.

7. HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE, COOK AND CARRIERS?

Tips are not mandatory, there is no exact amount. Only if you wish, at the end of the Tour you will be able to tip the Tour Guide, cook and porters. As you can see, this is something additional and completely voluntary, whatever you consider will be greatly appreciated by the support team.

8. DO I NEED TO BRING ADDITIONAL MONEY FOR MY TOUR?

Yes, if you want to buy some snacks like cookies, dried fruits, chocolates, etc. or an additional drink such as soda, beer or energy beverage, as these products can be purchased in small stores.

Furthermore, if you want to buy some souvenirs from the Tour, you can do so at the Aguas Calientes Handicraft Market. There is also an additional option to visit the Thermo-medicinal Baths in this village, the entrance price is 20 soles. For all this, we recommend that you bring between 150 and 300 Peruvian soles. You may not need to spend any of this money, but in case of an emergency, make sure you have enough cash.

9. WHAT TIME DO WE RETURN TO CUSCO?

On the last day, after visiting Machu Picchu, we will take a 25-minute bus to the village of Aguas Calientes. We will have lunch at a local restaurant and then take a 1 hour and 45 minute train journey, arriving at Ollantaytambo Train Station. There, our transport will be waiting to take you on the two-hour journey back to Cusco City. The group will arrive in Cusco City between 7pm and 10:30pm, depending on the train departure time in Aguas Calientes.

10. HOW TO BOOK MY TOUR?

Booking this Trek with us will really be very safe, easy and practical, you will also have Payment Facilities, such as Paying for your Tour up to 1 day before the Tour and in 2 Parts:

First Part can be paid online, from the comfort of your home, by making a Pre-Payment with any Credit or Debit Card from any Bank, using our safe and reliable money transfer system. Prepayment will be made via a deposit of USD 200 per person. (Click on the Book link)

The Second Part or the balance will be paid upon arrival in Cusco City, in person at our Central Office located in Historic Downtown, up to 1 day before the Tour.

⇒ To book the Cachicata Quarries and Machu Picchu Hike, simply follow these 3 simple steps:

1. Fill out the Reservation Form: It’s on the Book link.

2. Pay the First Part (Pre-payment): We accept all cards. You can use a Credit or Debit Card from any Bank or any company: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DINERS CLUB, DISCOVER, JCB, UNION PAY, ETC.

3. Print your Travel Coupon (Receipt): We will send it to you immediately after making the Pre-payment.
⇒ OTHER PAYMENT METHODS: If you want to make the Pre-Payment by other means such as: PayPal, Western Union, Bank Deposit, Bank Transfer or any other method, let us know so we can send you all the necessary information to do so.

11. IF I HAVE ALREADY PAID MY FIRST INSTALLMENT AND DECIDE TO CANCEL, WILL I BE REFUNDED?

Unfortunately No. We will not be able to provide any type of refund or change dates for Tours that are paid in installments. All Pre-payments of USD 200 are non-refundable or transferable, as this money will be immediately invested in all Procedures and Reservations necessary to carry out the Tour, as well as in the purchase of licenses and tickets for the Cachicata Route and Machu Picchu. We will carry out these procedures at the Peruvian Ministry of Culture (Peruvian State Organization in charge of the Administration of the Trails and Machu Picchu).

We understand that unexpected things happen that are beyond your control, but cannot make exceptions. You can read more about our Modification and Cancellation Policies on the website: http://incredibleperutours/es/terminos-y-condiciones/

12. WHY SHOULD I BOOK MY TREK WITH INCREDIBLE PERU TOURS?

There are very good reasons to book your tour with us, let’s look at some:

Excellent location of our travel office: We are located in the Historic Center of Cusco, just one block from the Main Square, making it easy to coordinate and assist you at any time.
Peruvian and authorized travel agency: We are a 100% local company, proudly Peruvian, with more than 15 years of experience organizing tours to the most amazing destinations in our region.
Authorized Inca Trail to Machu Picchu operator: We have all our documentation up to date and comply with all local government requirements, giving our travelers safety, support, and confidence.
Best price with no hidden fees: We offer all-inclusive travel services at affordable prices, with no intermediaries, because we are a direct tour operator.
Travel with local experts: Our team is made up of professional tour guides, cooks, and porters, trained to assist groups, families, couples, friends, and outdoor adventure lovers.
High-quality equipment for your trip: We provide comfortable tents, sleeping bags, trekking poles, trekking pillows, and equipment that is constantly renewed to ensure comfort and safety.
Excellent meals included: Meals are included throughout the trek and prepared with fresh ingredients. We also offer vegetarian meals and special diets at no extra cost.
Safe and guaranteed departures: We operate 100% of our treks, even with just one confirmed traveler, with no additional charges. Our groups are usually small, with an average of 4 to 8 people.
Fair treatment of our staff: We provide our team with lodging, transportation, uniforms, meals, health insurance, and fair wages, recognizing their important work on every trip.
Commitment to social projects: We support social programs that benefit children in local communities, especially in health and education.
Sustainable and responsible tourism: We are committed to protecting the environment, using biodegradable products, and participating in cleanup campaigns along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Personalized service and support: We provide direct and personalized assistance by phone or email, answering your questions and supporting you before, during, and after your trip.

Availability and prices

IMPORTANT:

Spot availability for this route is updated continuously on our website.
Spaces decrease as authorized tour operators make their bookings, so they can sell out at any point during the day.
To guarantee your place on your preferred date, we suggest confirming your booking as far in advance as possible.
If you are interested in doing this Tour and want to book tickets, or need more information, please contact us: Mobile: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or write to: info@incredibleperutours.com
If there is no longer availability for the date of your hike, you can look for other similar excursions that also reach Machu Picchu, such as: 2-day / 1-night Inca Trail, the Salkantay Route, the Choquequirao Trail or the Lares Route, among others. Please check here on the website.

WHY ARE TICKETS FOR THE CACHICATA TRAIL SOLD OUT SO FAST?

According to the current Tourist Use Regulations for the Trail, only 500 daily entries are offered for this route, a number in which visitors are counted, as well as all Service Personnel of Authorized Travel Agencies such as: Guides, Cooks and Porters, therefore tickets are very limited.

These service personnel are of vital importance for the tour, because thanks to them you will have everything you need such as: food, accommodation, tents, etc. The guide will keep you safe and informed throughout the hike; the cook will prepare delicious meals that will give you the energy you need to continue on your way; and the porters will carry everything needed such as: camping equipment, cooking equipment, food, products, sleeping items, among others.

Therefore, due to this regulation, tickets required for a group of travelers will always have to be Double (Travelers + Agency Service Personnel).

This area’s Tourist Use Regulation is drawn up and controlled by the Ministry of Culture (division of the Peruvian Government). The rule is strict and, once 500 tickets for each day have been sold, there is no option to purchase additional ones.

Now that you know the reasons for the great demand, the need to book your tickets as soon as possible is clear, through a Tourism Agency Authorized by the Peruvian Government, as is the case with ours, Incredible Peru Tours – IPT .

Remember to book this Tour as soon as possible because tickets sell quickly for this unforgettable hike.

PRICES

Category	Price	Requirements
Adult	USD 850	14 years and older
Student	USD 830	Up to 25 years old. Copy of valid university student ID required
Child	USD 830	Ages 3 to 11
Infant	Free	Ages 0 to 3, traveling with parents