Discover the Sacred Stone Route on this extraordinary 4-day expedition that traces the path of ancient Inca stonemasons to Machu Picchu. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Quarry Trail takes you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, past hidden waterfalls, ancient ruins, and the legendary Cachiqata Quarry where massive stone blocks known as "tired stones" were abandoned mid-transport during the Spanish conquest. This adventure combines challenging high-altitude passes, including Kuichiqasa at 4,450m with views of the majestic Nevado Veronica, with visits to rarely seen archaeological sites like Inti Punku (Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo) and Racaypata. Complete your journey with a scenic train ride through the cloud forest to Aguas Calientes, followed by an unforgettable guided tour of Machu Picchu at sunrise. This trek is perfect for adventurers seeking a unique, less-traveled route to the Lost City of the Incas.
Trek from Cusco (3,400m) through Soqma to Perolniyoc Waterfall, ascending to Rayan camp. Cross the challenging Puccaqasa and Kuichiqasa Passes (4,450m) with views of Nevado Veronica, then descend through Inti Punku to Choquetacarpo. Explore Cachiqata Quarry before descending to Ollantaytambo (2,792m), then take the scenic train to Aguas Calientes (2,040m) for your Machu Picchu visit (2,430m).
Key points from our booking policies
A 50% deposit ($385) is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance can be paid before departure at our Cusco office. We accept credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers through WeTravel's secure platform.
30+ days before: Full refund minus processing fees. 15-29 days before: 50% refund. Less than 15 days: No refund due to non-refundable tickets and reservations. Rescheduling may be possible subject to availability.
Treks operate in all weather conditions. In case of severe weather, natural disasters, or government restrictions making the trek unsafe, we will offer rescheduling or alternative arrangements. No refunds for weather-related modifications.
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking (up to 4,500m), emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly recommended. Peru Reservations is not liable for costs arising from medical emergencies, evacuations, or trip interruptions.
Participants must be in good physical health and disclose any medical conditions. We reserve the right to exclude participants if health conditions pose risks. Pregnant women and those with serious heart/respiratory conditions should not attempt this trek.
Peru Reservations acts as an agent for transportation, accommodation, and other services. We are not liable for injury, loss, or damage arising from third-party services, participant negligence, or circumstances beyond our control.
By booking this tour, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms and conditions.
The Quarry Trail offers a unique perspective on Inca history that the Classic Trail doesn't. You'll visit the actual Cachiqata Quarry where Inca stonemasons cut massive stones for Ollantaytambo, see the famous "tired stones" abandoned during the Spanish conquest, and experience Inti Punku (Sun Gate of Ollantaytambo) with direct views of Nevado Veronica. Unlike the permit-limited Classic Trail, the Quarry Trail is less crowded and uses horses instead of porters to carry gear.
The Quarry Trail is rated as challenging. Day 2 is the most demanding, crossing two high passes including Kuichiqasa at 4,450m. You'll hike approximately 26km over 3 trekking days with significant altitude gains and losses. We recommend being in good physical condition and spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting. The trek is suitable for most fit hikers with some prior hiking experience.
No! One of the great advantages of the Quarry Trail is that horses carry your main luggage (up to 7kg per person in a duffel bag). You only need to carry a daypack with your water, snacks, camera, rain jacket, and personal items for the day. The horses transport camping equipment, food, and your personal duffel to each campsite.
We provide high-quality 4-season tents (2-person occupancy), foam sleeping pads, a dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen tent, and toilet tent. Campsites at Rayan and Choquetacarpo offer stunning mountain views. You'll need to bring or rent a sleeping bag rated to -10°C. Nights can be cold (down to -5°C), but mornings are beautiful and peaceful.
On Day 3, you'll stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with private bathroom, hot water, and Wi-Fi. This is a welcome luxury after two nights of camping! You'll have the evening free to explore the town, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, and prepare for your early morning visit to Machu Picchu.
Yes! Our professional trekking chef can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most other dietary requirements. Please inform us of your dietary needs when booking so we can prepare accordingly. Meals during the trek are fresh, plentiful, and surprisingly gourmet given the remote setting!
We recommend booking 1-2 months in advance, especially during peak season (May-September). Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Quarry Trail doesn't require government permits, but popular dates fill up quickly. Booking early also ensures we can secure your preferred Machu Picchu entrance time and any optional add-ons like Huayna Picchu.
A 50% deposit ($385) is required to confirm your booking. The remaining balance can be paid before your departure at our Cusco office. Cancellations made 30+ days before receive a full refund minus processing fees. Cancellations 15-29 days before receive 50% refund. Less than 15 days, no refund is possible due to non-refundable tickets and reservations. We strongly recommend travel insurance.
Peruvian regulations require passport information to purchase Machu Picchu entrance tickets. Names must match exactly as printed in your passport. Train tickets also require passport details. After booking, we'll ask you to send a clear photo of your passport data page so we can process your Machu Picchu tickets promptly.
We carry an emergency horse specifically for this situation. If you're struggling with a section, you can ride the horse to the next point. Our guides are trained in high-altitude first aid and carry oxygen. In case of serious altitude sickness, we have evacuation protocols in place. Your safety is our top priority.
Phone signal is very limited or non-existent during the trek until you reach Ollantaytambo on Day 3. There are no charging facilities at campsites, so bring a portable power bank if you need to charge devices. The hotel in Aguas Calientes has electricity and Wi-Fi. Consider this a digital detox opportunity!
Yes! Huayna Picchu can be added for $60 per person, subject to availability. These tickets sell out months in advance, so book early if interested. The climb takes 2-3 hours round trip and offers incredible views of Machu Picchu from above. You must be comfortable with heights and steep stairs.
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