Sacred Valley & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: 3-Day Journey

A 3-Day Journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

This 3-day tour, offered at $798 per person and operated by TreXperience, promises a balanced mix of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure. Starting from Cusco, you’ll visit iconic sites like Moray’s circular terraces, Salinas de Maras salt mines, and the vibrant Pisac Market. The highlight is a guided hike along the Short Inca Trail culminating at Machu Picchu, which you’ll explore twice—once at sunrise, once at sunset—plus a scenic train ride on the Vistadome. The tour includes comfortable 3-star accommodations in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, plus all transport, tickets, and some meals.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances seeing breathtaking ruins with authentic local culture—not just rushing through tourist spots but stopping at local markets and learning about traditional weaving. Another plus is the expert guides, who make history come alive and keep the group moving smoothly. A potential consideration is the intensity of the hikes, which require moderate fitness, but the abundance of scenery and history makes it worth the effort.

This tour works best for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re looking for a deep dive into Inca sites combined with scenic train rides, and don’t mind a bit of walking, you’ll find it rewarding.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of culture and adventure: Combines sacred sites, local markets, and a scenic trek.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and passionate guides enhance your understanding.
• Comfortable accommodations: 3-star hotels ensure restful nights after busy days.
• Scenic train rides: The Vistadome train offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley.
• Moderate physical activity: Suitable for travelers with a decent fitness level.
• Authentic local experiences: Visit markets and learn about traditional crafts.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour

Day 1: Exploring the Sacred Valley’s Hidden Gems

The journey begins early, with a pickup from your Cusco hotel by your guide, whose friendly professionalism sets a welcoming tone. Your first stop is at the Manos De La Comunidad alpaca center, where you can meet llamas, alpacas, and guanacos. It’s a great chance to learn about traditional textile weaving—an age-old craft that has been part of Andean culture for centuries. The views from the Taray Mirador are a highlight, offering a sweeping panorama of the Sacred Valley and the Andes that make you realize why this region remains so captivating.

Next, you’ll visit Pisac, renowned for its impressive agricultural terraces and ancient ruins. The site is spread across a hillside, providing ample opportunities for photos and exploration. The guide will explain the significance of the terraces—styling a kind of sophisticated farming system—and the archaeological importance of the ruins. Most travelers find Pisac’s mix of history and stunning scenery a highlight.

Following the ruins, it’s time for a buffet lunch in Urubamba, surrounded by mountain views that are hard to beat. Afterward, the tour continues with visits to Moray, the Inca agricultural experiment site famous for its concentric terraces. The circular design is both beautiful and fascinating—an ancient innovation for microclimate experimentation.

From there, the group heads to Salinas de Maras, where thousands of salt pools shimmer in the sun—an incredible sight. You’ll learn about the traditional salt harvesting methods still used today, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and living history.

The day ends in Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca town with narrow cobbled streets and impressive ruins, giving travelers a sense of stepping back in time. Here, you’ll check into your hotel for a good night’s rest, ready for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

After an early breakfast, you’ll board the Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. The train ride itself is a treat—stunning views of the Sacred Valley unfold outside the window, setting a scenic tone for the day.

Your hike begins at Chachabamba, where you’ll visit an Inca site that introduces you to the ancient craftsmanship and spiritual sites along the trail. The 4-hour trek ascends through lush forests, terraced hillsides, and waterfalls, giving you a real sense of the landscape the Incas knew so well.

Midway, you’ll arrive at Wiñay Wayna, the most impressive Inca site on the trail. Its terraces and stone structures are set against a beautiful backdrop, and your guide will point out details you might miss on your own. This site is a highlight for many, with its combination of natural beauty and archaeological significance.

After lunch, the hike continues to Intipunku, the Sun Gate, where you’ll finally catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu at a distance. The moment you see the iconic ruins framed by mountains is unforgettable. From here, it’s a short walk down to the actual site, where you’ll enter for an in-depth guided tour.

Most visitors are struck by how well-preserved Machu Picchu is, and the feeling of walking among its ancient stones with few other travelers around is truly special. You’ll have time to explore the site on your own before heading down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 3: Machu Picchu’s Sunrise and Scenic Return

The real splendor begins early with a pre-dawn bus ride to Machu Picchu, arriving before sunrise—an experience many describe as almost spiritual. The cool air and the first light illuminating the ruins create a magical atmosphere. Your guide will take you on a 3-hour tour, highlighting major temples, terraces, and the overall layout.

If you have permits, you can opt for additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which offer fantastic views but require special tickets and a bit of extra effort.

After your tour, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then board the Vistadome train, which offers panoramic windows to enjoy the scenic ride back to Ollantaytambo. These trains are comfortable and designed to maximize the views—perfect for winding down after your busy days.

Once in Ollantaytambo, a private transfer whisks you back to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 PM. The journey wraps up with a sense of accomplishment and a head full of memories.

Practical Insights and Value

This tour’s price includes just about everything—from all transportation and entrance fees to guided tours, some meals, and comfortable hotels. This means you’re paying for a hassle-free experience that’s well-organized, allowing you to focus on enjoying Peru’s incredible scenery and history.

The use of scenic Vistadome trains adds a special touch, giving you panoramic views of the landscape that you wouldn’t want to miss. Staying overnight in Aguas Calientes allows for more flexible exploration of Machu Picchu, including catching the sunrise—something many travelers find to be the most memorable part of their trip.

The main downside, as some reviewers note, is that logistics can sometimes be challenging, especially with tight scheduling on the trail. Amir’s review mentions “weak logistics,” which might mean minor delays or organizational hiccups, but guides often make up for it with their knowledge and enthusiasm. The group size capped at 16 helps keep things intimate and manageable, ensuring a more personal experience.

The tour is tailored for those with moderate fitness levels, as it involves a fair amount of walking and hiking. But the payoff—stunning ruins, authentic culture, and unforgettable vistas—is worth the physical effort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to experience Machu Picchu in a way that combines culture, adventure, and comfort, this trip is ideal. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided tours that provide rich context and allow them to fully engage with the sights. It’s especially suited for those who want to see more than just Machu Picchu, exploring the Sacred Valley’s local traditions and Inca sites along the way.

This experience is well-suited for travelers with a decent level of fitness who enjoy walking and outdoor pursuits. If you’re seeking a stress-free package with all logistics handled, and you’re willing to book a bit in advance (average booking is 59 days ahead), then this tour offers excellent value.

FAQ

Is transportation included during the tour?
Yes, all transportation during the 3 days—including private pickups, train rides, buses, and transfers—is included, making it a seamless experience.

What is the length of each day’s activities?
Day 1 involves a full day exploring Sacred Valley sites, Day 2 is a 6-hour hike plus scenic train rides, and Day 3 combines an early visit to Machu Picchu with a scenic return journey. Expect busy days but manageable pacing.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Meals are thoughtfully included at local restaurants or during hikes, providing energy for the day’s activities.

What about hotel accommodations?
You’ll stay in 3-star hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, offering comfortable, clean rooms that are ideal for resting after full days of exploration.

Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Optional hikes are available but require special permits not included in this tour. If interested, plan to book those separately.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 2 months in advance, as this tour is popular and tends to fill up early, especially during peak seasons.

This 3-day Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu trip offers a carefully curated mix of scenic beauty, archaeological wonder, and authentic local culture. With knowledgeable guides, scenic train rides, and plenty of time to explore, it’s a fantastic way to connect with Peru’s soul. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply eager to see one of the world’s most iconic sites, this tour delivers a memorable adventure.