Inca Quarry Trek 3 Days

INTRODUCTION

The Andean mountains of Peru are rich in culture, nature & history.  The picturesque landscapes around Cuzco are world renowned for their beauty and as a place of deep spirituality.  For guests looking to experience a more intimate, but no less breathtaking hike, away from the crowds of Machu Picchu, consider the Inca Quarry trek to Ollantaytambo, also known as the Soqma and Cachicata treks. This trek starts in the remote village of Soqma and takes you through the high mountains, passing by the beautiful waterfall Perolniyuq, visiting the ancient Inca Archaeological site Qorimarka and the Inca Quarry Cachicata. The Quarry is the place where the Incas unearthed rocks to build Ollantaytambo. On this trek we will enjoy beautiful snow-capped mountains of the famous sacred valley.  We will end the trek visiting spectacular Inca city Ollantaytambo.

This trek is recommended for people who want to experience the sacred valley away from the crowds and explore the less congested trails to Machupicchu. The trip is supported with horses for your convenience and we provide you with top quality camping equipment and very delicious, balanced meals that will keep you energized the whole trek.

Would you like a remote experience in the Andes? If so, please join us!

Highlights

Peru is a natural wonder, full of tourist attractions and sights that will take your breath away. Ancient indigenous cultures, Spanish colonial influence, the quest for independence, cultural mixture, and an astonishing geography have all shaped Peru throughout the centuries. For that reason:

  • This trek star with meditation morning into energitec place call it as a Ă‘auypa iglesia.
  • We pass through waterfalls Perolniyuq.
  • Enjoying panoramic views of Veronica (beautiful snow-capped mountain).

The train travels along one of the highest train routes in the world, crossing through breathtaking landscapes on its way from Cusco to Ollantaytambo only enjoying on one and two-days trips

Itinerary

DAY 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoq – Qorimarka

We will pick you up 05:30am from you hotel and drive to Mauka Iglesia a small Inca ceremonial place but an ancient sacred place that has been in use since before the Incan civilization. In the giant rocks are intricate carvings of portals, the energy here was very strong and felt electric. From here, a short drive will take us to Rafqa (2800m), where we will start to hike and meet our horsemen that will join us during our hike. Then after approximately 1 hour hiking we will get to a small community of Soqma (3000m). A further one hour walk take us to Perolniyoc waterfall (3300m) where we will stop for photos and snack. From here, we continue to Qorimarka Inca site to explore for about 30 minutes, then getting to the base camp by lunch time.

DAY 2: Qorimarka – Intipunku – Choquetacarpo

After our early breakfast, we start to hike. A 4 hours hike will take us to the top of the first pass Pukaqasa (4400m). After enjoying the views of the mountains and of the below valley, we walk down for about 20 minutes to the lunch spot. From here, we continue another 2 hours to reach a small Inca site with amazing views of the valley below and Veronica mountain (5750m). Finally arriving our camp Choquetacarpo (3600m).

DAY 3: Choquetacarpo – Kachicata Quarry – Ollantaytambo

We will have an early breakfast and then walk one hour downhill to the Cachiqata where we observe the location of the stones were cut for Ollantaytambo. We will have a tour and talk about how you can still see remains of stone work that was interrupted by the Spanish conquest.

From the quarry we descend for 3 hours until we reach Ollantaytambo (2,840 m / 9,315 ft). We will have lunch in Ollantaytambo.  After lunch we will have walking tour in ollantaytambo and then go back to Cusco.

MAP (Cusco, soqma, Perolniyoc, Qorimarca, Intipunku, Choquetacarpo, Kachicata Quarry and Ollantaytambo…etc.)

Inclusions

INCLUDED

  • Pre-departure briefing in our office or your hotel. Time to be determined by the Company.
  • Private Accommodation: 2 nights camping on the Inca Quarry trek.
  • Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, Portable toilet tent, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by the horses).
  • Inflatable mattress: Thermarest air mattresses that are 3 inches thick and add a lot of comfort to sleep and rest.
  • Pillow, rain ponchos and duffel bag.
  • Transportation: You will be provided with all transportation for this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 5: 30 A.M, and brought to the trail head. When you arrive back to the end of your trek, our van will take you back to your hotel in Cusco (Day 3).
  • Professional Guides: English speaking, professionally educated guides. All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in the Cusco region, and are committed to teaching others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional and will ensure you are safe and sound and happy so you can enjoy your time worry-free!
  • Trekking Chef: A chef and his assistant, specialized in cooking on the trail, will prepare all of your delicious meals to replenish your energy along the trail.
  • Cargo Mules: On days 1, 2 and 3, cargo mules will carry all camping equipment and your personal baggage allowance (7 kgs/15.4 lbs). On day 2 your duffel bags will be carried by car to your destination.
  • 1 Saddle-horse or emergency horse: This service will only be available on the hard sections of the trek, as those are the most challenging ones.
  • Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners (Vegetarian, vegan, or special menus are available at no extra cost), 4 Snacks, 4 happy hours. All these meals are prepared by our Chef.
  • Water: We will provide you water for your morning hike every day and again during lunch. We suggest to bring your camel bag and extra energy drinks for this trek, because being well hydrated is the key to feeling great in the mountains.
  • Products for hygiene: You will be provided with a small towel, soap and hand sanitizer before each meal to clean your hands.
  • Entry ticket to Inca Quarry trail.
  • First-Aid Kit: Our guides have received training in first aid from physicians. Our guides will bring an emergency oxygen bottle, as well.
  • Satellite Phones: Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Discover Satori has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well.

NOT INCLUDED

  • Sleeping Bags:You can rent one from our company if you do not have your own. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable to protect from temperatures as low as -18ÂşC (0ÂşF). They are mummy form and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after every use and have a maximum usage of 30 trips. (Cost: USD $15).
  • Walking Sticks:You can rent a set from our company if you would like (Cost: USD $10/pair).
  • Last Day: Dinner in Cusco.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Tips for our staff:Tipping is of course 100% voluntary and should only be done if you feel like your guide, porters, horse men and Chef have done an amazing job for you.
  • Additional costsor delays out of control of the management (landslides, bad weather condition, itinerary modification due to a safety concern, altitude sickness, change of government policy, political instability/strike, etc.).

Availability

DEPARTURE AVAILABILITY DATES

The Inca Quarry trek is available most of the year, but closed in February because of heavy rain and landslides.

Peru has many annual festivities, special events and festivals such as: the Feast of the Sun in Cusco city, Easter Sunday procession, Folkloric Parade, Carnival, Christmas day, Bullfighting and many others. A solar or lunar eclipse would also be a special experience for you, this is why we recommend and guarantee your departure dates. All we need to book your adventure is your confirmation that this is the trek for you.

 

CLICK here to check your availability for Annual Festivities, Events, Inca Quarry trek & Machu Picchu.

Packing List

IMPORTANT REMINDER:

For this trek you will need one hold-all or duffel bag, which we will provide. This bag will hold the contents of your packing list and be carried by the horses/crew. You will also need a small daypack that you will pack lightly with essentials for the trek.  A light backpack is key to feeling great.

 

  • Passport (very important)
  • Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
  • Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbacks or bottles are good for this trek.
  • Water for the beginning of your hike. We will resupply you at lunch.
  • Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles) and sandals. (very important)
  • 3 Wicking/Hiking T-Shirts & 2 hiking pants
  • Nice shirts and pants for Inca Quarry day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love
  • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho, warm jacket, down jacket, fleece or sweater, scarf, wool hat, sunglasses, gloves and 3 set of socks.
  • Bathing suits for the hot springs in Conoc ( It is optional )
  • Sun protection cream and sun hat (very important)
  • Insect Repellent
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Camera
  • IPhone/IPod for music
  • Flashlight  or head lamp with spare batteries (very important)
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips.
  • TOILETRIES
  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

Price and Payment

We require a deposit of 50% of the total price per person, in order to book and secure any trek or city tour with Discover Satori. The deposit can be made by PayPal, which will incur a 5.5% merchant fee paid by the traveler, or by wire to Bank of America or Citibank (for free if you are a fellow account holder).

Please notify us if paying by wire transferor Paypal the address to send your deposit to is [email protected]. All deposits are fully non-refundable and non-transferable. In the event that you need to cancel your trip, cancellation fees will be assessed as outlined below under our cancellation policy. If canceling, you may not transfer your deposit to another person’s trek.

Bank Account Number: XXXXXXX (US DOLLARS)

Paying Bank:  Bank of America, TX

Account Holder: Discover Satori

Swift Code: XXXXX

 

NOTE. Non-Refundable, Non-Transferable Deposit

 

WAYS TO PAY

 

1) Credit card Visa, American Express. Diners Club, Mastercard payments will incur an additional credit card merchant service charge of 8%

2) Paypal payments will incur an additional merchant service charge of 5.5%.

3) Western union payments will need to be addressed as follows:

Receiver:

Full name: FREDY CUSI HUAMAN

Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – PerĂş

Please don’t forget to send us the tracking code (MTCN) in order to pick up the deposit and confirm your booking.

 

GROUP PRICE  (2020) FROM USD $273 PER  PERSON
Private Tours are based on Group Size (2020)
Number of Trekkers   Price per Person
2 USD  $544
3   USD  $414
4   USD  $360
5   USD  $312
6   USD  $291
7 or more   USD  $273

 

 

Permit permitting, we are excited for this opportunity of a lifetime to guide you through the Inca Quarry trek.

Important Info

Please read the following information carefully as it will help answer all of your questions about our services and the Choquequirao trek.

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport by one of our representatives and taken to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek. Look out for our representative holding an orange board Discover Satori at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal, in order to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).

THE BRIEFING

Your briefing will take place at our office at 6:00 or 6:30 P.M. the night before your trek, depending on your confirmation email details.  Our office is located at Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Of course! During Inca Quarry trek, your main luggage(s) can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.  Please pack things you will only need during your Inca Quarry trek.

HOW TO BOOK INCA QUARRY TREK

FIRST, the following personal information is necessary when completing our booking form

  1. Full Name (as it exactly appears on your passport)
  2. Gender
  3. Passport number
  4. Date of Birth (DD / MM / YYYY)
  5. Nationality

 

Note: We require copies of everyones’ passport as they are required when purchasing permits.

 SECOND, we require a deposit of 50% of the total price per person in order to secure your Choquequirao trek. Paying by VISA or PayPal online incurs 5.5% service charge. Please pay to the following email address: [email protected]

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

The remaining balance will need to be paid at our office in Cusco no more than 2 days before your tour start date; cash is preferable (we accept both US dollars and Peruvian soles). There are several ATM machines in Cusco city center, otherwise, PayPal and Visa credit card is also acceptable, however, will incur 5.5% service charge.

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

According to Peruvian Law, you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu to qualify for a discount.

Note: If you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.

  • 11 to 17 years old, the discount is $30 USD
  • 6 to 11, the discount is $40 USD
  • 0 to 2, they are free

All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the student discount. Email us a copy at: [email protected]

 

MAY I CHANGE THE DATE AFTER MY TOUR HAVE BEEN CONFIRMED AND BOOKED?

Unfortunately the answer is NO. Discover Satori will have already purchased the necessary permits and scheduled and organized our crew for your trip before you have arrived in Peru. If you choose to cancel your Inca Quarry trek for any reason, your deposit will be forfeited.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

Yes ¡You must bring your original passport. It is very important that it is the same passport you sent us to book your Choquequirao trek and other reservations. If you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permits and we can change it when you get your new passport. Please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as you receive it.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EASY, MODERATE, AND CHALLENGING TREKKING?

There is a grading system that classifies the difficulty degree of trekking trails.  Easy, moderate, and challenge. The reason we have categories is to help our client’s choose a trek in the Andes that is suitable for their level and don’t be exhausted. Clients are encouraged to have a good level of physical fitness and adequate physical training ahead of time is necessary.

Easy treks: It could be suitable for all people who love it outdoors this is for the hikers who do not have previous experience, or are not looking for a difficult physical, they typically involve walking up to 6 hours a day.

Moderate treks: Only for those who have previous experience in hike or outdoors activities, these treks usually vary from 1-3 days and can reach up to an altitude of 2,700m to 4,000m. This grade is recommended for any trekker looking for something a little more challenging than just a simple walk. These trekking areas are mostly Lares trek, Inca quarry trek, Huarocondo trek.

Challenging Trekking: We recommend to our clients that you have previous easy and moderate trekking experience.  Difficult treks include walking through rough trails for 8-10 hours each day and crossing high passes. Challenge treks are both long rugged terrain and altitude increases as you move higher through the scale. These are genuine expeditions where trekking skills, experience fitness and endurance is necessary (Ausangate 5days, Choquequirao to Machupicchu).

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?

The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend to always dress in layers as it is easier to adjust to the different climates.  Remember, we have only two official seasons in Cusco, rainy season from November to April and dry season from May to October.

J F M A M J J A S O N D
Av. Max Temp ÂşC 20 21 21 22 21 21 21 21 22 22 23 22
Av. Max Temp ÂşF 68 70 70 72 70 70 70 70 72 72 73 72
Av. Min Temp ÂşC 5 7 6 3 -5 -4 -1 1 4 6 6 7
Av. Min Temp ÂşF 45 45 45 40 25 28 30 34 40 43 43 45

 

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is of 10 people.  Mostly our groups are between 2-6 people. Discover Satori specializes in small and private groups and provide a personalized service.

CAMPING TENTS SHARING

Please note, by default all Camping Tents are twin size.

Couples/partners: When you book for more than one person, we will by default group you together in a Camping Tents (unless you specifically request us not to). If you are unequal numbers (3, 5, 7 etc.) the remaining traveler will be roomed with another passenger of the same gender. Single travelers: If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge – you will share a double tents with another passenger of the same gender. single travelers who wish to have a private tent, if you request in advance you are going to make helpful for logistic staff and then in return they will choose for you a comfortable gear and make you don’t be worried.

ARE WE GOING TO BE PICKED UP AND DROPPED OFF AT MY ACCOMODATION AFTER THE TREK?

Absolutely, Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included with all of our packages. If you booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE INCA QUARRY TREK?

In case you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue or other reasons, Discover Satori will assist you in getting to the nearest town for medical assistance. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases it is highly recommended to head back to Cusco and take plan B, but you will cover your own expenses (Travel insurance required). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek. However, Discover Satori may provide you with car transportation. Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo or Cusco and if you recover quickly, they then continue the journey to Choquequirao (again cost incurred by trekker) according to the original plan.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary, it is of great significance for the staff who will take care of you during the trek.  It inspires excellent service and is an enhanced feature of the tourism industry across many Discover Satori destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you would like, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is just voluntary and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE?

Yes! We are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know, understand and respect the sacred places and the local people.

PACKING LIST

IMPORTANT REMINDER:

For this trek you will need one hold-all or duffel bag, which we will provide. This bag will hold the contents of your packing list and be carried by the horses/crew. You will also need a small daypack that you will pack lightly with essentials for the trek.  A light backpack is key to feeling great.

 

  • Passport (very important)
  • Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
  • Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbacks or bottles are good for this trek.
  • Water for the beginning of your hike. We will resupply you at lunch.
  • Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles) and sandals. (very important)
  • 3 Wicking/Hiking T-Shirts & 2 hiking pants
  • Nice shirts and pants for Inca Quarry day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love
  • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho, warm jacket, down jacket, fleece or sweater, scarf, wool hat, sunglasses, gloves and 3 set of socks.
  • Bathing suits for the hot springs in Conoc ( It is optional )
  • Sun protection cream and sun hat (very important)
  • Insect Repellent
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Camera
  • IPhone/IPod for music
  • Flashlight  or head lamp with spare batteries (very important)
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips.
  • TOILETRIES
  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

Trekking Summary

TREKKING SUMMARY
Duration and Trip Type: 3 days/ 2 night. Hiking, adventure, history, culture and nature
Tour Location: 2 hours’ drive from Cusco. Departure from  Rafqa (trail head)
Good for: Moderate physical fitness or better
Distance per Day:

 

Day 1: 5 Km /3  miles (4 to 5hours)

Total Distance: 23 km

Day 2: 11 km/8.7 miles ( 6-7 hours )

Day 3: 7 km/ 5  miles (5-6 hours )

Note: Walking times depend on the group’s hiking ability. The guide may change lunch spots and campsites, depending on the group’s progress.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Semi-Challenging, but rewarding hike.
Elevation: 2,600 m (5,413 ft) to 4,400 m (15,157 ft).
Campsites Altitude: Night 1: 4,400 m (14,435 ft).

Night 2: 2770 m (9,087 ft).

 

Season and Weather: May – October: Dry season.

November – April: Changeable weather – cold, windy, rainy, warm, hot and humid.

Group Size: Fully customized Private Service.
Suppliers´ Services Horses, Peru Rail train or Inka rail train, Bus Transport, Accommodations.
Activities: Journey 2 hours by private car to the trail head, hike for 3 days, visit quarry area, visit waterfall and explore Maukaiglesia (Inca Church).

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