Cusco is recognized as the 'Archaeological Capital of America'.
Cusco, Cuzco or Qosqo are the names by which the ancient capital of the Inca Empire is known. It is a center for archaeological scholars from all over the world who come to Peru to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and the other ruins scattered throughout the valley.
It was an important administrative center for the Spanish Empire (Viceroyalty of Peru), and can be seen in the large number of manifestations of colonial art and architecture that can be found throughout the city and especially its Plaza de Armas. Today, Cusco is the largest tourist center in the country, receiving more than one million visitors a year.
Cusco is the oldest urban settlement in all of the Americas, more than 3,000 years old, but pre-ceramic samples have been found as old as 5,000 years. The origins of the first inhabitants of the city are lost in legend. Inca legends say that the founders of the city were Manko Qhapaq and Pachakuteq.
At the top of the mountain, large and impressive stone blocks joined together, the most important political and religious center of the Inca empire: Machu Picchu.
Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the sacred Inca citadel built around 1450 and discovered in 1911, still hides enigmas and mysteries about its real purpose that remain hidden to this day and arouse the interest of both visitors and archaeologists from around the world.
Due to its strategic location on top of a high mountain, there are several theories about what it could have meant to the Incas. Some argue that it was built as a great mausoleum for the Inca Pachacutec, while others claim that it was an important administrative and agricultural center whose cultivated areas were used for the sustenance of its inhabitants. However, it is also considered that it was used as a necessary link between the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon or as a resting place for the Inca governor.
The truth is that Machu Picchu is one of the greatest symbols behind the impressive architecture and engineering of the Inca Empire. Although its origin is still under study, the value and transcendence it represented in its time, as well as its imposing design, have earned it to be considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
The tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, is one of the most classic and incredible tours, where you can explore small villages outside the city of Cusco and also its archaeological sites.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located 15 km (9 miles) north of the Inca capital of Cusco at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). The Sacred Valley was once the Inca empire’s main point for the extraction of natural wealth, and one of the most important areas for corn production in Peru.
We have to admire the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas and their system of andenería (terraces): system of platforms composed of small groups of farmland, arranged in the form of tiers on the hills, where crops are planted. The valleys were also a place of worship to the Pachamama (mother earth).
The Sacred Valley is a must-see destination in Peru and has become one of the most important tourist centers in the country. There are numerous impressive Inca ruins, such as Ollantaytambo, Pisaq and Moray. The Sacred Valley also has two of the most important handicraft markets in the Cusco region: Pisaq and Chinchero.
The Inca Trail is not the only route to Machu Picchu. The city of Machu Picchu was connected by a network of roads known as Qhapaq Ñan.
The great adventure of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is for those who live passionately, always looking for a new experience!
The Inca Trail is a fascinating dream to fulfill and is the most famous trek in all of South America. The beauty of the views and the archaeological sites surrounding the Inca Trail are unsurpassed.
This tour is ideal for those who are full of energy to hike to Machu Picchu on the trip of a lifetime with the Classic Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights.
The Inca Trail Peru is a well established trek that takes travelers from km. 82 (the starting point 40 minutes from the town of Ollantaytambo) to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (also called Inti Punku).
Se trata de la montaña de los Siete Colores, también conocida como Vinicunca o Arcoíris.
Also known as the “Hill of 7 colors”, vinicunca, and colorful mountain, gift of nature for the enjoyment of our eyes. This unique mountain is located more than 100 km from the Imperial City of Cusco, belonging to the town of Pitumarca, is one of the main tourist attractions of Peru recently discovered and made known in 2016.
Vinicunca means “mountain of colors”. It is also known as Rainbow Mountain, Cerro Colorado or in English as Rainbow Mountain. It is located at 5200 meters above sea level and belongs to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain in the Vilcanota mountain range, it is the fifth highest mountain in Peru.
Its coloration is natural due to the large amount of sedimentary stones in erosion, what makes it so beautiful and impressive is how these stones are formed to give it the appearance of a rainbow (7 colors).
Although it is commonly called Rainbow Mountain (Cerro Colorado or Seven Colors Mountain), its real name is Vinicunca, which comes from Quechua.
If you are looking for a hike out of the ordinary, here are the hikes you are looking for
In Cusco you will find countless activities and tourist routes that you can explore; many of them include a visit to Machu Picchu, whether you are looking for a quiet and classic tour or adventure experiences with a touch of immersion with the coexistence with local people.
Live exciting moments in real contact with nature that remains untouched by the hand of man, all well preserved; walk in contact with nature, and the local fauna; if you are patient you will see many animals that come out to walk trusting; since each one is prohibited.
Enjoy hikes of 2 to more days; enjoy good food along the route; professional local guides and discover the magic of visiting this beautiful country that awaits you.
Exciting adventures, all over Peru, wide variety of experiences.
Peru has become in recent years the most fashionable destination in South America. There is no shortage of reasons: an impressive variety of ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful cities full of history, culture, traditions, beaches, fauna, flora… and, of course, its delicious and famous gastronomy.
From the Amazon to the desert, from the high peaks of the Andes to the Pacific, passing through the valleys and high plateaus, the country enchants with its incredible contrasts. Although the reasons to visit the country are really endless, we want to show you some compelling arguments for you to embark on the exciting adventure of discovering it. Are you up for it?
Every place on Earth is fascinating and unique, but Peru is one of those countries that manages to be above average. This place has so many natural and cultural treasures that have fascinated people for hundreds of years, and still fascinate them today. There are thousands of reasons to go to this great destination, here are just some of the reasons why you should visit Peru.
from $ USD
Inca-Quarry-trek-4-days Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days Cacicato Trek is a spectacular and beautiful alternative route to Machu Picchu. The essence immersed in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Especially from the incredible and vibrant Inca city of Ollantaytambo.
This trail is highly recommended for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of more strenuous hikes. To enjoy a unique tranquility, we will also visit the Inca site of Cacicato and the magnificent Perolniyoc waterfall. The quarry where Ollantaytambo was built. In the same way we will visit “Inti Punku” or “Puerta del Sol”, from here we will have a view of the valley and the impressive Nevado Verónica.
In short, if you are looking for an experience without crowds full of history, culture and spectacular nature. Look no further, the Inca Quarry Trek to Machu Picchu is for you!
In the first morning we go to Soma village (3204 meters / 10512 feet) and drive around 1 hour 45 minutes. Starting point of our walk. We also find our horses and muleteers to prepare the trekking equipment and have breakfast. We left early and followed a small valley to Perolniyoc. Basically a small Inca site on top of the mountain.
But first we see a beautiful waterfall, a perfect place to take some pictures. Then we will arrive at the Inca site, our guide will explain the history of this site. Then we continue with our lunch and the first camp of approximately 1 hour. We then enjoy a freshly prepared lunch in our dining tent overlooking the beautiful scenery.
Accommodation: Camp
1, Easy
After a good breakfast we follow the trail to the first pass called Pukaqasa (4379m/14366ft) for about 3 hours. Then we have the first spectacular view from the top of the Urubamba valley and the snow-capped mountains. During this time we descend the pass for about 30 minutes. We then sat down for lunch.
We then climb to the highest point of the entire route called Kuichikasa (4,449m/14,596ft). A place with fantastic views in all directions. Then we will descend for about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
To get to the Inca jewel you have to take the “Puerta del Sol” or Intipunku in Quechua. Immediately, we enjoy a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks of Wakaywillka (La Verónica) in the Sierra de Urubamba. Similarly, after another 30 minutes of walking, we reach our next camp called Choquetakarpo (3,619 m/11,874 ft).
Accommodation: camp
1, Easy
Today’s adventure takes us for an hour on the way to the Cachicata quarries. Cachicata, one of the most important Inca quarries, is located 8 kilometers from Ollantaytambo. It was a place where the ancient Inca masons carved and smoothed the rock to build the Temple of the Sun in Ollantaytambo.
Then our guide will tell you a nice story about this place. Then we continue the 3-hour tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Where is the Inca city of Ollantaytambo? Then we have lunch on the outskirts of the city of Ollantaytambo. Later, we take our train to the city of Machu Picchu Town. Then we will settle in the previously reserved hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Golden Sunrise *** or similar.
1, Easy
That is why on our last day together we got up around 5 in the morning, had breakfast and took an early bus to Machu Picchu. We will leave very early to avoid the crowds and see the citadel with the first rays of the morning sun. Then our guide will start the day visiting the must-see places. For example altars and constructions around the citadel of Machu Picchu. Also share with you what we know about the history of this place.
After visiting Machu Picchu, a bus will take you back to Machu Picchu Town for lunch. Then we take the train to Ollantaytambo and from there we continue on our own transport to Cusco.
1, Easy
Molle Puro, the most accessible and popular quarry.
Sirkusirkuyoc (it was the largest of the three) shows that it was in full swing when the Spanish invaded this area.
Kantirayoq or Cacchicata, where another way of extracting minerals and precious stones was practiced.
We also visit the foothills of Cachiccata, the Paqariqtampu pyramid and the impressive snow-capped mountains of the region.
In Ollantaytambo and some parts of the city we can find the so-called “tired stones” lying on the street.
We can also see the great work done in moving the huge stones to build the Ollantaytambo fence.
This place is also known for the Intipunku (Gate of the Sun), considered since ancient times a sacred place of spiritual retreat, where you can feel the energy of the Apus (mountain spirits) and recharge the positive energies in the mountains. . .. Height. of the Sacred Valley.
Make sure you are well fed; You can bring snacks such as energy bars, nuts, chocolate.
Drink water: It is very important to stay hydrated while hiking.
Drinking coca tea or chewing coca leaves helps reduce and prevent altitude sickness.
Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen at least every 2 hours and wear sunglasses with a cap or hat.
Rain Gear: It can still rain so be sure to bring rain gear.
Take warm, waterproof jackets and light clothing for the sun.
This visit to Cachiccata will be an unforgettable experience with the best service from our quality professionals. Let yourself be enchanted by the many beautiful things that nature offers us. After this cultural trip, you will return full of the ancestral spirit of the Incas and with a piece of the Andes in your heart.
The beautiful region of Cusco surprises us every time with the wonders it has to offer. This type of trek will stimulate our adventurous spirit much more and will inspire us to do many other treks to discover the wonders of Peru such as: B. Visiting Machu Picchu, Salkantay Trek, Inca Trail Tour and many more.
The Cachicata Ollantaytambo quarry is located at about 4100m above sea level, about 6km. from the Inca city of Ollantaytambo.
The trip from the Inca city of Ollantaytambo to Canteras de Cachiccata and La Puerta del Sol Cusco takes around 3 hours up a steep path, and it takes another hour to reach the Inca Inti Punku viewpoint (La Puerta del Sol Cusco). . .
You can visit these tourist attractions at any time of the year, but the agency recommends doing it during the dry season (March to October) so that you can walk without problems because it rains and admire the landscape in general. its splendor
The trip from the city of Cusco to the Inca city of Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by private transport. However, if you choose to travel by public transport, the estimated time is 2 hours.
It is recommended to take an excursion to the Cachiccata caves, which are part of the transnational circuit of the Inca Trail of Peru and the Qapaqñan circuit, under the supervision of an authorized agency that will provide you with a professional guide. Service to better enjoy the Cachicata route and keep a beautiful memory of your country.
Currently no income is required, allowing you to explore the Inca Trail to the Inca quarries of Cachicata.
In Cusco, I am your travel specialist, with more than 10 years of experience organizing adventure trips.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by South Winds Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.
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