Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N
Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N
Duration
2D/1N
Difficulty
Medium
Group
from 2 to 8 people
Recommended Age
All ages
Some adventures don’t require weeks of preparation—just the right path and the courage to take the first step. The Short Inca Trail is the perfect choice for travelers who want the magic of the Inca Trail in less time, without missing its most iconic highlights. This two-day journey takes you along an ancient Inca pathway through cloud forests, past breathtaking archaeological sites, and finally to the legendary Sun Gate, where the first view of Machu Picchu leaves you speechless. With GREATOURS PERU, every step is a story, and every moment is unforgettable.
The Short Inca Trail offers a condensed but powerful version of the classic trek. You’ll start at Km 104, hike through lush landscapes, visit Wiñay Wayna—the most impressive archaeological site on the route—and arrive at Machu Picchu through Intipunku (Sun Gate) in the afternoon light. After a night in Aguas Calientes, you’ll return the next morning for a full guided tour of the citadel.
Itinerary
What you will do and explore with us
- 04:30 hrs – Pick-up from your hotel
We start our adventure early in the morning with a comfortable transfer from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station. As the train departs, enjoy a scenic journey through the Sacred Valley, following the course of the Urubamba River, surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation. - 08:00 hrs – Start of the Trek
We disembark at Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Here, we meet our trekking guide and begin the hike with a visit to Chachabamba, an intriguing archaeological site that once served as a religious and administrative center. Your guide will explain its strategic location and importance within the Inca network before we continue along a gradual uphill path. - Midday – Arrival at Wiñay Wayna
After several hours of hiking through subtropical cloud forest, filled with orchids, ferns, and hummingbirds, we reach the spectacular site of Wiñay Wayna, meaning “Forever Young” in Quechua. This site is famous for its series of agricultural terraces, perfectly engineered water channels, and stunning vistas over the valley below. We take time to explore the ceremonial areas and learn about its significance before enjoying a packed lunch surrounded by breathtaking scenery. - Afternoon – Hike to Intipunku (Sun Gate)
We continue along a gentle ascending path, traversing the original Inca stone steps until we arrive at Intipunku, the Sun Gate. From here, we are rewarded with our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon light—a truly unforgettable moment and the perfect introduction to the Lost City of the Incas. - Evening – Arrival in Aguas Calientes
After taking in the view, we descend by foot to the citadel’s entrance and board the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, we check into a comfortable hotel, where you can relax and refresh. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant (included), followed by an overnight stay in preparation for the grand visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
- 05:30 hrs – Breakfast at the hotel
We begin the day with an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, ensuring you have the energy for one of the most memorable experiences of your journey. Shortly after, we board one of the first buses up the winding road to Machu Picchu, arriving before the main crowds and allowing you to experience the citadel in the serene light of the early morning. - Morning – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Upon entering the site, our professional guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour lasting approximately two hours. We will explore the most iconic areas of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Plaza, and the intricate agricultural terraces. Along the way, you will learn about the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of Machu Picchu, as well as the theories surrounding its purpose. Throughout the visit, there will be opportunities to pause, take photographs, and admire the intricate stonework that has endured for centuries. - For those who have pre-booked an additional hike, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, the ascent offers extraordinary panoramic views and unique perspectives of the citadel (subject to availability and prior reservation).
- Afternoon – Return to Cusco
After concluding our visit, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch at a local restaurant (not included). In the afternoon, we board the train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying once again the scenic journey through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving in the early evening. - This marks the end of our unforgettable Short Inca Trail experience, leaving you with cherished memories of ancient paths, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the world’s greatest archaeological treasures.
Includes
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
- Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
- Train ticket Ollantaytambo–Km 104.
- Entrance tickets to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Bus ticket Machu Picchu–Aguas Calientes (Day 1 & Day 2).
- Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (3-star).
- Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner.
Not Included
- Last day lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Walking sticks (available for rent).
- Personal expenses and tips.
Recommendations
- Book in advance—permits are limited.
- Carry your original passport.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes.
- Bring light rain gear and sun protection.
- Travel light—a small backpack is ideal.
Why travel with GreaTours Perú?
Every day, our specialists create personalized experiences tailored to each traveler’s profile, desires, and budget. These passionate professionals create experiences that are delivered on-site through a local network of concierges and privileged contacts. These tailor-made trips are flexible and include a wide range of premium services (VIP lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel diary, app, mobile Wi-Fi, table reservations, etc.).
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Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N
2D/1N