The Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail tour offers a rich blend of history, culture, and adventure over two unforgettable days. Begin by exploring the vibrant artisan markets and ancient ruins of the Sacred Valley, including the impressive Pisac archaeological site and the stunning salt terraces of Maras. After a night in the charming town of Ollantaytambo, embark on the Short Inca Trail, passing the enchanting Wiñay Wayna site and reaching Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate, where you'll witness the sunset over the Lost City of the Incas. This tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who still wish to capture the essence of Peru's majestic landscapes and heritage.
- Duration: 2 days, with a mix of hiking and sightseeing
- Includes meals, transportation, and expert guides
- Enjoy stunning sunset and sunrise views at Machu Picchu
- Suitable for beginners in good physical condition
Pickup is included only for hotels located in Cusco’s historic center. If you are staying outside this area (Airbnb, San Blas hills, Sacred Valley, etc.), a nearby meeting point will be assigned. Please be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. The guide will call you by name upon arrival.
You have to be in this point at least 10 min before the pick up time. The guide will be with a list collecting all travelers.
We will be finishing at your hotel in Cusco or city center.
At 7:00 AM, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and begin a relaxed and inspiring journey through the Sacred Valley. Our first stop is a traditional alpaca farm, where you’ll learn about native Andean camelids and the ancient techniques used to dye and weave their wool. We’ll then head to the Taray lookout point for a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley before continuing to the impressive Pisac ruins and its colorful artisan market
Buffet lunch
After lunch, we’ll continue to the ancient Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where you’ll have time to explore this impressive archaeological site and admire its perfectly carved stone terraces and living Inca streets. Your day ends with a relaxing night in the Sacred Valley Pachar, Here, you’ll spend the night in a cozy Eco Lodge surrounded by mountains, just a short distance from one of the highest hotels in the world, and with a clear view of the famous Skylodge hanging capsules, suspended on the cliffside. A truly unique setting to end the day, where the quiet valley and starry skies invite you to disconnect and breathe pure Andean air. where you’ll stay in comfortable geodesic domes surrounded by nature the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Andes. This route is rated easy, and everything is taken care of for you: transportation, entrance fees, and lunch are all included.
Start early with breakfast and a smooth hotel pick-up before boarding the Expedition Train to Km 104 up to Chachabamba
After a scenic 1 hour and 20 minute train ride, we’ll arrive at Chachabamba (Km 104), the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. From here, we begin a moderate 13 km / 8.1-mile hike that takes around six to seven hours at a relaxed pace. Along the way, you’ll visit two remarkable Inca sites: Chachabamba, hidden at the base of the mountain, and Wiñaywayna, an impressive complex of terraces, temples, and waterfalls built into the hillside.
After 3 hours and 30min hiking we arrive to Wiñaywayna, a spectacular complex of terraces and temples surrounded by lush cloud forest. we’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients — a much more rewarding experience than the standard boxed lunch offered on most tours.
The trail continues gradually upward until we reach the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at 2,720 m / 8,923 ft, where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, entering through Circuit 1 (upper viewpoint), a privilege exclusive to Inca Trail hikers.
After your guided visit to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1), you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. From there, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo and continue by private transport to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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