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.
Customize this itinerary by adding extra days to any location. Please contact one of our expert travel advisors for advice.
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 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.
Early in the morning, we will transfer you to your hotel in Ollantaytambo to begin the 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. you will take a train to kilometer 104 (the starting point of the trek). Once there, you will need to get off the train and take the classic photo with a sign for the 2-day Inca Trail.
Local rangers will check your travel permit and passport. Our trek will begin with a small bridge and a short climb to Chachabamba, a lesser-known but impressive Inca site.
Chachabamba
bamba: Chachabamba is located at 2,150 meters (almost 7,053 feet) above sea level and features a rock altar that was used as a center of worship for Inti, the Sun God, and the Apus, the mountain spirits traditionally venerated by the Incas. A day hike followed by a stay in natural hot springs is the perfect way to relax after a long day of trekking.
Wiñay Wayna:
After Chachabamba, we hike for approximately four hours to Winay Wayna. Known as “eternally young” in Quechua, the most beautiful point along the trail is at 2,650 meters (8,694 feet). Formerly an administrative center of Machu Picchu, it features 20 urban areas, agricultural lands, and places of worship. The most spectacular is the Temple of the Seven Windows, built in honor of the rainbow. Our guide will provide a guided tour. Afterward, we will stop for lunch. You can use the restrooms afterward, and then we will continue to our next destination, Intipunku (Sungate).
Intipunku:
Winay Wayna is about an hour from Intipunku. It’s a trekking segment that takes us through a tropical rainforest. Next to the Sun Gate, you’ll have a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel, nestled between Huayna Picchu and the Machu Picchu mountains. Access to the citadel for hikers is through the Sun Gate for those on the Classic Inca Trail and the Short Inca Trail. We’ll take our time to enjoy the view. Then, we’ll continue for 45 minutes to the viewpoint where you’ll have time to take photos. There are about three viewpoints (remember, the first day is dedicated to photos at the viewpoints, and the second day is the tour of the lower section, Circuit 3, but you also have the option to book Circuit 2 depending on availability). Afterward, we’ll leave the citadel, and a bus will take you to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll check you into a hotel. Aguas Calientes boasts hot springs. This is a great place to relax after a long day of hiking and spend the night enjoying the natural thermal waters. There are also several shops in town selling souvenirs, and we’ll have dinner in the evening.
The 2-day Inca Trail: the first day is 12 km or 7.5 miles. You’ll need to bring a 25-liter backpack to carry your clothes, snacks, and a box lunch. If you don’t want to carry your backpack, you can book a porter, but please contact us first.
Exploring the iconic Machu Picchu
Day 2 is dedicated exclusively to exploring Machu Picchu. We’ll start with breakfast at the hotel (5:00 a.m.) and then board the bus up to Machu Picchu. The ride takes about 25 minutes and drops us off right at the entrance (the gate opens at 6:00 a.m.). Once there, we’ll show our passports. When you book the Inca Trail 2 Days package, you automatically get Circuit 3, but Circuit 2 is the best route, so we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance for an additional $60 USD.
After touring Machu Picchu, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo town and then continue by bus to Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel.
If you’ve booked tickets for Huayna Picchu (not included), your hike will start at 10:00 a.m. The hike to the top takes about 45 minutes, so it’s a great addition if you want to enjoy those extra views. Just let us know in advance, or check with your Tour Guide for the best timing according to your trip schedule.
In the afternoon, we’ll head back to Aguas Calientes and take the 16:20 train* to reach the town of Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, we will have transportation waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco (2 hours approx).
*This tour includes the tourist class train, but you can upgrade to the Vistadome panoramic train for an extra $80 USD. Train options are subject to availability.
NOT INCLUDE
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
The fantastic tour with the Inca Trail is available on any date that will suit you, except in February when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance! Join our group and get the best deals.
***Private service is available for $100 USD more per person.
***All entrance fees are included, and we operate our tours in small groups averaging 5 people with a maximum of 8!
**Huayna Picchu Mountain is an optional trek within the Machu Picchu Citadel, which does not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
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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