Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days 1 Night
Get ready for an unforgettable two-day adventure along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our journey begins with an exciting one-day hike, where we will explore beautiful archaeological sites. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Andean landscape as we walk through lush cloud forests, enjoying breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and the Sacred Valley below.
Along the way to Machu Picchu, we will follow ancient Inca paths, experiencing history with every step. This scenic route offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu from different angles, building anticipation as we approach. Each stop along the trail reveals a new facet of Inca culture, adding depth to our adventure.
At sunrise on our second day, we will reach the Sun Gate for our first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu. The majestic ruins emerging from the mist create a moment you will remember forever. We will have plenty of time to explore the mysteries of Machu Picchu, marveling at its intricate architecture and timeless beauty.
Duration
Group Size
Maximum Altitude
Level of Difficulty
Type of Service
Qualification
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
The night before our trek, we will meet at your hotel for a pre-trek briefing at a time of your choice. The following morning, we will pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. After a 2-hour drive to Ollantaytambo (2,700 meters / 8,858 feet), we will board a panoramic train for a 1.5-hour journey along the Urubamba River. This scenic train ride offers stunning Andean landscapes and marks the beginning of the tropical cloud forest.
We will arrive at KM 104 around 8:00 a.m. and begin our hike through diverse ecosystems. Our first stop will be the archaeological site of Chachabamba (2,000 meters / 6,561 feet), where we will explore ancient ruins and learn about Inca history.
Next, we will hike uphill for approximately 3 hours, ascending gradually along original Inca stone steps while enjoying views of the Vilcanota mountain range and Machu Picchu Mountain.
At Wiñay Wayna (2,600 meters / 8,530 feet), we will explore this beautiful Inca site as your guide shares historical insights. After lunch, we will continue hiking for one more hour, encountering diverse flora such as orchids and begonias along the trail.
We will then reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), climbing the final 52 steps, where Machu Picchu will appear dramatically below us. After taking photos and enjoying the view, we will descend for 45 minutes to the main Machu Picchu checkpoint. From there, we will take a 20-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes. We will check in at the hotel and meet for dinner at 6:00 p.m. at a local restaurant.
Day 1 Statistics:
- Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
- Maximum altitude: 3,900 meters / 12,795 feet
- Minimum altitude: 2,400 meters / 7,874 feet
- Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours
- Difficulty level: Moderate, with stone steps
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
On the second day, we will start with an early breakfast at 5:00 a.m. and then take the first bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. At the checkpoint, we will present our passports before entering the site.
Once inside, we will enjoy a 3-hour guided walking tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its religious, agricultural, and urban sectors. Your guide will explain the history of Machu Picchu and its importance as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
After the guided tour, travelers with pre-booked tickets may hike Huayna Picchu for an additional experience. We will then return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and free time to explore the town.
In the afternoon, we will take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private bus transfer back to Cusco. Estimated arrival time in Cusco is 7:30 p.m., concluding our journey.
Day 2 Statistics:
- Maximum altitude: 2,700 meters / 8,856 feet
- Minimum altitude: 2,400 meters / 7,872 feet
- Difficulty level: Walking tour
Includes
- Airport pick-up and transfer upon arrival
- Pre-trek briefing at your hotel the day before (at your preferred time)
- Transportation for all transfers during the tour
- Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- Professional and experienced tour guides
- 1 box lunch and snacks
- 1 dinner in Aguas Calientes
- 1 breakfast at the hotel
- Water bottle for the hike
- Emergency first-aid kit, oxygen assistance, and satellite phone
- 1 night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Professional guided tour of Machu Picchu with no rush
- Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back
- Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (trailhead)
- Expedition tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus back to Cusco
- Luggage storage
- Trekking pole
- Backpack rain cover and rain poncho
- Taxes and fees
Not include
- Hotel upgrades
- Train upgrades (Vistadome or Observatory trains)
- Energy snacks and drinks (optional)
- Lunch on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Cash tips for guides
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket
- USD $75.00
- USD $40.00 with valid ISIC student card
Recommendations
- Original passport and ISIC student card (if applicable)
- Daypack (25 liters)
- Durable hiking boots with good soles (Vibram recommended)
- Warm clothing and trekking pants (no jeans)
- Layered clothing for changing temperatures, especially at night
- Camera, memory cards, and spare batteries
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses
- Wool hiking socks
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Extra plastic bags (especially during the rainy season) to line your backpack
- Toilet paper, small towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, personal medication, wet wipes, moisturizer, hand sanitizer
- Swimsuit for hot springs
- Water bottle or hydration system; purification tablets (optional)
- Personal first-aid kit and whistle
- Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
- Trekking poles
- 2 waterproof shirts
- 2 trekking pants
- 2 sets of underwear
- 2 pairs of hiking socks
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 warm down jacket
- 1 rain jacket and rain pants
- 1 sun hat
- 1 wool hat
- Quick-dry towel
- Portable power bank for phone or camera
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. This short Inca Trail is considered moderate and is suitable for travelers with a basic level of fitness. Some sections include Inca stone steps and uphill hiking.
How many hours do we hike on Day 1?
On Day 1, the hike lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including stops at archaeological sites.
What is the highest altitude reached on this trek?
The highest point is 3,900 meters / 12,795 feet, reached near the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes. We strongly recommend spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude.
Are meals included during the tour?
Yes. The tour includes 1 box lunch, snacks, dinner in Aguas Calientes, and breakfast at the hotel. Lunch on the last day is not included.
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