Full Itinerary of Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail 3 days

Day 1: Sacred Valley tour – Ollantaytambo

Our tour guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco at 7:00 am for a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley, including Maras and Moray. The journey begins with a 30-minute drive to the Alpaca Center, where we will interact with llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas while learning about their importance to Andean culture.

Next, we’ll drive to the Mirador of Taray, which offers breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, the Urubamba River, and the Andes Mountains. We’ll then visit the Pisac Inca site, known for its stunning agricultural terraces and ancient constructions. We will continue the tour to the lower village of Pisac, where we’ll explore the bustling handicraft market. After bargaining at the market, we’ll travel and enjoy a buffet lunch at an Andean restaurant in Urubamba.

After lunch, our tour continues to the agricultural laboratory of Moray and the Salineras of Maras, where locals have been harvesting salt using traditional techniques since Incan times. The tour will conclude with a visit to the town of Ollantaytambo, a living testament to Inca culture, where we can explore ancient streets still used by locals. We’ll spend the night in a hotel near the town.

• Highest altitude: 3300m / 10925ft
• Duration: 9 hours
• Meals: Buffet Lunch
• Accommodation: Tunupa Lodge (or similar)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Transportation, entry fees, and lunch included

Day 2: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

We will pick you up from your hotel around 5:30 AM and board one of the first trains to the Inca Trail at Km 104 (Chachabamba). The train ride, taking around 1.2 hours, moves from the highlands into the cloud forest. Upon arrival at Km 104 (Chachabamba), we will disembark, cross a hanging bridge, and reach the first checkpoint, where you will be required to present your original passports. Then, we will have breakfast and prepare for the trek.

The Short Inca Trail begins with a guided tour of the Chachabamba Inca site, followed by a 3 to 4-hour gradual ascent to Wiñay Wayna, the most famous Inca site along the Classic Inca Trail. Our tour guide will lead you through the most important buildings, including temples, waterfalls, storehouses, and agricultural terraces. We will enjoy a freshly prepared lunch made by our expert trekking chefs at the nearby campsite.

The second part involves a more leisurely 1-hour hike to the Sun Gate, (Intipunku) where we will be greeted with our first and most spectacular views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, the Urubamba River, and the Andes Mountains. We will spend some time enjoying the sunset over Machu Picchu. Then, we will continue to the upper part of Machu Picchu for another hour to capture magnificent photographs with fewer visitors in the afternoon.

Lastly, there is a 30-minute bus ride to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Dinner is served in a local restaurant, and we will spend the night in a 3-star hotel.

• Highest altitude: 2720m / 8923ft
• Distance: 15km / 8 miles
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, snacks, and dinner
• Accommodation: Ferre Machu Picchu or Similar
• Difficulty: Moderate

Included

• All transportation is included for 3 days
• Super Sacred Valley tour with Maras Moray
• Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour
• Admission tickets to the Sacred Valley
• Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 1 (day 2)
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 3 (day 3)
• Professional tour guide for 3 days
• 1-night 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo
• 1 night 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104
• Vistadome Panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo
• 2 lunches, 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner
• 3 bus tickets in Machu Picchu

Not Included

• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Huayna Picchu Tickets
• Machu Picchu Mountain
• Travel Insurance
• Tips

Short Inca Trail

After breakfast at your hotel in Ollantaytambo, we will pick you up and transfer you to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we will board the train to Km 104 (Inca Trail Chachabamba). The carry-on or duffle bags can be sent directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes; these bags must weigh around 5 kilos. Large luggage is not allowed by the train company.

You will hike the Inca Trail with a small backpack containing the following equipment:

• Passport
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Layered, lightweight clothing
• Long-sleeve shirt, rain jacket/poncho
• Hat/cap, sunglasses
• Water bottle/hydration system for 2 liters
• Snacks/energy bars
• Sunscreen, insect repellent
• Extra cash
• Hand sanitizer, wet wipes
• Basic first aid kit
• Trekking poles (optional)
• Plastic bags (for trash or wet items)

At the end of the day, we will arrive in Aguas Calientes where you will find your carry-on or duffle bag. Please note that you can also hike with all your belongings. If you wish to transfer a small carry-on by train, please request this service in advance.

Below, you will find the most commonly asked questions about the Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu. You can combine this tour with city tours or upgrade to the entire 4-day Inca Trail. If you need assistance with your trip, contact us, and we will provide all the information you need.

What makes the Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail special?

This tour is unique because it combines beautiful scenery, rich history, and a sense of adventure. In the Sacred Valley, you can explore ancient Inca sites and colorful markets. The Short Inca Trail offers a memorable hike with stunning views, leading you to the incredible Machu Picchu. This combination gives you a unique and unforgettable experience.

How long does it take to travel from Cusco to the Sacred Valley?

The trip usually takes about 1-2 hours by car or bus, depending on your destination within the valley. The journey is scenic and offers beautiful views of the Andes Mountains.

Can I visit the Sacred Valley and return to Cusco in one day?

Yes, a day trip is possible, but connecting Sacred Valley with Machu Picchu or the Inca Trail brings more considerable benefits, like staying in Ollantaytambo for one night, which is a charming town, and avoiding traveling back and forth.

Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Short Inca Trail is suitable for beginners who are in good physical condition. It’s a moderate hike with some challenging sections, but it is manageable for most people.

How far in advance should I book the Short Inca Trail?

Due to limited permits, it’s best to book at least 4-6 months in advance. This ensures you secure your spot and have time to prepare for the trek.

What kind of food is available on the Sacred Valley Tour?

During the first day, we will include lunch. This will be served in a local restaurant in Urubamba. We work with top-rated restaurants like Don Angel, where they offer buffet-style meals using local products and a typical music show.

What kind of food is available on the Short Inca Trail?

During the Short Inca Trail, you will enjoy amazing picnic meals freshly prepared by our expert trekking team. At night in Aguas Calientes, you will enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Are there toilets on the Short Inca Trail?

Basic toilet facilities are available at specific points along the trail, but they are pretty rustic. It’s a good idea to bring some toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

What is the significance of Wiñay Wayna?

Wiñay Wayna is an important Inca site with agricultural terraces, temples, water fountains, and beautiful architecture. It’s often considered the highlight of the Short Inca Trail and offers stunning views.

Do I need to carry my backpack on the Short Inca Trail?

Yes, you’ll need to carry a small daypack with your essentials. Porters are not available for the Short Inca Trail, so pack light and bring only what you need.

Optional: you can send a small carry-on on the train directly to the hotel. This service must be requested in advance to Peru Trekkers.

Can I visit Machu Picchu without hiking the Inca Trail?

Yes, you can take a train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus to Machu Picchu. This is a popular option for many visitors who prefer not to hike. We have several tours by train to Machu Picchu.

How early should I arrive at Machu Picchu to see the sunrise?

Witnessing the sunrise at Machu Picchu is a fantastic experience; however, this is not guaranteed. To reach Machu Picchu before sunrise, plan to catch one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes, which starts running at 5:30 AM. Machu Picchu is located in a cloud forest area and has unpredictable weather—it can be sunny, cloudy, foggy, or rainy.

To reach Machu Picchu before sunrise, you need to board one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes, which departs at 5:30 AM and arrives at Machu Picchu at 6:00 AM, when the gate opens.

Is there a place to store luggage at Machu Picchu?

Yes, there is luggage storage at your hotel, with Peru Trekkers, or at the entrance to Machu Picchu, where you can leave larger bags. This allows you to explore the site without carrying heavy items.

Can I re-enter Machu Picchu on the same day with my ticket?

No, re-entry is not allowed with a standard ticket. Each entry ticket is valid for a single entry only, so plan your visit accordingly.

Which Machu Picchu circuit and route will I follow on the Inca Trail?

On the first day, you will arrive at the Machu Picchu viewpoint. Here, you will have the opportunity to take amazing photos of Machu Picchu with fewer people around and enjoy the sunset.

The next day, you will explore the center of Machu Picchu through Circuit 3, where you will visit the Temple of the Sun, the Ceremonial Fountains, the House of the King, and many more important buildings in Machu Picchu.

Can I hike the Short Inca Trail with young children?

While there is no age restriction for the Inca Trail, it is recommended for children over six years old. If they are younger, it is best to hire a personal porter to help carry them during steep parts. It’s important to take breaks and ensure the children are comfortable. Bring snacks and water to keep them energized.

What is the best way to acclimate to the altitude?

We recommend arriving in Cusco city 1 or 2 days before this tour. During these days, you can explore the Cusco city center and nearby attractions like Sacsayhuaman.