
Cachicata (Kachiqhata) Inca Quarry
A challenging hike to a debated Inca quarry site, offering stunning Sacred Valley views and a glimpse into ancient stone extraction.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the midday sun

Cachicata (Kachiqhata) Inca Quarry
Best Time
Beat the midday sun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging hike to a debated Inca quarry site, offering stunning Sacred Valley views and a glimpse into ancient stone extraction.
"Great hike but maybe leave some time to explore quarry area or go higher."

👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
It's a demanding hike, especially at altitude. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hike Itself
Trail from Ollantaytambo
A strenuous but scenic trek offering breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and surrounding mountains.

The 'Quarry' Site
Upper slopes of the mountain
Explore scattered large granite blocks and remnants of Inca construction, sparking debate about their purpose.

Inca Bridge
On the trail to the quarry
A historical Inca structure offering a glimpse into ancient engineering and a good resting point.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Trek to the Inca Quarry
Understanding the Quarry's Purpose
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
It's a demanding hike, especially at altitude. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
⬆️ Take the High Road
Follow wooden arrows for the higher trail past the Inca Bridge for better views and a more direct route.
🧐 Question the 'Quarry' Label
Enjoy the hike and scenery, but be aware that the site's designation as the main quarry is debated.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
It's a demanding hike, especially at altitude. Stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
⬆️ Take the High Road
Follow wooden arrows for the higher trail past the Inca Bridge for better views and a more direct route.
🧐 Question the 'Quarry' Label
Enjoy the hike and scenery, but be aware that the site's designation as the main quarry is debated.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 5-6 hours round trip, including time to explore the quarry area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the challenging and scenic hike to the Cachicata Inca Quarry, offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley. However, there's debate about whether the site is truly the main Inca quarry, with some finding the evidence inconclusive. The trek is demanding but rewarding for those seeking an adventurous experience.
"Uncompleted grinding wheel is not where indicated, nor is walking track accurate at this date. 3 hours up, 2 down. Great hike but maybe leave some time to explore quarry area or go higher. Past the small funerary constructions the Inca trail splits- take the high road. Later there is a further split at no smoking sign- go left to higher ground. Round stone a bit past fallen down Canteras Cachiccata sign."
Renier van Raders
"So if I'm only giving it 2 stars, it's solely because of the name of this place and the conclusion attributed to it, not the walk to get there or the landscapes and viewpoints along the way.
This is supposedly the "quarry" used by the builders of Ollantaytambo 😳. I call it a rockslide!
You don't have to be a geologist or an archaeologist to determine that.
Simply because there are large blocks of pink granite like those used for the megalithic part of Ollantaytambo, as well as a few smaller blocks this time (but of a different nature, let's note), then it's the Inca quarry...
My god, the shortcuts made to deduce that it's a quarry. Have they never seen a quarry or what? And don't tell me that the builders of the megalithic part of Ollantaytambo relied on simple landslides to achieve this feat of construction. That's to ignore the expertise and precision of the ancient builders. Each block was carefully selected for its qualities (rock type/dimensions/no faults, etc.), probably directly from a vein of the parent rock within the mountain itself, which had all the required qualities. This is the basis of the expertise required of the quarrymen in charge of the excavation. Then comes the transport of these blocks and the cutting, which is a whole other story, especially if the quarry is several dozen kilometers away in steep terrain with dizzying slopes to access it.
In short, to claim that this site is the Ollantaytambo quarry is not only pretentious but also uncultured. This is a hasty conclusion to confuse the issue, or even a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation... I apologize for the language.
Based on my careful observations of this site and my experience in a large number of megalithic quarries around the world (because I have been interested and continue to question megalithic archaeological sites on all continents for over 25 years), I see what looks like the scattered debris of a rockfall from a platform high up in the mountain. This platform could be a small part of the actual quarry or part of a path.
I have already observed these large stone slabs used to build terraces, stairs, and paths in steep areas in India, for example (Hampi ruins).
Conclusion: This would require further investigation, using drones to visit the mountainside up to its summit in order to determine the exact origin of the blocks roughly cut into elongated slabs. As for the megalithic blocks of pink granite, they are rough and have absolutely nothing to do with the finely cut and polished blocks that dot the valley, commonly known as "piedra cansada."
P.S.: I always note this intention to keep the population in the dark and spread false information!"
Ugo Brientini
"7 km from the Inca Bridge in Ollantaytambo. Very tiring and demanding. The nature and views are worth it. Always follow the wooden arrows marking the trail."
Joel Burgo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The quarry is accessible via a hike starting from Ollantaytambo. You can begin your trek near the Inca Bridge. Many visitors opt for guided tours that include transportation to the trailhead and a guide.
While Ollantaytambo itself is well-connected, the trailhead for the quarry hike is typically reached by foot from the town. Taxis or organized tours are the most convenient options to get closer to the starting point.
Vehicle access to the quarry itself is limited due to the terrain. The hike is the primary way to reach the site, offering a more immersive experience.
The hike is approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) one way, with a significant elevation gain. Expect a strenuous climb, with some sources estimating around 3 hours up and 2 hours down.
Yes, numerous tour operators in Ollantaytambo offer guided hikes to the Cachicata Inca Quarry. These tours often include a guide, transportation, and sometimes lunch.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the hike itself doesn't typically require a specific entrance fee, some parts of the trail or associated sites might be covered by the Cusco Tourist Ticket (Boleto Turístico). It's advisable to check with local tour operators or the tourist information office in Ollantaytambo.
The quarry is an open-air site and can be visited during daylight hours. However, it's best to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the midday sun and allow ample time.
As an archaeological site and natural area, it's generally accessible. However, extreme weather conditions could potentially affect trail access.
The primary cost will be for transportation to the trailhead (if not walking from Ollantaytambo) and potentially a guide. The hike itself is generally free, but confirm if any local permits are required.
There isn't a formal ticket booth for the quarry hike itself. If a Cusco Tourist Ticket is required, it's best purchased in advance or at designated tourist offices in Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
You'll find large, roughly cut granite blocks, remnants of Inca construction, and stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. The hike itself is a major part of the experience.
Yes, it's considered a strenuous and demanding hike due to the steep incline and altitude. Proper preparation and fitness are recommended.
Most visitors spend around 5-6 hours for the round trip, including time to explore the site and enjoy the views.
There are no facilities at the quarry itself. It's a remote hiking destination, so be sure to bring all necessary supplies, including water and snacks.
Follow the marked trails and wooden arrows. Some suggest taking the higher path for better views. Be cautious as the terrain can be uneven.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, the Inca Bridge, and the dramatic mountain landscapes are spectacular. The quarry site itself offers unique shots of the massive stone blocks.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for landscape and architectural photography.
Generally, no special permit is required for personal photography. However, if you plan on commercial photography or drone usage, check local regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or require permits. It's always best to check with local authorities or your tour operator before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more family-friendly experience in the area, focus on exploring the Ollantaytambo town itself and its main archaeological site. The town's living Inca heritage and the impressive terraces of the fortress offer plenty of wonder without the extreme physical demands of the quarry hike.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in hostels or budget guesthouses in Ollantaytambo. Many local eateries offer affordable and authentic Peruvian meals. Exploring the town of Ollantaytambo on foot is also a great way to experience its charm without additional costs.
⛰️ Adventure Seekers
For those looking for more adventure in the region, consider combining this hike with other activities in the Sacred Valley, such as exploring lesser-known Inca ruins, mountain biking, or even white-water rafting on the Urubamba River.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike: A Challenging Ascent
Along the way, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, and the surrounding Andean peaks. The Inca Bridge itself is a historical point of interest and a good spot to rest and take in the scenery. The journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination, offering a true sense of adventure and accomplishment.
Debate Over the 'Quarry' Designation
One perspective suggests that the site might be the result of a rockfall or a secondary extraction area, rather than the main source. The debate highlights the complexity of Inca engineering and the ongoing efforts to understand their methods. Regardless of its exact historical function, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the scale of Inca endeavors and the challenges of quarrying and transporting massive stones in this mountainous region.
Ollantaytambo: The Living Inca Town
The town is also home to the impressive Ollantaytambo Archaeological Site, a massive Inca fortress with terraced hillsides and monumental stonework. This site, along with the town's living heritage, makes Ollantaytambo a crucial stop for anyone interested in Inca history and culture in the Sacred Valley.


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