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- English
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Experience the best of the legendary Short Inca Trail in just one day from Cusco. Begin your hike at Km 104 and follow the most scenic final stretch of the trail to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.
Accompanied by an expert local guide, discover hidden Inca ruins along the route before arriving at the magical, UNESCO-listed citadel, where you’ll explore its most important temples and viewpoints. After your visit, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes and unwind on a scenic train ride back to Cusco—a perfect blend of adventure, history, and comfort for travelers short on time.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please note: Pickup and drop-off are only available for hotels in Cusco’s historic center (downtown).
Kindly send us your hotel name and address
If you're staying outside the center, we’ll coordinate the nearest meeting point for you.
Itinerary
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1Cusco
Early Morning Departure Begin your adventure with an early hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by a comfortable bus journey through the Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of traditional Andean villages, farmland, and snow-capped mountains. From Ollantaytambo, board a scenic train that follows the Urubamba River, offering stunning views of lush valleys, dramatic cliffs, and the surrounding Andes Mountains as you travel toward the start of the Inca Trail.
3 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Km 104 (Chachabamba) – Inca Trail Entrance Start the Short Inca Trail at Km 104, passing the official checkpoint and visiting the Chachabamba archaeological site. From here, begin a scenic uphill hike of approximately 3.5 hours toward Wiñay Wayna.
4 hours • Admission ticket included -
3Winay Wayna
Wiñay Wayna Archaeological Site Explore the impressive Inca complex of Wiñay Wayna, famous for its stunning terraces, fountains, and ceremonial structures. Learn about Inca history and engineering before enjoying a boxed lunch surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included -
4
Sun Gate (Inti Punku) Continue hiking to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original entrance to Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient citadel. Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
20 minutes • Admission ticket included -
5Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Citadel (Guided Tour) Arrive at the magical Machu Picchu Citadel and enjoy a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting its most important temples, plazas, terraces, and viewpoints.
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
6Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes – Return to Cusco After your guided visit to Machu Picchu, descend by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Board a scenic train through the Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River to Ollantaytambo Station. Upon arrival, continue by comfortable bus transportation back to your hotel in Cusco, with an evening arrival at approximately 10:00 pm.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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