From Cusco | Sacred Valley Tour and Short Inca Trail 3 Days

Discover the enchanting allure of Peru’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Inca Trail on this captivating 3-day tour. Enjoy the vibrant local culture, uncovering architectural marvels from a bygone era and marveling at the stunning landscapes that lead to the crown jewel, Machu Picchu. Expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation ensure an unforgettable journey through the region’s rich heritage. Prepare to be captivated by the Sun Gate, Winaywayna, and a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Inca citadel, providing an unparalleled glimpse into Peru’s captivating past. Where will this journey take you?

Key Points

• This 3-day tour explores the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail from Cusco, immersing travelers in the region’s cultural heritage and ancient Inca civilization.
• The tour highlights include visiting Inca ruins, markets, and the iconic Machu Picchu, with expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation.
• Day 1 features visits to the vibrant Pisaq market and the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, showcasing the Inca’s advanced urban planning and architectural accomplishments.
• On Day 2, the tour includes a trek through lush cloud forests along the ancient Inca Trail, leading to the iconic Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and the archaeological site of Winaywayna.
• The final day offers a guided tour of the remarkable Machu Picchu, the crowning achievement of the Inca Empire, with its mystical plazas, temples, and stunning mountain backdrop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 3-day tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the Sacred Valley and a short trek along the legendary Inca Trail, departing from Cusco, Peru.

Over the course of three days, travelers will enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage, visiting impressive Inca ruins, bustling indigenous markets, and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Highlights include marveling at the panoramic views from Inti Punku, discovering the well-preserved archaeological site of Winaywayna, and learning about the history and significance of other intriguing sites along the way.

With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes and ancient Inca civilization.

Highlights of the Tour

Immersing travelers in the region’s rich cultural heritage, this tour offers a chance to admire the impressive panoramic view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.

Along the journey, explorers will discover Winaywayna, an awe-inspiring archaeological site featuring 20 buildings and a vibrant rainbow temple.

The tour also takes visitors to the captivating sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, where they’ll explore the Inca’s remarkable architectural accomplishments and gain insights into the civilization’s enduring legacy.

• Admire the panoramic grandeur of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku
• Explore the 20 buildings and rainbow temple of Winaywayna
• Uncover the archaeological wonders of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy

Day 1: Pisaq and Ollantaytambo

The tour begins with a visit to the vibrant Pisaq market, where travelers can enjoy the local culture and browse an array of handcrafted goods.

Afterward, the group explores the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress and citadel, marveling at its Inca engineering and enduring architectural splendor.

The Pisaq archaeological zone offers a glimpse into the Inca’s advanced urban planning and agricultural innovations.

Situated at the entrance to the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo’s towering stone ruins and terraced hillsides provide a striking backdrop for visitors to discover the remnants of this once-thriving Inca settlement. With its well-preserved streets and houses, Ollantaytambo offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine life in the Inca Empire.

Day 2: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

On the second day, travelers embark on the short Inca Trail, beginning their journey by taking a train to the trailhead at kilometer 104. From there, they start their hike, trekking through lush cloud forests and along ancient stone paths, eventually reaching the impressive archaeological site of Winaywayna.

At this 20-building complex, they’ll discover a rainbow temple and learn about the site’s fascinating history. The trek then continues to the iconic Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Machu Picchu.

Finally, they make their descent to the ancient Inca citadel, where they’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes.

• Discover the archaeological site of Winaywayna
• Admire the panoramic view from Inti Punku
• Spend the night in Aguas Calientes before exploring Machu Picchu

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Day 3: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

After spending the night in Aguas Calientes, travelers embark on a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, the crowning achievement of the Inca Empire.

They’ll explore the ancient citadel’s mystical plazas, temples, and terraces, marveling at the site’s remarkable architectural feats and gaining insights into the Inca civilization from their knowledgeable guide.

The tour will take them through the iconic Sun Gate, the Intihuatana stone, and the Temple of the Sun, showcasing the Incas’ advanced engineering and astronomical knowledge.

As they wander the ruins, travelers will be captivated by the serene beauty of the mountain backdrop and the sense of wonder that pervades this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Included in the Tour

Comprehensive tour inclusions ensure a seamless and enriching experience for travelers. Pickup from Cusco hotels, guided tours in multiple languages, and a variety of meals and transportation are all provided.

Plus, the package covers entrance fees, train tickets, and accommodation in strategic locations along the route. The tour’s inclusions create a well-rounded itinerary that allows guests to focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail.

Key inclusions are:

• Buffet lunch in Urubamba and à la carte dinner in Aguas Calientes
• First aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies
• Accommodation in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes

Excluded From the Tour

While the tour includes an extensive range of services, there are a few exclusions travelers should be aware of.

Dinner on the first and third days isn’t covered, nor is the entrance fee to hike the iconic Huayna Picchu Mountain.

Plus, travelers are responsible for their own travel insurance for the duration of the trip.

The dinner on the first and last days of the tour isn’t included in the package price, allowing guests the flexibility to explore local restaurants and cuisines at their own expense.

The Huayna Picchu hike, which offers stunning views of Machu Picchu, also requires a separate entrance fee that isn’t part of the tour.

Lastly, travelers must ensure they’ve adequate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances during their journey.

Practical Information

Travelers embarking on the Sacred Valley Tour and Short Inca Trail 3-day adventure will need to consider several practical details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but participants must arrange their own transportation to and from Cusco.

During the trek, porters will carry the bulk of the gear, allowing hikers to focus on the scenic route.

Trekkers should pack appropriately for the weather, which can be unpredictable in the Andes. Some key essentials include:

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing
• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
• Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

Proper preparation ensures the tour is an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Fitness Level Required for This Tour?

This tour requires a moderate fitness level. Guests should be able to hike for several hours each day on uneven terrain. Those with cardiovascular or joint issues may find the trek challenging.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water on the Trek?

Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and water on the trek. The tour company encourages participants to pack lightweight, non-perishable snacks and refillable water bottles to stay hydrated during the hike.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Luggage?

Yes, porters are available to carry luggage on the trek. Travelers can arrange for porter services, which allows them to hike the Inca Trail with just a day pack.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu after the 3-day tour. Arrangements can be made to book additional nights in Aguas Calientes and purchase separate entrance tickets to revisit the iconic Inca citadel at their own pace.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy. Full refunds are available up to 7 days before the tour. Partial refunds may be provided for cancellations within 7 days, subject to availability and applicable fees.

Recap

This 3-day tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Peru’s Sacred Valley and the iconic Inca Trail.

Highlights include vibrant markets, Inca architectural wonders, and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless transportation, this journey provides an unparalleled glimpse into Peru’s captivating past and rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: