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This tour features a 3-day, 2-night itinerary focused on the Sacred Valley, the Short Inca Trail, and the Inca site of Machu Picchu. Participants will interact with local businesses, observe traditional practices, and explore ancient sites along the Short Inca Trail.
The Sacred Valley is located between Cusco and Machu Picchu, and you’ll appreciate the natural landscape that encompasses Inca archaeological sites and the Andes Mountains. This location provides historical context within the Andes. The Short Inca Trail, or 2-Day Inca Trail, is the best alternative for those who wish to experience a segment of the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail.
At 7:00 a.m., a scheduled pick-up will take place from the hotel in Cusco (11,152 ft/3,400 m). The first point of interest is the alpaca farm, which offers direct contact with llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas. Information about their cultural importance within the Andean region is presented.
After this, the itinerary continues to Chinchero, where the guide will explain about Inca textiles and architecture, and then head to the archaeological center of Moray, a place of agricultural experimentation, and continue to the Salineras de Maras
Afterwards, a buffet lunch is offered at a local restaurant in Urubamba, and then we will go to Ollantaytambo to visit the Inca site. In the night will pass the night in the hotel and be ready for the Short Inca Trail
• The last place to visit is Ollantaytambo, a town with preserved Inca architecture.
• Accommodation will be at the 3-star hotel in Ollantaytambo.
• The maximum altitude reached is 3300 meters or 10925 feet.
• The day trip lasts approximately 9 hours.
• Transportation and lunch are included on this day.
The Breakfast precedes a 4:30 AM at your hotel for transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station. The Expedition train departs for Km 104 (Chachabamba), a journey of approximately 1.2 hours.
We arrive at Km 104 (Chachabamba), we cross a hanging bridge, and proceed to the checkpoint for passport verification.
We get a guided tour of the Chachabamba Inca site, followed by a three to four-hour ascent to Wiñay Wayna. The guide provides information on the site’s architecture, including temples, a waterfall, a storehouse, and terraces. A prepared lunch is provided at a nearby campsite.
The trek continues with a 1-hour hike to the Sun Gate, offering views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, the Urubamba River, and the Andes.
Time is allocated for photography. We ascend to the upper section of Machu Picchu to take additional photos. A 30-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll board an early bus to Machu Picchu. A three-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu includes visits to the temples, palaces, terraces, and other structures. It’s recommended to book four months in advance for the best tour. (2) After the tour, you can take optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (permits required, not included).
After the tour, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) for lunch (not included today). The Vistadome panoramic train will then take us to Ollantaytambo, subject to availability.
The train ride to Ollantaytambo takes two hours, followed by a two-hour bus ride to Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel. Alternatively, if you plan to stay in Ollantaytambo, you can; just let us know.
Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2026 through January 2027. All prices quoted are in $USD
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The Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail 3 Days is a perfect combination of cultural immersion and adventure. This itinerary allows you to explore the most significant Inca sites, hike through breathtaking landscapes, and reach Machu Picchu in a more rewarding way than just taking the train. The experience includes visiting historical ruins in the Sacred Valley, trekking along the ancient Inca Trail with stunning views, and finally discovering the wonder of Machu Picchu at sunrise. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-planned route, this journey offers a unique perspective on Peru’s rich history and natural beauty.
Dry Season (May–September): Clear skies, ideal trekking conditions, and stunning views of Machu Picchu.
Rainy Season (November–March): Lush landscapes but expect frequent showers, especially on the Inca Trail.
Shoulder Seasons (April & October): Fewer crowds and a good balance of weather conditions.
Cusco: 3,400m (11,155ft) – Some travelers experience mild altitude sickness.
Sacred Valley: 2,800m (9,186ft) – A lower elevation, making it a good place to acclimatize.
Machu Picchu: 2,430m (7,972ft) – Altitude sickness is less common here, but acclimatization is still recommended.
Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat light meals, and acclimate for at least one day in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before trekking.
The trek is rated moderate. You’ll hike 13km/8.1 miles over 6-7 hours on Day 2. Previous hiking experience helps, but it’s doable for most if you’re used to walking on uneven terrain. Altitude at Sun Gate hits 2,720m/8,923ft so take it slow if you’re not acclimatized.
Yeah, permits are mandatory and included in your tour. They’re limited so book early. You’ll need your passport at the Km 104 checkpoint.
Cusco sits at 3,400m/11,155ft but the Sacred Valley is lower (2,800m/9,186ft). Day 1’s highest point is Moray at 3,300m/10,825ft. Drink water, avoid heavy meals, and consider arriving in Cusco 1-2 days early to adjust.
You’ll stay in 3-star hotels like Tunupa Lodge in Ollantaytambo and Chakana in Aguas Calientes. Rooms are private with basic amenities but don’t expect luxury. Hot showers and Wi-Fi are usually available.
Vegetarian options are standard. For vegan, gluten-free or other needs, notify the operator in advance. Meals are a mix of local and international dishes. Lunch on Day 1 is a buffet in Urubamba.
The Vistadome has panoramic windows and snacks. It’s used for the return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The Expedition train is for the outbound journey to Km 104. Both are scenic but the Vistadome’s got better views hands down.
Essentials: hiking boots, rain jacket, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, passport. A daypack for the trail. Leave bulky luggage at your Cusco hotel.
All transfers are included: private vans, trains, buses. Trains run rain or shine, but delays can happen due to weather. The team gets you back to Cusco by 7:30 PM on Day 3.
Not included but highly recommended. Covers altitude issues, injuries or trip cancellations. Check if your policy includes adventure activities.
Average 12 people. Small groups mean more personalized attention from guides. You’ll share the experience with like-minded travelers, which is pretty cool.
Kids over 12 handle the trek if they’re active. Younger ones might struggle with the altitude or distance. Discuss with the operator first.
Rain is common in the Andes. Bring a waterproof jacket and pack covers. Trails stay open but paths get slippery. Guides adjust pacing for safety.
Facilities at campsites like Wiñay Wayna, but carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer. No luxury bathrooms out there, just basic setups.
Permits for the Inca Trail sell out 4-6 months ahead, especially peak season (May-September). Last-minute spots are rare so don’t wing it. Book as early as you can.
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