Short Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Adventure

Welcome to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire, sitting at 3,400m (11,150ft) above sea level. 

Step into a world where ancient history and vibrant culture collide. Cusco, the former heart of the Inca Empire, welcomes you with its crisp mountain air and stunning panoramic views. 

• Private Airport Transfer – Your Vamoso Travel Guide welcomes you upon arrival and ensures a smooth transfer to your accommodation.
• Cusco Walking Tour – Embark on a captivating walking tour that unveils Cusco’s layered history. Wander through cobblestone streets, where the foundations of Inca palaces support elegant colonial mansions, creating a unique architectural tapestry.
  • Plaza de Armas – The heart of Cusco, surrounded by impressive cathedrals.
  • San Pedro Market – A colorful market offering local delicacies, fresh produce, and handmade crafts.
  • Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) – A stunning Inca temple once covered in gold.
• Personalized Briefing – Meet your Vamoso Travel Guide for a rundown of your itinerary, optional activities, and travel tips.

Overnight in Cusco

Venture into the breathtaking Sacred Valley, once the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire.

Leave the city behind and journey into the lush landscapes of the Sacred Valley, a region of stunning natural beauty and ancient agricultural terraces. This fertile valley, fed by the Urubamba River, was the breadbasket of the Inca Empire.

• Pisac Ruins & Market – Admire ancient terraces, ceremonial temples, and intricate stonework.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress – A massive Inca stronghold built into the mountainside, once a key defensive site against Spanish conquest.
• Cultural Immersion – Engage with the living culture of the Andes by visiting traditional villages, where you can witness the intricate art of Andean weaving and savor the flavors of authentic Peruvian cuisine. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people and gain a deeper understanding of their rich heritage.

Overnight in Ollantaytambo

Begin your journey at KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail, and hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes.

• Embark on a captivating trek along the ancient paths of the Incas, starting at KM 104. Feel the excitement build as you step onto the trail, where every turn reveals stunning vistas of the Andean highlands. The air is crisp, the scenery is spectacular, and the adventure has begun.
• Discover the intriguing ruins of Chachabamba, an important Inca site that offers a glimpse into the past. Continue your ascent to Wiñay Wayna, a remarkable archaeological complex featuring intricately designed cascading terraces. Marvel at the ingenuity of Inca engineering and the beauty of this ancient site.
• Experience the thrill of reaching Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, and witness your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu. This is a moment you’ll cherish forever, as the Lost City of the Incas unfolds before your eyes in all its majestic glory. The feeling is magical, and the pictures do not do it justice.

After your exhilarating hike, descend into the charming town of Aguas Calientes, nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu. Take some time to relax, explore the local shops, or soak in the soothing hot springs. Prepare for the grand adventure that awaits you tomorrow.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes

Prepare for an unforgettable day as you explore the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

• Embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, royal quarters, and terraces, and learn about the fascinating history and mysteries of this ancient citadel.
• Return to Cusco – Take the scenic train ride back, where your Vamoso Travel Guide ensures a smooth journey.

Overnight in Cusco

Begin your day with an early departure from Cusco, embarking on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Andean highlands. Pass through charming villages and witness herds of alpacas grazing in the fields, capturing the essence of rural Andean life.

• Embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek to Vinicunca, the Rainbow Mountain. As you ascend to 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of multicolored layers, a natural wonder formed by mineral deposits over millions of years. The views are simply breathtaking.
• For those craving an extra dose of adventure, opt for an extension to the Red Valley. This surreal, Mars-like landscape, rarely visited by crowds, offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Return to Cusco: Enjoy a well-earned rest as you make your way back to Cusco in the afternoon.

Overnight in Cusco

Savor your final moments in Cusco, enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace. Wander through the vibrant local markets, sip rich Peruvian coffee in a cozy café, or revisit any favorite sites.

As your incredible journey through Peru comes to an end, depart at your convenience, carrying with you a treasure trove of unforgettable memories. Your adventure may be over, but the memories will last a lifetime.