From Cusco: Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail 3D/2N

The ‘From Cusco: Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail 3D/2N’ tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of Peru’s Cusco region. Beginning with a guided exploration of the Sacred Valley, visitors will discover the archaeological wonders of Pisac and Ollantaytambo before embarking on a guided hike along the Short Inca Trail. The journey culminates with a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, where visitors can witness the engineering marvels of the Inca civilization. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of the Andes, this comprehensive tour promises an experience that will captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Explore the Sacred Valley region, including visits to the Pisac archaeological site, local market, and Ollantaytambo fortress.
• Enjoy an authentic Peruvian lunch buffet in Urubamba town featuring Andean staples like quinoa stew and grilled meats.
• Hike the Short Inca Trail, visiting remarkable Inca ruins such as Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy, and Winay Wayna.
• Marvel at the breathtaking views from Inti Punku (Sun Gate) as you descend to the iconic Machu Picchu citadel.
• Set out on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, delving into the site’s rich history, architectural wonders, and cultural significance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Cusco Pickup and Sacred Valley Tour

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, where you’ll depart for the Sacred Valley region.

During this portion of the journey, you’ll visit the archaeological site and vibrant market of Pisac, followed by a lunch buffet in the town of Urubamba.

The day concludes with a tour of the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress.

Explore the ancient Inca sites, browse the local artisan markets, and indulge in a delicious Peruvian lunch as you learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley.

This first day sets the stage for the adventurous hike along the Short Inca Trail to come.

Pisac Archaeological Site and Market

From the vibrant town of Urubamba, the tour journeys onward to the archaeological site and market of Pisac, where visitors can explore the ancient Inca ruins and browse the lively artisan stalls.

The Pisac site boasts an impressive Inca fortress, with intricate stone structures and terraces cascading down the mountainside. Travelers can wander through the ruins, marveling at the engineering feats of the Inca civilization.

The adjacent Pisac market is a bustling hub of local crafts, textiles, and produce, offering a glimpse into the region’s vibrant culture. Haggling with the friendly vendors is all part of the experience, as visitors seek out unique souvenirs to take home.

Urubamba Lunch Buffet

After exploring the Pisac archaeological site and market, the tour group convenes for a lunch buffet in the town of Urubamba, savoring a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes.

The buffet features:

1. Steaming platters of hearty quinoa stew, a staple in the Andean diet.
2. Colorful displays of freshly grilled meats, including alpaca and beef.
3. An array of vibrant vegetable dishes, celebrating the region’s bountiful produce.
4. A tempting selection of sweet desserts, like creamy custards and flaky pastries.

The group indulges in the rich flavors and authentic atmosphere, refueling for the next leg of their adventure through the Sacred Valley.

Ollantaytambo Fortress Exploration

Following the hearty lunch buffet in Urubamba, the tour group heads to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a magnificent Inca archaeological site nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. This former royal estate and town boasts impressive terraced ruins, a series of steep stone stairways, and imposing stone walls, all of which showcase the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.

Feature	Description
Terraced Ruins	Intricate stone structures built on multiple levels
Steep Stairways	Challenging pathways leading to the upper fortress
Massive Stone Walls	Impressive defensive structures towering over the site

As the group explores Ollantaytambo, they gain a deeper understanding of the Inca’s architectural genius and the significance of this strategic location within the Sacred Valley.

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Transfer to Km 104 Train Station

After completing the exploration of the Ollantaytambo fortress, the tour group transfers to the km 104 train station to begin the Short Inca Trail portion of the adventure.

This train station marks the starting point of the hike, which will take the group through several archaeological sites before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu. The transfer is efficient and organized, ensuring a smooth transition from the Sacred Valley to the hiking portion of the tour.

The key highlights of the transfer include:

1. Convenient pickup from the Ollantaytambo hotel.
2. Comfortable transportation to the km 104 train station.
3. Arrival in time to begin the Short Inca Trail hike.
4. Guidance from the experienced tour leader throughout the transfer.

Hike Through Archaeological Sites

From the km 104 train station, hikers embark on a journey through several renowned archaeological sites along the Short Inca Trail. The first stop is Chachabamba, a well-preserved Inca site featuring stone structures, terraces, and an ancient irrigation system. Continuing the hike, travelers reach Choquesuysuy, an Inca administrative center with elaborate stone buildings and plazas. The final archaeological site is Winay Wayna, a breathtaking complex perched on a mountainside with intricate agricultural terraces and religious structures. The hike through these remarkable Inca ruins offers a glimpse into the empire’s impressive engineering feats and cultural legacy.

Archaeological Site	Key Features	Time to Explore
Chachabamba	Stone structures, terraces, irrigation system	45 minutes
Choquesuysuy	Inca administrative center, stone buildings, plazas	1 hour
Winay Wayna	Agricultural terraces, religious structures, mountain setting	1.5 hours

Descent to Machu Picchu

Upon reaching the Inti Punku (Sun Gate), hikers typically enjoy breathtaking views of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins sprawled below.

From this vantage point, they begin their descent down a well-worn path, carefully navigating the steep, stone steps that lead directly to the ancient citadel.

The descent to Machu Picchu offers:

• Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains and the Urubamba River below.
• An opportunity to soak in the serene atmosphere and capture memorable photographs.
• A chance to witness the sheer scale and grandeur of the Inca ruins up close.
• A sense of accomplishment after completing the challenging Short Inca Trail hike.

Once at the base, hikers are rewarded with the chance to explore the iconic Machu Picchu in-depth during the guided tour.

Machu Picchu Guided Tour

The guided tour of Machu Picchu gives visitors an in-depth exploration of the iconic Inca citadel, delving into its rich history and architectural marvels.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the 2.5-hour tour takes guests through the most significant structures, including the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Inca Bridge. Visitors will learn about the Inca’s engineering feats, their religious practices, and the citadel’s role as a sacred site.

The tour also provides opportunities to capture breathtaking photos of the majestic ruins set against the stunning Andean backdrop. With a focus on bringing the past to life, the guided experience ensures travelers leave Machu Picchu with a deep appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring a Backpack on the Hike?

Yes, you can bring a backpack on the hike. The tour includes carrying your own personal belongings during the Short Inca Trail portion of the tour. A small, lightweight backpack is recommended for this 6-7 hour hike.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There’s no minimum age requirement for this tour. However, the hike along the Short Inca Trail may not be suitable for young children, as it involves several hours of strenuous trekking over uneven terrain.

How Many Miles/Kilometers Is the Hike?

The hike along the Short Inca Trail is approximately 7 miles or 11 kilometers long. The trail passes through several archaeological sites before reaching the famous Machu Picchu citadel, offering stunning views along the way.

Can I Leave My Luggage in Cusco During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can leave their luggage in Cusco during the tour. The tour company provides storage for participants’ main luggage so they only need to carry a daypack during the hike.

What Types of Dietary Requests Can Be Accommodated?

The tour company can accommodate various dietary requests, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should notify the company in advance of any specific dietary needs to ensure they’re provided for during the included meals.

Recap

This immersive 3-day/2-night tour from Cusco offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley and embark on the Short Inca Trail, culminating in a guided visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Guests will marvel at the archaeological wonders of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, savor authentic Peruvian cuisine, and enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here: