Quick Inca Trail 2 Days: Short Trek to Machu Picchu & Sun Gate
$736.00 / private service / 2 people
Experience the essence of the legendary Inca Trail on this two-day expedition.
This unparalleled and enriching experience is designed specifically for travellers who want to forge a deep connection with Andean history, nature and spirituality, but who have limited time. This trek showcases the highlights of the Inca journey, including hiking along ancient stone paths surrounded by lush vegetation and towering sacred mountains, known as 'apu', as well as hidden archaeological sites nestled in the high jungle.
On the first day, you will be awestruck by Wiñay Wayna, an archaeological complex that appears to grow out of the mountainside, complete with stepped terraces and ceremonial buildings that reflect the sophistication of Inca architecture and engineering. From there, the route continues to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original access point to Machu Picchu, where you can enjoy an unforgettable sunset view of the citadel.
The second day is entirely dedicated to exploring the majestic Machu Picchu, with expert guides revealing the spiritual, astronomical and architectural secrets of this world-famous sanctuary.
Though short in distance, this route offers a meaningful experience that highlights the Inca heritage and stimulates the spirit of adventure.
Overview
- Day 1: Cusco - KM 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Inti Punku - Aguas Calientes
- Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - KM 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Inti Punku - Aguas Calientes
Altitudes:
- Start (KM 104): 2,100 m
- Wiñay Wayna: 2,650 m
- Inti Punku: 2,720 m
- Aguas Calientes: 2,040 m
- Distance: 11 km – 6 to 7 hours of walking
In the early morning, we will be transferred from Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo. Board the train at KM 104, the starting point of your hike.
Along the way, we will visit:
- We will visit Chachabamba, an ancient Inca ceremonial centre.
- We will then hike uphill along ancient stone paths, surrounded by orchids, ferns and spectacular landscapes.
- Explore the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, one of the most beautiful on the Inca Trail.
- Enjoy a boxed lunch at the rest area.
- Continue to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunset.
- Descend by bus to Aguas Calientes.
- Dinner is included, as is an overnight stay in a three-star hotel or equivalent.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
Altitude of Machu Picchu: 2,430 m
Early in the morning, we will take a bus to Machu Picchu, where we will enjoy a complete guided tour of the main areas:
The Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana and the Temple of the Condor.
We will also see the agricultural terraces, water channels and ceremonial enclosures.
We will enjoy unforgettable views with the snow-capped Salkantay and Veronica mountains as a backdrop.
You will then have free time to explore, or you can opt to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
We then return by bus to Aguas Calientes.
Take the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo and then transfer to Cusco.
Recommendations
- Original passport
- A small backpack containing water, snacks and a camera.
- Comfortable walking clothes, rain poncho and sunscreen.
- Trekking poles (optional).
Maps
Included & Excluded
You will find detailed information about the services included in our tours and hikes below. Please read the list of inclusions and exclusions carefully.
- Transfers between Cusco, KM 104 and Aguas Calientes
- Round-trip train ticket (Expedition or Vistadome).
- Official entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide
- Box lunch on day 1 and breakfast on day 2
- Return bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- One night in a three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Permanent assistance
- Additional expense
- Beverages (Coca-Cola, beer, etc.).
- Food not mentioned
- FLIGHT TICKETS
