2-day Inca trail to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful trekking routes in the Americas and an unforgettable experience. This ancient path winds through protected Peruvian cloud forest, passes remarkable Inca archaeological sites, and offers breathtaking panoramic views. Historically, the Incas used this route as a pilgrimage trail to the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu.

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – WIÑAYHUAYNA – AGUAS CALIENTES

Our journey begins early in the morning with a transfer to the train station. After arriving at Kilometer 104, we start the Royal Inca Trail with a guided visit to Chachabamba (2,270 m / 7,448 ft), where our guide will explain the historical significance of this archaeological complex.

We then continue along the trail toward Wiñayhuayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), one of the most impressive Inca sites on the route and the most important archaeological complex after Machu Picchu itself.

From here, the hike continues to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), a spectacular viewpoint offering unforgettable sunset views over Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,874 ft). We will enter Machu Picchu via the upper section, known as Circuit 1, where you can take the iconic panoramic photographs with Huayna Picchu in the background.

We will spend a short time inside the Machu Picchu Sanctuary on this first day before continuing to Aguas Calientes, where we will check in at our hotel.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours

• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles

DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

After breakfast at the hotel, we will take the bus to the entrance of the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, you will meet your professional guide, who will lead you to the best viewpoints for classic panoramic photographs. The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering the most important and emblematic sectors of the citadel, including:

• The Temples: Temple of the Sun, Main Temple

• The Palaces: Royal Palace

• The Intihuatana (Sacred Sun Stone)

After the guided visit, you will have free time to explore independently. Later, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to enjoy lunch.

In the afternoon, we board the return train to the Sacred Valley station, followed by a comfortable bus transfer back to Cusco, concluding an unforgettable journey.

• Difficulty: Easy

• Hiking Time: Light walking

• Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles

What to Bring

• Backpack with rain cover

• Sleeping bag

• Clothing for warm and cold weather (waterproof jacket recommended)

• Rain pants and lightweight hiking pants

• High-quality trekking shoes

• Sandals (for hot springs)

• Wool or synthetic socks and a warm sweater

• T-shirts

• Rain poncho and hat

• Swimsuit (for hot springs)

• Sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, water-purifying tablets

• Toiletries and toilet paper

• Camera

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Snacks (chocolate bars, dried fruit)

• Original passport, original ISIC student card (if applicable), and extra cash in soles

• Note: Due to cold and humid conditions, wet clothes may not dry overnight. Bring extra clothing to change into.

• Private transportation and transfers to/from Cusco

• Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (start of the Inca Trail)

• Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus transfer to Cusco

• Bus ascent and descent between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu

• Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

• Professional bilingual guide (Spanish & English)

• Meals during the tour (1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner – vegetarian option available)

• Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes

• First-aid kit and oxygen bottle

• Luggage storage

Optional: Luggage transport up to 6 kg per person (duffel bags provided)

Not Included

• • Final lunch in Aguas Calientes

  • Bus descent on Day 2 (optional): USD $12.00

    • Alternatively, you may walk down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (approximately 1 hour)