Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Day Private Tour

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2 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers the perfect combination of scenic hiking, cultural immersion, and discovery in just two unforgettable days. Starting with a picturesque train journey from Cusco, travelers begin a 12 km guided trek along ancient Inca paths, visiting archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. With a small group of no more than 8 people, the experience feels personal and intimate. At Intipunku (the Sun Gate), enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over Machu Picchu before heading to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay with included accommodation and meals (lunch and breakfast). On day two, take a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where expert local guides bring the site’s history, architecture, and meaning to life. This moderately challenging trek is perfect for active travelers seeking a unique, time-efficient, and immersive way to experience one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

What's Included

First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Entry: Short Inca Trail + Machu Picchu site
Bilingual guide for hike and Machu Picchu tour
Shuttle bus: Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu
Lunch (Day 1) and breakfast (Day 2)
Transport Cusco–Ollantaytambo–Machu Picchu round trip
Train tickets: Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and return
1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
Travel insurance (recommended)
Meals not listed in itinerary
Entry to optional sites or activities
Tips for guides, drivers, staff
Personal gear rental or purchase
Optional activities (e.g., hot springs, Huayna Picchu)
Extra hotel nights before/after tour
Alcoholic drinks and bottled water
Personal expenses

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for all travelers staying within Cusco’s historic center. This is a private service, so we will pick you up directly from your hotel and return you there at the end of the tour. Please be ready in your lobby 10 minutes before departure time. If your accommodation is outside the historic center, we’ll contact you in advance to coordinate a meeting point or arrange pick-up. Make sure to provide accurate contact information so we can reach you without delays.

OR
Meeting point

Private service with hotel pick-up included. If your hotel is in Cusco’s historic center, we’ll pick you up directly—no meeting point needed. If outside the center, we’ll contact you to coordinate. Please provide accurate contact details.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Intipunku – Aguas Calientes

    4 stops
  • 1
    Cusco

    Begin your adventure with an early hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo through the stunning Sacred Valley. As the train winds along, admire breathtaking Andean landscapes, towering mountains, and traditional villages that showcase authentic Peruvian culture, setting the perfect tone for the trek ahead.

    4 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Arriving at Kilometer 104, meet your expert guide who will lead you onto the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The hike begins with a gentle ascent to Chachabamba, a remarkable Inca archaeological site known for its ceremonial fountains and meticulously crafted stone walls. Learn about the Inca’s spiritual reverence for water and the significance of this sacred location

    2 hours • Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Winay Wayna

    Continue trekking through dense, vibrant cloud forest rich with orchids, hummingbirds, and butterflies. The trail gradually climbs toward Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young” in Quechua), a breathtaking site featuring extensive agricultural terraces and well-preserved Inca ruins clinging dramatically to the mountainside. From here, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the lush valley below and surrounding peaks. Your journey culminates at Intipunku, the famous Sun Gate, which offers the first awe-inspiring glimpse of the Machu Picchu citadel. Witness the sunrise illuminate the ancient ruins, revealing the grandeur and mystery of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

    2 minutes • Admission ticket included
  • 4
    Aguas Calientes

    After soaking in this unforgettable moment, descend approximately 2 kilometers to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Here, you’ll check into your hotel and have time to rest and explore the vibrant mountain town atmosphere in preparation for your full Machu Picchu visit the next day.

    10 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 2

    Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

    4 stops
  • 5
    Machu Picchu

    Begin your second day with an early ascent to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise over this UNESCO World Heritage site. As the morning mist lifts, your expert guide will lead you on a captivating 2-hour walking tour through the citadel. Explore highlights like the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows, as you learn about Inca astronomy, architecture, and spiritual traditions. This immersive experience brings the mystery and majesty of Machu Picchu to life.

    3 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Machu Picchu

    After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. You can revisit your favorite spots or relax and absorb the magical surroundings. For those seeking adventure, an optional 1-hour round-trip hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) offers breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding mountains, a perfect finale to your Machu Picchu visit.

    1 hour • Admission ticket not included
  • 7
    Aguas Calientes

    At midday, board the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Once in town, unwind and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant of your choice, with options ranging from traditional Peruvian dishes to international cuisine. Use this free time to explore the colorful artisan markets, where you can find handcrafted textiles, souvenirs, and unique Andean gifts to take home.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Ollantaytambo

    After arriving in Ollantaytambo, you'll continue with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable 2-day Short Inca Trail adventure. As the scenic train winds through the breathtaking Urubamba Valley, take in your final views of majestic rivers, lush forests, and snow-capped Andean peaks. This peaceful ride is the perfect conclusion to a journey filled with ancient wonders, natural beauty, and the timeless spirit of Machu Picchu.

    5 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Xplor Machu Picchu

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Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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