SHORT INCA TRAIL SACRED VALLEY ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY – OLLANTAYTAMBO

The Sacred Valley offers an array of captivating tourist attractions that necessitate adequate time to explore. To ensure an exceptional experience, we have thoughtfully divided the valley into two options. Each option commences at 7:00 am from your hotel in Cusco and promises to exceed your expectations. Kindly review the options below and inform us of your preferred choice at your earliest convenience.

Option 01: By Pisac(Alpaca farm, Pisac ruins, Pisac Market, and Ollantaytambo).

We would like to inform you that our team will be glad to assist you during your upcoming Inca Trail 3 day tour. Our pickup time at your hotel lobby in Cusco is at 07:00 am. Our first stop is at Pisac, where we will visit the four main sites including Awana Cancha, where you will have the opportunity to see Alpacas, Llamas, Vicuña, and Huanacos. Moving on, we will visit Pisac Archeological site, Pisac Market, and Ollantaytambo Archeological site.
We will break for lunch in Urubamba and there is an optional visit to a local brewery. After lunch, we will continue our journey to Ollantaytambo for the Archeological center visit. Once that is complete, we will check into your hotel in Ollantaytambo, have dinner and spend the overnight in a 2-star hotel in the town. We look forward to making sure you have an excellent tour experience.

Option 02: By Maras( Chinchero, Moray, Salt Ponds, and Ollantaytambo).

We offer a comprehensive tour package that includes a hassle-free pick-up from your hotel at 07:00 am. Our experienced guide will take you to explore various remarkable sites in the Sacred Valley. The journey begins by visiting the Textile center of Chinchero, followed by the Colonial town of Maras, and then the nearby Inca site of Moray, well-known for its impressive terrace circles used for crop experimentation during Inca times. We will also take you to see the salt mines, another extraordinary Pre-Inca heritage that has been in use since ancient times, producing pure salt crystals. You will be amazed by the breathtaking scenery of the valley’s thousands of stark white pools. Our last stop is the Ollantaytambo ruins, where you will spend an hour exploring. After the tour, we will proceed towards your 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo town for dinner and an overnight stay.

DAY 2: OLLANTAYTAMBO – CHACHABAMBA – MACHU PICCHU

We will provide our guests with seamless pick-up from their hotel in Ollantaytambo, with transfer to the train station. The train journey, approximately 2 hours long, will provide mesmerizing views along the Urubamba river. Upon reaching km 104, you will be taken on a guided tour of the magnificent Chachabamba archaeological site before beginning the gradual hike up, offering impressive views.

The next leg of the journey will take you through the stunning cloud forest, with opportunities to observe orchids, birds, and waterfalls. After a three-hour hike, we will arrive at the well-preserved and beautiful Wiñay Wayna Inca ruin, where guests will indulge in a delicious lunch. The trek will continue for another two hours until we reach the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu, where an amazing sunset awaits. We will then walk to Machupicchu for about 45 minutes before taking a bus down to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU FULL DAY

On day three of the itinerary, we will visit the impressive ancient site of Machu Picchu. An early start will allow us to take the first bus up to Machu Picchu and enjoy a mesmerizing sunrise over the ruins. Your knowledgeable guide will provide a detailed 2-hour tour of the highlights of Machu Picchu. For those who have booked the Huaynapicchu hike option, a separate entrance ticket costing $65 per person will allow participants to undertake this additional activity. The tour will conclude with a return train journey to Ollantaytambo and a subsequent bus to Cusco. Our team will then transport you back to your hotel in Cusco, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.

Inclusions

Included

• Exclusive tourist transportation for the Sacred Valley tour.
• Knowledgeable English-speaking guide accompanying you for the entire 3-day journey.
• Accommodation at a 2-star hotel in Ollantaytambo (such as Tunupa Lodge or a similar option).
• Comprehensive meal plan, including breakfast, a boxed lunch, and dinner for the second day of the Inca Trail. We cater to dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose intolerance, and food allergies.
• The assistance of a porter who will carry your lunch on the second day of the Inca Trail, ensuring a lightweight hike for you.
• Breakfast on the third day.
• Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance fees.
• Tourist ticket granting access to Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley.
• Round-trip train tickets for the Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes route.
• Private transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco.
• Provision of an emergency oxygen bottle and a first aid kit for added safety.
• Pre-trek orientation and briefing conducted at your hotel or our office.
• Three bus tickets for the Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas route (with refunds if unused).
• Lodging at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (such as Tara Machu Picchu or a similar option).
• Day pack cover to shield your belongings from moisture.
• Rain poncho to protect you from inclement weather.

Not Included

• Lunch and Dinner in Sacred Valley – Day 1.
• Lunch – Day 3.

What to bring to the Cusco city tour?

• Day pack
• Camera
• Water, we recommend you 2 liters of water but you can also buy on the way
• Snacks like, apple, cereal bar, sweets and chocolates.
• Sun cream
• Rain poncho
• Cash in soles for your extra expenses such meals, etc.

Frequent Asked Questions

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

Certainly! Throughout the 3-day Inca Trail expedition, you have the option to securely leave your belongings either at our facility or at your hotel, whichever suits your convenience. We recommend bringing only what you’ll require for your journey to Machu Picchu.

WHAT ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?

The remaining amount can be settled two days prior to your excursion in either US dollars or soles. Alternatively, if you prefer the convenience of PayPal, we accept payment at least one week in advance (please note that a 7% service fee applies for PayPal transactions). You may also choose to pay with a credit card, with a 5% service fee applicable. Kindly inform us of your preferred payment method. It’s important to note that cash payments must be made no later than two days before your trip.

HOW ABOUT THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

In accordance with Peruvian regulations, eligibility for the Inca Trail 3-day trek requires participants to be under the age of 18 (if you are 18 or older, valid student identification cards are necessary).

Students between the ages of 11 and 17 are entitled to a discount of $30 USD, while children aged 2 to 11 receive a discount of $40 USD.

To avail of the student discount, all students are required to submit a copy of both their passport and student identification card during the booking process. Kindly forward these documents to us at info@sapadventures.org

CAN I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE PERMITS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED?

Regrettably, altering your Inca Trail permits is not feasible. Peruvian government regulations prohibit any modifications once the permits for the three-day Inca Trail have been acquired. These permits are neither transferable nor eligible for refunds. The sole piece of information that the government permits us to modify is passport numbers.

HOW HARD IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?

The first day is considered straightforward, while the second day is categorized as moderately challenging. The third day is also on the easier side. We strongly advise participants to be in good physical shape for this journey.

 DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU?

Absolutely! It is imperative that you carry your authentic passport with you, and it must match the passport you provided when booking your 3-day Short Inca Trail permit. Your passport will undergo verification at various points, including the Short Inca Trail checkpoint, Machu Picchu, and during the train boarding process.

UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS

If you are in the process of renewing your passport, please proceed by forwarding us a copy of your expiring passport to secure your Inca Trail 3-day permits. In case you don’t possess your old passport, any government-issued identification bearing the same name will suffice. Once your new passport is in your possession, kindly send us a copy at your earliest convenience. This will enable us to promptly update the information on your permit.

WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE OF MY TRAIN TICKET?

Typically, we secure reservations for the 06:10 am departure from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104 on the first day of your journey. The return train ticket is scheduled for 02:55 pm, ensuring your arrival in Cusco by 06:30 pm. This allows you ample time for a restful night’s sleep and the possibility of embarking on additional tours the following day, such as the Palcoyo Mountain excursion.

CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS?

My apologies for any confusion. To clarify, the tour commences in Cusco.

CAN I BOOK MY OWN HOTEL IN AGUAS CALIENTES AND OLLANTAYTAMBO?

You have the option to reserve any lodging in Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo. This will result in a reduction of $65 per individual for your trek. In case you choose to arrange your own accommodations, please ensure that you inform us of your intended stay location so that our guide can ensure your safe arrival.

IS INCA TRAIL 3-DAY PET FRIENDLY?

Regrettably, you cannot explore the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu with a dog. Only service dogs are allowed, and obtaining permits for them is necessary.

WHAT KIND OF REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES SHOULD WE BRING TO THE INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS?

Effective March 1st, 2022, the use of one-time-use plastic water bottles and other plastic litter is banned on the Inca Trail 3-day trek. You are required to bring your personal, reusable water containers for water replenishment. You have the option to purchase a bladder, sturdy bottle, or pouch based on your convenience.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?

At Sap Adventures, we would like to clarify that there is no age limit for the Inca Trail 3-day hike. However, we recommend a minimum age of 7 years old due to some steep sections that may pose a challenge for younger hikers. As a professional team of experienced mountaineers, our priority is the safety and well-being of our clients, and we believe that setting these guidelines ensures a comfortable and enjoyable journey for all. We understand that each individual’s physical fitness and ability may vary, and we are happy to provide additional information and guidance to help you make an informed decision about your trek.

HOW MANY KILOS IS IT ALLOWED TO CARRY ON THE SORT INCA TRAIL?

As per the regulations and guidelines, it is important to note that individuals are not restricted by any weight limit, and are free to carry either heavy or lightweight luggage. However, it is imperative that all porters adhere to the prescribed weight limit of 20 kilograms to ensure safe and efficient transportation of items. This measure is taken to maintain the safety and wellbeing of all involved parties, and we appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Thank you for your understanding.

WHAT TIME WILL WE GET TO MACHU PICCHU?

On Day 02 of the trek, our group is expected to arrive at the Sun Gate around 2:00 pm. From there, it should take about 45 minutes to reach Machu Picchu, and we anticipate arriving at approximately 3:00 pm. Upon arriving, there will be an opportunity to take a postcard-worthy photograph before proceeding to take a bus to Aguas Calientes. Thank you for your attention to these details, and we look forward to an enjoyable trekking experience together.

HOW MANY DAYS IN ADVANCE SHOULD I  ARRIVE TO HIKE THE  INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS?

We strongly advise that you consider arriving in Cusco at least two days before your departure, especially if you are travelling from a low-lying area. However, if your place of residence is situated above 2000m (6,561 ft), you may be able to safely arrive just one day prior to your departure. We want to ensure that your journey to Cusco is as comfortable and seamless as possible, and arriving a few days before your departure will give you ample time to acclimatize to the high altitude. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any additional questions or concerns regarding your upcoming trip.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ALTITUDE OF THE INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS?

• Cusco, where we provide the pickup service, is situated at an elevation of 3,500 m (11,251 ft).
• In the Sacred Valley, where the tour takes place, the maximum altitude reaches 3,750 m (12,303 ft).
• At KM 104 (Chachabamba), where we commence the hiking adventure, the elevation stands at 2,170 m (7,120 ft).
• The highest point of the Short Inca Trail reaches an altitude of 2,708 m (8,884 ft).
• Machu Picchu, where the Short Inca Trail concludes, is located at 2,431 m (7,973 ft).
• Aguas Calientes village, where we catch the train back to Cusco, is situated at 2,042 m (6,693 ft).

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?

For the optimal experience, the recommended time to embark on the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season in the Peruvian Andes which spans from April to October. This particularly holds true for the months of May, June, July, and August as they are known for their dry spells. However, it is worth noting that the Inca Trail and the Machu Picchu area are particularly bustling with crowds during this time of the year. It is still possible to scale the Short Inca Trail during the rainy season which spans from November to March, but exploring nature in this season would require adequate rain gear.

WHEN IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL CLOSED?

We wish to inform you that the short Inca Trail will be closed for the entire month of February due to several reasons, which include landslides, heavy rainfall and necessary maintenance of the trail. We understand that this may cause inconvenience to your travel plans and we apologize for any inconvenience caused. As an alternative, we would be delighted to assist you in exploring other popular trails in the region that are open during this time. We suggest that you check with our travel team regarding the available options and we would be happy to assist you in arranging a suitable itinerary. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter as our primary concern is your safety and enjoyment of the trekking experience.

DO YOU INCLUDE PORTERS IN YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL TOUR?

Porters are a part of our Short Inca Trail 3-day package, which includes hotel accommodations. Nevertheless, their primary responsibility is to transport your box lunch, not your personal belongings. If you wish to engage a dedicated porter for your personal items, the cost will be $45 per porter. Please be aware that porters are not permitted to accompany you all the way to Machu Picchu. Their service extends only to the Wiñaywayna campsite, from where they proceed directly to Aguas Calientes, where they will leave your belongings.

WHAT CIRCUIT WILL I FOLLOW IN MACHU PICCHU AFTER HIKING THE INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS?

Following your initial view of Machu Picchu at the Sungate, you will embark on a 45-minute hike to the Guardhouse. This is where you’ll capture the iconic shot of Machu Picchu on the second day in the afternoon. On the following day, you will gain entry to Machu Picchu through the lower entrance and must follow Circuit 03 to explore the site. It’s important to note that this rule applies to all individuals undertaking the Inca Trail 3-day hike.

HOW TO BOOK THE SHORT INCA TRAIL 3 DAYS WITH SAP ADVENTURES?

To book your Inca Trail 3-day trek with us, we kindly ask that you select your desired departure date by clicking on the ‘BOOK NOW’ button above. Subsequently, kindly input all necessary personal information for each participant and proceed to complete your payment deposit of $150 per individual. Once we receive your deposit, we will promptly send you a confirmation of your reservation.

Upon receipt of your Inca Trail 3-day permits, we will ensure that everything is efficiently organized. We guarantee all start dates will proceed as planned, without any issues. We are dedicated to ensuring your experience with us is both seamless and enjoyable.