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Sacred valley peru – short inca trail to machu picchu (3D/2N)

(2 Reviews)
  • Duration3 Days/ 2 Nights
  • Altitude3,500 msnm
  • Distance96 km
  • DifficultyModerate - Easy
  • Tour GuideES / EN
  • DestinationMachu Picchu
trekking
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Overview

We will explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Peru during three days of culture and adventure. We will trek along the Short Inca Trail, walking ancient stone paths and admiring breathtaking landscapes. Our journey will highlight the region’s history and traditions. Each day will bring discoveries and stunning photographic opportunities.

We will hike through terraces, forests, and mountain passes along the famous Inca Trail. The Short Inca Trail will challenge us while rewarding us with views of snow-capped peaks. We will learn about Inca engineering, sacred sites, and ancestral customs. Our guides will explain everything in both Spanish and English.

We will arrive at Machu Picchu at sunrise and witness the wonder of this iconic citadel. We will explore temples, plazas, and terraces while enjoying panoramic mountain views. Our time at the site will allow us to capture memories and understand its cultural importance. After visiting, we will return through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

We will rest in comfortable accommodations each night and enjoy meals inspired by local cuisine. We will travel by train and bus, giving us time to relax and admire scenic views. This four-day tour will combine adventure, history, and culture into an unforgettable experience. We will conclude with lasting memories of the Sacred Valley and the Short Inca Trail.

Departure & Return location:

  • Cusco hotel transfer

Departure Time:

  • 6:00 am

Recommended to carry

  • Valid passport or ID (required for all entrances).
  • Comfortable trekking shoes or hiking boots.
  • Waterproof jacket or poncho (for rain).
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Refillable water bottle (at least 1–2 liters).
  • Small backpack for day hikes.
  • Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
  • Snacks for hiking (nuts, energy bars, chocolate).
  • Camera or smartphone with extra batteries/memory cards.
  • Optional:
    cash in local currency (Peruvian soles) for souvenirs or extra expenses.
  • Lightweight clothing for daytime and warmer layers for mornings/evenings.
  • Optional:
    trekking poles, binoculars, or a lightweight travel towel.

Price Includes

  • Tourist transportation for all segments: Cusco - Sacred Valley - Ollantaytambo - KM 104 - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco.
  • Train tickets: Ollantaytambo - KM 104 and Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
  • Entrance tickets to all sites: Chinchero, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo, Short Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu.
  • Two nights of accommodation: 1 night in Ollantaytambo and 1 night in Aguas Calientes.
  • Meals included:
    3 breakfasts, 1 traditional lunch, and 1 box lunch.
  • Professional accredited guide fluent in English and Spanish.
  • Tourist bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (round trip).

Price Excludes

  • Dinners during the tour.
  • Last lunch in Machu Picchu
  • Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional).
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended).
  • Tips for guides and service staff.
  • Personal expenses.

Tour Plan

Day 1: Sacred Valley of the Incas Peru – Chinchero, Moray, Maras & Ollantaytambo

We will leave Cusco at 6:00 AM after breakfast in your hotel, and drive toward the Sacred Valley. Our first stop will be Chinchero, a town known for its colonial church, Inca walls, and colorful market. We will attend a live demonstration of traditional weaving and learn about Andean textiles.

We will continue to Moray to see the circular terraces, once used as an Inca agricultural laboratory. These terraces reveal advanced farming techniques at different altitudes. Next, we will visit the Maras Salt Mines, where over 3,000 pools shine on the hillside. This site will offer excellent photo opportunities and cultural insights.

After lunch in a local restaurant, we will drive to Ollantaytambo, a living Inca town. We will walk its cobblestone streets, see original water channels, and explore its fortress. This visit will show us the resilience and ingenuity of the Inca civilization. We will end the day with an overnight stay in Ollantaytambo.

Statistics

  • Distance traveled:75 km by road
  • Highest altitude: Moray, 3,500 meters above sea level 
  • Lowest altitude: Ollantaytambo 2,792 meters above sea level
  • Route: Cusco – Chinchero – Moray -Maras -Ollantaytambo
  • Difficulty level: Easy walking, mainly sightseeing

Day 2: Short Inca Trail – KM 104 to Machu Picchu

We will take an early train to KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. We will hike about 3 hours to reach Wiñay Wayna at 2,650 meters above sea level. This archaeological site lies in the cloud forest, surrounded by waterfalls and unique flora. Our guide will explain its history while we enjoy photo opportunities along the way.

After a boxed lunch, we will hike for 2 more hours to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From there, we will see Machu Picchu for the first time, a breathtaking view of the citadel and mountains. We will then descend to Machu Picchu and continue to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

Statistics

  • Distance traveled:   11 km
  • Highest altitude:  Sun Gate 2,720 meters above sea level
  • Lowest altitude: : KM 104 2,040 meters above sea level 
  • Route: KM 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Sun Gate → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
  • Difficulty level: Moderate to challenging, with steep climbs and trekking at high altitude

Day 3: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

We will take an early bus to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over the Andes (weather permitting). We will explore the citadel on a 2-hour guided tour, visiting agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and astronomical sites. Our guide will explain the historical, cultural, and spiritual importance of the Sacred Valley of the Incas Peru.

After the guided tour, we will return to Aguas Calientes and, optionally, ascend Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (reservation required). In the afternoon, we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco. Our tour will conclude with memories of the Short Inca Trail and the majestic Machu Picchu.

Statistics

  • Distance traveled:   : 10 km  including walking inside Machu Picchu
  • Highest altitude:   Machu Picchu 2,430  meters above sea level
  • Lowest altitude: : Aguas Calientes 2,040 meters above sea level 
  • Route: Machupicchu- Cusco
  • Difficulty level: moderate

FAQS:

1. What is the Short Inca Trail included in this tour?

The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day hiking route from KM 104 to Machu Picchu. It passes through cloud forests, waterfalls, and archaeological sites.

2. What level of fitness do we need for this tour?

We will hike moderate trails, including some steep sections. We recommend basic fitness for a comfortable experience.

3. Are meals included during the tour?

 We will include 3 breakfasts, 1 traditional lunch, and 1 box lunch. The program does not include dinners and the last lunch in Machu Picchu.

4. What type of accommodation will we have?

 We will stay in comfortable hotels: 1 night in Ollantaytambo and 1 night in Aguas Calientes.

5. Is transportation included?

Yes, we will provide tourist transportation for all segments: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

6. Do we need to buy Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu tickets in advance?

The tour includes the Machu Picchu entrance. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets are optional and require advance booking

7. Do we need travel insurance?

 We do not include travel insurance, but we highly recommend it for safety and peace of mind.

8. What should we carry for the trek?

 Essentials include hiking shoes, layered clothing, rain gear, sun protection, water bottle, snacks, passport, and personal medications.

9. Will we have a guide?

Yes, we will provide a professional accredited guide fluent in English and Spanish for the entire tour.

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From$547
(2 Reviews)
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2 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Marta M.

Solo Traveller

The tour was perfectly organized. Comfortable hotels, delicious meals, and smooth train rides made the experience stress-free. Machu Picchu was incredible, and our guide made history come alive.

February 17, 2025

Joel .P

Solo Traveller

An unforgettable experience! The Sacred Valley of the Incas Peru is beautiful, and walking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu felt like stepping back in time. Excellent guides and service.

January 29, 2025