5 Day Sacred Valley, Cusco and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The 5-day Sacred Valley, Cusco, and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Peru. Blending historical exploration, outdoor adventure, and culture, this all-inclusive package promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning for more. From the ancient ruins of Moray and Maras to the iconic Machu Picchu, each step of this carefully curated itinerary is designed to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s enduring legacy. Get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• This 5-day tour covers the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and a 10 km (6.3 mile) Short Inca Trail trek to the iconic Machu Picchu site.
• The tour provides an all-inclusive 5-star experience with accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and transportation arranged by the tour company.
• The itinerary includes acclimatization in Cusco, exploration of Moray, Maras, and Chinchero, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• The tour offers comfortable accommodations, high-quality meals, and all necessary transportation and entrance tickets.
• The trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with steep ascents and descents on uneven terrain, making it unsuitable for those with serious medical conditions or mobility issues.

Tour Overview

This 5-day tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Rated 5-stars, the tour includes visits to the Sacred Valley, the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu itself.

Covering a distance of 10 km (6.3 miles) on the Short Inca Trail, the tour is suitable for families, friends, students, and clubs. The itinerary includes acclimatization in Cusco, tours of Maras, Moray, and Chinchero, a 1-day trek on the Inca Trail, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and free time in Cusco.

With 4-star accommodations, meals, entrance fees, and transportation included, it’s an all-inclusive experience showcasing the best of Peru’s iconic destinations.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights an immersive exploration of the Sacred Valley, Cusco, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Travelers will:

1. Acclimatize in Cusco and stay at a lodge in the charming San Blas neighborhood.

2. Discover the Inca terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras, followed by a visit to the Inca site of Chinchero.

3. Set out on a 10 km (6.3 mi) trek along the Short Inca Trail, taking in Inca ruins, diverse flora and fauna, and panoramic Andean views.

4. Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Accommodation and Meals

The accommodation for this tour includes 4 nights in 3-star hotels across the itinerary.

Travelers will be staying at partner lodges in San Blas, Cusco, and Ollantaytambo. The hotels provide basic amenities and comfortable accommodations to rest after each day’s activities.

Meals included in the tour are 4 breakfasts and 1 lunch. Breakfast is served at the partner hotels, while the lunch is provided during the Short Inca Trail hike.

The tour company works closely with local providers to ensure high-quality meals that cater to various dietary requirements.

Transportation and Tickets

As part of this 5-day tour, the tour company arranges all necessary transportation and entrance tickets. This includes:

1. Train tickets for the journey from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back.

2. Entrance fees to the iconic Machu Picchu site, as well as the optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

3. All ground transportation, such as the bus from Cusco to the start of the Short Inca Trail and the return journey from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

4. Travel insurance is also provided, ensuring peace of mind throughout the tour.

Physical Requirements

To participate in this 5-day tour, travelers should possess a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour includes a short 10 km (6.3 mile) trek along the Inca Trail, which involves ascending and descending steep steps and uneven terrain. While the trek is relatively short, it requires a good level of cardiovascular endurance and basic hiking experience.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions or those who aren’t comfortable with high altitudes, as the tour visits the Cusco region which sits at an elevation of 3,400 meters (11,000 feet).

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Accessibility and Medical Conditions

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions.

The physical demands of the short Inca Trail trek may be challenging for those with mobility issues or health concerns. The tour involves:

1. Hiking at high altitudes, reaching up to 3400 meters (11,000 feet) in the Andes Mountains.
2. Navigating uneven terrain, stairs, and narrow paths.
3. Carrying personal belongings and managing your own pace during the trek.
4. Limited accessibility to certain Inca sites and the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Those with heart conditions, respiratory issues, or other pre-existing medical problems should consult their healthcare provider before booking this tour.

Tour Company and Guides

Waman Adventures, the tour operator, is praised for its professionalism and the knowledge of its guides.

Positive feedback highlights their excellent organization and passionate guides who provide an immersive experience.

The company’s confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Customers appreciate the way the guides bring the history and culture of the region to life, making the tour a truly memorable one.

Waman Adventures’ commitment to delivering high-quality experiences is reflected in the 5-star rating from previous participants, who recommend the tour to families, friends, students, and clubs alike.

Booking and Confirmation

The booking process for this 5-day tour is straightforward, with confirmation received within 48 hours of the initial reservation, subject to availability.

The tour is operated by Waman Adventures, a company praised for its professionalism and knowledgeable guides.

Travelers can expect the following regarding booking and confirmation:

1. Confirmation within 48 hours, contingent on availability.
2. Detailed itinerary and tour information provided upon booking.
3. Secure online payment options to reserve your spot.
4. Responsive customer service to address any pre-trip inquiries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Weather Conditions During the Trek?

The weather during the trek can vary, with cool mornings and mild afternoons. Hikers should prepare for a range of temperatures, from chilly conditions at higher elevations to warmer weather in the valleys. Proper layering is recommended to stay comfortable throughout the trek.

Can We Bring Our Own Hiking Gear, or Can It Be Rented?

Hikers can bring their own hiking gear or rent equipment from the tour company. Rental options include backpacks, hiking poles, and rain gear. This allows flexibility to meet individual needs and preferences for the trek.

Is There an Option to Extend the Inca Trail Portion?

The tour offers a short Inca Trail hike, but it doesn’t mention an option to extend the trail. Hikers can inquire with the tour company about extending the trek if they’d like a longer Inca Trail experience.

How Can We Acclimatize to the High Altitude Effectively?

To effectively acclimatize to the high altitude, the tour company suggests visitors spend the first day in Cusco resting, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activities. This helps the body slowly adjust to the elevations before the hiking begins.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated During the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator can accommodate dietary restrictions. They work closely with their partner lodges to provide meals that cater to vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs upon request when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour offers an unforgettable experience blending magnificent landscapes, rich history, and culture. Participants will acclimatize in Cusco, explore ancient sites, and embark on a scenic trek featuring Inca ruins, culminating in a guided visit to the iconic Machu Picchu. The tour ensures comfort with quality accommodations, meals, and expert guidance throughout the journey, making it a must-consider option for those seeking an all-inclusive Peruvian adventure.