Experience the perfect way to hike the Inca Trail in less time with this carefully designed Sacred Valley & 2 Day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu. This 3-day journey combines cultural exploration with a short rewarding trek. It offers an ideal alternative for travelers who want to reach Machu Picchu on foot without committing to longer multi-day routes or camping.
Your adventure begins with a guided Sacred Valley tour, including a visit to a traditional alpaca farm and the iconic sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. This introduction lets you connect with local culture while naturally acclimatizing before the hike. You will spend the night in Ollantaytambo, a picturesque Inca town and the gateway to the trail, ensuring a smoother, more comfortable start to your trek.
From there, follow the scenic 2 Day Short Inca Trail from KM 104 through cloud forest landscapes to the remarkable ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Then arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. Led by expert local guides, this journey offers a perfect balance of history, nature, and comfort. It culminates in a guided visit of the citadel and a panoramic train return through the Urubamba Valley.
Limited Inca Trail Permits — Book Your 2 Day Inca Trail Tour Today
Secure your place on this exclusive Sacred Valley and 2 Day Inca Trail package and experience one of Peru’s most iconic journeys in a shorter, more comfortable format. With limited permits and small group departures, availability is limited throughout the year.
Travel with expert local guides, enjoy smooth logistics, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate just like the Incas did, all without a long camping trek.
Check availability now and reserve your permit before they sell out.
This Sacred Valley & 2 Day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu is a 3-day experience combining cultural exploration with a scenic Inca Trail hike, offering a perfect balance of adventure and comfort. Starting in the Sacred Valley, you will visit key sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo while acclimatizing before the trek.
The journey continues along the 2 Day Inca Trail from KM 104, a 12 km (7.5-mile) route through cloud forest landscapes to Wiñay Wayna. It ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) with your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, followed by a guided tour of the citadel and a scenic train return to Cusco.
Explore the Sacred Valley & 2 Day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu in 3 days. Hike from KM 104, visit Wiñay Wayna, and arrive through the Sun Gate before a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
This tour is great for travelers who want to mix light trekking with cultural experiences in a short amount of time.
This tour is well-suited if you:
The best time for this tour is during the dry season, from April to October, when the trail is more stable and the views are at their best.
A professional team will support you throughout your journey, focusing on safety, comfort, and helping you perform well at high altitudes.
Authentic | Trusted | Reliable | Safe | Community-Focussed | Smaller Groups
Begin your Sacred Valley adventure with an 8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel for a day of discovery. Your first stop is a traditional Alpaca Farm, where you’ll meet llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas and learn about their importance in Andean life and textile traditions. Next, explore the Pisac Inca Ruins, famous for their vast agricultural terraces and views over the valley. Afterward, stroll through the lively Pisac Market, the perfect place to browse colorful handicrafts, jewelry, and local souvenirs.
Continue your journey to Urubamba, where you’ll enjoy an Andean lunch surrounded by stunning landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the Ollantaytambo Inca Site, a fortress and ceremonial center known for its massive stone terraces, intricate temples, and history as one of the last strongholds of the Incas.
You’ll spend the night in the historic town of Ollantaytambo, where cobblestone streets, old canals, and Inca foundations give the town a special feel that links the past with the present.
This tour blends history, culture, and natural beauty, giving travelers a memorable introduction to the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
On Day 1 of the 2-Day Short Inca Trail, you’ll start with an early 5:45 am pick-up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo, then head to the train station for a scenic ride to Km 104, the trek’s starting point. At Km 104, the hike begins with a visit to Chachabamba, an important Inca archaeological site. Here, you’ll learn about the area’s history and significance as a ceremonial center. From there, the trail ascends through lush cloud forests and Andean landscapes, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including diverse flora and fauna.
After a moderate climb of around 3hrs, you’ll arrive at Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca ruins on the trail. Set at 2,650 meters (8,694 feet), Wiñay Wayna is known for its large agricultural terraces, Inca stone structures, and breathtaking views of the valley below. After exploring this remarkable site, you’ll enjoy a camping-style lunch at the Wiñayhuayna Campsite, freshly prepared by our chef. A hot meal is the perfect way to recover energy before continuing your hike.
From Wiñay Wayna, you’ll hike toward the Sun Gate, also known as Inti Punku. Here, you’ll get your first amazing view of Machu Picchu, with the citadel set among the mountains. It’s a moment you’ll always remember.
After enjoying the views, you’ll head down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll stay overnight. This town at the foot of Machu Picchu is a great place to relax and get ready for your guided visit to the ancient citadel the next day.
Today is the highlight of your journey: a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
You’ll start the day early, waking up around 5:00 am. Breakfast is ready from 5:30 am. Soon after, your guide will meet you at the hotel to walk to the bus station together. The bus ride to Machu Picchu takes about 30 minutes. At the entrance, have your original passport and entry ticket ready for inspection.
Your visit will begin with Circuit 3, the standard route for all Inca Trail hikers as required by current regulations. If you want to visit Circuit 2, which offers some of the most iconic panoramic views of Machu Picchu, you can add this for an extra $55 per person. In that case, you’ll first complete your guided walk on Circuit 3, then re-enter with your Circuit 2 ticket. Confirm this option with your travel advisor when booking.
The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts about 2 hours, covering the most remarkable temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces. If you have tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain, which must be booked in advance at an additional cost, you’ll enjoy a memorable 2-hour round-trip hike with incredible views of the citadel from above. If you do not hike Huayna Picchu, you’ll conclude your guided visit with time to take in the beauty of the citadel and bid farewell to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu is divided into three circuits, each slightly different, and none cover the entire citadel. This system was introduced to preserve the site, so make sure you know which circuit is included in your ticket before booking.
In the afternoon, you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic ride through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the station and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 8:00 pm.
Booking with Qoricancha Expeditions means a seamless and enriching experience. Here’s everything that’s included in your tour package:
Comprehensive Transportation: Private door-to-door transportation for all three days, including Cusco hotel pickups and transfers between the Sacred Valley and the Inca Trail trailhead.
Expert Expedition Guide: Professional English-speaking licensed guide specialized in Inca archaeology and high-altitude safety, oxygen and first-aid certified, for the entire journey.
2026 Official Permits & Entrance Fees: Includes 100% guaranteed Short Inca Trail permits (KM 104), Sun Gate (Inti Punku) entry, and Machu Picchu Circuit 3-B (Royalty Route).
Full Archaeological Access: All guided visits and Boleto Turístico entrance fees for the Sacred Valley, including Pisac ruins and Ollantaytambo fortress.
Scenic Rail Service: Confirmed Expedition Train tickets to the trailhead and for your scenic return. Optional Vistadome upgrades offer panoramic 360° views and onboard cultural experiences.
Boutique Accommodations: 2 nights in hand-picked 3-star hotels: 1 in Ollantaytambo for acclimatization and 1 in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town).
Daily Meals & Nutrition: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches including a traditional Sacred Valley buffet, and 1 dinner. All dietary requirements are accommodated on request.
Shuttle & Safety Equipment: Round-trip bus transfers between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. High-altitude sections include medical-grade oxygen and pulse oximeters for safety.
Extra Porter Service (7 kg): You’ll receive a duffle bag and porter support for up to 7 kg of personal belongings, allowing you to hike light with just your daypack.
Travel Insurance: Recommended for high-altitude trekking, with medical coverage and emergency evacuation.
Personal Gear: Trekking poles available for rent and personal hiking equipment.
Unguided Meals: some meals are not include accoring the itinerary
Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and support staff.
Customize your journey with premium upgrades:
Vistadome Train: $65 per person – panoramic windows and onboard snacks.
Luxury Hiram Bingham Train: $520 per person – the ultimate luxury rail experience.
Optional Peaks: Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be booked at least 4 months in advance. its $75 each ticket.
Packing the right items is key to enjoying a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu. Here’s a complete packing list with recommendations to ensure you're fully prepared.
Original Passport: You must bring the same physical passport you used when booking. It’s required at all trail checkpoints and for entering Machu Picchu.
High-Quality Daypack (25L–30L): Make sure your daypack has a rain cover. You’ll use it to carry just your daily essentials, water, and some extra clothing.
Hiking Boots: Choose boots that are durable, waterproof, and already broken in. The trail has old Inca stone paths that get slippery when it rains.
Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are very helpful for the steep stone stairs at Wiñay Wayna. Be sure to use rubber tips.
Hydration: Bring a 2 to 3-liter CamelBak or reusable water bottles. Staying hydrated is especially important on Day 2 of the climb.
Moisture-Wicking Layers: Pack 2 or 3 non-cotton trekking shirts and a mid-weight fleece for chilly mornings.
Rain Gear: Bring a breathable rain jacket and a lightweight waterproof poncho. The weather in the cloud forest can change quickly.
Hiking Trousers: Take 1 or 2 pairs of comfortable, quick-drying trekking pants.
Sun Protection: Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap and polarized sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong UV rays at high altitude.
Sun & Bug Shield: Use SPF 50+ sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and insect repellent. These are especially important around Machu Picchu.
Power Bank: Bring a power bank so your phone or camera stays charged for photos at the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.
Personal Medical Kit: Pack blister treatment (like Moleskin), Ibuprofen, and any personal or altitude medicine you need.
Small Cash (Peruvian Soles): Carry some small cash (Peruvian soles) for snacks, restroom fees (about 2 soles), and tips for your guide.
$745.00 USD per person
(Minimum 2 hikers)
Join a small group and enjoy a cost-effective way to experience the beauty and culture of the Sacred Valley and the Short Inca Trail. Perfect for travelers looking to share the adventure and meet fellow explorers.
Upgrade your journey with a fully personalized private tour designed specifically for your group. Whether you’re interested in an active hike, a relaxing sightseeing experience, or both, we’ll tailor the itinerary to suit your group’s pace, interests, and fitness level.
Private Tour Pricing:
Opt for a private tour with expert guides, flexible scheduling, and added comfort—perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a deeper and more exclusive experience.
Instant Permit Confirmation: We secure your legal permits immediately upon booking.
No Hidden Fees: Your price includes trains, buses, transfers, and 3-star hotels.
Support Local: Your booking supports our community library project in Chinchero.
Don't miss the chance to see the Sun Gate. Choose your date and let us handle the logistics so you can focus on the journey.
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