Tour Details:
This 3-day adventure is the perfect combination of cultural immersion and outdoor exploration. Start with a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting traditional markets, stunning archaeological sites, and charming Andean villages. Then, embark on the Short Inca Trail, a one-day hike that leads you through breathtaking scenery and ancient Inca sites—culminating in your first view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
Ideal for travelers who want to maximize their experience in a limited time, this tour offers the best of both worlds: rich cultural history and the thrill of trekking to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Highlights:
- Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas, including Pisac and Ollantaytambo
- Visit vibrant local markets and learn about traditional Andean culture
- Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu—only 10 km with rich historical and natural scenery
- Explore ancient sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna along the trail
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original Inca entrance
- Witness sunset and sunrise views of Machu Picchu
- Enjoy a guided tour of the citadel with expert commentary on Inca history and architecture
- Option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required)
- Travel with professional guides, private transport, and eco-friendly practices
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Itinerary
DAY 1: Sacred Valley Tour – Overnight in Ollantaytambo
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 7:30 AM to begin an unforgettable full-day guided tour through the legendary Sacred Valley of the Incas. This fertile and historically rich region was once the agricultural and spiritual center of the Inca Empire. Today, it captivates travelers with its stunning landscapes, traditional communities, and awe-inspiring ruins.
Our first stop is Pisac, where you’ll explore an impressive archaeological complex perched on a mountain ridge. Admire the intricate Inca terraces, ceremonial temples, and panoramic views of the valley below.
Afterwards, descend to the town of Pisac to visit its colorful artisan market, where local vendors sell handmade textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry, and other traditional crafts—perfect for souvenirs.
We continue our journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley to Urubamba, a quiet Andean town nestled between snow-capped mountains and green fields. Here, we’ll enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring Peruvian and international cuisine in a local restaurant (included). Take this time to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
In the afternoon, we arrive at the impressive archaeological site of Ollantaytambo, known for its remarkable stonework and its importance as both a religious and military center. Climb the ceremonial terraces, explore the Temple of the Sun, and learn about the strategic importance of this site during the Spanish conquest.
Ollantaytambo is also one of the few remaining towns where the layout and infrastructure of the Inca era are still intact and in use.
After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore the charming cobbled streets of Ollantaytambo, filled with history, culture, and stunning views.
You’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel, resting and preparing for the exciting Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu that begins the following morning.
DAY 2: Short Inca Trail – Km 104 to Machu Picchu – Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Your adventure begins early! We will pick you up from your hotel around 4:00 AM and transfer you to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley toward Km 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Upon arrival at Km 104 (2,100 m / 6,890 ft), you’ll meet your trekking guide, pass through the checkpoint, and begin your hike. The trail starts with a visit to Chachabamba, an intriguing archaeological site surrounded by lush subtropical forest. From there, you’ll begin a steady ascent along original Inca pathways through cloud forest, passing orchids, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.
After about 3 to 4 hours of hiking, you’ll reach the stunning site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft)—one of the most picturesque ruins along the trail. Take time to explore its agricultural terraces, sacred temples, and ceremonial fountains. Here, you’ll also enjoy a box lunch and some well-deserved rest.
In the afternoon, continue your trek on the final stretch of the trail toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)—the ancient ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu used by the Incas. From this dramatic viewpoint, you’ll witness your first panoramic glimpse of Machu Picchu, bathed in the golden afternoon light—an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience.
After enjoying the view, descend gradually toward the main gate of Machu Picchu, stopping for photos along the way. (Please note: there is no guided tour of the citadel on this day.) Then take a short bus ride down to Aguas Calientes (bus ticket not included), the town located at the foot of the Machu Picchu mountain.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and a detailed briefing from your guide about the next day’s visit to the citadel. You’ll then check into your hotel for a well-earned night of rest.
DAY 3: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take the first bus up to Machu Picchu, aiming to enter the citadel around sunrise—a magical moment as the morning mist lifts to reveal the iconic Inca masterpiece.
Upon arrival, your expert guide will lead you on a comprehensive 2 to 3-hour walking tour through the most important sectors of Machu Picchu. Explore its sacred temples, ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, and astronomical observatories, while learning about the history, engineering, and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore the citadel at your own pace or, if pre-booked, hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (limited availability and separate permits required) for panoramic views and a different perspective of the site.
Once your visit is complete, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have time for lunch on your own and to relax or explore the town before heading to the train station.
In the afternoon, board the Expedition or Voyager train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. You will be dropped off at Plaza San Francisco, arriving in the early evening.
Included / Excluded
- Trip briefing one day before departure (in Cusco or your hotel).
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) during the entire journey.
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Private transportation:
o Cusco to Sacred Valley
o Ollantaytambo to train station
o Return from Ollantaytambo to Cusco -
All entrance tickets:
o Sacred Valley sites (Pisac, Ollantaytambo)
o Inca Trail permit (Km 104)
o Machu Picchu entry ticket -
Train tickets:
o Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (Inca Rail or Peru Rail)
o Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Voyager) - Bus ticket Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu (day 3 round trip).
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Meals:
o Day 1: Lunch
o Day 2: Box lunch + Dinner
o Day 3: Breakfast
(Vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free meals available upon request at no extra cost) - Hotel in Ollantaytambo (1 night) and Aguas Calientes (1 night – 3-star accommodation).
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle.
- Environmental responsibility: all trash generated is brought back to Cusco.
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 2 – optional, can be added).
- Meals not specified in the itinerary (e.g., lunch on Day 3 in Aguas Calientes).
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (available only if booked in advance).
- Tips for guides, drivers, or porters (optional, but appreciated).
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, etc.).
What to Bring:
- Original passport (required for checkpoints and entrance tickets).
- Small backpack (25L max – large bags are not allowed in Machu Picchu).
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots (preferably waterproof).
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho (weather can be unpredictable).
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- Insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottle (at least 1 liter).
- Personal medications and basic toiletries.
- Camera or smartphone with extra battery or power bank.
- Cash in soles for snacks, souvenirs, or optional expenses (many places don’t accept cards).
- Swimsuit and towel (optional, if you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between the Short Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day version with only one day of hiking, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking a less physically demanding trek. The Classic Inca Trail lasts 4 days and includes multiple challenging sections with higher altitudes.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes. Inca Trail permits are limited and often sell out quickly, especially during the high season (May to September). We recommend booking at least 2 months in advance to secure your spot.
Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for beginners?
Yes. The trail has moderate difficulty and is suitable for people with average physical fitness. No prior hiking experience is required, but it’s important to be prepared for walking at altitude.
What is the highest altitude on the Short Inca Trail?
The trail’s highest point is Inti Punku (Sun Gate), located at approximately 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
