Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail 3 Days

Set out on a captivating 3-day journey through the Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail in Peru. Enjoy the rich cultural tapestry as you explore ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and breathtaking landscapes. Hike to the Sun Gate and witness the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Personalized attention, private transportation, and comfortable accommodations ensure an unforgettable experience. With a limited group size and a price starting from just $750 per person, this adventure promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Discover why this tour is the perfect way to unveil the hidden gems of Peru.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 3 Day Tours In Machu Picchu.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour in the Andes region of Peru explores the Sacred Valley and includes hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
• The tour includes private transportation, accommodations, permits, and entrance fees, with a group size limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience.
• On Day 1, visitors will explore the Pisac ruins and local market, and visit Moray ruins and Maras salt mines.
• On Day 2, the tour includes a hike along the Short Inca Trail, reaching the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu Citadel.
• On Day 3, visitors will have a guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel and return to Cusco by train.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail 3-day tour offers an immersive experience in Peru’s captivating Andes region. Priced from $750 per person, the tour is limited to small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate journey.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, flexibility is built-in. Led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides, the tour covers the iconic Sacred Valley and a segment of the legendary Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to the legendary Machu Picchu.

Travelers can expect private transportation, comfortable accommodations, and all necessary permits and entrance fees included in the package.

Itinerary Details

The 3-day itinerary begins with a Sacred Valley tour on Day 1. This includes visiting the Pisac ruins, exploring the local handicraft market, and discovering the Moray ruins and Maras salt mines.

Day 2 marks the start of the Short Inca Trail, with a hike from the KM 104 trailhead to the Chachabamba ruins, Wiñay Wayna, and culminating at the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu.

The final day is dedicated to a guided tour of the renowned Inca citadel, followed by a return to Cusco.

• Explore the renowned Sacred Valley sites
• Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Enjoy a guided tour of the Inca citadel
• Comprehensive transportation and meal inclusions

Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour

On the first day, the tour kicks off with a pickup from Cusco at 7:00 am, embarking on an exploration of the renowned Sacred Valley.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Pisac ruins, where participants can marvel at the impressive Inca terraces and tombs. Next, they’ll discover the vibrant Pisac handicraft market, offering a glimpse into local artistry.

After a delightful lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to the captivating Moray ruins and the Maras salt mines, showcasing the Inca’s ingenious agricultural and salt-harvesting practices.

Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, immersing the group in the rich history and cultural traditions of the Sacred Valley.

Day 2: Start of Short Inca Trail

After a hearty breakfast, the group boards the train to the KM 104 trailhead, marking the start of the Short Inca Trail adventure.

The hiking begins with a trek to the Chachabamba ruins, situated at an elevation of 2,050 meters. Following this, the trail leads to Wiñay Wayna, a stunning archaeological site at 2,650 meters, where the group enjoys a well-deserved lunch.

The journey continues with a 2-hour hike to the Sun Gate, Intipunku, before a 30-minute walk to the iconic Machu Picchu Citadel, where they spend the night in Aguas Calientes.

• Hike to Chachabamba ruins (2,050 m)
• Explore Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m) and enjoy lunch
• Trek to Intipunku (Sun Gate)
• Overnight in Aguas Calientes

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Day 3: Machu Picchu Tour

Early on Day 3, the group boards the bus for the short ride up to the Machu Picchu Citadel.

Upon arrival, they embark on a 1.5-hour hike to a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the iconic Inca ruins.

A 2 to 3-hour guided tour then provides an in-depth exploration of the site, uncovering its rich history and architectural marvels.

After the tour, participants have free time to wander the citadel’s mysterious alleyways and plazas before returning to Aguas Calientes by bus.

The journey back to Cusco is by train, completing this unforgettable 3-day adventure through the Sacred Valley and along the Short Inca Trail.

Inclusions

The tour package includes private transportation, all necessary entrance fees, and the services of a professional English-speaking guide.

Accommodation is provided for 2 nights in a 3-star hotel, with meals such as 1 lunch in the Sacred Valley, a lunch box, snacks, dinner on Day 2, and breakfast and dinner on Day 1, lunch and dinner on Day 3.

The package also includes:

• Round-trip train tickets and 3 bus tickets
• Entrance fees to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains
• Porters for equipment transport
• Travel insurance and optional tips

Participant Restrictions

According to the participant restrictions, this tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals.

People with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, and those over 287 lbs (130 kg) aren’t permitted on the tour. Plus, individuals who suffer from altitude sickness, high blood pressure, or low fitness levels are also excluded.

The tour isn’t recommended for those over 70 years of age.

These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants during the challenging hike and activities involved in the Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail tour.

Important Information

A few important rules govern this tour.

Drones, plastic bags, and plastic bottles aren’t allowed. Guests should check availability for starting times and select participants and date.

To book a spot, they can reserve now and pay later with no upfront payment.

• Drones, plastic bags, and plastic bottles are prohibited.
• Guests should check availability for starting times and select participants and date.
• Reservations can be made now with no upfront payment.

This tour is subject to certain restrictions, such as not being suitable for people with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, individuals over 287 lbs (130 kg), those with altitude sickness or high blood pressure, and those with low fitness levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade to a 4-Star Hotel During the Tour?

Yes, you can upgrade to a 4-star hotel during the tour, though there may be an additional charge. Speak with the tour operator to discuss the options and pricing for upgrading your accommodations.

Is It Possible to Add Extra Activities Like Horseback Riding?

Yes, you can add extra activities like horseback riding to this tour. The tour operator offers customization options for additional experiences, which you can discuss and arrange with them during the booking process.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment or Do I Need to Rent It?

You can bring your own hiking equipment, but the tour operator provides necessary gear like trekking poles and backpacks. Renting equipment is optional if you don’t want to carry your own.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Include Extra Destinations?

The tour provider offers additional destination options to extend the duration of the tour. Travelers can inquire about customizing the itinerary to include extra sites or activities beyond the standard 3-day Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail itinerary.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Beverages During the Hike?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional snacks and beverages during the hike. The tour includes some snacks, but hikers are welcome to bring or purchase extra provisions they’d like along the way.

Recap

This thrilling 3-day adventure through Peru’s Sacred Valley and along the Short Inca Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Travelers will enjoy personalized attention, comfortable accommodations, and the chance to witness the iconic Machu Picchu, all while indulging in authentic Peruvian cuisine. This unforgettable journey is a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of the Andes.

You can check if your dates are available here: