Cachicata Machupicchu 4D/3N
Why Choose the Cachicata Trek ?
Unlike the Inca Trail, which requires permits that sell out months in advance, the Cachicata Trek offers a less crowded and more peaceful hiking experience. It allows trekkers to fully appreciate the tranquility of the Andes, far from the heavily trafficked routes. This trek is also moderately challenging, making it an excellent option for those who want a rewarding hike without the intense elevation gains of other trails like the Salkantay Trek.
Additionally, the Cachicata route provides a rare opportunity to visit remote Quechua-speaking communities, where locals still practice ancient traditions. Interacting with these communities adds a deep cultural dimension to the trek, allowing visitors to experience the authentic Andean lifestyle.
Trip Details
- Hightlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
Highlights
Highlights
- Ancient Inca Quarries: Explore the Cachicata quarry, where the Incas sourced stones for their monumental constructions.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Experience a range of environments, from high-altitude passes to lush cloud forests, each teeming with unique flora and fauna.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities, gaining insight into traditional Andean lifestyles and practices.
- Stunning Scenery: Witness breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, pristine valleys, and serene lakes throughout the journey.
Itinerary Overview
- DAY 1: CUSCO – RACCA – SOQMA – KORIMARCA
- <strong>DAY 2: KORIMARCA – INTI PUNKU – CHOQUETACARPO
- DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO – CACHICCATA QUARRY – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES </strong>
- DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU (LOST CITY OF THE INCAS)
Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO - RACCA - SOQMA - KORIMARCA
Once the passenger has had breakfast, the Amazing Adventures team will pick you up from your hotel at 7:00 am and drive you for 2 hours to the community of Racca, located in the Sacred Valley. The Quarry Trail hike begins by visiting the ancient Inca sanctuary of Ñaupa Iglesia (2967m / 9734ft). After visiting Ñaupa Iglesia, we will continue the hike for 2 hours to the community of Soqma (3188m / 10459ft), where our cook will prepare lunch for our group. After lunch, explore the village, interact with the local villagers, and understand their humble lifestyles and cultures.
The second part of our hike is a 2-3 hour uphill hike to the Perolniyoc Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Cusco with a 328-foot drop onto the rock. The views from this location of the Soqma Valley, the Maras plateau, and the snow-covered mountains are spectacular. The campsite is near the archaeological zone in the village of Korimarca (3611m / 11847ft).
- Altitud del campamento: 3611 m / 11847 pies
- Distance: 12km / 7.5 miles
- Duration: 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 2: KORIMARCA - INTI PUNKU - CHOQUETACARPO
We wake up early with a cup of hot coffee or coca tea. Today is the most challenging and yet the most beautiful day of this experience! After breakfast, it’s a 4-hour uphill hike to the Charkahuaylla pass (4450m / 14599ft). At the top, you can take a well-deserved rest and enjoy the fantastic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Urubamba mountain range and the mystical Sacred Valley of the Incas. At the same time, our tour guide performs a traditional offering ceremony to the mountain Apus (mountain spirits). Then, continue the hike from the quarry in the mountains to the Andean lake of Marcacocha (4000m / 13100ft). This is a perfect spot for lunch. In the afternoon, the climb to Apu Buena Negra (4370m / 14300ft), the second and final mountain of the hike, begins.
Upon reaching the summit, your efforts will be rewarded with one of the most spectacular views in the region. Then, continue downhill for another two hours to Intipunku (Sun Gate), a beautiful entrance overlooking the majestic Veronica mountain (5893m / 19334ft). Our campsite is just a few more minutes away at Choquetacarpo (3600m / 11811ft).
- Campsite altitude: 3600m / 11811ft
- Maximum altitude: 4450m / 14599ft
- Distance: 15km / 9.5 miles
- Duration: 8 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
DAY 3: CHOQUETACARPO - CACHICCATA QUARRY - OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES
The Choquetacarpo campsite is a perfect place to enjoy the sunrise with a cup of coffee. After breakfast, walk for 3 hours to the Cachiccata Quarry, the largest quarry of the Inca Empire. Here, your tour guide will teach you all about the incredible techniques of the ancient Inca stonemasons, as well as their lives and customs. You’ll be amazed by the enormous rocks that the Incas transported and carved without the aid of modern technology.
This quarry was abandoned along with Machu Picchu and many other Inca sites during the Spanish invasion. As we follow the ancient Inca route used to transfer the rocks to Ollantaytambo, we’ll stop for a barbecue Pachamanca lunch and interact with the local villagers in the community of Cachiccata. Here, our private bus will be waiting to take us to Ollantaytambo to explore its ancient streets and the water channel that has been in use since Inca times. After dinner, take the 7:00 pm train to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a hote.
- Campsite altitude: 2040m / 6692ft
- Distance: 7km / 4.5 miles
- Duration: 5 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Difficulty: Easy
DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU (LOST CITY OF THE INCAS)
On our last day, we’ll wake up early and prepare for the highlight of your tour. After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take the bus to Machu Picchu. On a clear day, you can see the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu. Then, explore the temples, palaces, and streets. After the guided tour, take some time to explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu or MachuPicchu Mountain (tickets must be reserved in advance, if possible).
Once you finish exploring Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch (not included), and in the afternoon, take the train back to Cusco. Return to your hotel around 7:30 pm.
- Duration of Guided Tour: 3-4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
- Difficulty: Easy
What's included?
Included
- Briefing
- Transfers in Cusco or Sacred Valley
- Transportation to the start of the hike
- Entrance tickets to Quarry Trail and Machu Picchu
- Bus tickets to Machu Picchu (round trip)
- Guided service
- Comfortable camping equipment (tents, tables, chairs)
- Sleeping mat, pillow, additional blankets
- Canvas bags for personal belongings (up to 7 kilograms)
- Horses to carry food and equipment
- Emergency horse in case of any issues
- Trekking chef, porters, horsemen
- 2 nights of camping in the mountains
- One night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Pachamanca in Cachiccata
- Three breakfasts, three lunches, three dinners, and daily snacks
- First aid kit, oxygen bottle, satellite phones
- Eureka tents for 4 people per every two hikers
- All taxes and booking fees included.
Not Included
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- First breakfast at the start of the tour.
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes.
- Sleeping bag, air mattress, trekking poles (available for rental)
- Hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional)
&lt;li>Hike to Machu Picchu Mountain (optional and separate from the Machu Picchu citadel)
- Tips (optional)
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Book your Cachicata Machupicchu 4D/3N
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Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu: An Unforgettable Andean Adventure
The Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu, also known as the Inca Quarry Trail, is a relatively new and less-traveled route in the Cusco region. Situated near Ollantaytambo, this trek guides hikers through high waterfalls, Inca ruins, and picturesque landscapes. The trail is considered relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for less experienced trekkers.
Historical Significance
The trek passes through the Cachicata quarry, where the Incas extracted stones for the construction of Ollantaytambo. Exploring these ancient quarries provides insight into Inca engineering and architectural practices. Additionally, the trail includes visits to other Inca ruins and monuments, offering a deeper understanding of the civilization's history and culture.
Preparation and Considerations
- Physical Fitness: The Cachicata Trek is considered relatively easy compared to other treks in the region, making it suitable for less experienced trekkers.
- Altitude Acclimatization: Spend several days in Cusco or a similar high-altitude location prior to the trek to acclimate and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Packing Essentials: Bring appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
- Guided Tours: Opting for a guided tour can enhance the experience, providing cultural insights and logistical support.
Why Choose the Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu?
Unlike the heavily traveled Inca Trail, the Cachicata Trek provides a more secluded and intimate experience. Along the way, hikers will pass through traditional Andean villages, witness breathtaking mountain scenery, and explore Cachicata’s ancient quarries. Those ancient quarries here the Incas carved massive stones for their grand structures in Ollantaytambo. These unfinished stones, abandoned after the Spanish conquest, tell a fascinating story of Inca engineering and ambition.
Book Your Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu Today!
Are you ready to step off the beaten path and discover one of the most unique and scenic treks to Machu Picchu? The Cachicata Trek offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.
Don’t miss this incredible journey! Secure your spot today and embark on an adventure through Peru’s most fascinating Inca trail alternative. Book now and start your adventure!