5-Day Sacred Valley & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu | Authentic Peru Tour

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco ➝ Hotel Transfer

⭐️ Arrival – Airport Pickup & Hotel Transfer:

Welcome to the heart of the Inca Empire! Upon arrival at Cusco Airport Peru, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you and transfer you to your hotel in the historic center. Take the rest of the day to acclimate to the altitude, stroll through the cobbled streets, and prepare for the incredible Pisac and Ollantaytambo tour experience ahead.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac and Ollantaytambo

⛰️ A brief trip through the Sacred Valley:

🕗 08:00 am – Hotel pickup and departure to Pisac

We depart early from Cusco, traveling along the scenic route from Cusco to Pisac through fertile valleys and traditional Andean villages. Our first stop is the impressive Pisac ruins Peru, part of the famous Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins, where you’ll explore agricultural terraces, temples, and viewpoints overlooking the Sacred Valley. Afterward, wander through the vibrant Pisac artisan market.

🕗 13:00 pm – Lunch at a local restaurant (Not included)

Enjoy a buffet lunch made with fresh Andean ingredients in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.

🕗 14:30 pm – Guided tour of Ollantaytambo fortress

In the afternoon, visit the remarkable Ollantaytambo ruins Peru, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in existence. Learn about Inca military strategy, urban planning, and sacred architecture as you walk through this living archaeological site. In the town of Ollantaytambo, you’ll check into your hotel near the Ollantaytambo train station and enjoy a relaxed evening (dinner not included).

Day 3: Short Inca Trail Hike (KM 104) to Machu Picchu

⛰️ Enjoy the landscapes of the Ancient Inca Trail:

🕗 05:30 am – Train ride to KM 104 trailhead

Start the day early with a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to KM 104, the starting point of the legendary 1 day Inca Trail hike, part of the classic 2 day Inca Trail experience.

🕗 08:00 am – Begin the Inca Trail hike

Begin your hike through cloud forest landscapes, crossing ancient stone paths and visiting the stunning Wiñay Wayna site. This section of the trail offers incredible biodiversity and unforgettable views as you hike toward Machu Picchu.

🕗 14:00 pm – Arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

Reach the Sun Gate, where ancient pilgrims first glimpsed Machu Picchu. This emotional moment marks the climax of your hike up Machu Picchu, with panoramic views of the Lost City below.

🕗 16:00 pm – Descent to Aguas Calientes

Descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town at the base of Machu Picchu. Check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco

🌄 Big day – Machu Picchu:

🕗 05:30 am – Early breakfast at the hotel

🕗 06:30 am – Bus ride to Machu Picchu

Travel from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on a scenic bus ride up the mountain.

🕗 07:00 am – Guided tour of Machu Picchu

Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces. Learn about Inca astronomy, architecture, and spirituality as mist lifts from the ruins.

🕗 09:30 am – Free time or optional hike

Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (limited permits available in advance).

🕗 11:30 am – Return to Aguas Calientes

Free time for lunch or a final stroll through town.

🕗 14:30 pm – Train to Ollantaytambo & transfer to Cusco

Take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a comfortable Ollantaytambo to Cusco transfer, enjoying final views of the Sacred Valley.

🕗 19:00 pm – Arrival in Cusco and hotel drop-off

Return to your hotel in Cusco — tired, inspired, and full of unforgettable memories.

Day 5: Hotel Pickup & Airport Drop-Off

🌄 Last day in Cusco:

We’ll arrange your hotel pickup and private transfer to the airport, ensuring a smooth departure from Cusco. Until next time — safe travels!

Included

• 4 Night’s at 3 stars hotels (includes breakfast)
• Pick up and Drop off in Cusco
• Professional Tour Guide
• Touristic train tickets Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (round trip)
• First aid kit
• Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu (round trip)
• Food (1 box lunch + 1 dinner)
• Transport back to Cusco.
• Inca Trail permits
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• Touristic Partial Ticket

Not Included

• Meals not mentioned
• Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
• Travel Insurance
• Tips
• Water / Snacks
• Extra nights
• Flights

Prices

Private Service

Note

For children under the age of 17, please contact One Click Expeditions.

Why Travelers Love it?

✨ Cultural Immersion & Adventure

This itinerary strikes the perfect balance between cultural exploration and soft adventure. Travelers love beginning in the Sacred Valley’s ancient towns and finishing with a scenic hike into Machu Picchu — just as the Incas did.

🌿 Scenic Trail Less Traveled

The Short Inca Trail from KM 104 is less crowded, but still deeply rewarding. It lets you connect with the essence of the original Inca path while avoiding the intensity of the full 4-day hike.

🚆 Comfort & Accessibility

No need to rough it! With comfortable hotels, smooth logistics, and expert guides, this tour is accessible even for first-time travelers to Peru.

📸 Iconic Photo Opportunities

From the terraced slopes of Pisac to the panoramic entrance at the Sun Gate, travelers return with some of the most breathtaking photos of their entire Peru trip.

🗣️ Insightful Local Guides

Our hand-picked guides bring the sites to life with fascinating stories, archaeological insight, and warm hospitality.

🏛️ A Magical Machu Picchu Arrival

Reaching Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate is an unforgettable experience that gives you time to pause, reflect, and soak in the energy of the Andes.

🚀 Ready to follow in the footsteps of the Incas?

Book your unforgettable 5-day journey through the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail now! 🌄 Experience the perfect mix of history, nature, and awe-inspiring views — all expertly arranged for you.

📩 Contact us today to customize your adventure! ✅ Small Groups | 🧭 Expert Guides | 🛏️ Comfortable Hotels | 💯 Guaranteed Departures