Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Days / 4 Nights
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Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Days / 4 Nights
Discover the Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu, a five-day Andean trekking adventure that combines ancient Inca heritage, remote mountain landscapes, traditional communities, and a guided visit to the legendary Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
This alternative trekking route begins near the ancient Quillarumiyoc Moonstone Temple and continues through high-altitude valleys, traditional Andean settlements, historic mountain paths, and the impressive Cachicata Inca Quarry near Ollantaytambo. Along the way, you'll discover remarkable examples of Inca stonework, agricultural terraces, ancient water systems, and archaeological sites set against the spectacular landscapes of the Andes.
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Moonstone Trek follows a different route through the Cusco region. It is an excellent option for travelers who want to explore lesser-traveled Inca heritage sites before visiting Machu Picchu.
With experienced local guides, freshly prepared trekking meals, camping in the Andes, and overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes, this 5-day, 4-night journey combines outdoor adventure with cultural discovery.
Book your Moonstone Trek for 2027 with Inca Land Adventures and experience another remarkable path through Peru's Andean history.
5-Day Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu Itinerary
Day 1: Quillarumiyoc – Chiripahua
Begin your Moonstone Trek in the Andean landscapes surrounding Quillarumiyoc, an archaeological site associated with the Moonstone and ancient Andean ceremonial traditions. Meet your trekking team and begin the journey through the highlands of the Cusco region.
Continue along the route toward Chiripahua, taking in the mountain scenery, agricultural landscapes, and traditional settlements that characterize this remote part of the Andes.
Important: Confirm the original starting point, hiking distance, elevation profile, meals, and camping location before publishing this day.
Day 2: Chiripahua – Chancachuco
Continue through high-Andean grasslands, open mountain slopes, and small cultivated plots. Along the way, observe traditional adobe-and-straw family compounds that reflect how Andean communities have adapted to a landscape where water is a precious resource.
Ascend toward the lunch area at approximately 4,400 m / 14,432 ft before continuing to the Accoccasa Pass (4,625 m / 15,170 ft).
From the pass, enjoy impressive views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including the Huaynay and Urubamba mountain ranges. Descend toward Chancachuco, where the campsite offers expansive mountain views.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 3: Chancachuco – Huayrapunku – Cachicata Inca Quarry
Continue along the historic mountain route, following traces of an ancient Inca aqueduct that once transported water across the rugged terrain above the Silque River valley.
Reach the final mountain pass at approximately 3,940 m / 12,923 ft and visit Huayrapunku, the Gate of the Wind, a ridge-top archaeological site with panoramic views toward Nevado Veronica and the terraced landscape of Ollantaytambo.
Descend past Llaqtallaqtayoq, an archaeological site associated with the historic Inca landscape, and continue to the campsite near the extensive Cachicata Inca Quarry.
In the afternoon, explore the quarry's stone-working areas, ramps, and work platforms. Learn how large granite blocks were cut from the mountainside and transported toward the Inca construction sites in the valley.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 4: Cachicata Quarry – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Explore the lower sections of the Cachicata Quarry and learn about the enormous stones that were moved down the mountainside toward the Vilcanota River. Some unfinished stones remain along the route, offering insight into the scale and complexity of Inca stoneworking.
Continue to Ollantaytambo, where you will have time to explore the archaeological complex and the historic village, renowned for its surviving Inca urban layout and impressive stone architecture.
In the late afternoon, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for the following day's visit to the Inca citadel.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch. Dinner in Aguas Calientes is not included unless confirmed in your final booking arrangements.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Travel to Machu Picchu, one of Peru's most celebrated archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the citadel with your professional guide, learning about Inca architecture, ceremonial spaces, agricultural terraces, and the relationship between the ancient city and its dramatic mountain setting.
After the guided visit, follow the arrangements confirmed for your entrance ticket and return transport. Optional mountain hikes, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, require the appropriate ticket and advance availability.
In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes and board your scheduled train to Ollantaytambo, followed by ground transportation to Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch, subject to the final confirmed service inclusions.
Price per person:2027
1 traveler US$1,500
2 travelers US$1,100
3 travelers US$1,050
4 travelers US$1,025
5 travelers US$1,000
6 travelers US$975
7 travelers US$950
8 travelers US$925
What's Included in the Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu?
Your Moonstone Trek package includes the following services, subject to final confirmation of the 2027 operating arrangements:
Professional tour guide: An experienced English-speaking guide throughout the trek and during the guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Private transportation: Ground transportation between Cusco and the trekking trailhead at Quillarumiyoc, as specified in your confirmed itinerary.
Camping equipment: Shared camping facilities, including a dining tent, kitchen tent, bathroom tent, tables, stools, and sleeping mattresses.
Camping crew: A professional cook and trekking support staff.
Pack animals: Horses or mules to transport group camping equipment and supplies, according to the route's operating arrangements.
Trekking meals: Meals specified in the itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the camping days.
Afternoon refreshments: Coffee breaks and refreshments during the trek.
Vegetarian meals: Available upon request when advised in advance.
Train tickets: The train journeys specified in the confirmed itinerary between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.
Hotel accommodation: One night in Aguas Calientes, based on double occupancy.
Machu Picchu entrance ticket: Admission for the confirmed date and circuit.
Machu Picchu shuttle bus: Bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu entrance, as specified in the booking.
Safety equipment: A first-aid kit and emergency oxygen for use when required.
Return transportation: Transportation from the designated train station back to Cusco, according to the confirmed itinerary.
Before booking: The final quotation will specify the exact train category, accommodation standard, luggage allowance, meal schedule, and whether transfers are private or shared.
What's Not Included in the Moonstone Trek Package?
The following expenses are not included unless explicitly stated in your personalized quotation:
International flights and domestic flights within Peru.
Hotel accommodation in Cusco before or after the trek.
Meals not specified in the itinerary, including dinner in Aguas Calientes if not confirmed as included.
Personal travel insurance and emergency evacuation coverage.
Personal trekking equipment, including a sleeping bag, hiking poles, and a backpack.
Personal expenses, snacks, bottled drinks, and additional purchases.
Tips for the guide, cook, muleteers, and other trekking staff.
Optional Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets.
Additional hotel nights or a second visit to Machu Picchu.
Any extra transport, train upgrades, or services not listed in the confirmed itinerary.
Please review your final booking confirmation carefully to ensure that all inclusions, exclusions, and optional services are clear before departure.
Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu: Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Moonstone Trek the same as the Classic Inca Trail?
No. The Moonstone Trek is an alternative trekking route in the Cusco region. It explores high-Andean landscapes, archaeological sites, and the Cachicata Inca Quarry before connecting with the journey to Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca Trail follows a different regulated route.
How many days is the Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu?
The itinerary is designed for five days and four nights, including trekking, an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Do I need an Inca Trail permit for the Moonstone Trek?
The Moonstone route is different from the regulated Classic Inca Trail. However, access to individual archaeological sites, Machu Picchu, and any additional mountain hikes remains subject to the applicable entry requirements and ticket availability. Confirm the requirements for your specific itinerary before booking.
How difficult is the Moonstone Trek?
The trek involves high-altitude hiking, mountain passes, uneven terrain, and several days of walking. The route reaches approximately 4,625 m (15,170 ft) at Accoccasa Pass. Good physical preparation and time to acclimatize in Cusco are strongly recommended.
What is the best time to do the Moonstone Trek?
The dry season, generally from May through September, is often preferred for trekking in the Cusco region. Weather in the Andes can change quickly, and cold temperatures, rain, and strong winds are possible throughout the year.
Can I book the Moonstone Trek for 2027?
Yes. You can contact Inca Land Adventures to request a 2027 departure date, check the availability of Machu Picchu tickets and train services, and receive a quotation based on your group size.
Is a private Moonstone Trek available?
Private arrangements can be requested. The final service, departure date, accommodation, transportation, and price depend on availability and the number of travelers.
What should I pack for the Moonstone Trek?
Bring broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing, warm thermal wear, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, a refillable water bottle, a headlamp, personal medication, and a suitable daypack. A sleeping bag and trekking poles may be rented if available or brought from home.
Why choose Inca Land Adventures?
Inca Land Adventures is a Cusco-based local tour operator offering trekking experiences led by professional local staff. Our focus is on personalized service, cultural understanding, responsible trekking practices, and carefully coordinated logistics for travelers exploring the Andes and Machu Picchu..
Optional Extras:
Comfort Package ($120): Sleeping bag (20°F/-7°C), inflatable Therm-a-Rest mattress, walking poles, camping pillow
Single Tent Supplement ($35/night)
Vistadome Train Upgrade ($80 return)
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb ($80 — request at booking)
5-Day Moonstone Trek Itinerary: Quillarumiyoc to Machu Picchu
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