Short Inca Trail, Chinchero, Maras and Moray – Small Group

Set out on a captivating 4-day journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley. Explore the enchanting Short Inca Trail, discover the historic sites of Chinchero, Maras, and Moray, and marvel at the breathtaking views from Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate. This small group adventure offers a chance to take in the rich Inca culture, experience traditional weaving techniques, and savor authentic Peruvian cuisine. With comfortable accommodations and seamless logistics, it’s an opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that few get to experience.

Key Points

• A 4-day small group tour exploring Peru’s Sacred Valley, including hiking a portion of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
• Visits to the ancient Inca ruins of Chinchero, Maras, and Moray, known for their traditional weaving and salt ponds.
• Private vehicle and train transportation provided, with meals and entrance fees included in the tour package.
• Accommodation for 4 nights in a 3-star hotel, with breakfast and some lunches provided.
• A non-refundable policy and moderate fitness level required for this tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 4-day tour offers travelers a chance to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru’s Sacred Valley.

Highlights include hiking a portion of the iconic Inca Trail, visiting the ancient Inca ruins of Chinchero, Maras, and Moray, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Travelers will be transported by private vehicle and train, with meals and entrance fees included.

The moderately challenging hike requires a good level of fitness, but the rewards are panoramic views and a deeper appreciation of Inca culture and heritage.

This small-group tour provides an intimate and immersive experience.

Itinerary: Day 1 – Cusco and Chinchero

Your tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or the airport in Cusco.

You’ll head to the colorful town of Chinchero, known for its Inca ruins and traditional weaving. Here, you’ll visit a local weaving cooperative and learn about the intricate techniques used to create vibrant textiles.

After exploring the Inca archaeological site, you’ll head to the nearby salt ponds of Maras, where you can see the evaporation ponds that have been in use since the Inca era.

Next, you’ll explore the salt ponds of Maras, where evaporation ponds have been used since the Inca era.

Finally, you’ll visit the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, believed to have been an Inca experimental agricultural station.

Itinerary: Day 2 – Maras and Moray

On the second day, the tour continues with a visit to the Maras salt ponds. Guests will explore the terraced salt ponds, each filled with shallow pools of salty water.

They’ll learn about the ancient salt-harvesting techniques still used today.

Next, the group travels to Moray, an impressive Inca archaeological site featuring large, circular terraced depressions.

Experts believe these were experimental agricultural terraces used to study the effects of different climatic conditions on crops.

After exploring Moray, the tour returns to Cusco, concluding the day’s activities.

Itinerary: Day 3 – Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

After exploring the impressive Inca ruins of Moray, the tour moves on to the highlight of the journey – hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Trekkers ascend through lush cloud forest, passing ancient Inca sites and stunning mountain scenery. The trail leads to the Sun Gate, offering the classic Machu Picchu panorama.

Guests then descend to the ruins, touring the iconic citadel with a guide. With ample time to soak in the magic of this wonder of the world, the tour returns to Cusco via train, completing an unforgettable experience.

Accommodations and Meals

Throughout the tour, travelers are provided with 4 nights of accommodation in a 3-star hotel. This includes breakfast on 4 days and lunch on 2 days.

Dinner is also included. The meals offered are a mix of local Peruvian cuisine and international options to cater to various dietary needs.

All transportation, including the train to and from km 104, is covered in the tour price.

Entrance fees to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu are also included, though other entrance fees on the second day are excluded.

Travelers are responsible for tips and any additional meals not stated in the inclusions.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins with pickup from the airport or bus terminal upon arrival in Cusco, providing a seamless start to the journey.

All transportation is included throughout the tour, ensuring a stress-free experience. Guests will travel to the trailhead to begin the Short Inca Trail hike, then take the train to km 104 and return by train at the end.

An optional add-on includes entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain, offering stunning views of Machu Picchu.

The tour also covers entrance fees to Maras and Moray, though these aren’t included on the second day.

Booking and Policy Information

Travelers can receive confirmation of their booking at the time of reservation.

This tour is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate. It’s important to note that the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be issued for cancellations.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are provided.

Travelers should be aware of these policies and requirements before booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This 4-day journey through Peru’s Sacred Valley offers an immersive experience of Inca culture and stunning natural landscapes. Hikers will explore historic sites, marvel at ancient agricultural innovations, and witness the breathtaking vistas of Machu Picchu. With comfortable accommodations and authentic cuisine, this small-group tour provides an enriching and unforgettable exploration of Peru’s enchanting Sacred Valley.