Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Short Inca Trail and Sacred Valley – 4 Days
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO
- Altitude: 3,350 m (10,990 ft) above sea level
Your adventure begins in the ancient Inca Empire.
The fresh mountain air, ancestral architecture, and vibrant streets will welcome you to Cusco, a city where history and Andean culture are still present in every corner.
Upon arrival at the airport, our staff will warmly greet you and accompany you on the transfer to your hotel. There, you can settle in, rest, and receive your first instructions for the coming days of your experience with Sakura Expedition.
This day is dedicated to acclimatization and discovering Cusco at your own pace. If you feel up to it, you can explore the historic center, visit the traditional San Pedro Market, admire the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, and stroll through the Plaza de Armas, surrounded by churches, colonial balconies, and cozy cafés.
You can also browse local handicraft shops or simply enjoy a cup of muña tea on a balcony overlooking the city as you prepare for the experiences ahead: the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
We recommend keeping physical activity light, staying well hydrated, and resting to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Optional experiences in Cusco
→ Cusco City Tour + Hands of the Community – Afternoon
History, living culture, and ancestral tradition. Discover the Inca legacy by visiting Sacsayhuamán and Qoricancha, see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas up close, and learn about the art of Andean weaving, from natural fiber to the creation of traditional textiles.
Price per person: USD 110.00 (minimum 2 people).
→ City Walking Tour + San Pedro Market – Afternoon
Explore Cusco’s historic streets on foot, discover its traditional corners, and visit San Pedro Market, where Andean products, aromas, and local flavors are part of the city’s daily life.
Price per person: USD 110.00 (minimum 2 people).
→ Cusco Culinary Experience – Afternoon
The flavors of contemporary Peru.
Discover the richness of Peruvian cuisine through Andean ingredients, local products, and traditional techniques reinterpreted by contemporary cooking. An experience to enjoy new flavors and get to know another side of Peruvian culture.
Price per person: USD 95.00 (minimum 2 people).
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: TARAY VIEWPOINT - PISAC - URUBAMBA - OLLANTAYTAMBO
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch
- Maximum altitude: 3,350 m / 10,990 ft
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Minimum altitude: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
- Tour duration: 8 hours (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)
- Hotel: Ollantaytambo
From the Andes to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
In the morning, our guide will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco to discover the landscapes, history, and traditions of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We will visit the Taray viewpoint, with its panoramic views of the valley, and Pisac, where we will explore its handicraft market and impressive archaeological park, famous for its agricultural terraces and Inca constructions.
We will continue to Urubamba, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local flavors. In the afternoon, we will discover Ollantaytambo, the living Inca town, with its cobblestone streets, ancient canals, and an extraordinary archaeological complex, highlighted by its terraces and the Temple of the Sun.
At the end of the day, we will check in to our accommodation in Ollantaytambo. You will have the rest of the afternoon free to explore the town and rest before beginning our Short Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu the next day.
What is this day like? check our photos
day 3
DAY 3: OLLANTAYTAMBO - CHACHABAMBA (KM. 104) - WIÑAYWAYNA - INTIPUNKU - AGUAS CALIENTES
- Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours.
- Hiking distance: 12 km (7.5 miles).
- Hiking difficulty: Moderate.
- Weather: Warm and/or humid.
- Hiking altitudes: From 2,100 m above sea level (start of the hike), climbing to 2,719 m (Inti Punku), then descending from 2,719 m to 2,400 m (Machu Picchu). From there, a bus ride down to 2,000 m (town of Aguas Calientes).
- Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel.
An adventure that will stay in your memories: a unique, personalized experience designed for you to enjoy every moment of the trail.
The tour begins with pickup by your guide in Ollantaytambo for the transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, where we will board the train to the Chachabamba (km 104) sector, the start of your adventure on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. After passing the checkpoint and showing our Inca Trail permit, a few meters ahead we will reach the first rest stop and visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba. Then we will begin the hike, an ascent of about 3 hours, to the archaeological complex of Wiñaywayna, known as “Forever Young,” a site renowned for its Inca planning in the middle of the high jungle, with beautiful terraces, Inca canals perfectly designed to carry water, religious centers, and an impressive view of the Vilcanota River. It is the meeting point between the 4-day Inca Trail and the 2-day Inca Trail, and the most important section for those coming from the 4-Day Inca Trail. After lunch and a rest, we continue on to Intipunku, or the Sun Gate, where you get the long-awaited first impressive panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Here we will take a few minutes to catch our breath and admire the beautiful Inca constructions in all their splendor. We will then continue for about 30 minutes to the upper terraces, near the Guardhouse, to take the classic photo and enjoy a panoramic view from where each sector of Machu Picchu can be seen more clearly. At the end of the first day’s hike on the Short Inca Trail, we will take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will enjoy dinner and spend the night.
What is this day like? check our photos
day 4
DAY 4: AGUAS CALIENTES - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
- Hiking time: 2 hours visiting Machu Picchu with the group + 1 hour exploring on your own.
- Hiking distance: Variable, depending on the areas of Machu Picchu you want to explore.
- Hiking difficulty: Easy.
- Weather: Warm and/or humid.
- Hiking altitudes: From 2,000 m up to 2,400 m above sea level (by bus).
An Experience to Enjoy Without Rushing
After a night of rest in Aguas Calientes, we will start the day with breakfast to recharge before our encounter with one of the most impressive wonders of the world: Machu Picchu.
We will take the bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu, where we will begin a guided tour of about 2 to 3 hours with our professional guide. Traveling in a small group, we can enjoy the tour more calmly, pausing to listen to the explanations, discover the main sectors of Machu Picchu, and take photos without feeling rushed.
Our guide will be with you throughout the visit, sharing the history, architecture, and meaning of this extraordinary place, and helping you discover every corner in a close and personalized way.
After the guided tour, you will have time to enjoy Machu Picchu at your own pace, take in its landscapes, and take photos to capture this special moment.
At the end of the visit, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own before boarding the tourist train to Ollantaytambo. There, our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.
An adventure that will stay in your memories: a unique, personalized experience made for enjoying every moment of the trail.
This experience is ideal for those who want to enjoy the magic of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in a short, comfortable version, especially if there is no availability for the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail. The 2-Day Short Inca Trail is considered one of the best options, as it offers the essence of the Inca Trail trek in less time.
Includes
- Day 1: Arrival in Cusco and Welcome
- Pickup at Cusco airport.
- Personalized assistance the day before: A member of our team will contact you to provide all the information you need and help you prepare for your trip.
Day 2: Sacred Valley of the Incas Tour
- Enhanced small group, shared with up to 16 passengers: Enjoy a great experience in the Sacred Valley.
- Personalized assistance the day before: A member of our team will contact you to provide all the information you need and help you prepare for your experience.
- Partial Sacred Valley entrance ticket.
- 1 buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley: Enjoy a buffet lunch made with fresh products from the Valley.
- 3-star hotel: Upgraded double or matrimonial room in Ollantaytambo.
Days 3 and 4: 2-Day Short Inca Trail
- Small group of 2 to 6 passengers for a more personalized experience.
- Professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide licensed for the Inca Trail: Your guide will accompany you from Cusco all the way to Machu Picchu, providing assistance and guidance throughout the tour.
- Personalized assistance the day before: Our team will answer your questions and provide all the information you need before the experience begins.
- 2-Day Inca Trail entry permit.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 3B.
- 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Hatun Inti Hotel (3-star) or similar.
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
- Tourist train Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba (Km 104).
- Tourist train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes after the first day’s visit.
- Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes for the second day’s visit.
- 1 Andean box lunch with vegetarian and vegan options.
- 1 dinner at Mapacho Restaurant or similar, with vegetarian and vegan options.
- Water refill to start the hike well hydrated.
- Duffel bag up to 8 kg: Travel light; we will send your luggage to Aguas Calientes. Request up to 2 days before the start of the experience.
- First aid kit.
- Emergency oxygen tank.
Not include
- Domestic flights
- Day 1: Meals.
- Day 2: Breakfast and dinner.
- Day 4: Lunch.
- Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that covers unforeseen events such as flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, and loss of tour services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your adventure.
- Tips: Optional.
- Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency’s control: adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
- Additional Services:
- Huayna Picchu entrance – USD 70.00 per person
Add one of the most exclusive hikes in Machu Picchu to your adventure and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the famous Huayna Picchu Mountain. Spaces are very limited, so we recommend booking at least 5 months in advance.
- Private guide for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – USD 75.00 per group
Explore with an expert guide who will enrich your experience with exclusive information and personalized attention.
Upgrade to the Vistadome Train (return) – USD 45.00 per person
Travel on a panoramic train with large side and overhead windows to enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes. Includes an onboard snack and a fashion show of alpaca-fiber garments for an unforgettable experience.
- Upgrade to the Vistadome Observatory Train (return) – USD 66.00 per person
Return from Machu Picchu aboard the most exclusive train, with large panoramic windows, an onboard snack, and an alpaca fashion show. It also offers access to the exclusive open-air observation car and live music to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
- Superior category hotel in Aguas Calientes
Upgrade your stay to a 4- or 5-star hotel and enjoy a more comfortable and exclusive experience.
- Trekking poles – USD 15.00 per pair
Trekking poles are recommended for extra support during the hike, especially on stairways and uneven terrain.
- Enhance your experience with a night in the Sacred Valley
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Prices Short Inca Trail and Sacred Valley – 4 Days
Availability 2026
This tour is available every day of the year, except in February (due to the annual closure of the Inca Trail). Advance booking is required with a minimum of 2 participants.
Rates per person
- Adult (minimum 2 people): US$ 688
- University student (18 to 25 years old): US$ 663 (US$ 25 discount)
Traveling solo? The tour is confirmed with a minimum of 2 people. Contact us to check availability for your date.
Student discount requirement
Physical university ID (PVC card), valid during the year of travel and showing full name, photo, university and expiration date. ISIC cards, digital certificates and screenshots are not accepted. Send a copy at the time of booking.
Payment
You can pay in full when booking or, if you prefer, secure your spot with a US$ 200 deposit per person. In that case, the balance must be paid no later than the day before the tour.
Packaging list
What should you bring on the hike?
- Valid passport
- Extra money (soles recommended)
- Personal medication
- Water bottle or CamelBak (water purification tablets optional)
- Protection products (SPF 70+ sunscreen, insect repellent, UV-protection sunglasses)
- Clothing: Lightweight shoes or sandals, hiking pants and socks, water shoes, jacket, poncho, waterproof hiking boots/shoes, long-sleeve shirts, thermal jacket, a hat that protects your face and neck, shorts, and a neck scarf or buff
- Personal hygiene products (towel, toothpaste, soap, deodorant)
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles and flashlight
- Medium hiking backpack (15 to 25 liters)
- Camera with charger and power bank (optional)
- Snacks: energy bars, electrolytes, nuts, energy gels, etc.
Recomendations
- Book your Inca Trail Expedition as soon as possible since permits sell out quickly.
- Arrive at least 1 day before your Expedition as it will serve as a prior acclimatization to your hike.
- Remember that the city of Cusco is at an altitude of 3400 meters above sea level.
- Check your personal items that you will be taking on the trip.
- Visit us at our main office located in the Historic Center of the city of Cusco, 1 day before your hike at 7:00 pm, to receive an informative talk about the journey led by the Tour Guide.
- This will help you be much more informed, secure, and ready for your tour.
- Leave the luggage you won’t take on the Expedition for free at our main office storage.
- Don’t forget to carry your updated Personal Documents as they will be required by Peruvian authorities at the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu checkpoints.
F.A.Qs
WHEN ARE THE DEPARTURES SCHEDULED?
Sakura Expedition offers departures year-round, except in February, when maintenance is carried out on the Inca Trail.
HOW LONG IS THE TRIP?
The trip lasts 4 days and 3 nights. We recommend arriving in Cusco before 10:00 a.m. and scheduling your return to your city of origin from 6:00 p.m. onward.
WHAT TYPE OF SERVICE WILL I RECEIVE?
We offer a “Group Service”, so you will enjoy the trip with a group of no more than 15 members. This limit allows you to better enjoy the attractions and our guides’ explanations.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO TRAVEL?
Cusco can be enjoyed year-round; however, the best months are April to October, when you can enjoy sunnier days.
HOW DO I BOOK?
- To book, your passport must be valid for more than 6 months from your travel date. This helps you avoid problems entering Peru, as our immigration office is strict.
- Check availability for Machu Picchu and the hotel of your choice with one of our Travel Advisors. You can send us a WhatsApp message at +51 980 532 600 or email us at ventas@sakuraexpedition.com.
- Once your passport validity and availability are confirmed, you can book the travel package by making a 50% deposit through any of our payment methods:
- Bank transfer: transaction fees are covered by the client; that is, we credit the amount that actually reaches our bank accounts.
- Credit card: add 5% of the total payment amount, a fee charged by our providers.
- PayPal: add 7% of the total payment amount, a fee charged by PayPal.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING ON THE HIKE?
- Personal documents: ID (passport, national ID, or ID card) and TAM (Andean Immigration Card)
- Hiking boots
- Hiking clothes
- A travel backpack to carry:
- CamelBak or refillable water bottle
- 1 extra change of clothes
- 2 sets of underwear, including hiking socks
- Rain poncho and/or waterproof jacket
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Swimsuit (optional, if you want to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Personal first aid kit, including personal medication
- Camera
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Extra money for souvenirs and other extras
