Tour Overview
The Sacred Valley + Short Inka Trail + Rainbow Mountain 4 Days / 3 Nights tour is a complete adventure through some of the most iconic destinations in the Cusco region. This itinerary combines Inca history, traditional Andean culture, scenic trekking, and spectacular mountain landscapes in one unforgettable experience.
Over four days, you will explore the Sacred Valley, hike the Short Inka Trail to Machu Picchu, and visit the famous Rainbow Mountain. It is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the best of Cusco in a short amount of time. If you prefer a longer Machu Picchu-focused itinerary, you can also consider the Machu Picchu Tour Package 5 Days.
Why Choose This Tour?
- Combine the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain in one itinerary
- Experience the Short Inka Trail with access to important archaeological sites
- Visit traditional Andean towns and Inca ruins
- Enjoy a balanced mix of culture, trekking, and scenery
- Ideal for travelers who want a multi-destination experience in 4 days
Departure & Return Location: Cusco Hotel Transfer
Departure Time: 06:00 AM
What’s Included
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 82 (Expedition train tickets)
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition train tickets)
- Bus trip from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- All transportation in destination location
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu citadel
- Breakfast during the second, third, and fourth days
- Professional tour guide
Not Included
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional). You can include it with the Machu Picchu Huayna Picchu Tour
- Hotel in Cusco
- Any private expenses
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Cusco Tourist Ticket
Recommended to Carry
- Original passport
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Peruvian soles in cash
- Water bottle and snacks
- Camera
What to Expect
This tour combines cultural visits, moderate trekking, archaeological exploration, and high-altitude mountain scenery. You can expect early departures, scenic drives, train journeys, and rewarding hiking experiences through some of the most remarkable landscapes in Peru.
You will visit important Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu through archaeological remains and mountain scenery, discover Machu Picchu, and finish with a full-day excursion to Rainbow Mountain.
This program is best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and a desire to explore multiple highlights of the Cusco region in a short itinerary.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the Sacred Valley and its Inca heritage
- Visit Chinchero and Ollantaytambo
- Hike the Short Inka Trail to Machu Picchu
- Discover Machu Picchu with guided assistance
- Visit the colorful Rainbow Mountain
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Chinchero – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo
The tour begins early in the morning with departure from Cusco toward the Sacred Valley. Your first stop is Chinchero, where you can explore the Andean town and discover local handmade textiles and traditional culture.
Afterward, continue through the Sacred Valley, with lunch in Urubamba, before visiting the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo, one of the most important Inca archaeological sites in the region. You can also explore this route with the Sacred Valley Full Day Tour.
After the visit, enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Ollantaytambo in preparation for the Short Inka Trail on the following day.
Day 2: Ollantaytambo – Short Inka Trail – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Start early with the train from Ollantaytambo to the starting point of the Short Inka Trail. Along the hike, you will pass through beautiful Andean landscapes and visit archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
Later in the day, arrive at Machu Picchu and experience this iconic site before descending to Aguas Calientes, where you will have dinner and spend the night.
Approximate trekking distance: 10 km
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Begin the day early with a visit to Machu Picchu. Depending on the operation of the tour, you may have guided time, free time to explore, and the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (extra cost and subject to availability).
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by transfer to Cusco. If you prefer a shorter visit option, you can also check the Machu Picchu Day Trip from Cusco.
Day 4: Cusco – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco
On the final day, depart early from Cusco for a full-day excursion to Rainbow Mountain. The route passes through scenic Andean landscapes and local communities before reaching the starting point of the hike.
After the trek, enjoy time at Rainbow Mountain to admire the views and take photos before returning to Cusco. You can also explore this destination with the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any physical requirements for the tour?
Yes. The tour includes hiking and trekking activities, so participants should have a reasonable level of fitness.
Do I need travel insurance for the tour?
Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected situations during the trip.
Are there altitude sickness precautions during the tour?
The tour includes high-altitude destinations, so acclimatization in Cusco before departure is recommended.
How difficult is the Short Inka Trail?
The Short Inka Trail is moderately difficult and includes uphill and downhill sections, but it is suitable for many travelers with good general fitness.