3 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by train

Name: 3 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by train
Brand: Quechuas Expeditions
SKU: 1
Price: 680.00 USD
Availability: InStock

3 Days Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Sun Gate & Maras Salt Flats (New Version from Km 104)

This 3-Day Inca Trail and Moray and Maras Salt Flats Hike is ideal for travelers short on time in Cusco who still want the full Inca Trail experience. You’ll hike the most iconic section of the trail, visit remarkable sites like Wiñay Wayna, and enjoy an authentic camping adventure. The journey allows you to experience Machu Picchu twice, at sunset and at sunrise, surrounded by spectacular scenery.

The adventure begins in Cusco or Ollantaytambo and follows the final stretch of the Classic Inca Trail, a 6–7 hour hike. You’ll enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first unforgettable view, then camp beside the Urubamba River with all equipment provided and a freshly prepared dinner.

On the second morning, return early to Machu Picchu for a guided tour before the crowds arrive, while our porters take care of all camping logistics.
On Day 3, you’ll return to Ollantaytambo by train and visit the fascinating Moray agricultural terraces and the iconic Maras Salt Flats before heading back to Cusco

Duration of the trip:

3 Days 2 Nights

Total Distance

11 Miles

Physical Level:

Moderate

Altitude:

2900 msnm

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

08ppl Max

3 Days Short Inca Trail Overview

TOUR NAME: 3 Days Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu via Sun Gate & Maras Salt Flats
100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Inca Trail Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
GROUP SIZE: 02 People Minimum (04 – 06 Average) and 08 People Maximum
STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 6:30 pm Aprox
DEPARTURE: Daily (Based on Availability, INCA TRAIL SPACES By Clicking Here). If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.
HIKING DISTANCE: 17km /8miles
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 2. Inca Trail Requires some physical preparation and we also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days before we begin the inca trail
ALTITUDE: Highiest Point. Inti Punku (Sun Gate) 2,720 m/8923 ft. and Aguas Calientes Hotel Lowest Point 1,900 m/ 6233 ft.
TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus to Ollantaytambo & Expedition Train at 6:40am to Km 104 (Trailhead) as well as Expedition Train Back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo in the morning of the Day 3, and Transporation to explore Ollanatytambo, Moray and Maras Salt Falts and back to Cusco
ACCOMMODATIONS: 2 Nights in Camping in 4 Season Tents/02 ppl per Tent (Therm-a-rest Self-Inflating air Mat is included)
MEALS: 2 breakfast, 2 lunch, 2 dinner (Vegetarian, Vegan and Free Gluten with NO extra cost, Upon Request)
SHORT INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHU: Inca Trail Permits & Machu Picchu entrance fee Included.

3 Day Short Inca Trail Short Itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 (Chachabamba) – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu – Puente Ruinas Campsite (Overnight camping)
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Guided Visit of Machu Picchu – Puente Ruinas Campsite (Overnight camping)
Day 3: Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo – Visit to Moray & Maras Salt Flats – Return to Cusco

3 Days Short Inca Trail & Moray and Maras Salt Flats Highlights:G

Scenic journey from Cusco through the Sacred Valley, surrounded by dramatic Andean landscapes and living Inca history.
Exclusive start of the Short Inca Trail at Km 104 (Chachabamba), entering Machu Picchu through the original pilgrimage route.
Guided walk to the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful ruins on the trail.
Arrival at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the most iconic and emotional first view of the citadel.
Sunset views over Machu Picchu before descending to Puente Ruinas Campsite for an overnight camping experience in nature.
Overnight camping surrounded by mountains and river sounds, offering a unique connection with the sacred landscape.
Early access to Machu Picchu Citadel with a guided tour to explore its temples, terraces, and hidden corners.
Free time in Aguas Calientes to relax, explore the town, or enjoy optional hot springs.
Scenic train journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo through the lush Urubamba Valley.
Visit to the fascinating Moray agricultural terraces and the iconic Maras Salt Flats, before returning to Cusco

DAY 1
Cusco – Kilometer 104 (Chachabamba) – Wiñayhuayna – Puente Ruinas Campsite+

DAY 2
Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco+

DAY 3
Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Moray & Maras Salt Flats – Cusco+

3 Days Short Inca Trail & Moray Maras Salt Flats Includes:

Pre-departure safety briefing held the day before the tour
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
All tourist transportation throughout the program, including private transfers to Ollantaytambo, Moray, and the Maras Salt Flats
Licensed professional tour guide
Expedition train to Km 104 (Inca Trail trailhead)
Return journey aboard the comfortable Tourist Expedition train
Inca Trail permit and entrance ticket to Machu Picchu – Circuit 1 (Day 1)
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu – Circuit 3 (Day 2)
2 nights of camping accommodation at Puente Ruinas campsite
Fully equipped dining tent with tables and chairs
All meals during the trek: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunch, 2 dinner, snacks
High-quality sleeping tents
Comfortable Self-inflating Thermarest mattress
Safety equipment including first-aid kit, and oxygen supply

3 Days Inca Trail Doesnt Include: (Please, No hidden costs or surprises)

Breakfast – Day 1
Lunch – Day 3
Tips (optional)
Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please):Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

RENTALS

Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip
(Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$20 for the entire trip
Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$15 for the entire trip

ADITIONAL INFO:

BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Inca Trail Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go…

3 Days Inca Trail to Machupicchu (Prices for 2026)

Availability (Based On Availability): Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us all Your Personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$680

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 08 Persons (Maximum)

Private Service: Price per person: US$780

Recommended for Honeymooners, Families with children & Groups of Friends (02 Persons Minimum)

If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.

What you need to bring on Inca Trail:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
Travel insurance is essential (and some copies)
Airline tickets (and some copies)
US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Camera and Memory cards
Rechargeable batteries and adapters
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Cover for backpacks
Pocketknife.
Fleece top
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Small towel and swim wear
Shirts/t-shirts
Sun hat
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
1 pair hiking pants/track pants
Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
Sport hiking sandals
Sun block
Sunglasses
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Watch or alarm clock
Water bottle
Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
Flashlight (head light recommended)
Money belt
Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
Thermal underwear
Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

FAQS about the 3 days Inca Trail to Machupicchu

What about my luggage which I don’t need on the trek?

We suggest you to leave your entire luggage, which you don’t need during the trekking, behind in your hotel. Almost every hotel in Cusco has a safety deposit where you can store your luggage and do not charge for this service when you’ll return to the same hotel after your trek. But if they dont have a place we also have a place where you can leave with us. Let us know Please.

How much does the sleeping mat and sleeping bag weigh?

Sleep mat weight = 1 kg
Sleeping bag weight = 2 kg

What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the trail?

Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/ scrapes, etc.). They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 300 travelers along the Inca trail each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike. In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, he/ she has been escorted back to Cusco and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Machu Picchu via train a few days later. Cusco has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.

What equipment is supplied by Quechuas Expeditions?

We supply the sleeping tents (4 season Aluminum poles tents, 2 people in each 3-people-capacity ten), dining tents, tables, chairs, toilet tents, cooking equipment, water purifiers, air Thermarest mattresses, and other camping equipment. Our outfitter purchases the highest quality equipment in Peru and older equipment is evaluated and replaced on a regular basis.

What do I need to carry?

We recommend that travelers carry the items that they will need each day while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film. Porters will carry all of your other supplies including camping equipment, clothes, sleeping bags, etc. We generally ask travelers to bring only the belongings that they will need for the trail and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. To prevent porters from becoming overloaded, we ask all travelers to limit their personal belongings to 12 lbs for the hike.
and if you have an extra porter he will carry all your personal stuff and depends on the pottering service you have requested
Full Porter(12kg) Half Porter(6kg) and Porter to carry Sleeping bag and Pad(4 kg)

What are the guides like?

Our Quechuas Expeditions Tours guides are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere. They are from the surrounding Cusco/ Sacred Valley area and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the native language of Quechua. Most have 5-10 years of experience leading Inca trail hikes and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area. We receive rave reviews on our guides. For more information, check out our Testimonials at: Our Testimonials Most of them are highly recommended by Lonely Planet, Trip Advisor.

What is the food like on the 3 days Inca Trail to Machupicchu?

A cook accompanies every group on the Inca trail. Almost invariably, travelers comment on the delicious menu. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hearty snacks are provided for your hike. Meals are a mix of local specialties and international favorites. Check out our Inca Trail menu. Vegetarian meals are also available upon request. Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice. (You will never be hungry with us. there will be plenty of food)

How is drinking water supplied?

Although there are places to purchase bottled water occasionally along the trail, we recommend that travelers bring their own refillable bottles to limit plastic waste. Water is boiled, treated with iodine, and then filtered with one of our portable filters (Katadyn and PUR commonly used). It is available in the morning to fill your bottles and at every meal.

What about late cancellations?

Current regulations do not allow us to replace cancelled passengers with new passengers. Trek permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.

If I give you my deposit now, do you buy my permit immediately?
Not necessarily immediately, but we customarily purchase the permits within a few days of receiving your deposit.
and if you want us to act Asap (Send us Your deposit by Western Union wich is the fastest and safest way in Cusco, Peru and we can get the money in Minutes and Confirm the Trip in Minutes as well.)

Book now with us

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sara D 
 
 
 
 Verified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend!
We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Matthew W 
 
 
 
 Verified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend
We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Arianna O 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions
I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   naomiammar 
 
 
 
 Verified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it
One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   cade c 
 
 
 
 Verified Awesome trek
We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lola U 
 
 
 
 Verified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team
I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Julia C. 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff
The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Emelie A 
 
 
 
 Verified Hike of a lifetime!
We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!

Talk to an expert

Do you need help in choosing your trip or booking? We are at your disposal.

Related Tours