Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 | Machu Picchu Pueblo

We begin the tour with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. You will be taken in our private transport to the Ollantaytambo Train Station (a 1-hour 45-minute drive). From there, we will board the train to Kilometer 104 (a 1-hour 20-minute journey), the starting point of the hike (2,200 m / 7,218 ft). This point is named for its distance from Cusco on the way to Machu Picchu Pueblo.

The first part of the hike involves a 2-kilometer uphill trail lasting approximately 1 hour, from Kilometer 104 to the Inca Trail Checkpoint. Here, we will present our identification documents, such as a passport, alien card, or national ID.

Just 15 minutes from the checkpoint are the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, hidden in the semi-tropical forest.

After this stop, we will continue hiking through ascending steps. Along the route, you will see waterfalls and various species of orchids. After about 4 hours of hiking, we will arrive at the archaeological site of Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). Here, we will take a 1-hour tour and then enjoy a meal to regain energy.

The second part of the journey involves a 2-hour hike through stone stairs and tambos (“resting places”) until we reach Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). During the Inca era, this served as the entry checkpoint to the Machu Picchu citadel. From here, we will have a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley, spending some time enjoying the sunset.

We will then descend for approximately 30 minutes through cloud forests and take a bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo (2,160 m / 7,087 ft), a 25-minute downhill ride. Upon arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo, we will spend the night in a local lodging.

If you are not too tired, you may visit the Hot Springs, located just 5 minutes from town, for an additional cost of 10 Soles. Additionally, Machu Picchu Pueblo offers a wide variety of bars and restaurants, as well as ATMs, should you need to withdraw cash.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Pueblo – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We start early with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, we will prepare for a bus ride of about 30 minutes from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the Machu Picchu citadel. Along the way, you will see the beautiful jungle landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the main entrance, our guide will assist you through the security checkpoint.

Once inside the citadel, you will witness the golden rays of the sun illuminating Machu Picchu’s walls. Our local guide will provide a comprehensive 2-hour tour, sharing fascinating facts about this wonder of the world. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore at your leisure. If you have reserved a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our guide will assist you at the entry. Alternatively, you can visit the Inca Bridge.

After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back to Machu Picchu Pueblo. At the scheduled time, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo Station, where we will pick you up and transfer you back to Cusco. You will be dropped off two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.