Cusco & the Short Inca Trail Tour

6 Days

From $ 789

About this SAAT Travel tour: Cusco & the Short Inca Trail

This is a great tour for those with restricted travel time, and proves that it is actually possible to travel to Peru, see Cusco, do a short version of the Inca Trail, marvel at Machu Picchu and return home all in one week! The Inca Trail represents the pinnacle of Peruvian adventure tourism, and with stunning scenery and some thought provoking history to keep you occupied on your way to the amazing ruins of Machu Picchu, it is not hard to see why. At South America Adventure Travel we value your safety above all else and only use the best providers while still offering excellent prices for exceptional tours. So, if you’re intent on experiencing the ultimate Inca Trail on your journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu, then this South America Adventure Travel tour is for you. All tours can be tailor-made to suit your individual travel aspirations.

Travel to Machu Picchu and Cusco for less with South America Adventure Travel

Day 1
To The Ancient Andean Capital

Lima to Cusco
As you arrive at the airport in Lima we'll be waiting to assist you with your flight to Cusco. The flight takes about an hour, and as soon as you arrive our guide in the ancient Andean capital will be waiting to meet you and let you know what to expect during your tour. You'll then be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in, acclimatize, and spend the rest of the day unwinding and exploring the area around the city centre. Cusco is a great place to let your hair down in the evening, enjoy a few cold beverages, and the festive company of fellow travelers and locals - be sure to ask your travel specialist for a list of good restaurants and bars in the area.

Day 2
Historical Highlights of Cusco

Cusco
After a hearty breakfast you'll be collected for a guided tour of Cusco and the surrounding area. A city unlike any other, Cusco is both an historical tour de force and a cultural hot-spot - in no other place is the clash of historical civilizations more evident. On the tour you'll witness the many interesting icons that define the city, such as the colonial cathedral, the Temple of the Sun, Sacsayhuaman, and the Korikancha. The essence of the tour is to give you an idea of the depth of the city's awe-inspiring history, while at the same time letting you take in some breathtaking sights. The tour moves through the city's different cultural epochs and gives a fascinating insight into the staggering clashes of cultural history for which Cusco is renowned. Following the tour you'll be free to relax and enjoy the city and its nightlife at your leisure. (Meals - B)

Day 3
Vilcanota and the Sacred Valley

Sacred Valley
After enjoying a good breakfast in your hotel you'll be met by a South America Adventure Travel guide for your tour and transfer to the Sacred Valley (T/Th/Su). An hour and a half away from Cusco, this leg of the tour is a little more relaxed as it takes in the breathtaking landscapes of the Urubamba Valley and the dominating ruins of Pisac and Ollantaytambo. The first stop is Pisac and its local market, where you will be able to mingle with the local residents and browse the colorful handicrafts on offer. Following this you will be led to the Sonesta Posada to enjoy a delicious lunch amidst the impressive landscape. After lunch your guide will lead you to the imposing ruins of Ollantaytambo before taking you to your cozy hotel in the valley where you'll be able to enjoy an easygoing evening. If you wish to return to Cusco for the night you will also visit the village of Chinchero. (Meals - B, L)

Day 4
Short Inca Trail from Chachabamba

Inca Trail
Today you will begin your two-day Inca Trail trek. Following breakfast you'll be collected from your hotel and transported to Chachabamba, an impressive ruin complex, where you will have time to explore before beginning a four-hour ascent boasting unbelievable views over the surrounding valley. You then head down to Winaywayna where lunch will be served next to the river. After lunch you'll be given some time to explore the Winaywayna complex before undertaking the last and most impressive part of the trail up to the Sun Gate. It is here that you will have your first, and very likely, best view of Machu Picchu at sunset. You then head down to Aguas Calientes where the evening is set aside for you to spend at your leisure. *Please note: Accommodation in a comfortable local hostel is included in the package. Ask your travel specialist about hotel upgrade options. (Meals - B, L)

Day 5
Citadel in the Clouds

Machu Picchu
After an early breakfast you'll head back to Machu Picchu for the day. With majestic ruins set amongst the staggering peaks of the surrounding mountains, Machu Picchu offers a profound experience and indescribable views. Fill your lungs with the clear mountain air and ponder the enormity of what was achieved here all those centuries ago. During the day you'll be taken on a guided tour of the site where you'll have the chance to ask an expert all your questions, like just how the Inca built all this without the use of the wheel! You'll also have plenty of time to roam free, to sit and contemplate and to soak up the unique atmosphere of this ancient place. In the afternoon you'll take a bus back to Aguas Calientes from where you'll return by train to Cusco and be transferred to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. (Meals - B)

Day 6
Return to Lima and End of Tour

Lima and home
Fuel up on a hearty breakfast in preparation for your trip to Lima, or onwards to another one of South America Adventure Travel's extraordinary Latin American travel destinations. You'll be transferred to the airport in Cusco, taking with you incredible memories of the experiences shared with us in Peru. The team at SAAT would like to thank you for the opportunity to organize your Peruvian Vacation. (Meals - B)