Socma – The Inca Quarry Trek

Socma

The Inca Quarry Trek, also known as the Cachicata Trek, is a captivating alternative route to Machu Picchu, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Starting from the village of Socma in the Sacred Valley, this four-day journey leads trekkers through picturesque landscapes, including the impressive Perolniyoc waterfall and the ancient Inca site of Racaypata.

The trail ascends to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), providing panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the imposing Veronica Mountain. A highlight of the trek is the Cachicata quarry, where stones were sourced for the construction of Ollantaytambo. This less-traveled path allows for a tranquil exploration of Inca history and culture, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu

The community of Socma is made up of approximately 180 people. Its main attraction is the natural charm of the Perolniyoc waterfalls, 50 meters/194 feet high, 45 minutes hiking from the community of Socma, and crowned by the pre-Inca archaeological remains of the same name. On the fall route, you can see part of the Inca road network, or Qapac Ñan, of an Inca.

• Coordinates:
  • 13°18’42.7″S 72°14’44.2″W
  • -13.311868, -72.245615

Socma Begin the Adventure Trails

The trekkers begin their adventures in the community of Socma. Before reaching the Sacred Valley, we have the following trails from this place: Ancascocha Inca Trail, Salkantay, Chancachuco, Stone Quarries of Cachicata, the Moonstone Trek, and Machu Picchu.

Andean Valley Community Micro Basin of Pomatales

Micro Basin of Pomatales (Limit with the district of Huarocondo): In this micro basin, the communities of Pomatales are in the middle part, next to the Huarocondo River. Access is by rail and dirt trail between Pachar and Huarocondo. The lands are on slopes, with enough water available but insufficient irrigation infrastructure.

Through this, the community circulates the waters that irrigate the district lands of Maras by an inverted siphon. What can machines be used on the ground to plow the land, as it is land on slopes? At the same time, the communities of Socma are in the high parts of the micro-basin Pomatales (3850 meters/12,631 feet.).

The Inca Quarry Trek

Vulnerable communities only have a carcass trail that Ollantaytambo and Urubamba’s local governments have recently constructed. They have essential electrification services (inaugurated one year ago), water tubing, and education at the primary level. Its market does articulate in Urubamba. Its primary production is potato, bean, cereals, and sheep and cattle livestock activity.

Representative food of Socma

The most representative food is La Merienda (food with corn, guinea pig, and special omelet). Its typical drink is Chicha, made from fermented corn called Chicha de Jora and Chicha de frutillada.

Festivities

The most important celebrations are the “Cruz Velacuy” festival on May 3, dedicated to the Holy Cross of Jesus Christ, and the “Virgin of the Angels” festival on August 2, featuring typical dances.

Language

The community maintains Quechua as their mother tongue, followed by the Spanish language with minimal intensity

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