4-Day Machu Picchu Tour: Cusco, Sacred Valley & 2-Day Inca Trail

4-Day Machu Picchu Tour: What to Expect

Duration: This tour runs for 4 days and 3 nights.

Destinations: You’ll visit Cusco City, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu by way of the 2-Day Inca Trail Trek.

Main Activities: Enjoy guided sightseeing, explore archaeological sites, experience local culture, and trek along ancient Inca paths to Machu Picchu.

Trekking: The 2-Day Inca Trail starts at Km 104 and follows ancient Inca paths through the Andean cloud forest. On the way, you’ll stop at the impressive Wiñay Wayna archaeological site before arriving at Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate.

Difficulty: This tour is considered moderate. Expect about 6 to 7 hours of walking, including uphill and downhill sections, stairs, and varied terrain. We recommend a reasonable level of fitness.

Altitude: Cusco is about 3,400 m (11,155 ft) above sea level, while the Sacred Valley is lower at around 2,750 m (9,022 ft) in the areas you’ll visit. The 2-Day Inca Trail begins at Km 104, roughly 2,100 m (6,890 ft), climbs through the cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna at about 2,650 m (8,694 ft), and reaches the Sun Gate at around 2,720 m (8,924 ft), before descending to Machu Picchu at about 2,430 m (7,972 ft).

Acclimatization: The tour starts in Cusco and then moves to the lower elevations of the Sacred Valley before the trek. This schedule helps you start adjusting to the altitude. If possible, try to arrive in Cusco 1 to 2 days before the tour, especially if you are coming from a low-altitude area.

Accommodation: The tour includes 3 nights in carefully selected hotels in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Machu Picchu Pueblo, according to the itinerary.

Best Season: April to October generally offers the driest conditions and is the most popular period for trekking. You can also enjoy the 2-Day Inca Trail in other months, although rain and weather conditions can be more variable.

Group Size: You’ll travel in small groups of up to 8 people, with private departures available if you prefer. Smaller groups mean more personal attention and a closer connection with your guide.

Permits & Tickets: Entrance fees for the Cusco tour, Sacred Valley visits, 2-Day Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu entrance tickets are included and arranged by our team. Before confirming the tour, we always check Inca Trail permit availability, as they must be booked in advance.

Transportation: You’ll travel in comfortable, modern minivans for all scheduled tours and transfers. Train services and all transportation needed for your Machu Picchu visit are also arranged according to the tour schedule.

Why Travel with Champions Peru Travel?

Choosing the right local tour company matters when your trip includes the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and details like transportation and permits. At Champions Peru Travel, we use our local knowledge, official approval, experienced team, personal service, and reliable planning to make your trip easy and enjoyable from beginning to end.

100% Local Expertise: We are a local tour Operator based in Cusco, Peru. Our team knows the area well, from the famous sites and mountain trails to the practical side of getting around Cusco and Machu Picchu. This local experience helps us create real, memorable trips and support you every step of the way.

Fully Licensed & Authorized: Your Inca Trail adventure should be managed by an authorized company. Champions Peru Travel has all the licenses and official approvals needed to run tours and services in Peru. We take care of your permits, tickets, and all the details so you can travel without worries

Experienced Local Guides: Our guides are at the heart of your trip. They are well-trained and know Peru’s history, archaeology, culture, and traditions from personal experience. During your journey, they share what they know, answer your questions, and help you along the way.

Small Groups, Personalized Service: We keep our groups small, with no more than 8 travelers. This gives you more personal attention, better chances to talk with your guide, and a more relaxed trip. If you want a fully private experience, we also offer private tours.

Porter Support & Duffle Bag: On the 2-Day Inca Trail, a porter carries your main bag so you only need to hike with a small daypack. We give you a duffle bag for what you need overnight in Machu Picchu Pueblo. With less to carry, you can enjoy the hike and the views more comfortably.

Fresh Picnic Lunch Prepared on the Trail: Our trekking chef comes with the group and makes a fresh picnic lunch on the Inca Trail. You’ll enjoy a homemade meal at Wiñay Wayna, surrounded by beautiful Andean scenery, before heading to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.

We Take Care of the Logistics: A trip to Machu Picchu has many moving parts. Our team handles everything, from permits and tickets to transport, trains, hotels, and transfers, so you can just enjoy your adventure.

Trusted by Travelers: Our guests’ experiences show our dedication to service. Champions Peru Travel has great reviews on Tripadvisor and Google, with travelers praising our guides, organization, communication, and personal touch.

Personal Support Before & During Your Trip: We start helping you even before you get to Cusco. We give you clear information to get ready for your trip and are always available if you have questions or need help. With our local team nearby, you can travel knowing support is always there.

Local Knowledge. Personal Service. Peru Expertise: When you travel with Champions Peru Travel, you’re not just booking a tour. You’re traveling with a local team that knows Peru well and is committed to making your trip smooth. From your first message to your return to Cusco, our goal is to help you experience Peru with confidence, comfort, and real local insight.

Inca Trail Express 4D/3N: Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco City Tour

Start your adventure with a guided Cusco city tour, perfect for acclimatizing and exploring Peru’s ancient capital. Visit iconic sites like Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), the Cathedral, and the nearby Inca ruins of Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay. This Cusco day tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the blend of Inca and colonial history that defines the heart of the Andes.

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

Venture into the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas on a full-day Sacred Valley tour. Explore the vibrant market and ruins of Pisac, enjoy a local lunch in Urubamba, and uncover the living Inca town of Ollantaytambo with its imposing fortress. This culturally rich day sets the stage for your trek, offering stunning views, archaeological marvels, and deep connections to Inca civilization.

Day 3: Short Inca Trail 

Hike the legendary short Inca Trail, also called the 2 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, a perfect option for those seeking adventure with less physical demand. Starting from KM 104, trek through lush cloud forests, visit the Wiñay Wayna ruins, and arrive at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate in the afternoon—an unforgettable moment of arrival.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco

Begin your final day with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Explore its temples, plazas, and terraces while uncovering its mysteries with your expert guide. After soaking in the experience, return by train and bus to Cusco, completing your once-in-a-lifetime Inca Trail 2-day adventure.