The Sacred Valley Tour + Short Inca Trail 3D/2N offers a fantastic blend of history, scenery, and adventure in Peru’s iconic Cusco region. For $669 per person, you’ll spend three days exploring ancient sites like Pisaq and Ollantaytambo, trekking part of the legendary Inca Trail, and gazing upon the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to see Peru’s highlights with a bit of active exploration thrown in.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to walk through original Inca paths and visit less crowded sites with knowledgeable guides who bring the history alive. The inclusion of all transportation, entrance fees, and meals makes it a convenient, well-organized trip. That said, it’s a fairly packed schedule, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

One thing to consider is the early mornings and tight timing—getting up early for Machu Picchu viewing and coordinating train schedules can be tiring but rewarding. This tour suits travelers eager for a comprehensive, active experience that balances culture with the thrill of hiking part of the Inca Trail.

Key Points

Authentic Inca Experiences: Walk the same paths as the Incas and enjoy guided visits to significant archaeological sites.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, entrance fees, meals, and accommodation are covered, reducing stress and surprises.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of Inca history and culture.
Stunning Scenery: From the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, you’ll see some of Peru’s most picturesque landscapes.
Active Adventure: Short trek along the Inca Trail combines scenic hiking with historical discovery.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now & pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour Experience

This three-day journey packs a lot into a relatively short window, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights of Cusco’s surroundings, especially Machu Picchu. It’s a well-balanced itinerary that combines cultural visits, scenic drives, and a taste of trekking.

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Day 1: Sacred Valley & Ollantaytambo

Your adventure begins early, around 7:00–8:00 am, with a pickup from Cusco. From there, you’ll head into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a fertile corridor lined with ancient terraces and villages. Your first stop is Pisaq, where a guided tour takes about an hour and a half. Here, you’ll see the complex of terraces and stone structures that once served as a major Inca hub, and browse the lively local market, perfect for picking up authentic textiles and souvenirs.

After Pisaq, the tour continues over the Vilcanota River to Urubamba, where a buffet lunch offers typical Andean dishes—think quinoa salads, roasted potatoes, and fresh fruits. The food is a highlight, giving you a true taste of regional flavors.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to Ollantaytambo, a beautifully preserved Inca fortress and town. The guided tour of approximately 80 minutes dives into the site’s strategic importance and impressive stonework. You’ll have time afterward to wander the charming streets and perhaps buy some handmade crafts from local artisans. Spending the night here allows you to rest before the early start the next day.

Day 2: The Trek to Machu Picchu

Rising early, you’ll board the train from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104, the starting point of your short trek. The scenic train ride itself is a treat, with panoramic windows offering views of the lush jungle and terraced mountains. Once at Kilometer 104, you’ll cross the Willkamatuc River bridge and pass through the checkpoint.

From this point, your hike begins—a roughly 30-minute descent to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. But the real highlight is the Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, which provides an impressive panoramic view of the site and the surrounding valley. It’s a moment that many travelers describe as “breathtaking” and worth the early alarm.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Machu Picchu itself, with a guided 2.5-hour tour that covers the main sites— the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the residential sectors. Your guide (speak with them in either English or Spanish) will help you understand the significance of each part and the engineering marvels of the Incas.

Day 3: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco

The final day starts before dawn, with an early bus ride up from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This allows you to beat the crowds and experience the site during the quiet morning hours. You’ll have another guided tour, which is especially valuable to fully grasp the stories behind the stones. The guide’s insights make a difference—”We loved the way our guide brought the site to life,” one reviewer expressed.

In the afternoon, you’ll descend by bus and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to Cusco. It’s a long day, but the journey back is scenic and smooth, with plenty of time to reflect on your adventure.

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Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the inclusion of entrance fees, guided tours, transportation, meals, and accommodation, the $669 price tag is quite reasonable. It provides a hassle-free way to see Machu Picchu and other key sites without worrying about logistics or extra costs.

The guided visits are especially valuable for those unfamiliar with Inca history, as guides share stories and details that bring the stones to life. The opportunity to hike part of the Inca Trail makes this experience stand out from standard day trips, offering a taste of traditional trekking combined with cultural discovery.

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What’s Not Included

Notably, dinners on the first and third days are extra, so travelers should plan accordingly. Also, if you want to climb Huayna Picchu, you’ll need to buy an additional ticket; it’s not included here. Travel insurance is recommended but not included, so consider your coverage.

The Advantages and Possible Drawbacks

The expert guides and well-planned logistics are the biggest pluses. Travelers mention that guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the sites more meaningful. The all-inclusive approach reduces stress, and the scenery along the train and trail is stunning.

However, the tight schedule means early mornings and limited free time at some stops. If you prefer relaxing days or spontaneous exploration, this tour might feel a bit structured. Also, the hike along the Inca Trail is short but steep, so good footwear and some fitness are advised.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Inca culture and scenery in just three days. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided sightseeing, scenic train rides, and a manageable trekking experience. Those eager to see Machu Picchu with a guided narrative will find this especially valuable.

Travelers with limited time but a strong desire to see the main highlights of Cusco’s region will appreciate the balanced mix of culture, adventure, and scenery in this tour.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s mostly aimed at adults and active seniors, the trek is relatively short but involves some walking and climbing. Travelers should be comfortable on uneven surfaces.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. The tour provides necessary safety equipment like an oxygen bottle and first aid kit.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed with scheduled stops and activities. For specific requests, it’s best to contact the provider beforehand.

What meals are included?
The tour includes a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, lunch in Aguas Calientes, and breakfast at your hotel. Dinner is not included on days 1 and 3.

How early do I need to wake up on Day 3?
Very early, to catch the first bus to Machu Picchu and maximize your time exploring the site before the crowds arrive.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides can speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers.

What if I want to climb Huayna Picchu?
That’s an additional ticket outside the tour package, so you’ll need to purchase it separately if interested.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size tends to be manageable, and the guided experience is perfect for meeting fellow travelers.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, the Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail tour offers a rich, well-organized adventure for those wanting a taste of Peru’s iconic sights with the bonus of a scenic trek. It combines cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and practical convenience—making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore the heart of Inca civilization without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a history buff, a landscape lover, or simply craving an active holiday, this tour offers a meaningful, memorable journey into Peru’s most celebrated treasures.