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Experience the best of the Andes on this 3-day Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail adventure. Explore Pisac’s colorful market and ruins, the circular terraces of Moray, and the salt mines of Maras before visiting the fortress of Ollantaytambo. On Day 2, board the train to Km 104 and hike the Short Inca Trail through cloud forest and Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna, arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate for your first breathtaking view. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes. On Day 3, enjoy a sunrise guided tour of Machu Picchu, uncovering its temples, terraces, and history, before returning to Cusco. This journey blends culture, nature, and the magic of the Inca Trail in one unforgettable experience.
3 Days 2 Night | With Hotel
13 km / 8 miles
Intermediate
8,924 ft (2,720 m)
Trekking in Nature and Culture
02 ppl Min - 08ppl Max
The 3-Day Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a unique journey that blends the rich cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley with the scenic beauty and history of the Short Inca Trail. Beginning with a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley, you’ll visit vibrant markets, impressive Inca archaeological sites, and breathtaking landscapes before spending the night in the charming town of Ollantaytambo.
The Short Inca Trail, also known as the 2-Day Inca Trail, is one of the most popular alternative routes to reach Machu Picchu. This trek takes you through remarkable archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, immersing you in Andean traditions and centuries of Peruvian history, before arriving at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate
Why Choose the 3-Day Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail by Quechuas Expeditions?
At Quechuas Expeditions, we are a locally owned and fully licensed Inca Trail tour operator, committed to delivering a reliable, punctual, and personalized travel experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or in a group, you’ll be welcomed with warmth and professionalism — just take a look at our reviews on TripAdvisor.
What makes our 3-day Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail hike unique?
3 Day Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail Hike:
The Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an ideal option for travelers seeking a rewarding yet less physically demanding adventure. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, this route does not require camping or hiking at extreme altitudes, making it accessible for families with children and travelers of all ages.
Your journey begins with a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley, where you’ll visit traditional markets, stunning Inca archaeological complexes, and breathtaking landscapes. After spending the night in the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, you’ll embark on the Short Inca Trail. This 12-kilometer (7.4-mile) hike leads through remarkable Inca sites including Chachabamba, the terraced wonder of Wiñay Wayna, and finally Intipunku (Sun Gate), where you’ll be rewarded with your first awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped Andean peaks and discover diverse flora and fauna native to the cloud forest.
At Quechuas Expeditions, we are a fully licensed, locally owned operator with a dedicated team of professional English-speaking guides. Having walked this trail hundreds of times, our guides bring deep knowledge of Andean history and traditions, as well as first-aid training to ensure your safety and comfort.
Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, this tour offers the chance to follow in the footsteps of the Incas and experience one of the world’s most iconic archaeological treasures. While the route is less strenuous than the Classic Inca Trail, we recommend spending 2–3 days in Cusco beforehand to acclimatize. The best time to enjoy this trek is during the dry season, from March to November.
Summary:
Please Note:
• Sacred Valley of the Incas
Sacred valley includes. Transportation, Guide and Buffet Lunch
• Short Inca Trail Permits (km 104)
Once we receive your complete personal information and reservation deposit, we’ll manage all the necessary permits for your trek.
Permits are non-transferable, issued under your full name and for a specific date, and cannot be modified under any circumstances.
Passport number changes are only permitted for renewal cases; in that event, both old and new passports must be presented.
• Machu Picchu Entry Tickets
Your Inca Trail permit includes Circuit 1, which takes you to the upper terraces of Machu Picchu—the perfect spot for that iconic postcard photo.
To enhance your experience, we’ll also include access to either Circuit 2 (a full guided tour through the main citadel) or Circuit 3 (a walk through the lower sector), depending on availability at the time of booking.
Your Inca Trail permit includes access to Circuit 1, guiding you to the upper Sector terraces of Machu Picchu—the ideal vantage point for the iconic panoramic photo of the citadel.
To provide a more comprehensive and enriching experience, we also include an additional entry to either Circuit 2 (offering a full guided tour through the heart of the archaeological site) or Circuit 3 (exploring the scenic lower sector), depending on availability at the time of reservation.
• Pre-Departure Briefing
Meet your guide the day before your trek at 5:00 PM at our main office in Cusco.
This session will cover final trip details, allow you to meet your group, and you’ll receive your duffle bag for the hike.
Can’t attend? Let us know in advance—we can reschedule or provide a personalized video briefing via WhatsApp.
• Expert Tour Guides
Our certified guides are fluent in English and Spanish, and are carefully selected for their experience, responsibility, and passion for sharing Peru’s cultural heritage.
They’re committed to your comfort and safety throughout the journey.
• First Aid & Medical Support
All guides receive annual first aid training and carry a comprehensive medical kit, including oxygen.
In case of an emergency, we will arrange for immediate evacuation and ensure professional medical care.
Accommodation
One-night stay in Aguas Calientes at a comfortable hotel with private bathroom, hot water, WiFi, and breakfast included.
Luggage storage is available during your Machu Picchu visit.
Meals Included
Snacks & Water: Provided on Day 1.
Transportation
Availability (based on availability): Daily Departures All departures are 100% guaranteed. If you have booked, you are going, we won’t cancel your trip!!!
How to Book?
Send us all your personal information, as well as a first deposit of USD 200.00, and the final balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.
Group Service: Price per person: US$680
You will be joined in a group formed by people coming from different countries/nationalities: From 4 people up to 8 people (maximum)
Private Service: Price per person: US $880
Recommended for honeymooners, families with children, and groups of friends (two people minimum).
If you are a group of 02, we leave (it doesn’t matter if you have paid as a group service). We NEVER pass our people to another operator, as most agencies do here in Cusco.
UPGRADES:
-Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD 90 Based on Availability (Let us know at the time of booking).
-Machu Picchu Mountain: USD 90 Based on Availability (Let us know at time of booking)
-Upgrade to Vistadome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USD 70
-Extra night in Aguas Calientes, USD 30 per person (room with two beds, room with three beds, and room with four beds with a shower and private bathroom).
-One night in Cusco in our Quechua Guesthouse: from USD 30 per person/double room (before the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)
RENTALS:
-Hiking poles (Dimond black) Rubber tips included: USD 15 for the whole trip
-Daypack 20- 30 liters (rain cover included): USD 20 for the whole trip
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DISCOUNTS:
(to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com).
UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD
-The student discount is USD 30.00 per person.
-The discount is only for students under 25 years old, and they must send a photo of their original student card to info@quechuasexpeditions.com.
-For children under 17 years old, the discount is automatic.
-Groups of 5 or more students have an additional discount of 10 USD per person. It is only necessary to book the trek together at the same time.
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but due to the higher altitude of the Andes, the temperature can be quite cold, especially at night. We recommend using a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good-sized backpack between 20 and 30 liters is also essential.
List of things you must bring:
Still haven’t decided on the best 2-day Inca Trail tour? We’re sharing frequently asked questions from our satisfied customers who have already visited the trail to Machu Picchu.
The tour is a 2-day trek that takes you through a portion of the famous Inca Trail, allowing you to reach Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
The trek covers about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), usually completed in one full day of hiking, and the second day is spent exploring Machu Picchu.
Is moderate in difficulty, with some uphill and downhill sections but less demanding than the full 4-day trek.
Yes, this trail is suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness and those with basic hiking experience.
No, just like the classic Inca Trail, this tour also requires a licensed guide due to regulations governing the national park.
The best time to hike the trail is during the dry season, from April to October. The rainy season (November to March) can make the trail slippery and challenging.
You should book the trek 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (June to September), as permits are limited.
While the 2 day Short trail is easier than the full 4-day trek, there’s still an age limit of 12-70 years, though exceptions may apply depending on fitness levels.
Groups usually consist of 8-16 people, though it can vary based on the tour operator.
If you’re in good health and relatively fit, you can hike the Short Inca Trail, but prior hiking experience will make the trek easier.
Some operators offer discounts for children or students, but this depends on the tour provider. Be sure to inquire when booking.
Cancellation policies vary by tour operator, but most have strict policies due to the high demand for permits. You may lose part of your deposit or full payment if you cancel last-minute.
Acclimatize in Cusco for 2-3 days before your trek, drink plenty of water, and consider taking altitude sickness medication.
The highest point of the trail is at 2,730 meters (8,957 feet) at the Sun Gate.
Symptoms include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. If you feel unwell, tell your guide immediately, and they will help you descend to a lower altitude.
Most tour operators provide purified water and ensure that meals are prepared hygienically. Carry water purification tablets just in case.
If you become seriously ill or injured, your guide will arrange for evacuation to Aguas Calientes, where you can take a train back to Cusco.
Essential items include comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), rain gear, sunscreen, a small daypack, a camera, and personal medications.
No, the 2 days Inca trail typically doesn’t involve camping, so you’ll stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes on the second night.
A good pair of hiking boots with ankle support is recommended, as the trail has some uneven and rocky terrain.
Yes, you can bring both, but remember that battery life may be limited due to the cold temperatures at higher altitudes.
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or jacket, a waterproof jacket for rain, and a hat or sun protection gear.
It’s best to bring your own water and consider carrying water purification tablets or a filter, especially if you’re uncertain about the availability along the trail.
Day 1: Take the train from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104, hike to Wiñay Wayna, and camp or continue to Aguas Calientes.
Day 2: Visit Machu Picchu early in the morning for a guided tour and enjoy some free time before returning to Cusco.
The group usually arrives in the morning, around 7:00-8:00 AM, after an early train ride from Aguas Calientes.
Highlights include ancient Inca ruins like Wiñay Wayna, cloud forests, panoramic views of the Andes, and, of course, Machu Picchu itself.
There are toilets at checkpoints and at Machu Picchu, but they can be basic and limited in number.
If you’re interested in climbing either of these peaks, you must purchase a separate permit, as it is not included in the tour.
After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a train back to Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes, and then transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
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