tour highlights
Chachabamba Ruins
Wiñayhuayna Ruins
Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Cloud Forest
Machu Picchu 3-Day Trek
Professional Guide
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 3 Days / 2 Nights – Overview
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 3 Days / 2 Nights is an unforgettable trekking experience through the spectacular Andes of Cusco. This adventure combines ancient Inca pathways, impressive archaeological sites, lush cloud forests, and breathtaking mountain scenery before reaching the legendary Machu Picchu.
Unlike the longer Classic Inca Trail, this 3-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a shorter and more accessible trekking experience while still including some of the most remarkable sections of the historic Inca Trail. Along the route, you’ll explore ancient Inca ruins, walk through the cloud forest, visit Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, and enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
The journey begins in Cusco, passes through Ollantaytambo and the KM 104 trailhead, and culminates with a guided visit to Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco by train and tourist transportation. It is an excellent option for travelers looking for a short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu without committing to the demanding 4-day Classic Inca Trail.
Duration
3 Days / 2 NightsDifficulty
Moderate to ChallengingStarting Point
Cusco HotelAltitude
2,650 m / 8,694 ft (Sun Gate / Inti Punku)Group Size
Small GroupsLanguage
English & SpanishTransportation
Tourist Transportation IncludedGuide
Professional Inca Trail Trekking GuideShort Inca Trail 3 Days – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cachicata – Sun Gate – Ollantaytambo
Your 3-Day Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu begins early with hotel pickup in Cusco at approximately 5:00 AM. We'll travel by tourist transportation toward Ollantaytambo, where you'll have time to enjoy breakfast and prepare for the day's adventure.
Cusco – Ollantaytambo
Travel from Cusco toward Ollantaytambo, where you'll have time to enjoy breakfast and prepare for the day's hiking adventure.
Ollantaytambo – Cachicata
From Ollantaytambo, continue toward Cachicata, a less-traveled area surrounded by spectacular Andean landscapes. During the hike, explore ancient Inca quarries and archaeological remains that provide insight into the remarkable stonework and construction techniques of the Inca civilization.
Cachicata – Sun Gate
Continue ascending through impressive mountain scenery until reaching the Sun Gate, a spectacular natural viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Sun Gate – Ollantaytambo
After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, descend toward Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner and spend the night at comfortable accommodation, allowing you to rest and prepare for the following day's trek.
Day 2: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Start the second day early at approximately 5:30 AM and board the train toward KM 104, the starting point of this section of the Short Inca Trail. After completing the entrance procedures, begin hiking through the spectacular cloud forest.
Ollantaytambo – KM 104
Board the train from Ollantaytambo toward KM 104. After completing the necessary entrance procedures, begin your Short Inca Trail adventure through the cloud forest.
KM 104 – Chachabamba
Begin hiking along the ancient Inca Trail through lush vegetation, mountain scenery, waterfalls, and impressive archaeological remains. The first major archaeological stop is Chachabamba, an important Inca ceremonial and administrative site located along the route.
Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna
Continue ascending through the cloud forest toward Wiñayhuayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the Short Inca Trail.
Explore its beautifully preserved agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and remarkable Inca stone architecture.
Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate
After exploring Wiñayhuayna and taking a short break, continue toward Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From this iconic viewpoint, enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Continue descending toward the archaeological sanctuary and explore selected areas of Machu Picchu according to your assigned entrance circuit and schedule.
After the visit, take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you'll enjoy dinner and spend the night at a comfortable hotel.
Day 3: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The final day begins early at approximately 4:30 AM. After breakfast, take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, arriving early to make the most of your visit.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
After breakfast, board the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Your professional guide will lead you through the archaeological sanctuary according to the circuit and entrance time assigned to your Machu Picchu ticket.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
During the guided tour, discover some of the most important sectors of the ancient Inca citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, Sacred Rock, and other remarkable architectural features.
Free Time at Machu Picchu
After the guided tour, you'll have free time, depending on your entrance ticket and schedule, to continue exploring or visit an additional mountain such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, if previously reserved and available.
Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
At the appropriate time, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding your scheduled train to Ollantaytambo.
Enjoy spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley during the train journey.
Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo train station, our transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. Arrival is expected at approximately 8:00 PM, marking the end of your unforgettable Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 3-Day Tour.
Inclusions
Included
- Pre-trek briefing at your hotel one day before the hike, approximately at 6:00 PM.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco for transportation to Ollantaytambo.
- Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
- Professional Spanish-speaking Inca Trail guide.
- Meals during the trek: 1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, and 1 dinner. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen carried by the trekking team.
- Tourist Expedition train tickets for the Ollantaytambo / KM 104 – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo route.
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Short Inca Trail permit and entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Sanctuary.
- Approximately 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 2.
- Round-trip shuttle bus service between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- 1 night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance: additional US$75 per person. Advance reservation of at least 3 months is recommended.
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes. You can choose from various restaurants and dining options in town.
- Vistadome Train upgrade: additional US$67 per person.
- Tips for the guide, porters, cook, and other trekking staff.
- Personal expenses and services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations
- Bring your original passport or valid identification document.
- Wear comfortable and lightweight trekking clothing with layers suitable for changing weather conditions.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes or hiking boots with good traction.
- Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, especially during the rainy season.
- Use sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat or cap for protection from the sun and insects.
- Carry a small daypack with only the essential items needed during the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and energy snacks for the hiking sections.
- Carry some Peruvian soles in cash for small purchases and personal expenses.
- Follow your professional guide's instructions and respect all regulations established for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Get a good night's rest before the trek to ensure you are physically prepared for the hiking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Short Inca Trail 3 Days to Machu Picchu generally includes transportation, a professional trekking guide, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance permits, meals, accommodation, and the services specified in the itinerary. Additional costs may include personal expenses, snacks, drinks, tips, trekking equipment rentals, and optional experiences such as Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, which require an additional entrance ticket and advance reservation.
Advance booking is strongly recommended because permits for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are limited and can sell out quickly. We recommend booking several months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season from May to September. Early booking helps secure your preferred travel date and gives you enough time to prepare for the trek and organize your flights and transportation.
The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is generally from May to September, during Peru's dry season. During these months, rainfall is usually lower and trail conditions are more favorable for hiking. However, this is also the busiest travel period, so booking your Inca Trail permit well in advance is highly recommended. April and October can be good shoulder-season alternatives with fewer visitors.
Medication for altitude sickness is not automatically required and should only be considered with appropriate medical advice. The best preparation is to acclimatize in Cusco for at least 1–2 days, stay well hydrated, rest properly, avoid excessive alcohol, and maintain a comfortable hiking pace. Coca tea is traditionally consumed in the Andes, although it should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment. If you experience significant altitude-related symptoms, inform your guide immediately.
If you are unable to continue the Short Inca Trail due to physical exhaustion, altitude-related symptoms, or another health concern, your professional guide will assess the situation and coordinate the safest available option. Depending on the location and circumstances, this may include returning along the trail or arranging alternative transportation where available. We strongly recommend having travel insurance with trekking and emergency medical coverage.
Yes. The 3-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can be a good option for travelers with limited trekking experience, provided they have a reasonable level of physical fitness. The route includes uphill and downhill sections, so comfortable hiking shoes, proper preparation, and acclimatization in Cusco are recommended.
Yes, depending on availability and the type of Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require separate entrance tickets and specific entry times. These additional hikes have limited availability, so they should be reserved well in advance. Your guide can help you coordinate the visit according to your Machu Picchu schedule.
$550 USD
Por qué reservar con nosotros
- Operador turístico local
- Guías profesionales licenciados
- Experiencia en grupos pequeños
- Mejor precio garantizado
- Soporte 24/7
Camino Inca a Machu Picchu 3 Dias
Descripción
El Tour Camino Inca a Machu Picchu de 3 días y 2 noches es una travesía inolvidable por los Andes peruanos, en la región de Cusco. Este recorrido te lleva por senderos ancestrales rodeados de montañas, valles y bosques nubosos llenos de biodiversidad. Durante la caminata, atravesarás paisajes impresionantes y experimentarás cambios de altitud y clima. Con el apoyo de guías expertos, disfrutarás de campamentos estratégicos antes de culminar en la majestuosa ciudadela inca, una recompensa única tras el esfuerzo.
Día 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cachicata – Puerta del Sol – Ollantaytambo
El recorrido inicia a las 5:00 a.m. con el recojo desde Cusco en transporte turístico hacia Ollantaytambo. Tras un desayuno energético, nos dirigimos a Cachicata, una ruta menos transitada con vistas impresionantes. Durante la caminata, exploramos antiguas canteras incas y restos arqueológicos que ofrecen una visión del proceso de construcción de Machu Picchu. El ascenso nos lleva a la Puerta del Sol, un mirador natural con panorámicas espectaculares de los valles y montañas circundantes. Luego de un tiempo para el descanso y las fotos, descendemos nuevamente hacia Ollantaytambo, donde disfrutaremos de una cena y descansaremos en un hospedaje cómodo. Este día permite una excelente aclimatación y preparación para la siguiente etapa del recorrido.
Día 2: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
A las 5:30 a.m, abordamos el tren con destino al KM 104, punto de inicio de nuestra caminata. Desde aquí, seguimos el sendero del Camino Inca, atravesando paisajes montañosos y el exuberante bosque nuboso. La primera parada es en el complejo arqueológico de Chachabamba, una estructura inca clave. Luego, ascendemos hasta Wiñayhuayna, uno de los sitios más impresionantes del recorrido, con terrazas agrícolas y arquitectura bien conservada. Tras un descanso, seguimos hacia la Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku), desde donde tendremos la primera vista panorámica de Machu Picchu. Posteriormente, descendemos a la ciudadela, donde exploramos una parte de sus construcciones. Finalizada la visita, tomamos el bus hacia Aguas Calientes, donde cenamos y pasamos la noche en un hospedaje, recargando energías para el último día.
Día 3: Machu Picchu – Cusco
A las 4:30 a.m, iniciamos el ascenso en bus hacia Machu Picchu, llegando antes del amanecer para presenciar el amanecer sobre la ciudadela. Con un guía experto, realizamos un recorrido detallado por los principales sectores del sitio arqueológico, incluyendo el Templo del Sol, la Plaza Sagrada y la Roca Sagrada. Luego, se brinda tiempo libre para explorar por cuenta propia o ascender a Huayna Picchu o la Montaña Machu Picchu (según disponibilidad). Al mediodía, descendemos a Aguas Calientes para almorzar y tomar el tren de retorno a Ollantaytambo. Desde allí, abordamos un transporte privado con destino a Cusco, llegando aproximadamente a las 8:00 p.m, culminando así esta inolvidable travesía por el Camino Inca.
INCLUYE
- Reunión informativa en su hotel un día antes de la caminata aproximadamente a las 6:00 p.m.
- Recojo del hotel para salir de la ciudad y dirigirnos a Ollantaytambo.
- Transporte turístico privado desde Cusco / Ollantaytambo.
- Guía profesional de habla español.
- Comidas a lo largo del Camino (1 desayuno, 1 box lunch, 1 cena (opcional: vegetariano, opción celíaca bajo petición).
- Botiquín de primeros auxilios, incluyendo tanque de oxígeno de emergencia.
- Boleto de tren turístico expedition Ollantaytambo / km 104 - Aguas Calientes / Ollantaytambo.
- Transporte privado Desde Ollantaytambo / Cusco.
- Permiso para el Camino Inca corto y boleto de ingreso al Complejo Arqueológico de Machu Picchu.
- Tour guiado de dos horas en Machu Picchu el segundo día.
- Boleto de bus Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes – Aguas Calientes / Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes.
- noche Hotel en Aguas Calientes.
NO INCLUYE
- Montaña Huayna Picchu: + $75 USD – hay que reservar con mínimo 3 meses de anticipación.
- Último almuerzo en Aguas Calientes. (Puedes elegir diferentes opciones en el pueblo).
- Tren VISTADOME – + $67 USD por persona.
- Propinas para el Guía, Porteadores, cocinero y porteadores.
RECOMENDACIONES
- Llevar pasaporte o documento de identidad vigente.
- Usar ropa cómoda y ligera para el trekking, con capas para cambios de clima.
- Llevar zapatos de trekking con buena tracción.
- Portar poncho o impermeable en temporada de lluvias.
- Usar bloqueador solar, repelente de insectos y sombrero.
- Llevar una mochila pequeña con artículos esenciales.
- Portar botella reutilizable con agua y snacks energéticos.
- Tener efectivo en soles para compras pequeñas.
- Respetar las indicaciones del guía y las normas del Camino Inca.
- Descansar bien antes del viaje para un mejor rendimiento físico.
Preguntas Frecuentes
¿Qué incluye el tour y qué gastos adicionales debo considerar?
El tour generalmente incluye transporte, guía profesional, entradas a Machu Picchu, alimentación, equipo de campamento y porteadores. No suele incluir bastones de trekking, bolsa de dormir, propinas ni gastos personales como snacks, bebidas o recuerdos. Además, si deseas subir a Huayna Picchu o Machu Picchu Montaña, hay un costo adicional.
¿Es necesario reservar con anticipación?
Sí, es muy recomendable reservar con meses de anticipación, especialmente en temporada alta (mayo-septiembre). Las entradas al Camino Inca son limitadas y tienen gran demanda. Al reservar con anticipación, garantizas tu cupo y puedes planificar mejor tu viaje, incluyendo la aclimatación y la compra de vuelos o transporte.
¿Cuál es la mejor época para hacer el Camino Inca?
¿Es necesario tomar pastillas para el mal de altura?
No es obligatorio, pero es recomendable si no estás acostumbrado a la altitud. Cusco está a 3,400 m.s.n.m., y en la caminata se alcanzan alturas similares. Para prevenir el mal de altura, se aconseja aclimatarse en Cusco por al menos 2 días, beber mate de coca, mantenerse hidratado y evitar comidas pesadas antes de la caminata.
¿Qué pasa si no puedo completar la caminata?
Si no puedes continuar por problemas físicos o de salud, el guía evaluará la situación y ofrecerá opciones, como regresar a Cusco o tomar un transporte alternativo si es posible. Es importante contar con un seguro de viaje que cubra emergencias médicas. La aclimatación y un buen estado físico ayudarán a minimizar el riesgo de abandono.
Nuestros Clientes Opinan
3D/2N
PRECIO DESDE
$ 550.00
por persona
Lugares para visitar:
Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Puerta del Sol, Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes.
El viaje comienza en:
Cusco en tu hotel
Tamaño de Grupo:
14
Nivel Fisico:
1
Estilo del Tour:
1
Distancia Recorrida:
30 Km
Salidas:
Salidas diarias
Comidas:
2 B, 2 D, 2 L