Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail & Machu Picchu - 3 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This adventure allows you to trek the Short Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate. You'll also discover the gems of the Sacred Valley, including Pisac, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo, and experience Machu Picchu twice, during sunset and sunrise, away from the main crowds. The return journey includes a breathtaking panoramic Vistadome train ride.

• What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating that it involves trekking and a moderate level of fitness is recommended due to the gradual ascents and hiking involved, particularly on the Short Inca Trail.

• Are there any age restrictions for participants?

  Yes, participants must be between 12 and 99 years old.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  The tour includes one night in a comfortable 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo and one night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes one buffet lunch, trail-side picnic with one breakfast and one lunch, one dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes, and one hotel breakfast in Aguas Calientes.

• Which archaeological sites and attractions will we visit in the Sacred Valley on Day 1?

  On Day 1, you will explore the Sacred Valley, including stops at an Alpaca Center, the Taray viewpoint, the Pisac archaeological site, Pisac market, Moray (ancient Inca agricultural laboratory), and the salt ponds of Maras, before ending the day in Ollantaytambo.

• What does the Short Inca Trail trek involve?

  The Short Inca Trail trek begins at Km 104 and includes exploring the ruins of Chachabamba, a gradual ascent through a cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna (impressive complex of terraces, temples, and fountains), and a scenic path leading to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

• Will I get to see Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)?

  Yes, the itinerary specifically mentions that on Day 2, you will reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, and take in your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu in the afternoon light.

• Is it possible to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

  Yes, you have the option to add a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on Day 3, provided permits are secured in advance.

• What forms of transportation are included?

  Included transportation consists of an Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km104 (Inca Trail starting point), a panoramic Vistadome train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo, and three bus tickets for rides within Machu Picchu.

• What entrance tickets are included in the tour price?

  Your tour includes entrance tickets for the Sacred Valley sites (Pisac, Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytambo), Inca Trail trekking permits, and Machu Picchu entrance (Circuits 1 & 3).

• Is a professional tour guide included?

  Yes, a professional tour guide is included for both the Super Sacred Valley tour and the Short Inca Trail hike, as well as for the guided tour of Machu Picchu.

• Is there a briefing before the tour?

  Yes, there is a mandatory briefing at 6:00 pm the evening before the tour departure at the TreXperience office in Cusco. You must bring your passport to this briefing.

• Can I store my luggage during the tour?

  Yes, baggage storage is typically arranged on the first morning when your operators pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. More details will be provided at the pre-tour briefing.