Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days)

The trekking journey begins very early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you board a train that takes you directly to Kilometer 104, the official starting point of your hike. After crossing a bridge and passing the checkpoint with your Inca Trail permit, you begin the ascent that leads you through a semi-tropical forest. The first stop is the Chachabamba archaeological site, and the route continues with a moderate ascent to the astonishing citadel of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), a complex of Inca agricultural terraces and residential structures that will take your breath away. Here, we take a break to enjoy our box lunch in a privileged natural setting. The trail guides us through lush vegetation and waterfalls, offering panoramic views of the Urubamba River. The final stretch of the day’s trekking heads toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the culmination of the hike. Upon arrival, you are rewarded with the most iconic and anticipated view: the first panorama of Machu Picchu framed by the Andean peaks, an epic moment that seals the effort of the trek. After the mandatory photos and immersion in the magical atmosphere, we descend by bus to the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes, the base of the mountain. Once at the hotel, you will have time to relax before dinner, followed by a briefing with the guide for the details of the morning visit to the citadel.

The second day is dedicated entirely to the exploration of the Inca architectural jewel. We depart very early to board the bus to Machu Picchu and be among the first to enter the site. This allows us to enjoy the first rays of the sun illuminating the citadel, a natural phenomenon of great mysticism. Your professional guide offers a comprehensive and immersive tour of the key structures, including the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, the Main Plaza, and the quarries, providing a deep historical and architectural insight into this sanctuary. The guided visit lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, covering the circuits permitted for Inca Trail hikers. After the guided tour, you have free time to explore at your own pace, take more photographs, or simply assimilate the energy of this sacred place. If booked in advance (and at an additional cost), this is the time to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Afterward, you take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Here, you will have time for lunch (not included) before heading to the train station to board the return service to Ollantaytambo. Finally, private transportation awaits you at the station to take you back to Cusco, concluding one of the most memorable hikes of your life.