Cachicata Inca quarries in Ollantaytambo 4 Days

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Culture

Adventure

Immersion

Explore the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and Cachicata Quarries in Ollantaytambo on this unique tour. Discover how Inca architecture and stonework techniques shaped the iconic structures of Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.

This hike is off the beaten track as it’s not very popular among hikers. It’s also considered an alternative to the classic Inca Trail. At the quarries, you’ll be able to appreciate how the Incas worked the stones and moulded them to fit their architectural style. In fact, it is believed that this big rock and stone block would take the shape of the Inca’s hands. They showed an advanced knowledge of architecture and a unique technique which are reflected in construction like Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.

Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy amazing waterfalls and the stunning landscape of the other Sacred Valley of the Incas. You’ll also have time to visit the town of Ollantaytambo, the last Inca village. After this visit, you’ll board the train to go towards Machu Picchu town, Aguas Calientes. You’ll be visiting the citadel on your last day.

Tour highlights!

Trace the steps of the ingenious Inca civilization, masters of agriculture and architecture.
Challenge yourself physically and mentally as you explore rugged terrain and ancient pathways.
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions and ceremonies honoring nature and Pachamama.
Savor the flavors of authentic Peruvian cuisine, a culinary adventure in itself.
Witness the breathtaking sunrise at the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Benefit from the expertise of our multilingual guide, ready to unveil the secrets of the Inca civilization and Peruvian culture.
This tour will take you to the Inti Punku (sun gate) and to the Cachicata quarries in Ollantaytambo, where you’ll discover how the Inca architecture and their way of working with stone influenced the design and building of both Ollataytambo and Machu Picchu.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Cusco – Raf’qa – Soqma - Q’orimarca

Early in the morning, we’ll travel from Cusco to Choquequilla for about 2 hours.This is a small ceremonial area, where the Incas used to pay tribute to the moon. After this, we’ll head for Raf’qa, the beginning of our hike. At this point you’ll meet the rest of the team who will join us for the rest of the hike. After an-hour ‘s walk, we’ll find the Socma community and 60m from there, you’ll see the Perolniyoc waterfall. This will be the perfect time to stop to take photos and have a quick snack. From here, we’ll continue walking towards our campsite, located at about 3700 masl., where we’ll have lunch. After lunch, we’ll explore the Q’orimarca archaeological site, which used to be a meeting point in the Inca Empire.

Transportation time: 3h.
Walking time: 6h.
Distance: 12 km
Difficulty level: moderate
Meals: L = lunch, D = dinner
Overnight: tent
Climate: mild during the day and cold at night.
Elevation: Cusco (3,400m) – Raf’qa (2,800m) – Soqma (3,600m) – Qórimarca (3,700m)

Day 2: Q’orimarca – Puccaqasa pass – Kuychicassa - Inti Punku (Sun gate) – Choquetacarpo

This is the biggest challenge of the day but the most rewarding of the trek. A 3-hour hike will take us to the Puccagasa pass at about 4370 masl. At the highest spot, you’ll have time to take photos and enjoy the view. Then, we’ll walk down for about 30 minutes to our lunch spot. Having recovered our energy, we’ll start a 2-hour walk towards the highest point of today’s hike: Kuychicassa, at about 4450 masl. From here, we’ll have a 2-hour descent to get to the Inca site Inti Punku (the sun gate) where you’ll appreciate the imposing view of the valley and the Veronica mountain in the horizon. Our campsite is in Choquetacarpo at 3600 masl.

Walking time: 7h.
Distance: 14 km
Difficulty level: challenge
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
Overnight: tent
Climate: mild with wind during the day and cold at night.
Elevation: Q’orimarca (3,700m) – Puccaqasa Paso (4,370 m) – Kuychicassa (4,450m) – Inti Punku (3,900m) – Choquetacarpo (3,600m)

Day 3: Choquetacarpo – Kachiqata Inca Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu

During this day, you’ll walk a downhill path. The first stop will be at the Cachicata quarries, where you’ll witness one of the most important strongholds of Inca engineering,which is unfinished. It is said that its building was interrupted by the Spanish conquest. From this point, we’ll be able to see and visit Ollantaytambo. Here, we’re also going to catch our train to travel to Machu Picchu town, where we’ll spend the night at a private hotel.

Transportation time: 2h.
Walking time: 6h.
Distance: 9 km
Difficulty level: moderate
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner
Overnight: hotel
Climate: warm during the day and mild at night.
Elevation: Choquetacarpo (3,600m) – Kachiqata Quarry (3,500m) – Ollantaytambo (2,700m) – Machupicchu (2,050m)

Day 4: Machupicchu town – Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast, we’ll take the touristic bus up to Machu Picchu. At the citadel, you’ll have a 3-hour guided visit of the area. This includes the time for taking photos. Then, we’ll head back to Machu Picchu town to board our train back to Ollantaytambo. At the station, our transportation will be awaiting you to take you back to your accommodation in Cusco.

Transportation time: 3h 30
Visiting time: 3h.
Distance: 4 km
Difficulty level: easy
Meals: B = breakfast
Overnight: on your own
Climate: warm during the day
Elevation: Machupicchu town (2,050m) – Machu Picchu (2,400m) – Cusco (3,400m)

Informative briefing in your accommodation, 1 or 2 days before departing. Details will be confirmed when booking.
Transportation: Private transfer from your accommodation in Cusco to Choquequilla, beginning of the hike. Private transport from Pucara to Ollantaytambo.
Expedition train* from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu town.
Expedition train tickets* from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/Poroy and transportation to CuscoExpedition train from Machu Picchu town to Ollantaytambo, plus private transport to your accommodation in Cusco.
Round trip bus from Machu Picchu town to Machu Picchu citadel.
Machu Picchu ticket.
Camping gear: 2-people professional tents (Doite Pro Aconcagua 3 or Eureka tent), mats, toilet and utility tents (toilet, kitchen and dining tents with tables and chairs).
Professional, bilingual tour guide (English-Spanish). For other languages contact us in advance. Bear in mind there may be extra charges.
Cook.
Kitchen gear.
Meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners. We pay special attention to dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan and allergies). Meals are prepared by an expert cook and they include: pancakes, omelettes, soups, spaghetti, rice, chicken, fish, beef, fresh fruit, hot drinks (including coca leaves infusions which are great for altitude) among others. Dinner on day 3 is at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes and lunch on day 4 is at Tinkuy, Sanctuary Lodge.
Boiled water to refill your water bottles.
Hand biodegradable liquid soap.
Biodegradable dishwasher for the kitchen gear.
Hot water for personal use in the camp in the morning and evening.
Hotel in Machu Picchu town (Flower’s House, Terraza de Luna or similar category hotels).
Muleteer and mules to transport the camping gear and food.
Transportation of participant’s personal bags (up to 7kg, including the sleeping bag).
A safety horse during the hike.
Duffel bag for personal use.
Trekking poles.
First-aid kit (including oximeter and thermometer) and oxygen bottle.

Train services included

If you are looking for an adventure on your way to Machu Picchu at an unbeatable price, the Peru Rail Expedition train has just what you need, with all the on-board services you could wish for.
(*) The carriages of the Peru Rail Expedition train are infused with the designs of the Inca culture, making them the perfect way to begin your journey to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Peru Rail Expedition gives you the opportunity to enjoy the incredible scenery and take amazing panoramic photographs of a journey like no other.

Recommendations

The route of the Inca Architecture previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants walking pace or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.

The Andean weather is quite unpredictable. Thus, we suggest bringing warm clothes, a hat/cap, sunglasses, a scarf, gloves, jacket, high protection sun cream and Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Along this hike we will cross hills at 4,450m. This route, combined with the weather conditions, can make the daily trek even more difficult. To best enjoy the trek, we recommend you to be healthy and in good physical condition and to acclimatize in Cusco at least 3 days before the trek.
Camping sites: The camping sites on the route may vary from those described in our itinerary, due to the limited number of campsites that are known to the general public. Our guide and representative will recommend to the group the best option given the circumstances.

Optional services to be hired

To make the most of Machu Picchu, we suggest having the buffet lunch at the Tinkuy Sanctuary Lodge restaurant, located right next to the archaeological site. We also recommend the buffet lunch option at El Mapi hotel Machu Picchu by Inkaterra in Aguas Calientes.
Extra Porter / Horseman: In accordance with the law (31614) of the Ministry of Labour, the collaboration of an extra porter will be granted at the request of the client. However, the customer’s luggage must not exceed 12 kilograms. The service of an extra porter / horseman has a cost of 140 USD, which includes transportation, entrance to the Inca Trail, food and camping equipment.
Note: The group of Porters/Horsemen and horses are only present in the trekking part.
Optional train services: It is possible to travel in a superior luxury category on the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains; contact us for more information.
On Demand – Vistadome Train: The “Vistadome” train offers you breathtaking views during your journey to Cusco, offers fashion shows, dinners, a refined service and premium travel conditions. In addition, the carriage is built with large windows that offer unparalleled panoramic views and the possibility to take beautiful photographs. The Vistadome also has air-conditioning and heating, and ergonomic leather seats that are very comfortable after so many hours of walking. The Vistadome offers you a first class service, which will allow you to immerse yourself in the Andean culture, through the landscapes, the music, the dance and even the food carefully prepared with local ingredients.

On Demand – Hiram Bingham Train: The Hiram Bingham Train category is optional and it is a luxury service of the Orient Express, operated by the company “Peru Rail”. You will experience an exceptional journey. The Hiram Bingham carriages are distinguished by their blue and gold colour, their warm and cozy interior and their elegant upholstery. The service includes 4 carriages, 2 restaurant carriages, as well as a panoramic view carriage with bar. Brunch and dinner on board are also included.

For the optional services, contact our staff to check availability.

What we recommend that you bring

An ergonomic day backpack for hiking with waterproof cover (30 or 40 liters).
A waterproof backpack otherwise requests a duffel bag at your agency for carrying your personal belongings on the horse.
Sleeping bag (-10º degrees).
Clothing for cold and hot weather.
Waterproof jacket, rain pants and light pants, rain poncho, hat or cap.
Hiking shoes.
Flip flops or sandals (for showers and hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
Wool or cotton socks.
T-shirts with short and long sleeves.
Towel easy dry and swimsuit (in case you want to relax in the hot mineral spring).
Sun block.
Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Anti-itch cream.
Disinfectant hand gel.
Toilet paper.
Plastic water or metal container and water-sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink.
Toiletries.
Camera (wrapped in a plastic pouch).
Flashlight and spare batteries.
Snacks, like chocolate bars and dried fruits.
Original passport.
Original ISIC Student Card (in case you have applied for a student discount).
Extra money in soles.

Optional: walking sticks or poles are recommended which can help you to reduce the amount of time you spend pounding the trail, taking the pressure off your joints.

During high season (May to September), it is difficult to ensure the exact date of entry, due to the restrictions set by the Ministry of Culture to limit the number of entries to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; therefore, the date of entry to the Inca Trail could vary for one or two days; then we will adapt the program so you can make the most of it.

Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain: To hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, it is required to book well in advance, because the entrance tickets are limited to a certain number of people daily. Therefore, we’ll take care of the reservation and confirm your entrance with an additional charge of $30 USD per person.

Note: If you wish to visit any of the extra mountains, please inform us in due time before purchasing the entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel.

Student card: To qualify for the 20 USD student discount, you must have a valid ISIC student card when you book, not just when you arrive in Cusco! It must be valid for the current year. When booking, we need a picture of the card sent to the contact email. The Ministry of Culture is strict when verifying student cards. If you do not have a valid ISIC student card, you will be charged the regular price.

A solidarity trip: Feel free to bring pens, notebooks, picture books or other school supplies to give to the children’s community school. The villagers will be very grateful. You can also buy bread on the way to share with the locals you meet.

Tips: for porters, cooks and guides, tips are always welcome. Porters are also very grateful for a small donation, such as school clothes or supplies for their children.

Cancellation policy: For any cancellation; the costs already incurred by the travel agency will be at your expense. For more details on the cost of cancellations by certain participants, please refer to articles 6, 6.4 and our cancellation policies in the sales terms and conditions.

For more information, you may wish to check or consult our FAQ, Safe and Healthy Travel, and Flexible Booking with Explorandino.

In December 2021, Explorandino obtained the TourCert certification for its “Sustainable Management System for Tour Operators” guided by the criteria and guidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Our approach highlights the richness of culture and natural beauty. Each tourist experience is a chance to preserve and showcase cultural heritage while promoting practices that regenerate the natural environment

We collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders to develop a model that benefits all. From respecting local communities to conserving biodiversity, each action represents a stride toward more responsible tourism.

Why Book Early?

Spots for the best Machu Picchu experiences fill up fast! Securing your visit to the essential circuits of the citadel, perfect for capturing stunning photos and videos.

Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983) and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007). To protect its rich history and cultural significance, the Peruvian government enforces strict visitor limits. Plan your visit early to ensure you experience this breathtaking marvel while preserving its legacy for future generations. Don’t miss out—book now to guarantee your adventure.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits for Better Visitor Management

The Ministry of Culture of Peru has revised the circuits in the Inca city of Machu Picchu to enhance visitor capacity management. Effective from June 1st to October 15th, and on December 30th and 31st, 2024, three new circuits comprising 10 different routes will be in place to explore Machu Picchu. These new routes aim to streamline visits and offer a better experience while preserving the integrity of this ancient site.

Visitor Capacity and Booking Details

Machu Picchu Citadel:

Daily Capacity: Ministerial Resolution N° 000528-2023-MC allows up to 4,500 visitors per day, with a potential increase to 5,600 during high season(May to September). To secure your spot, especially during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.
Low Season (October to April): Although there may be more availability, it’s always wise to book ahead to ensure your preferred date and time.

Tourist Circuits:

Machu Picchu offers several circuits to manage the visitor flow and enhance your experience:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic)

This circuit offers the iconic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint, with panoramic views of the main Inca structures. It is divided into 4 optional routes:

Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Visit the Lower and Upper Platforms for views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban zone, then continue towards Machu Picchu Mountain.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Explore the Lower and Upper Platforms with views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban area.
Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate (available only in high season) – Start at the Lower and Upper Platforms for scenic views, then proceed to the Intipunku Gate.
Route 1-D: Inca Bridge (available only in high season) – Begin with the Lower and Upper Platforms, followed by a path to the Inca Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Cusco rainforest.
Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)

Explore the classic route through the entire Machu Picchu citadel, perfect for capturing the iconic photo of the city. This circuit is divided into 2 sub-routes:

Route 2-A: Designed Route – Includes the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route – Covers the Lower Platform, Granite Chaos, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)

Discover the lower sections of the archaeological site with this circuit, offering four optional routes to explore prominent features like the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, or Huchuy Picchu:

Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Route – Begin with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip). On the return, visit the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route – Explore the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, Three Doorways sector, the water mirrors complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (High Season Only) – Visit the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Proceed to the Great Cavern (3 km round trip). On the return, explore the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route (High Season Only) – Start with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huchuy Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip), and on the way back, visit the water mirrors complex and the Temple of the Condor.

For Better Orientation, Explore Our Circuit Maps: To enhance your visit, we provide detailed maps of the various circuits at Machu Picchu. These maps will help you navigate the site and make the most of your experience. Discover the various Machu Picchu circuits and pick the adventure that suits you best. Explore your options here.

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain:

Additional Hiking Options: For those seeking an extra adventure, climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
Limited Tickets: To preserve these trails, daily entrance is limited. Advance booking is essential.

Huayna Picchu Mountain: Limited to 200 people per day.
Machu Picchu Mountain: Limited to 400 people per day.

Cost: We can handle your reservation with an additional charge of $30 USD per person.

Booking Tips:

Machu Picchu Entrance: The most sought-after entry options for Machu Picchu (Circuits 1 & 2) are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your visit, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance: Admission options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To ensure your visit, especially during the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.

Why Choose Explorandino?

At Explorandino, we simplify your booking process, providing a seamless experience from start to finish. Whether it’s securing your entry to Machu Picchu, arranging the best circuit routes, or booking additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we take care of everything.

Ready to Explore? Visit here to book your adventure.

Act Now! Don’t miss out on experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu. Book early to ensure a memorable and hassle-free journey with Explorandino!

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