Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley
- 3 Days Tour

3 Days

Combine two of the most iconic experiences in Peru in a single tour. The Super Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail Tour will allow you to discover the most important archeological sites of the Inca civilization, traverse the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley, and culminate the adventure with a hike along the legendary Inca Trail to reach the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu. During the tour, you will also have the opportunity to learn about the traditions of the Andean communities and closely appreciate the ancient textile art in a more immersive experience.

Overview of the Short Inca Trail and Sacred Valley, 3 days

Why choose this experience with us?

  • Small groups and guaranteed departures: We travel in groups of no more than 6 people, for a more authentic experience. Departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, so you can plan your adventure with complete confidence.
  • A professional guide throughout the tour: From the pickup at your hotel to the end of the experience, our guide answers your questions and provides historical insight and safety along the whole route.
  • Every destination without rushing: An itinerary designed to explore the Sacred Valley and the Inca Trail at a calm pace, taking in the scenery, history and culture in detail.
  • Guaranteed hydration: Our portable filtration system lets you refill your reusable bottle along the hike, so you travel lighter and stay hydrated.

Itinerary at a glance

Day1

Cusco – Chinchero – Moray – Maras – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo

The first day is devoted to the main sites of the Sacred Valley, discovering its history, its cultural traditions and the landscapes that surround this magical place.

Day2

Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

The Inca Trail begins on the second day, along historic paths among mountains, archaeological sites and nature. You visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and reach Machu Picchu through the impressive Sun Gate.

Day3

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

A day devoted to exploring the Inca citadel with your guide, learning about its most important enclosures and their history. In the afternoon we return to Cusco by tourist train and private transport.

Tour facts

DayDistanceWalking timeHighest pointLowest pointDifficultyTemperature
Day 1
Sacred Valley
0.9 mi / 1.5 kmApprox. 2 to 3 hoursChinchero: 12,342 ft / 3,762 mOllantaytambo: 9,160 ft / 2,792 mEasy41 °F to 73 °F (5 °C to 23 °C)
Day 2
Inca Trail
7.5 mi / 12 kmApprox. 5 to 6 hoursInti Punku: 8,924 ft / 2,720 mKm 104 Chachabamba: 7,119 ft / 2,170 mModerate46 °F to 79 °F (8 °C to 26 °C)
Day 3
Machu Picchu
1.2 mi / 2 kmApprox. 2 to 3 hoursMachu Picchu: 7,972 ft / 2,430 mAguas Calientes: 6,693 ft / 2,040 mEasy48 °F to 73 °F (9 °C to 23 °C)

Highlights of the route

  • Cusco (the Imperial City or Qosqo): known as the navel of the world, it was the capital of the Tawantinsuyo empire. Today it combines colonial architecture with its Inca heritage.
  • Chinchero: a traditional Andean village with an important Inca archaeological site and a rich cultural legacy, which we discover through a demonstration of ancestral weaving techniques.
  • Moray: its circular terraces are one of the most impressive sights in the Sacred Valley. They are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory, thanks to their many microclimates.
  • Maras: the salt pans form a unique landscape, with more than 3,000 salt pools worked since pre-Hispanic times.
  • Urubamba: known as the capital of the Sacred Valley, this is where we stop for lunch.
  • Ollantaytambo: a town that keeps its original Inca layout, with an impressive archaeological site and a wide range of services.
  • Km 104: set beside the Urubamba river, this is the starting point of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
  • Chachabamba: the first archaeological site on the route, next to the checkpoint of the same name. A short walk full of impressive historic structures.
  • Wiñay Wayna: famous for its steep agricultural terraces and archaeological enclosures, it offers one of the finest views of the trail.
  • Inti Punku (the Sun Gate): the main entrance to Machu Picchu since Inca times, and the spot of the first panoramic view of the wonder of the world.
  • Machu Picchu: an Inca citadel considered one of the main retreats of the Inca elite, as well as a sanctuary and astronomical centre among tropical mountains.
  • Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town): the main service hub and gateway to Machu Picchu.