Alternative Treks + Short Inca Trail Combo

Starting From US$ 780 Per Person

Duration

5–7 Days

Group Size

Min 2 People

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Max Altitude

5,100 m

The Ultimate Short Inca Trail Combo By Peru Culture Horizons

Combine the best of Cusco’s alternative treks with the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in one unique package. The Alternative Treks + Short Inca Trail Combo is perfect for travelers who want to experience diverse landscapes, authentic Andean villages, and hidden Inca sites before finishing with the unforgettable walk through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) into Machu Picchu.

Combine the best of Cusco’s alternative treks with the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in one unique package. The Alternative Treks + Short Inca Trail Combo is perfect for travelers who want to experience diverse landscapes, authentic Andean villages, and hidden Inca sites before finishing with the unforgettable walk through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) into Machu Picchu.

With Peru Culture Horizons, you’ll enjoy expert local guides, seamless logistics, and the flexibility to choose from Salkantay, Lares, Huchuy Qosqo, or Choquequirao treks — all combined with the 2-day Short Inca Trail.

  • Duration: 5–7 Days (depending on trek choice)
  • Style: Trekking, adventure, cultural immersion
  • Best For: Active travelers seeking variety + Inca Trail entry to Machu Picchu

👉 The perfect balance of adventure, culture, and history.

Itinerary – Sample Combo Options

  • Option 1: Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail (6D/5N)

    • Days 1–4: Trek across Salkantay Pass (4,650 m) and cloud forest.
    • Day 5: Join the Short Inca Trail, visiting Wiñay Wayna before entering Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
    • Day 6: Guided tour of Machu Picchu, return to Cusco.

  • Option 2: Lares Trek + Short Inca Trail (5D/4N)

    • Days 1–3: Explore Andean villages, hot springs, and mountain passes.
    • Day 4: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Sun Gate entry).
    • Day 5: Machu Picchu guided tour, return to Cusco.

  • Option 3: Huchuy Qosqo Trek + Short Inca Trail (5D/4N)

    • Days 1–2: Trek through the Sacred Valley to the Huchuy Qosqo ruins.
    • Day 3: Short Inca Trail hike.
    • Day 4: Machu Picchu guided tour, return to Cusco.

  • Option 4: Choquequirao Trek + Short Inca Trail (7D/6N)

    • Days 1–5: Trek to the remote Inca citadel of Choquequirao.
    • Day 6: Join the Short Inca Trail, enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
    • Day 7: Machu Picchu guided tour, return to Cusco.

What is Included?

  • Professional English/Spanish-speaking trekking guides

  • Private transport (Cusco – trailheads – Cusco)

  • Camping equipment or lodge stays (depending on trek)

  • Entrance tickets: Machu Picchu + Short Inca Trail permit

  • Train tickets (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco)

  • Bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

  • Meals during treks (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

  • Porters/pack animals (depending on trek)

  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes (3★, upgrades available)

What is not Included?

  • Sleeping bag & trekking poles (available for rent)

  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits (optional)

  • First breakfast / last lunch

  • Personal expenses & tips

  • Travel insurance

Passport (mandatory for Inca Trail & Machu Picchu)

Sleeping bag (for camping treks)

Trekking boots & poles

Warm clothing for high altitudes

Rain jacket & poncho

Sunscreen, sunglasses & hat

Camera & power bank

Reusable water bottle

Insect repellent (for cloud forest)

 With Peru Culture Horizons, you can customize the trek combination, add luxury train upgrades, or extend your stay in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

Why Travel With Us

Cusco-based experts with years of trekking experience.

Flexible combinations: Salkantay, Lares, Huchuy Qosqo, or Choquequirao.

Small groups & private departures for personalized attention.

Commitment to sustainable trekking & supporting local communities.

FAQ – Alternative Treks + Short Inca Trail

1. Why combine an alternative trek with the Short Inca Trail?

 Because it allows you to enjoy stunning Andean landscapes while still entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, just like on the Classic Inca Trail.

2. Do I need permits for this trek?

 Yes, the Short Inca Trail requires permits that must be booked months in advance. Alternative treks do not have permit restrictions.

3. Which combo is best for me?
  • Salkantay: Best for nature & diversity of landscapes.

  • Lares: Best for cultural immersion & villages.

  • Huchuy Qosqo: Best short, less challenging trek.

Choquequirao: Best for adventurous hikers with more time.

booking

Alternative Treks + Short Inca Trail
Starting from $780

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Let us arrange everything for you properly. Contact us, and one of our travel specialists will provide you with everything you need to make this an unforgettable experience.

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