Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Short Inca Trail and Super Sacred Valley – 2 Days
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO - CHINCHERO - MORAY - MARAS - OLLANTAYTAMBO
- Meals: Box lunch (lunch in Urubamba)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Total distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Estimated hiking time: 6 to 7 hours
- Maximum altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Begin a day full of history, culture, and extraordinary landscapes in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where ancestral traditions, agricultural knowledge, and Inca architecture have been kept alive for generations.
The day begins with pickup at your hotel in Cusco starting at 6:20 a.m., as we set off on our tour by tourist transport toward the Sacred Valley.
Our first stop will be Chinchero, one of the most representative towns of the Andean textile tradition. Here you will get an up-close look at a tradition passed down from generation to generation: the art of weaving with sheep, llama, and alpaca wool. Local artisans preserve ancestral techniques and create textiles in beautiful natural colors made from local plants. Their designs, clothing, and weaving techniques are a living expression of Andean culture that continues to be preserved today.
We will continue to Moray, an impressive set of circular terraces associated with Inca agriculture. Its enormous terraces, built in concentric circles, reflect the knowledge and agricultural engineering of the Incas, making this one of the most unique archaeological sites in the Sacred Valley.
Next, we will head to Maras and the impressive Maras Salt Mines, where hundreds of salt pools stretch across the mountainside. Salt extraction here dates back to pre-Inca times, and to this day, local families continue to work these ancient salt sources using traditional techniques.
We will continue our journey to Urubamba, one of the main towns of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Surrounded by fertile land and mountains, this valley is known for its agricultural production and the wide variety of corn grown in the region. Here we will enjoy a buffet lunch prepared with fresh local products and take a break to appreciate the surroundings.
In the afternoon, we will arrive in Ollantaytambo, one of the most representative towns of the Inca legacy. Its urban layout, narrow streets, water channels, and stone buildings preserve much of their original Inca structure, which is why it is considered a true living museum of Inca architecture.
In Ollantaytambo, we will take a guided tour of the archaeological site, where we will learn about the importance of this ancient settlement and its impressive architectural legacy.
At the end of the visit, we will head to our hotel to drop off our luggage and rest. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to explore Ollantaytambo on your own, stroll its streets, and enjoy the tranquility of this town before continuing with the next stage of our adventure.
Tonight we will stay in Ollantaytambo, ready to begin our 1-Day Inca Trail experience the next day.
Day 1: This tour is done in a shared group of up to 16 passengers.
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: OLLANTAYTAMBO – CHACHABAMBA (KM 104) - MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
- Food: Box Lunch
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Total Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Estimated walking time: 6 to 7 hours
- Maximum altitude: 2,720 m. / 8,924 ft.
More than a hike, it will be a journey to enjoy every step and connect with the history and nature of the Andes.
Today our adventure on the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins. Together with our guide, we will head to the Ollantaytambo train station, where we will board the tourist train to Km 104, the starting point of our hike.
Upon arriving at Km 104, we will register and have our Inca Trail entry permit checked. After passing the security checkpoint, we will begin hiking one of the most impressive stretches of the Short Inca Trail, surrounded by high jungle landscapes.
Chachabamba: Our First Archaeological Site
After a few minutes of walking, we will reach Chachabamba, the first archaeological site on our route. This Inca complex sits amid a beautiful high jungle landscape and will be our first point of interest before continuing along the ancient Inca Trail.
From here, we will begin a gradual ascent along an original section of the Inca Trail, following the mountain slopes. As we go, we will see the Urubamba River winding between the mountains, as if accompanying us on our way to Machu Picchu.
During this part of the hike, the landscape is constantly changing. We will see the vegetation typical of the high jungle, as well as orchids, birds, and a variety of flowers, making this hike a truly special experience.
Wiñaywayna: Among Terraces and Forests
After about two hours of hiking, we will reach Wiñaywayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Just before arriving, we will come across a small waterfall, where we can take a short break to cool off before continuing.
At Wiñaywayna, we will discover an impressive complex of Inca terraces, water channels, and ceremonial spaces, built on the mountainside and surrounded by beautiful forest. Its location and architecture make it one of the highlights of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Wiñaywayna is also part of the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail route, so this 1-day hike lets you experience one of the most iconic sections of this ancient trail.
Lunch and On to Intipunku
After exploring Wiñaywayna, we will take a break to enjoy our Andean box lunch and recharge before continuing our hike.
We will then resume the Inca Trail toward Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate, hiking for the next few hours until we reach this iconic point on the route.
Intipunku: Our First View of Machu Picchu
Upon reaching Intipunku, or the Sun Gate, we will experience one of the most special moments of our 1-Day Inca Trail. From here, we will get our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, surrounded by mountains and the breathtaking Andean landscape.
After enjoying this moment and taking photos, we will continue descending for about 30 minutes to the upper section of Machu Picchu, where we can take the classic panoramic photos of the citadel.
Once our tour is complete, we will head to the Machu Picchu exit and board the bus to Aguas Calientes.
Return to Cusco
In Aguas Calientes, we will have time for dinner before boarding our tourist train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the station, our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, where we will arrive in the evening.
Includes
Day 1: Super Sacred Valley 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.
Day 2: 1-Day Inca Trail
- Small group of 2 to 6 passengers: Enjoy a more personalized experience throughout the entire tour.
- Professional bilingual guide licensed for the Inca Trail: Your guide will travel with you from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu, accompanying you throughout the tour, providing assistance and answering your questions at every stage of the experience.
- Water for the start of the tour: A bottle of water to begin the hike well hydrated.
- Private tourist transportation: Pickup at your hotel in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo.
- Tourist train: Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba (Km 104), the starting point of the Inca Trail.
- Inca Trail entry permit
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 1: Access to the panoramic route with views of Machu Picchu.
- Andean box lunch: A meal during the hike to recharge your energy. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Bus down: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Tourist train: Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Private return transportation: Transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
Not include
- Day 1: Breakfast.
- 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
- Upgrade to the Vistadome Train (return) – USD 45.00 per person
Enjoy a unique return journey on a panoramic train with large side and overhead windows that let you take in 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
Close your Machu Picchu trip aboard the most exclusive train, with large panoramic windows, onboard snacks, and an alpaca fashion show. It also offers access to the exclusive open-air observation car and live music to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
- Trekking poles – USD 15.00 per pair
Trekking poles are recommended for better stability and comfort during the hike, especially on stairways and uneven terrain.
Prices Short Inca Trail and Super Sacred Valley – 2 Days
Rates per person
- Adult (minimum 2 people): US$ 569
- University student (18 to 25 years old): US$ 544 (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.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Original passport
- Waterproof hiking boots with non-slip soles
- Lightweight, breathable trekking clothes
- Thermal, warm clothing
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Energy snacks
- Personal medication
- Basic personal first aid kit
- Wet wipes or toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Cash in soles, in small bills
- Camera or cell phone
- Portable charger / power bank
- A special outfit for your photos at Machu Picchu
- Trekking poles with rubber tips
- Small daypack for the hike
Recomendations
- Book in advance: Inca Trail permits are limited and subject to availability. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible.
- Acclimatization in Cusco: We recommend arriving at least 1–2 days before the hike to acclimatize. Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level.
- Check your luggage: Review in advance all the personal items you will need during the hike and try to pack light.
- Briefing: The day before the hike, you will receive detailed information about the route, recommendations, and important aspects of your experience.
- Luggage storage: You can leave any luggage you won’t need during the excursion at our office free of charge.
- Personal documents: Bring your original, valid passport, as it will be required at the Inca Trail checkpoints and at Machu Picchu.
- Pack light: Bring only what you need. A light backpack will help you enjoy the hike much more.
- Weather: Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes have a warm, humid climate typical of the high jungle. Be prepared for possible changes in temperature and humidity along the way.
- Valuables: Always keep your passport, money, electronic devices, and other personal valuables with you.
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 945454545 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
