Overview
Embark on a premium three-day Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail odyssey with QOSQO ADVENTURES, designed as one of the most efficient and rewarding ways to experience the heart of the Inca Empire. Your journey begins with the cultural treasures of the valley, exploring vibrant markets, the agricultural laboratory of Moray, the salt ponds of Maras, and the living Inca citadel of Ollantaytambo.
On the second day, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a direct immersion into the ancient path. Starting from Km 104, you will trek through lush cloud forests, visit the breathtaking Wiñay Wayna ruins, and enjoy gourmet picnic meals prepared by our specialized chefs. The highlight is entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate in the late afternoon, enjoying the sanctuary during its most peaceful hours.
This elite small-group expedition is perfect for travelers who value comfort, heritage, and spectacular scenery. As a premier local operator, QOSQO ADVENTURES ensures every detail is handled with the highest safety standards, sustainable practices, and profound respect for our professional trekking team and the environment.
Day 1: Pisac, Moray, Maras & Ollantaytambo
Begin your exploration at an alpaca farm and the Taray viewpoint before diving into the Pisac ruins and its famous market. After a buffet lunch, marvel at the circular terraces of Moray and the salt mines of Maras. You will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in the historic town of Ollantaytambo.
Day 2: Km 104, Wiñay Wayna & Sun Gate Arrival
Board the train to Km 104 to start your hike. Following a fresh picnic breakfast, trek to the stunning Wiñay Wayna ruins. After a scenic picnic lunch, reach the Sun Gate for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Descend to Aguas Calientes for dinner and rest in a 3-star hotel.
Day 3: Machu Picchu Sanctuary & Return to Cusco
Enjoy a comprehensive 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring temples, terraces, and sacred zones. After the tour, you have the option for additional mountain hikes before returning to Cusco via the Vistadome train and private transfer.
Full 3-Day Journey Itinerary
Day 1: Pisac, Moray, Maras & Ollantaytambo
Your QOSQO ADVENTURES guide will meet you at your hotel at 7:00 a.m. to begin a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley. Our first stop is the Alpaca Center, where you will interact with Andean camelids and learn about their role in local textiles. We then proceed to the Mirador of Taray for a wide view of the Urubamba River and the surrounding peaks.
We continue to the Pisac Inca Site to walk through its impressive agricultural terraces before exploring the colorful handicraft market in the village below. After a traditional buffet lunch in Urubamba, we visit the circular terraces of Moray and the ancient salt ponds of Maras. The day concludes in the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where you will check into your hotel and enjoy the evening in this historic setting.
- Duration: 9 hours
- Highest altitude: 3,300 m / 10,925 ft
- Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Meals: Buffet lunch
Day 2: Km 104, Wiñay Wayna & Sun Gate Entrance
At 5:30 a.m., we head to the station for a 1-hour train ride to Km 104 (Chachabamba). Upon arrival, you will enjoy a fresh picnic breakfast prepared by our trekking chefs. We then clear the checkpoint and visit the Chachabamba ruins before starting a steady climb toward Wiñay Wayna, the most beautiful archaeological site on the trail.
After a guided tour of its waterfalls and temples, we break for a picnic lunch surrounded by cloud forest scenery. The afternoon features a gentler walk to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), where Machu Picchu finally reveals itself. We spend time at the upper viewpoints for classic photos before taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes for a celebratory dinner and a night in a 3-star hotel.
- Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
- Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Highest altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, snacks, and dinner
Day 3: Machu Picchu Citadel & Return to Cusco
On our final day, we visit the «Lost City of the Incas,» Machu Picchu. We take an early bus to reach the citadel during the peaceful morning hours. Your QOSQO ADVENTURES guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour through the main sectors, palaces, and temples, sharing the profound history and mysteries of the site.
If you have pre-booked permits, you may independently hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. In the afternoon, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (on your own) and board the Vistadome Panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private vehicle will then transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 p.m.
- Tour Duration: 2.5 hours
- Machu Picchu altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast at the hotel
What Is Included by QOSQO ADVENTURES
- Door-to-door transportation for all 3 days.
- Complete Super Sacred Valley tour including Maras and Moray.
- Full Short Inca Trail expedition with specialized permits.
- Admission tickets to all Sacred Valley archaeological sites.
- Machu Picchu entry tickets for both Day 2 (Circuit 1) and Day 3 (Circuit 3).
- Professional bilingual guide for the entire duration.
- 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Ollantaytambo.
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Expedition train to the trailhead and Vistadome Panoramic train return.
- 2 Breakfasts (including trail picnic) and 2 Lunches (including trail picnic).
- Celebratory dinner in Aguas Calientes on Day 2.
- All necessary bus transfers between Machu Picchu and the town.
- Safety equipment: First-aid kit, oxygen, and satellite communication.
Not Included
- Final lunch on Day 3 in Aguas Calientes.
- Optional permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Rental gear (trekking poles).
- Personal travel insurance.
- Gratuities for the guide and driver.
Ultimate Packing Essentials
To maximize your enjoyment, QOSQO ADVENTURES recommends packing light and smart for this multi-environment journey. You will need comfortable clothes for the Sacred Valley and sturdy gear for the trail.
Must-Have Items
- Original Passport (Required for all trail checkpoints).
- Refillable water bottle (Single-use plastics are prohibited).
- High-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat.
- Warm down jacket for the evenings and a waterproof rain shell.
- High-capacity Power Bank for your electronics.
- Personal medications and insect repellent.
Footwear and Clothing
We suggest high-top hiking boots with good ankle support for the Short Inca Trail and comfortable walking shoes for the Sacred Valley day. Dress in breathable, moisture-wicking layers (avoid cotton) to easily adjust to changing temperatures.
Luggage Logistics
We recommend leaving your main luggage at your hotel in Cusco or in our free storage facility. For the night in Aguas Calientes, you can send a small carry-on bag (up to 5 kg / 11 lb) directly to your hotel—please request this at the time of booking.
Essential Travel Information
Prepare for your QOSQO ADVENTURES expedition with these practical details on logistics, health, and regulations.
Acclimatization & Altitude
Cusco sits at 3,399 m (11,151 ft). We strongly advise arriving 1–2 days before the tour to rest and adjust. The Sacred Valley (2,800 m) is an excellent place to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals or alcohol before your hike.
Permits and Reservations
The Short Inca Trail is strictly regulated. To secure your permits, we require a deposit of US$400 and your full passport details. Once issued, permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Note that the trail closes every February for maintenance.
Machu Picchu Circuits
You will experience the sanctuary twice. On Day 2, you follow the Inca Trail arrival route (Circuit 1) for panoramic views. On Day 3, you enter for your main guided tour (Circuit 3). These circuits ensure you see the main temples and urban areas while following government regulations.
Responsible Exploration
Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Please stay on marked paths, do not touch the ancient walls, and carry all trash out. By choosing QOSQO ADVENTURES, you support sustainable tourism and fair treatment for the local staff who make this journey possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is a moderate hike that most active travelers can complete. It involves 6 to 7 hours of walking on stone paths and stairs, but at a steady, manageable pace.
2. Do we visit Machu Picchu twice?
Yes. You arrive at the Sun Gate in the afternoon of Day 2 for sunset views and return on the morning of Day 3 for a full 2.5-hour guided tour of the citadel.
3. Can I stay in the Sacred Valley instead of Cusco?
Yes. Staying in Ollantaytambo on Day 1 is actually more convenient as it allows for a later pickup time and puts you closer to the train station for the next morning.
4. Are fresh meals provided on the trail?
Absolutely. Instead of basic boxed lunches, QOSQO ADVENTURES provides fresh picnic meals prepared by our expert chefs on Day 2 to keep you energized.
5. Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but you must book these well in advance as permits are extremely limited. These hikes take place on Day 3 after your main citadel tour.
6. What is the maximum luggage weight for the hotel transfer?
You can send a carry-on bag of up to 5 kg (11 lb) per person to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Anything else should be stored in Cusco.
7. Is there an age limit for this tour?
There is no official limit, but we recommend it for children over 7 and active seniors who are comfortable with uneven terrain and high altitude.
8. Are trekking poles allowed?
Poles are allowed on the trail if they have rubber tips. However, they must be stored or left at the entrance before entering the Machu Picchu citadel.
9. What happens if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine. We recommend bringing a high-quality rain poncho or jacket. The cloud forest is beautiful even in the mist, which adds to the mystery of the ruins.
10. Is the Vistadome train upgrade worth it?
The Vistadome features larger windows and overhead views, along with cultural entertainment and snacks, making the return journey through the valley much more immersive.
11. How do I get to Cusco for the start of the tour?
Most travelers fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (CUZ) from Lima. We can arrange airport transfers for you upon arrival to make your transition smoother.
12. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. We can provide vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other specialized diets. Please inform QOSQO ADVENTURES during the booking process.
13. Is there phone signal on the Short Inca Trail?
Signal is very limited and unreliable once you leave the trailhead at Km 104. We recommend informing family that you will be offline until reaching Aguas Calientes.
14. Why is Wiñay Wayna significant?
It is widely considered the most impressive site before Machu Picchu due to its steep agricultural terraces and intricate urban layout overlooking the Urubamba River.
15. What time do we return to Cusco on Day 3?
We typically arrive back at your hotel around 7:30 p.m. We strongly suggest not booking any flights or long-distance buses for the same night.