Inca Trail Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights
The Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights is a unique experience that combines the best of the Sacred Valley with the Short Inca Trail, offering a more complete journey to Machu Picchu. This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want more than just a hike, combining culture, history, and incredible Andean landscapes.
Your adventure begins in the Sacred Valley, where you’ll explore key sites before starting the trek along original Inca paths and visiting impressive archaeological ruins. If you’re comparing options, you can also explore our classic Inca Trail tours.
This Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights offers the perfect balance between cultural exploration and hiking, allowing you to arrive at Machu Picchu with time to enjoy it and return the next morning for a guided visit at sunrise. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is the highlight of a journey that brings together the best of the region in just three days.
Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights Overview
This Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights is designed as a combination of a cultural tour through the Sacred Valley and a short trekking experience along the Inca Trail. Over three days, you’ll explore important archaeological sites, learn about local traditions, and then continue your journey on foot toward Machu Picchu.
The experience begins with a full-day exploration of the Sacred Valley, followed by the Short Inca Trail, where you’ll walk along original stone paths and visit key sites before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. The itinerary is planned to offer a balance between guided visits, physical activity, and time to enjoy each location without rushing.
This structure makes it a great option for travelers who want a more complete experience, combining cultural immersion with one of the most iconic trekking routes in Peru.
Highlights Inca Trail 3 Days
- Discover the Sacred Valley on a full-day tour, visiting key sites such as Awanacancha, Taray viewpoint, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo
- Walk a section of the original Inca Trail and visit archaeological sites like Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy and Wiñay Wayna
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, just as the Incas once did
- Spend time in Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved Inca towns in Peru
- Visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour and experience the site again the following morning
This itinerary is designed to offer a complete and well-paced experience, where each day builds toward your arrival at Machu Picchu, combining cultural exploration, scenic hiking, and time to fully enjoy each place along the way.
Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights at a Glance
Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour – Pisac – Ollantaytambo
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, where you’ll visit an alpaca farm, enjoy views from the Taray viewpoint, and explore the impressive ruins of Pisac along with its local market. After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, continue to Ollantaytambo. Spend the night in this historic Inca town, surrounded by mountains and ancient stone streets.
Day 2: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Start early with a train ride to Km 104, where your Short Inca Trail experience begins. Hike through cloud forest and ancient paths, visiting sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna along the way. After several hours of hiking, reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu — one of the most rewarding moments of the journey. Then descend to Aguas Calientes for dinner and overnight in your hotel.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Wake up early to visit Machu Picchu and explore the citadel with your guide, learning about its history, architecture, and significance. After the guided tour, you’ll have time for photos or optional hikes before returning by train to Ollantaytambo and continuing to Cusco by vehicle.
Inclusions for the 3-day Inca Trail
What’s Included
- Pre-trek briefing with your guid
- Professional English-speaking guide (3 days)
- Assistant guide for groups of 9+ people
- Private transport and professional driver
- Tourist bus service for the Sacred Valley tour (shared service)
- All entrance tickets and permits for the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner (vegetarian, vegan, and special diets available upon request)
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- 1 night accommodation in Ollantaytambo
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours)
- Round-trip train tickets: Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Walkie-talkies during the trek for communication and safety
- Oxygen tank and first aid kit
- All local taxes
- Personalized assistance throughout your trip
What’s Not Included
- Entrance fee to the Sacred Valley Tourist Ticket (approx. 70 soles)
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on the last day after visiting Machu Picchu
- Optional extra porter (available to carry up to 10 kg / 22 lbs)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked in advance due to limited availability)
- Walking sticks (available for rent)
- Entrance tickets to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
- Personal expenses such as energy snacks or additional drinks
- Travel insurance
- Tips for your guide and staff (optional but appreciated)
3-Day Inca Trail & Sacred Valley Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Pisac – Ollantaytambo
Your journey begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive into the Sacred Valley. Along the way, you’ll visit Awanacancha to learn about traditional Andean textiles and see native animals such as alpacas and llamas.
Continue to the Taray viewpoint for panoramic views of the valley before exploring the impressive archaeological site of Pisac, known for its agricultural terraces and mountain setting. You’ll also have time to visit the local market and interact with local artisans.
After a buffet lunch in Urubamba, the tour continues to Ollantaytambo, one of the most important Inca sites. Here, you’ll explore its terraces, temples, and ancient urban layout while learning about its role during the Inca Empire. After the visit, head to your hotel and prepare for the trekking experience the next day.
- Overnight: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
- Meals: Lunch
- Entrance fees: Not included (Sacred Valley tourist ticket required)
Day 2: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Short Inca Trail – Machu Picchu
Early in the morning, you’ll take the train to Km 104, the starting point of your Short Inca Trail hike. After passing the checkpoint, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba before beginning a gradual ascent along original Inca paths.
The trail takes you through cloud forest landscapes, past waterfalls, and toward the impressive site of Wiñay Wayna, where you’ll stop for lunch surrounded by incredible views. Along the way, your guide will share insights about the flora, fauna, and history of the region.
In the afternoon, you’ll reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. From there, descend toward the citadel before taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
- Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Meals: Box Lunch, Dinner
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
After an early breakfast, you’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu to enjoy a guided tour of the citadel. Your guide will take you through its most important areas, including temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces, while explaining the history and significance of the site.
After the guided visit, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace, take photos, or optionally hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport to Cusco, marking the end of your journey.
- Meals: Breakfast
Sacred Valley + Short Inca Trail 3 Days Price
The Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights operates daily throughout the year. Prices are valid from January 2026 to January 2027 and are listed in USD.
💰 Group Service (Shared Tour)
Price: USD $629 per person
A minimum of 2 hikers is required to start the 2-Day Short Inca Trail to ensure the tour can operate as planned.
👤 Private Service
Private tours are available and priced according to group size:
Group Size |
Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 people | USD $689 |
| 3 people | USD $669 |
| 4–5 people | USD $629 |
| 6–8 people | USD $589 |
Discounts
- Students (18–25 years old): USD 25 discount
A valid student ID is required (must include name, photo, university, and expiration date). A copy must be provided at booking. - Under 18 years old: USD 25 discount
Passport copy required at booking. - Under 11 years old: USD 30 discount
Passport copy required at booking.
Optional Add-Ons (Book in Advance)
- Machu Picchu Mountain:Â USD 65
- Huayna Picchu Mountain:Â USD 65
Hotel Upgrades (Per Person / Per Night)
- Inkaterra Hotel (5★): USD 325(double occupancy)
- El Mapi Hotel (3★+): USD 75 (double occupancy)
- Hotel Santuario (3★): USD 45 (double occupancy)
Train Upgrades
- Vistadome Train: USD 65 (Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo)
- Hiram Bingham Luxury Train: USD 585 (Aguas Calientes → Poroy)
Equipment Rental
- Trekking Poles:Â USD 10
Packing List for the 4-Day Inca Trail
What you need to Take:
Here’s a complete and detailed checklist of essential items to pack for your Inca Trail Trek 3 Days 2 Nights, ensuring you’re fully prepared for an unforgettable adventure.
- Original passport.
- A good-quality (and small) daypack.
- Hiking boots (waterproof).
- Long-sleeved shirts to prevent sunburn.
- Hiking pants.
- Hiking socks.
- At least one bottle of water.
- 1-liter water bottle or backpacking camel.
- Hat to protect you from the sun.
- Rainwear or poncho for the rainy season (December to April).
- Camera with extra batteries.
- Toilet paper.
- Extra money for drinks and tips, souvenirs.
- Trail snacks (dry fruits, energy bars, etc.).
- Sunblock and insect repellent.
- Personal toiletry items.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Wet wipes.
- Toothbrush/toothpaste.
- Personal medications.
- Optional: Personal medical kit. Disinfectant, aspirin, stomach tablets, medicine to avoid altitude sickness, etc.
- Trekking poles with rubber covers.
Before Your TripÂ
At Info Machu Picchu, we want you to be fully prepared for your experience. This guide includes essential information to help you get ready for your trek, from acclimatization and logistics to Machu Picchu entry and practical travel tips.
Pre-Trek Briefing
All briefings are held at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 PM, one or two days before your tour. The session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
During the briefing, your guide will explain the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any questions to ensure you are fully prepared.
Acclimatization in Cusco
Proper acclimatization is essential before starting your trek. Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level.
We recommend arriving at least 2 to 3 days in advance to help your body adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
Recommended Activities Before Your Trek
During your acclimatization days, you can enjoy light tours in the region:
- Cusco City Tour:Â Main Square, Cathedral, and Qoricancha
- Sacred Valley Tour:Â Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Maras Salt Mines
- Moray and Maras Tour:Â Inca agricultural terraces
- Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Traditional Inca rope bridge
- Rainbow Mountain Tour: One of Peru’s most unique landscapes
These activities help you adjust to the altitude while exploring the region.
Balance Payment in Cusco
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 1 or 2 days before your tour.
We recommend payment in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. ATMs are available along Avenida Sol.
Credit/debit cards and PayPal are also accepted, with a 5% service fee applied.
Bank checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted.
Duffel Bag Information
You will receive a duffel bag during your briefing.
- Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm
- Weight limit:Â 6 kg (13 lb), including personal items
Our porters will carry your bag during the trek.
Luggage Storage
You may store your main luggage at your hotel or coordinate storage with us during your briefing.
We recommend keeping valuables in the hotel safe and requesting a receipt if needed for insurance purposes.
Machu Picchu Entry Circuits
Machu Picchu uses timed entry tickets and fixed circuits to preserve the site.
- Circuit 1:Â Panoramic viewpoints
- Circuit 2:Â Main citadel route
- Circuit 3:Â Lower sector and temples
For Inca Trail tours, the visit is usually assigned to Circuit 3 in the morning, depending on availability.
Re-entry is not allowed after exiting the site.
Pick-Up Information
All pick-ups are from your hotel in Cusco. We recommend staying in the historic center.
Pick-up times are confirmed the day before and may vary slightly.
If your hotel is not accessible by vehicle, we will arrange a nearby meeting point.
Return from Machu Picchu
After your visit, you will take the bus to Aguas Calientes (approximately 25 minutes).
You will then take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco.
Please arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure.
Group Tours
Group tours include travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.
Strikes and Demonstrations
Occasionally, local strikes may affect transportation schedules. In such cases, Info Machu Picchu will adjust logistics as needed, always prioritizing your safety.
Personal Belongings
You are responsible for your personal items at all times. Please check your belongings after each stop and avoid leaving items unattended during the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it’s a great option if you want to experience the Inca Trail in less time while still visiting key sites and enjoying the full arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. It combines culture, scenic hiking, and a well-balanced itinerary ideal for travelers with limited time.
The 3-day trek combines the Sacred Valley with the Short Inca Trail, while the 4-day trek is a longer and more physically demanding experience. This option allows you to enjoy the highlights of the trail with less hiking time and more comfort.
The trek is considered moderate, with some uphill sections and around 12 km of hiking on the second day. It’s suitable for travelers with a reasonable fitness level and those comfortable walking for several hours at altitude.
Yes, permits are required and availability is limited, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid missing this unique trekking experience.
The tour includes transport, guide, train tickets, accommodation, meals, and entrance to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. Some additional costs, like the Sacred Valley tourist ticket, are not included and must be purchased separately.
Yes, both hikes are available as optional add-ons and require separate entrance tickets. Due to limited availability, it’s important to book these in advance when confirming your tour reservation.
You should bring comfortable hiking clothes, proper walking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, and a small backpack. Packing light but efficiently will help you enjoy the trek more comfortably and safely.
You will stay one night in Ollantaytambo and one night in Aguas Calientes in comfortable hotels. These accommodations provide a good balance of rest, location, and convenience before and after the trek.
The best time is during the dry season from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and ideal for hiking. However, the trek operates most of the year except in February when the trail is closed.
It’s recommended to book at least 2 to 3 months in advance, especially during high season. Permits for the Inca Trail are limited and often sell out quickly due to high demand.
Starting From: USD 619 per person
Trip details:
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