Taking on the Quarry Trail, you’ll scale challenging mountain passes, witness the snow-capped Andes and gain some local knowledge from those who live in the Sacred Valley.
Accompanying you on this trail, along with the support team helping to cook and set up camp, will be a few furry companions.
Who? Horses.
Why do we have horses on the Quarry Trail?
Good question. Compared to the Inca Trail, which is situated within a national park, there are no restrictions on pack animals being allowed on the Quarry Trail, or most of the other trails in Peru. The lesser-known Quarry Trail is still accessed by many locals and farmers connecting communities in the area. Hence why we’re allowed the added benefit of horses.
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With horses taking the load off the porters, this allows the team to walk individually holding a lot less weight. Porters are incredibly strong but it’s not a necessity to carry such heavy loads on the Quarry Trail – and it’s better for the team longer term.
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With the added benefit of horses, it also makes it easier to carry a hiker with a sprained ankle, or an exhausted traveller that needs a leg up to get over a mountain pass. You’ll be amazed on what these stocky, pint-sized (more pony looking) animals can do. Look around and you’ll see the same breed being used in the fields and by Peruvians in the countryside for transport.
On the Quarry Trail, horses assist in carrying your bags and camping equipment. You’ll quickly realise how beneficial this is so you can focus on what you’re there for – enjoying the Andes terrain.
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All images by Ciara Johnson.
