Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N

Exploring the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a bucket-list adventure that shouldn’t be missed. This 2-day, 1-night trek offers a thrilling glimpse into Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. From traversing lush rainforests to discovering ancient ruins, travelers will be captivated by the region’s timeless allure. But the true highlight? Witnessing the iconic Machu Picchu in all its glory – an experience that will leave a lasting impression long after the journey ends.

Key Points

• This 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu includes hotel pickup, transportation, meals, accommodation, and entrance fees.
• The first day involves a train ride to KM 104, hiking through the rainforest to Wiñay Wayna, and descending to Aguas Calientes.
• On the second day, participants take a bus to Machu Picchu for a 2.5-hour guided tour, followed by free time for exploration.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 15 participants and offers guided tours in English and Spanish.
• Flexible booking options are available, allowing for reservation now, payment later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The "Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu" is a 2-day activity that starts from Cusco. Priced from $690 per person, it includes hotel pickup, train and bus tickets, meals, accommodation, and entrance fees.

Visitors can reserve now and pay later, with flexible booking options. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visitors can reserve now and pay later, with flexible booking options. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The activity lasts 2 days, with highlights including hiking through the rainforest, exploring the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, and visiting the iconic Machu Picchu.

Group size is limited to 15 participants, with guided tours in English and Spanish.

Itinerary Details

On the first day, visitors are picked up from their hotel around 4:00 am and depart on the train at 6:00 am to KM 104, where they begin hiking through the rainforest.

They arrive at the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, where they enjoy lunch. Continuing their trek, they reach the Intipunku Sun Gate, offering stunning views of Machu Picchu.

Descending to Aguas Calientes, they spend the night and have dinner.

The second day starts with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a bus ride to Machu Picchu.

A 2.5-hour guided tour of the Inca City allows visitors to explore the site freely. After lunch in Aguas Calientes, they return by train to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to Cusco.

Day 1: Journey Begins

Your adventure begins bright and early as you’re picked up from your hotel around 4:00 am.

You’ll board the train at 6:00 am, heading to KM 104, the start of the Inca Trail.

Along the way, you’ll hike through lush rainforest, reaching the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna.

After a lunch break, you’ll continue to the Intipunku Sun Gate, taking in stunning views of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Then, you’ll descend to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night and enjoy dinner.

Reaching Wiñay Wayna

After departing the train at KM 104, hikers embark on a trek through the lush rainforest.

The path winds its way through towering trees and vibrant vegetation. Along the way, they’ll catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After a few hours of hiking, the group arrives at the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. This Inca ruins complex sits on a mountainside overlooking the Urubamba River.

Hikers have the chance to explore the well-preserved terraces, stairways, and structures before enjoying a relaxing lunch at the site.

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Reaching Intipunku Sun Gate

From Wiñay Wayna, hikers continue their trek, descending through the lush vegetation towards the iconic Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate. This strategic vantage point offers breathtaking views of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in the distance. Reaching this milestone marks the final stage of the short Inca Trail.

| Highlights | Duration | Difficulty |

| — | — | — |

| Panoramic views of Machu Picchu | Approximately 1 hour | Moderate |

| Witness the sunrise over the ruins | Distance: 5.5 km | Steep descent |

| Symbolic entrance to the sacred site | Elevation gain: 400 m | Uneven terrain |

Hikers will savor the moment as they gaze upon the iconic site they’ve worked hard to reach.

Exploring Aguas Calientes

After descending from the Intipunku Sun Gate, hikers arrive in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

This bustling town offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Travelers can enjoy a relaxing evening stroll, indulge in local cuisine, or visit the town’s thermal baths.

The following morning, they’ll take a short bus ride up to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu for a guided tour and free time to explore.

The next morning, a short bus ride whisks visitors up to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu for a guided tour and time to explore.

With its convenient location and amenities, Aguas Calientes serves as the perfect base for discovering the wonders of this ancient wonder.

Day 2: Discovering Machu Picchu

On the second day, travelers begin their morning with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.

After fueling up, they board a bus that whisks them up the winding road to the iconic Machu Picchu.

The group embarks on a 2.5-hour guided tour of the Inca city, marveling at the intricate stonework and learning about its rich history.

Afterward, they’re free to explore the site at their own pace, taking in the breathtaking views and snapping photos.

Once they’ve had their fill, it’s time for lunch in Aguas Calientes before the return journey to Ollantaytambo and Cusco.

Key highlights of the day 2 itinerary:

1. Breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes

2. Bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance

3. 2.5-hour guided tour of the Inca city

4. Free time for independent exploration and lunch

Inclusions and Important Information

The tour package includes a professional bilingual guide, hotel pickup, transportation between Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Cusco, train tickets and entrance fees to the Inca Trail, bus tickets for both days, meals as specified, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and entrance to Huayna Picchu.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users. Participants should bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, jacket, personal medication, and a reusable water bottle.

Alcohol and drugs are prohibited. The group size is limited to 15 participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements for This Activity?

The activity has moderate physical fitness requirements. Participants should be able to hike for several hours at a time and navigate uneven terrain. Those with heart problems, pregnancy, or mobility issues may not be suitable for this activity.

Can Children Participate in This Inca Trail Tour?

Children can participate in this Inca Trail tour, but it’s not recommended for young kids. The hike can be challenging, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users.

What Happens if the Weather Is Unfavorable During the Hike?

If the weather is unfavorable during the hike, the tour guides will adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure the safety and comfort of participants. They’ll provide guidance on appropriate clothing and equipment to handle inclement conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the trek. Bringing extra snacks is recommended, as they can provide an energy boost during the hike. However, the guided tour includes meals, so additional food may not be necessary.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s typically an option to upgrade to a private tour for an additional fee. This allows for a more personalized experience with a private guide and more flexibility in the itinerary.

The Sum Up

This captivating 2-day, 1-night adventure through the Inca Trail lets you experience the breathtaking beauty of Cusco and the iconic Machu Picchu. From the scenic hike to Wiñay Wayna to the guided tour of the ancient ruins, this journey immerses you in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Peru. It’s a must-do for any traveler seeking an unforgettable Inca Trail experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: