From Cusco: 1-Day Inca Quarry Trail Hike
Experience a slice of the ancient Inca world on this one-day hike along the historic Inca Quarry Trail, offering a blend of cultural insights and natural beauty.
From Cusco: 1-Day Inca Quarry Trail Hike
Begin your journey with a unique one-day hike along the Inca Quarry Trail, a path less traveled but brimming with historical significance and natural splendor. This excursion offers an intimate glimpse into the Incan empire’s heart, taking you through landscapes that have silently witnessed centuries of history. As you traverse this ancient trail, you’ll be following in the footsteps of a civilization renowned for its architectural genius and deep connection with nature. The hike is not just a physical endeavor but a journey back in time, unveiling the secrets of the Inca stonemasons and their enduring legacy.
This experience is designed for those who yearn to explore beyond the typical tourist paths, offering a blend of cultural insights and breathtaking Andean scenery. From the serene mountainside ascents to the historic Inca Quarry and the mystical Sungate, every moment of this hike presents an opportunity to connect with the past in a profound way. The trail’s relatively untouched state adds to its allure, making it a perfect choice for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler, this day trip from Cusco is an enriching expedition that promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation of the Incan empire and the natural wonders of Peru.
Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
Departure Time | 7:00 AM |
Estimated Return Time | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
Key Attractions | Inca Quarry, Sun Gate, Veronica Mountain Views |
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Inca Quarry – Sungate – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Your adventure begins at the break of dawn with a 7:00 am pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Accompanied by a guide versed in the region’s history and geography, you’re transported to the trailhead near Ollantaytambo. At an elevation of 2,750 meters (9,022 feet), this historic spot is where your journey into the ancient world of the Inca civilization begins.
As the trail ascends the mountainside, you’ll experience changing landscapes and increasingly impressive vistas. This two-hour hike to the Inca quarry is both physically challenging and historically enriching. The area, rich in historical significance, is dotted with remnants of the Inca’s architectural prowess. Intricately cut and carved rocks, nestled among shrubs, and ancient burial sites tell tales of a civilization long gone. Your guide will lead you through these historical relics, offering insights and answering questions, enhancing your connection to the past.
The hike continues for another hour up the mountain, culminating at the Sungate (Inti Punku) at 3,650 meters (11,972 feet). This hilltop site, believed to be a sacred place for worshiping the mountain gods and the sun, offers a stunning view of Veronica Mountain (Wakaywillka Mt) through its ancient doorway. Here, amidst the remnants of water canals, walls, and Inca trails, you’ll have a perfect opportunity to capture the essence of Peru in your memories and photographs.
Around midday, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot, where the beauty of the Andes envelops you, allowing a moment of tranquility and reflection. After thoroughly exploring the area, you descend the same trail back to the trailhead. From there, your private transportation takes you back to your hotel or another location in Cusco, concluding a day filled with adventure, history, and panoramic views.
Meals: Box Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 6-7 hours, 17 km

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Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
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Packing List
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