TourismCusco

Tours & experiences

Full Day – Trek to the Cachicata Quarries & Sun Gate

About this experience

Early morning, we pick you up from your hotel and head to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2-hour drive). Upon arrival in this charming town, we take a short break to buy snacks, hydrate, and use the restrooms before beginning our hike.

After a brief introduction and safety recommendations from our guide, we start our gradual ascent toward Cachicata Quarry, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Along the way, we are treated to breathtaking Sacred Valley landscapes in every direction. This unique site features natural pink granite formations, which the Incas used to carve massive blocks for the construction of Ollantaytambo’s temples.

A short distance from the quarry, we visit Intipunku (Sun Gate), a mystical site aligned with Verónica Mountain, historically used as a spiritual retreat. Here, we enjoy free time to explore, take photos, and have lunch before beginning our descent back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, we return to Cusco, concluding our journey.

At a glance

  • Duration: 10 hr–12 hr
  • Private experience

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Full Day - Trek to the Cachicata Quarries & Sun Gate
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour10 hr–12 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), Spanish (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate experience

Set aside 10 hr–12 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.

Before you go

  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

What is included

  • Box Lunch
  • English-speaking Tour Guide
  • Private transportation (touristic van)

Not included

  • Tips
  • Water
  • Walking Sticks

Itinerary and highlights

Early morning, we pick you up from your hotel and head to Ollantaytambo (approx. 2-hour drive). Upon arrival in this charming town, we take a short break to buy snacks, hydrate, and use the restrooms before beginning our hike.

After a brief introduction and safety recommendations from our guide, we start our gradual ascent toward Cachicata Quarry, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Along the way, we are treated to breathtaking Sacred Valley landscapes in every direction. This unique site features natural pink granite formations, which the Incas used to carve massive blocks for the construction of Ollantaytambo’s temples.

A short distance from the quarry, we visit Intipunku (Sun Gate), a mystical site aligned with Verónica Mountain, historically used as a spiritual retreat. Here, we enjoy free time to explore, take photos, and have lunch before beginning our descent back to Ollantaytambo. Finally, we return to Cusco, concluding our journey.

Meeting and pickup information

  • We'll pick you up from the lobby or front door of your hotel, Airbnb, hostel, or any accommodation located in Cusco's historic center.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Inkayni Peru Tours

Accessibility and practical details

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 10 hr–12 hr.
What are the pickup arrangements?
We'll pick you up from the lobby or front door of your hotel, Airbnb, hostel, or any accommodation located in Cusco's historic center.
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Adult tickets: age 15+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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