Machu Picchu, Huchuy Qosqo & Short Inca Trail 4-Day Tour

Embark on the Short Inca Trail to uncover the ancient city of the Incas through a four-day trek leading to Machu Picchu. Experience the key landmarks around Cusco, retracing the path of King Manco Inca as he navigated the rugged mountains.

4-Day Tour: Machu Picchu, Huchuy Qosqo & Short Inca Trail

Day 1: Cusco - Tambomachay - Pucamarca

Your adventure commences at 7 am with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. After a brief 20-minute drive, we arrive at the archaeological site of Tambomachay, where a four-hour trek begins, leading us towards Koriccocha lagoon. During this journey, you will encounter the diverse Peruvian wildlife, including llamas and alpacas, alongside breathtaking vistas of the Cusco mountains.

A picnic lunch beside the lagoon precedes our continuation for three more hours through picturesque high Andean villages until we reach Pucamarca, situated at 3800 meters (12467 ft.) above sea level. Here, we will set up camp for the night.

Day 2: Pucamarca - Huchuy Qosqo - Ollantaytambo

Awakening to stunning views of the Pucamarca valley, we enjoy breakfast before commencing a one-hour hike towards the renowned Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first destination is the archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, known as "Little Cusco" in Quechua. This site showcases numerous Inca stone and adobe constructions set upon the terraced mountainsides, creating a captivating landscape.

Post-exploration of Huchuy Qosqo, we descend to Lamay, nestled along the Urubamba River, where we will savor a traditional Peruvian dish known as pachamanca, cooked on heated stones. Following our meal, we board a bus to Ollantaytambo, the last Inca stronghold, with the opportunity to wander its historic streets. We will retire for the night in a local hotel.

Day 3: Ollantaytambo - Chachabamba - Aguas Calientes

On the third day, we rise early to embark on the first train to Chachabamba, marking the start of the Short Inca Trail. It is believed that Manco Inca, the final ruler of the Inca Empire, marched this route in reverse, leading his forces against Francisco Pizarro's troops in Cusco. Our trek spans approximately seven hours, taking us past the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna and through the valley’s inspiring waterfalls.

After lunch, we proceed to Inti Punku, known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, where spectacular views of the citadel await you. Take the afternoon at your leisure to explore the magic of this legendary ancient city, culminating in the enchanting experience of a sunset at Machu Picchu. As the day winds down, we enjoy dinner in Aguas Calientes and settle for the night at our lodging.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes - Cusco

Following breakfast at the hotel, we will take the first bus back to Machu Picchu. This day is dedicated to a hike to the Inca Bridge, a strategic point once serving to protect the city from invaders. Subsequently, a guided tour of Machu Picchu reveals the mysteries of its temples, palaces, and altars made of stone.

After the tour, enjoy free time to further survey the sanctuary or take a hiking path along the mountains of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu.

Subsequent to our exploration, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo, where you'll relish the stunning valley views. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a bus will be ready to transport us back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time at your hotel around 7:30 pm.

Important Information

In the event of cancellations due to strikes or adverse weather conditions, we will offer an alternative date for your tour. If rescheduling is not possible, you will receive a full refund, excluding the non-refundable entrance fees for the Inca Trail (approximately 222 PEN).

Accommodation Details

The itinerary includes three nights of full-board accommodation:

• First night: camping facilities
• Second night: 3-star hotel in Ollantaytambo
• Third night: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

Alternative Routes

If you're short on time but still keen on exploring, consider the Huchuy Qosqo 2-Day Trek or the 2-day hike along the Inca Trail.