Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days

Day by Day Itinerary

• Day 1 Cusco | KM 104 - Chachabamba - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate (Inti Punku) - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes

  Your adventure will begin bright and early, with a pickup from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. We’ll head out for a journey of approximately one and a half hours to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we’ll board the first train to KM 104, the starting point of our trek. Along the way, you will be greeted by the stunning Andean mountains, fertile fields, and the Urubamba River, basking in the warm embrace of the morning sun. Before the hike, you’ll have a brief orientation with the guide, a box lunch, and some snacks to enjoy later.

  You’ll start on a similar stretch of the Classic Inca Trail, visiting the first archaeological site nearby: Chachabamba. This was once a strategic guard post and checkpoint for those accessing the Inca Trail. Your guide will stop briefly to share some fascinating first insights about the Inca’s history. From here, the actual hike begins for another 3 hours to the Wiñay Wayna Complex. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and towering mountains, offering breathtaking valley views.

  This site’s astounds most trekkers for its impressive architecture. You’ll explore its features, from a ritualistic water source to temples venerating natural forces and agricultural terraces blending with the mountains. It’ll be a window into the Incan legacy. While there, you’ll have enough time to relax, unwind in peace, and connect to Mother Nature through the refreshing breeze. A little further on, you’ll arrive at one of the campsites of the Classic Inca Trail. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasty lunchbox, chill out, and recharge your energies.

  Next, we’ll continue hiking to the Sun Gate, getting your first panoramic view of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. It’ll be a truly jaw-dropping experience! You’ll marvel at the ingenuity of the Incas in constructing such a marvel. The enchanting landscape invites introspection into their connection with nature. You won't enter the citadel immediately. The departing tourists grant you the chance to bask in the golden hues of sunset, embracing the massive stone walls and offering a moment of tranquility.

  For now, we’ll head to the exit to take a bus to Aguas Calientes. Your hotel stay awaits, but first, you’ll enjoy a delectable dinner at one of the town's top restaurants. Make sure to rest early, as you’ll be waking up at dawn for your next adventure.

  

  

  

  • Meals

    Snacks, Box Lunch, and Dinner

  • Accommodation

    Hotel

  • Difficulty

    Moderate

  • Walking Distance

    9 km / 5.6 miles

  • Walking Time

    5 to 6 hours

  • Maximum Altitude

    2,720 m / 8,924 ft

• Day 2 Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo - Cusco

  After a well-deserved night’s rest, it’ll be time to be up before sunrise to ensure you beat the crowds. You’ll be wandering the mysterious streets of the majestic historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu! You’ll take a short walk from your hotel to catch a bus that’ll take you on a 25-minute drive to the entrance of the Inca citadel. You’ll enter just before the sun comes up and paints the Wonder with a gorgeous golden hue.

  After soaking it all in and taking your first few photographs, your guide will take you on a two-hour tour of the site. You’ll visit some of the most essential parts of Machu Picchu and learn all about its construction and history from your local expert. Once the tour is up, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (pre-booked tickets required), each of which takes 2 and 3 hours to hike up and down, respectively. You’ll experience more stunning views of the whole Inca city from any of these places.

  When you’re ready to leave, it’ll be time to head back down to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have time to select a restaurant of your choice for a bite to eat before catching a train, which usually departs at 2:55 p.m. (subject to availability). You’ll arrive in Ollantaytambo by train, and then private transport will be there to pick you up and take you back to your accommodation in Cusco at around 6:00 pm.

  Now it’s time to enjoy a thoroughly deserved rest and put your feet up. Your trip might be over, but we assure you your heart will be thumping for many years as you look back fondly on your incredible adventure.

  

  

  • Meals

    Breakfast

  • Difficulty

    Easy

  • Walking Time

    2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu

  • Maximum Altitude

    3,000 m / 9,843 ft (3-4 hours)