Short Inca Trek and Machu Picchu - 2 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female47%
- Male53%
Average age
Start / End
- Cusco
- Cusco
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
4Highlights
- Relax overnight in comfort at a charming 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- See Machu Picchu twice: at sunset from the Sun Gate and at sunrise the next morning.
- Stay overnight in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes with mountain views.
- Travel back to Cusco in comfort on the panoramic Vistadome train.
- Enjoy freshly prepared picnic breakfast and lunch along the hike.
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Summary
This 2-day hiking adventure is perfect for active travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail in less time. Walk from Km 104 to Machu Picchu, visiting Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and the Sun Gate, with the exclusive chance to see the citadel at both sunset and sunrise, savor picnic meals on the trail, travel back on the panoramic Vistadome train, and enjoy a comfortable overnight 3-star hotel stay in Aguas Calientes.
Itinerary
Day 1
Cusco - Km 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu
- 13 km / 8 mi
- 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Sun Gate)
- 7 hours
Start your adventure with an early hotel pickup from Cusco’s historic center or the Sacred Valley (Urubamba or Ollantaytambo).
Travel by train along the scenic Urubamba River to Km 104, where a picnic breakfast welcomes you to the day’s journey. Begin your hike at the archaeological site of Chachabamba, exploring its ancient structures before ascending through lush Andean landscapes. Discover the remarkable terraces of Wiñay Wayna, a testament to Incan engineering and harmony with nature. Enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch surrounded by mountain views.
Continue to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for your first awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu, illuminated by the warm afternoon light. Enter the citadel via Circuit 1, ideal for capturing stunning photos with fewer visitors. End your day with a bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where a satisfying dinner at a local restaurant and a restful overnight stay in a comfortable 3-star hotel await.
Day 2
Machu Picchu - Cusco
- To 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- 2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu
Start with an early breakfast before taking one of the first buses to Machu Picchu for a peaceful sunrise experience, followed by a guided exploration through Circuit 3 that reveals its plazas, temples, terraces and ceremonial spaces, with the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked in advance) for extra views, enjoy free time in Aguas Calientes for lunch and local market visits, and conclude with a panoramic Vistadome train ride back to Ollantaytambo before your transfer to Cusco.
What's Included
Accommodation
3* Hotel
Meals
Breakfasts: 2, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 1
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Aug 25
from £392Sep 25
from £392Oct 25
from £392Nov 25
from £392Dec 25
from £392Jan 26
from £378Mar 26
from £378Apr 26
from £378May 26
from £378Jun 26
from £378Jul 26
from £378Aug 26
from £378Sep 26
from £378Oct 26
from £378Nov 26
from £378Dec 26
from £378
- Save 2%Thu 1 Jan 2026 > Fri 2 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£386Best offer£378Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Fri 2 Jan 2026 > Sat 3 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£386Best offer£378Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Sat 3 Jan 2026 > Sun 4 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£386Best offer£378Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Sun 4 Jan 2026 > Mon 5 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£386Best offer£378Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
Customer reviews & ratings
We had a really nice 2 day trip on the short inka trail. The views were awesome, the walk was not too strenuous and our guide was wonderful! Miguel explained a lot and told us so much about the traditions of the Andes, about the Inca and about flora and fauna. It was a unique experience and we can only recommend everyone to do this tour (best with Miguel)! Muchísimas gracias Miguel!
Annina VerifiedExcellent experience, breathtaking views. Jhony was an exceptional tour guide with great insight and always found a way to make the tour amazing. Highly recommend.
Nicholas Jul, 2023 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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