Discovering the ancient wonders of Peru’s Sacred Valley and Inca Trail is a must-do adventure for any traveler seeking to enjoy the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. This 3-day/2-night tour from Cusco offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore iconic sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, before embarking on the breathtaking Short Inca Trail and witnessing the awe-inspiring grandeur of Machu Picchu. With all the logistics taken care of, from meals to accommodations, this guided experience promises to be both seamless and unforgettable. As you explore the details, you’ll soon find yourself captivated by the allure of this remarkable adventure.
Key Points
- This 3-day/2-night tour from Cusco explores the Sacred Valley and includes a hike along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- The tour includes hotel pickup, guided visits to Pisac and Ollantaytambo, and transportation by train and bus to the trailhead and Machu Picchu.
- Accommodations, most meals, and entrance fees are included, with the option to book and pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The hike involves steep ascents and descents, so physical fitness and proper gear are recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- The tour is limited to 15 participants and excludes hotel stays in Ollantaytambo, Huayna Picchu entrance fees, and personal expenses.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour is called the "Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail 3D/2N" and is priced from £578.71 to £520.84 per person, saving up to 10%.
Booking is available with a "reserve now & pay later" option, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The 3-day tour is limited to 15 participants and offers pickup service, with the guide contacting 15 minutes before pickup.
The tour is available in English and Spanish.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aguas Calientes.
Itinerary Highlights
On Day 1, participants embark on a journey through the Sacred Valley. The day begins with hotel pickup between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m., followed by visits to the archaeological site and market of Pisac. After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the group enjoys a guided tour of the historic town of Ollantaytambo before spending the night there.
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sacred Valley |
| 2 | Hike from Km 104 to Machu Picchu |
| 3 | Early visit to Machu Picchu, return to Cusco |
The next day, an early pickup at 5:30 a.m. takes the group to the train station, where they board the train to Km 104. From there, they hike to archaeological centers like Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy, and Wiñaywayna, before arriving at Inti Punku for a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and descending to the site.
Inclusions
This tour includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a memorable experience.
Pickup from your hotel, a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, and a lunch in Aguas Calientes are all provided.
You’ll have bilingual guides for the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail portions.
Entrance fees, train transportation, and bus transfers to/from Machu Picchu are covered.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes, as well as meals, are included.
The tour also provides an oxygen bottle and first aid kit for your safety and comfort.
Additional inclusions are travel insurance and a transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco at the end of the trip.
Exclusions and Restrictions
Not all expenses are covered in this tour. The tour package does not include hotel accommodations in Ollantaytambo, dinner on the first and third days, or the entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain. Plus, any extra personal expenses incurred during the trip are not covered. This tour is also not suitable for pregnant women. Prohibited items include alcohol and drugs.
| Not Included | Not Suitable For | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel in Ollantaytambo | Pregnant women | Alcohol |
| Dinner on first and third days | Drugs | |
| Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu | ||
| Extra personal expenses |
Essential Information
Travelers should bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, student card (if applicable), insect repellent, toiletries, cash, hiking pants, personal medication, and hand sanitizer.
Drinking coca tea before the tour may help prevent altitude sickness. Appropriate attire for hiking activities is recommended.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Plus, the use of alcohol and drugs is prohibited during the tour.
Following these essential tips will help ensure a comfortable and successful journey through the Sacred Valley and along the Short Inca Trail.
Pickup and Accommodation
Included in the tour package is hotel pickup, with the guide contacting participants 15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time between 7:00 – 8:00 a.m. on the first day.
On the second day, the group will have an early pickup at 5:30 a.m. to take the train to km 104, where the Inca Trail hike begins. After completing the hike, you will arrive at Aguas Calientes, where they’ll stay overnight in a hotel. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Aguas Calientes.
On the third day, the group will visit Machu Picchu early in the morning for a guided tour, followed by the return journey to Ollantaytambo and Cusco.
Tour Highlights and Activities
The itinerary begins with a captivating exploration of the Sacred Valley on the first day. After hotel pickup, travelers visit the archaeological site and lively market of Pisac.
Following a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues with a guided tour of the ancient Inca ruins in Ollantaytambo, where you will spend the night.
On day two, an early start allows trekkers to reach km 104 and begin the Short Inca Trail. They’ll hike to archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna before arriving at the Sun Gate for a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
The final day features an in-depth exploration of the iconic Inca citadel with a guided tour.
Preparing for the Adventure
Preparing for the adventure starts with ensuring travelers have the necessary gear and are ready to tackle the physically demanding Inca Trail. The tour company recommends bringing a passport or ID, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, rain gear, and layers for the variable mountain climate.
Drinking coca tea before the trek can help prevent altitude sickness. Travelers should pack any personal medications and be in good physical condition, as the Inca Trail involves steep ascents and descents.
Following the packing list and heeding the health tips will help make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable. With the right preparation, explorers can focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Upgrade My Train Tickets to First-Class?
The tour package includes train tickets from Ollantaytambo to km 104 and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Passengers can’t upgrade these train tickets to first-class as they’re part of the set itinerary and inclusions.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
According to the details provided, this tour has a limited group size of 15 participants. There is no minimum group size requirement mentioned in the information given.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes. However, this would require additional booking and payments not included in the tour package. Participants should coordinate any extended stays directly with the tour operator.
How Challenging Is the Inca Trail Portion of the Trek?
The Inca Trail portion is moderately challenging, involving a strenuous hike of around 5-6 hours. It includes steep ascents, ancient ruins, and panoramic views, but is suitable for fit hikers with proper preparation and equipment.
Can I Add Any Additional Activities During the Tour?
Travelers can inquire about adding optional activities like visiting the Maras salt mines or Moray agricultural terraces during the Sacred Valley portion of the tour. However, these add-ons are subject to availability and additional fees.
Recap
This tour offers an immersive experience in Peru’s Sacred Valley and along the Short Inca Trail. Hikers will witness stunning landscapes, explore ancient ruins, and marvel at the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. With all essential arrangements taken care of, travelers can simply focus on soaking in the rich culture and natural beauty of this unforgettable adventure.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Aguas Calientes
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