Exploring the iconic sites of Peru’s Sacred Valley and trekking along the Short Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive 3-day/2-night tour promises to immerse travelers in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes that have captivated visitors for centuries. With expertly curated inclusions and the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of the Inca Empire. From the awe-inspiring vistas of Machu Picchu to the cultural insights provided by knowledgeable guides, this journey is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on it.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In Inca Trail To Machu Picchu.
Key Points
- This 3-day/2-night tour combines exploration of the Sacred Valley and a hike along the Short Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu.
- The tour includes transportation, accommodations, meals, and entrance fees, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The itinerary covers highlights such as the Pisaq archaeological site, Ollantaytambo fortress, and the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) viewpoint of Machu Picchu.
- Knowledgeable guides provide insights into Inca history and culture, and the tour showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Andean landscape.
- The tour offers a comprehensive experience of the Sacred Valley and a manageable Inca Trail hike, making it an appealing option for travelers.
Overview of the Tour
This 3-day/2-night tour combines a exploration of the Sacred Valley with a hike along the Short Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Over the course of the tour, visitors will spend time in the Sacred Valley, visiting sites like the Pisaq archaeological complex and the Ollantaytambo fortress. They’ll then embark on the Short Inca Trail, hiking to the Sun Gate for stunning views of Machu Picchu before descending to explore the lost city itself.
With all transportation, accommodations, meals, and entrance fees included, this tour offers an immersive Andean experience at a cost of PEN 15,581 per person. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Inca Trail To Machu Picchu.
Inclusions and Cancellation Policy
The tour includes hotel pickup in Cusco, an Andean buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, and a lunch in Aguas Calientes.
Guided tours of the Sacred Valley and a professional English-Spanish guide for the Inca Trail are also provided.
Travelers will take the Ollantaytambo Train to Km 104 to begin the Short Inca Trail hike.
Entrance fees to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are included, as well as 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes, bus transportation up and down to Machu Picchu, and the return train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco are all part of the package.
Oxygen bottles and a first aid kit are available.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Daily Itinerary: Day 1
On the first day, the tour kicks off with a visit to the Pisaq archaeological site and market, where travelers can explore the ancient Inca ruins and browse the vibrant local handicrafts.
After exploring Pisaq, the group will enjoy an Andean buffet lunch in Urubamba, a charming town in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
The day culminates with a visit to the impressive Ollantaytambo fortress, a testament to Inca engineering. Travelers will have the opportunity to wander through the quaint streets of Ollantaytambo, experiencing the essence of traditional Andean life.
This day sets the stage for the exciting Inca Trail hike that awaits on the following day.
Daily Itinerary: Day 2
Commencing the second day, travelers board a train to Km104, where they embark on the captivating Inca Trail hike.
This segment of the trail offers a mesmerizing panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the renowned Inti Punku, or Sun Gate.
Along the way, hikers may encounter:
- Stunning vistas of snow-capped Andean peaks
- Lush cloud forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna
- Impressive Inca archaeological sites, like the ruins of Winay Wayna
- Opportunities to interact with local Quechua communities
- A chance to experience the awe-inspiring descent into the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu
Arriving in Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu, travelers savor a well-deserved lunch before preparing for the next day’s exploration of this iconic wonder.
More Great Tours NearbyDaily Itinerary: Day 3
Travelers rise early on the final day to revisit Machu Picchu, where they embark on a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel. This allows them to explore the remarkable ruins in detail, learning about the site’s history and significance.
After the tour, they’ve free time to wander the site independently, soaking in the magnificent views and atmosphere.
In the afternoon, they board the train for the return journey to Ollantaytambo, where a transfer awaits to take them back to Cusco. This concludes the 3-day adventure through the Sacred Valley and along the Short Inca Trail, capped off by an in-depth exploration of the crown jewel, Machu Picchu.
Highlights of the Tour
This 3-day tour through the Sacred Valley and along the Short Inca Trail offers travelers a chance to discover the highlights of this captivating region.
Visitors can explore the ancient Inca ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, seeing the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley. The hike along the Short Inca Trail culminates in a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, before descending to the iconic Inca citadel itself for a guided tour of its remarkable ruins.
The highlights of this tour include:
- Discovering the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Visiting the stunning Winay Wayna and Inti Punku viewpoints
- Experiencing the awe-inspiring wonder of Machu Picchu
- Learning about Inca history and culture from knowledgeable guides
- Enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the Andean landscape
Dietary Requests and Travel Insurance
The tour operator can accommodate various dietary requests, catering to vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary needs upon prior notice. Dietary restrictions should be communicated to the operator in advance to ensure the appropriate meals are provided.
Travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances during the trip. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events, giving travelers peace of mind. Guests are encouraged to review the policy details and coverage options to select a plan that best fits their needs.
With these considerations in place, travelers can enjoy the Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail tour without worrying about dietary or travel-related issues.
Tour Duration and Cost
Spanning 3 days and 2 nights, the Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail tour is priced at PEN 15,581 per person.
This all-inclusive package covers hotel pickup in Cusco, guided tours, entrance fees, transportation, and meals.
Some highlights of the tour include:
- Visiting the archaeological site and market in Pisaq
- Exploring the Ollantaytambo fortress and town
- Hiking a portion of the iconic Inca Trail to reach the Inti Punku viewpoint
- Marveling at the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu
- Returning to Cusco via train and transfer
With a cancellation policy that allows free changes up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers travelers a comprehensive and flexible way to experience the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Trekking Gear?
Yes, you can bring your own trekking gear on this tour. The tour company provides some equipment, but allowing participants to use their own gear can enhance the overall hiking experience.
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?
The minimum group size for this tour is not specified. Tour operators generally accommodate individual travelers or small groups, with no strict minimum. The tour’s inclusions and logistics can typically be arranged for solo participants or small parties.
Is There an Option to Extend the Inca Trail Hike?
Yes, there is an option to extend the Inca Trail hike. Travelers can opt for a longer trek, such as the Classic Inca Trail or the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which offer more extensive exploration of the Andes.
How Difficult Is the Inca Trail Portion of the Tour?
The Inca Trail portion of the tour is considered moderate in difficulty. While it involves hiking uphill terrain, the relatively short duration of 4-5 hours makes it accessible to most fit travelers. Proper preparation and equipment are recommended.
Can I Request a Private Guide for the Inca Trail?
Yes, you can request a private guide for the Inca Trail portion of the tour. The tour operator provides a professional guide, but they may be able to arrange a private guide at an additional cost if requested in advance.
Recap
This 3-day/2-night tour combines the exploration of the Sacred Valley with a hike along the Short Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
The tour includes transportation, accommodations, meals, and entrance fees, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights of the tour include discovering the Sacred Valley, witnessing panoramic views from Inti Punku, and experiencing the wonder of Machu Picchu while learning about Inca history and culture.
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