Short Inca Trail Women Only to Machu Picchu
4 Days / 3 Nights

Trip Highlights

1. Day 1 – Welcome to Cusco + Peruvian Cooking Experience

   • Personal pick-up and airport assistance
   • Gentle altitude arrival (tips included)
   • Hands-on cooking class with a professional chef
   • Tasting of exotic Andean fruits and superfoods
   • Prepare iconic dishes: ceviche, pisco sour, chilcano & lomo saltado
   • Cultural immersion at “El Mercado” interpretive center

   Day 2 – Short Inca Trail + Sun Gate Entry

   • Scenic train ride along the Sacred Valley
   • Exclusive entrance at Km 104
   • Explore the most beautiful Inca site: Wiñay Wayna
   • Hot homemade lunch prepared by Alpaca chefs
   • Arrive to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate
   • Fewer crowds, better photography opportunities
   • Dinner included in Aguas Calientes

   Day 3 – Machu Picchu Sunrise + Vistadome Observatory Train

   • Early bus to witness the sunrise (weather permitting)
   • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
   • Time for panoramic viewpoints and iconic photos
   • Vistadome Observatory Train with panoramic windows
   • Private transfer back to Cusco

   Day 4 – Relaxing Morning + Andean Wellness Spa Ritual

   • Free morning to explore Cusco at your own pace
   • Ancestral welcome and harmonizing ritual
   • Warm herbal bath using sacred Andean plants
   • Munay Body Therapy & hot stones massage
   • Andean mineral exfoliation + palo santo energy ritual
   • Muña or coca herbal infusion to finish

   What makes it special

   • Enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate
   • Professional Peruvian cooking and mixology experience
   • Ancestral wellness spa in Cusco
   • Operated by Alpaca Expeditions, Peru’s top trekking company

Inclusions

1. Included

   • Briefing

   The night before your SHORT WOMEN-ONLY INKA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU, you will come to the Alpaca Expeditions office. You’ll receive your duffel bag, these personal duffle bags will be given to you the night before your trek, during the briefing at 6:00 p.m. at our office. The duffle bags are similar in size to a small carry-on and are meant for packing only the clothes you’ll need for one night. The total weight should not exceed 5 kilograms (about 10 pounds).
   After receiving your duffle bag, you’ll return to your hotel to pack your clothes and bring it with you the next morning. At the Ollantaytambo station, you’ll give your duffle bag to your guide. The bags will then be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes. When you arrive in the evening, you’ll find your duffle bag waiting for you at your hotel.
   The next day, before visiting Machu Picchu, you can leave your duffle bag at the hotel’s storage. After your tour, stop by the hotel to pick it up and take it with you on the train back to Cusco. Before being dropped off at your hotel in Cusco, you’ll return the duffle bag and transfer your belongings to the plastic bags provided.

   • Professional Guides

   All Alpaca Expeditions guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They were born and raised in the Cusco region and are committed to sharing their heritage. They are fun, professional, and will ensure your safety and happiness throughout the trek.

   • Hotel

   This trek includes three night in a three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes and Cusco, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The specific hotel will be confirmed in your trip reminder, which is sent approximately 7–15 days before your trek. Upgrades are always available upon request.

   • Transportation

   All transportation is included in your trek for a seamless experience:

   • Hotel pickup for the Cooking Class: We will pick you up from your hotel for the culinary experience at 2:00pm fron your Hotel
   • Hotel pickup: You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 a.m. and 4:20 a.m.
   • Train to KM 104: From Ollantaytambo, you’ll take the train to KM 104, where your trek begins.
   • Return train from Aguas Calientes: After your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll ride the Vistadome Train back.
   • Private transfer to hotel: Upon arrival at the train station in Ollantaytambo, an Alpaca Expeditions team member will escort you back to your hotel in Cusco.
   • Bus to Machu Picchu: Your round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is also included.
   • Food

   Alpaca Expeditions ensures you enjoy delicious meals during your trek to Machu Picchu:

   • Day 2 Breakfast: Not included. We recommend arranging a to-go breakfast with your hotel in Cusco, or you can purchase something at the cafeteria inside the Ollantaytambo train station.
   • Day 2 Lunch: Enjoy a peaceful lunch at the Wiñay Wayna ruins.
   • Day 2 Dinner: Dine at one of the restaurants in Aguas Calientes.
   • Day 3 Breakfast: Provided at your hotel.
   • Day 3 Lunch: Not included.

   This ensures you are well-fueled while giving you flexibility to enjoy meals at your own pace.

   • Water

   From your first lunch until your last breakfast, Alpaca Expeditions will supply all the water you need. You must bring your own water bottles and/or a hydration bladder (we recommend carrying 3L). You can refill at each meal.

   • First Aid

   All Alpaca Expeditions guides are trained in first aid by a physician. We conduct mandatory training sessions every February. Your guide will carry a first aid kit for minor issues and oxygen. If necessary, we will help you off the trail and get you to a clinic for proper treatment.

   • Extras

   We believe the small details set us apart. Every trekker receives:

   • A small pillow
   • Foam mattress
   • Daypack cover
   • Rain poncho
   • Satellite Phones

   Your safety is our top priority. All guided treks include satellite phones, ensuring you are always just one call away from a doctor, hospital, or family member. These phones may also be used by clients for non-emergencies when needed.

2. Not Included

   • Rentals

   If you prefer not to bring your own gear, the following can be rented:
   Walking Sticks (pair): $20

   • Huayna Picchu

   Huayna Picchu is the mountain next to Machu Picchu. It’s about a 45-minute climb to the top, and the descent is steep. Not recommended if you are afraid of heights.
   Cost: $75
   Reservations must be made at least one month in advance.

   • Daypacks

   Daypacks are not provided; you must bring your own. Avoid bringing anything too large, as you don’t want unnecessary weight while trekking, and Machu Picchu does not allow bags larger than 25L. Pack only essentials: water, snacks, camera, sunhat, warm layers, rain gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit.

   • Flights

   Flights to Cusco often have delays or cancellations. We strongly recommend arriving two days before your trek. LATAM is currently the most reliable airline to Cusco, followed by Avianca.
   You will not return from your trek until around 8:00 p.m. on the final day, so schedule your departure flight for the following day.

   • Gratuities

   Tips are always appreciated and should reflect your level of satisfaction. While not mandatory, they are an important contribution to the team who cares for you.

   • Travel Insurance

   Not required, but highly recommended. If you live at sea level, adjusting to Cusco’s altitude can take one or two days. Travel insurance helps protect you financially in case you miss any tours due to altitude or illness.

Price

1. Price per person

   • $875 per person

2. Student Discount

   • $35 off per person

   Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.

   Please send all to info@alpacaexpeditions.com.

    

3. Additional Items

   Below is a quick list of prices, but check our Additional Options section for more details.

    

4. Huayna Picchu

   Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak that rises beside Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stone pathways and breathtaking views. The hike typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the summit, depending on your pace. Although this portion is done independently, your guide will accompany you to the checkpoint and point out the trail entrance before you begin.

   This hike requires an additional entrance ticket, which we can secure for you in advance, as availability is very limited.

   Huayna Picchu tickets are issued in timed entry groups to manage trail capacity. The sessions currently offered are:

   • Group 1: Entry from 7:00–8:00 AM
   • Group 2: Entry from 9:00–10:00 AM

   We usually book the 9:00–10:00 AM entry so you can fully enjoy your guided tour of Machu Picchu first, then begin the hike without rushing. Once inside the checkpoint, you may take your time ascending and descending.

   • The additional ticket cost is $75 USD per person.

    

5. Machu Picchu mountain

   * Only possible to do if you have an extra day to visit Machu Picchu

   Machu Picchu Mountain is the higher peak overlooking the citadel, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding Andes. The hike is longer and less steep than Huayna Picchu, usually taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit.

   This visit requires an additional entrance ticket, which we can secure for you in advance.

   Machu Picchu Mountain tickets have two entry time options:

   • Group 1: Entry at 6:00 AM
   • Group 2: Entry at 8:00 AM

   Because these time windows are early in the morning, it is not possible to combine Machu Picchu Mountain with the guided visit included after hiking the Inca Trail. Instead, hikers who want to do this climb must schedule a second visit to Machu Picchu on the following day.

   • The cost of this additional ticket is $75 USD per person.

    

Travel Info

1. BRIEFINGS

   All briefings are done at our office at 6:00 PM the night before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Alpaca Expeditions office team. Briefings are approximately 30 -45 minutes long, and where you will receive your duffel bags.

    

2. DUFFEL BAGS

   You will receive your duffel bags at your briefing. Your porters will carry them and have them returned to you at each campsite. They measure 66 cm long X 36 cm wide/2ft long X 1ft wide.

   Every duffel has a maximum weight of 7kg. Remember 4kg will be for your clothes and other personal items. The remaining 3kg will be for your sleeping bag and pad.

    

3. PICKUPS

   Alpaca Expeditions is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

   Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through. They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off. HOTEL LIST HERE.

   Some treks will allow for pickups in the Sacred Valley, which is outlined below.

   The following chart refers to possible locations we can pick you up from when beginning the tour.

   Trek	Possible Starting Locations
   Inca Trails	Cusco, Urubamba, Yanahuara & Ollantaytambo
   Salkantay Treks	Only Cusco
   Lares Trek	Only Cusco
   Huchuy Qosqo Trek	Only Cusco
   Ausangate and Rainbow Treks	Only Cusco
   Day Tours	Cusco, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo

    

4. RETURNING TO CUSCO

   We take care of every detail for your journey back to Cusco, so you can simply enjoy the moment and reflect on your amazing adventure.

   Once you finish your visit at Machu Picchu, a shuttle bus will take you down to Aguas Calientes. This ride takes about 25 minutes, and buses run all day on a first-come, first-served basis.

   From Aguas Calientes, you will take the tourist train to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes). Upon arrival, look for our team member dressed in green and holding the Alpaca Expeditions sign at the station exit.

   • Train services to Poroy or Cusco are limited, available only upon request, and require an additional fee. They are not always operated by the train companies.

   From Ollantaytambo, you will travel in our private transportation for about 2 hours to Cusco. The route ends at Calle Arcopata, where your stored luggage will be waiting. Because large buses are not permitted to enter the historic center, a smaller vehicle will then take you directly to your hotel for a smooth and comfortable end to your trek.

    

5. MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE TIMES

   Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entrances and assigned circuits.

   The site is divided into three main circuits:

   • Circuit 1 (Upper viewpoints: 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D)
   • Circuit 2 (Central areas of the citadel: 2A, 2B)
   • Circuit 3 (Lower sections: 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D)

   For Inca Trail hikers, the standard visit includes:

   • Circuit 3B at 8:00 or 9:00 AM (subject to government availability)
   • A short guided visit through part of Circuit 1B when you arrive through the Sun Gate on the final day of the trail

   After you complete your assigned circuit, park rangers will guide you toward the exit, as re-entry is not permitted.

   If you would like to spend more time exploring additional areas of Machu Picchu, you can request:

   An additional entrance ticket for a different circuit

   Extra tickets are:

   • Subject to availability
   • At an additional cost, which varies depending on the circuit you choose

   We are very happy to help secure this upgrade for you upon request.

6. HUAYNAPICCHU & MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN

   Viewing Machu Picchu from above is a truly spectacular experience, which is why hiking one of the surrounding mountains is a popular optional add-on.

   Huayna Picchu (circuit 3A)

   This is the famous peak seen behind the citadel in classic photos. The trail is steep but rewarding, taking about 45 minutes up and 45 minutes down.

   Huayna Picchu entrance tickets are sold in specific time slots, which determine when you must begin the hike:

   • Entry times are at 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM

   We typically reserve a later morning session, giving you time to enjoy the full guided tour of Machu Picchu first. The hike is done independently, but your guide will bring you to the trail entrance.

   Machu Picchu Mountain (circuit 1A)

   This mountain offers broader panoramic views and a longer climb, roughly 1.5 hours up and 1.5 hours back down.

   Entry times are:

   • 6:00 AM or 8:00 AM

   Due to these early start windows, this hike cannot be combined with the full guided tour included in the 4-Day or 7-Day Inca Trail itineraries on the same day. You would need a second entrance ticket and an additional visit on the following day.

    

7. HEALTH CONCERNS

   You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.

   You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. Alpaca Expeditions will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.

   If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.

   If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.

    

8. GROUP TOURS

   Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are. Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.

    

9. STRIKES

   Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date. Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.

    

10. LOST ITEMS

    You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc. Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.

     

11. TIPS

    Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.

    Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below. For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card 😉

    Trek	Per Porter	Chef
    Inca Trails (4, 5 and 7 Days)	60 – 80 soles	150 soles
    2D/1N Inca Trail with Camping	50 soles	100 soles
    Salkantay Treks	100-120 soles	200 soles
    Lares Trek	100-120 soles	200 soles
    Huchuy Qosqo Trek	50 soles	100 soles
    Ausangate	100-120 soles	200 soles

    * These numbers refer to what each member of the Green Machine should receive after the group pools their money. This is just a reference guide.

     

12. TRAVEL INSURANCE

    To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Getting travel insurance before you leave home is strongly encouraged and very easy. We work with a great agency in the United States, that has helped to make it easy and affordable. What an excellent way to protect yourself while you are visiting Peru.

    If interested in booking through our trusted partner, Ahart, Frinzi & Smith, CLICK HERE.

     

13. WEATHER

    Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

    Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.

    It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.

     

14. ALTITUDE

    As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.

    With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

    Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

    Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.

    Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

    You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Alpaca Expedition guides are trained to help you get through it.

     

15. GETTING TO CUSCO

    The airport in Cusco now receives a limited number of international flights, mainly from nearby hubs such as Santiago (Chile) and Bogotá (Colombia). These routes are typically operated by Avianca, LATAM, Sky Airlines, or JetSmart. Travelers arriving directly on these flights will go through Customs in Cusco.

    For most other international arrivals, you will still need to fly into Lima first. Even if your ongoing flight to Cusco is on the same airline and ticket, you must collect your luggage in Lima, pass through Customs, and check your bags again before continuing on to Cusco.

    Air travel remains the fastest way to reach Cusco. LATAM offers the most daily departures, though often at higher prices. Sky Airlines and JetSmart provide good low-cost alternatives. Because of Cusco’s high altitude and rapidly changing weather, delays or cancellations can occur.

    Bus travel is always an option and is quite comfortable in Peru. This is especially recommended when traveling from cities like Puno. From Lima, however, the journey by bus is long and takes approximately 20 hours.

     

Packing List

1. ESSENTIALS

   • Passport
   • Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
   • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
   • Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks are encouraged – but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
   • Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

    

2. FOR YOUR DUFFEL

   Porters will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us these two items weigh 3.5 kg.

   • 2-3 wicking t-shirts
   • 2-3 hiking pants
   • 4 sets of undergarments.
   • 4 sets of hiking socks
   • 1 Fleece
   • 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night
   • 1 Rain jacket and pants
   • 1 sun hat
   • 1 wool hat
   • Headlamp: essential
   • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
   • Comfortable shoes for camp
   • Walking boots
   • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
   • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might enjoy something a little larger.
   • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to clean – might make you feel fresh if you had a little soap.
   • Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
   • Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
   • Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least

    

3. TOILETRIES

   • Sunscreen
   • Face moisturizer
   • Bug spray
   • Handsanitizer
   • Wet wipes
   • Toothbrush and paste
   • Toiletpaper
   • Personal medication
   • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

    

4. INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS

   Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25L will not be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside citadel gates. But don´t worry, they have a secure storage facility.

   • Water: we supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only as we won’t have time to filter water until your first lunch.
   • Sunhat
   • Rain gear
   • Fleece
   • Camera
   • Music (IPhone)
   • Handsanitizer
   • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
   • Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
   • Earplugs