Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N
We will experience the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu on a short but very complete route. We will walk among green mountains and trails filled with living history. We will move forward to areas with wide views of the valley and the river. We will maintain a steady pace to enjoy every section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N begins at Km 104 and continues toward ancient ceremonial centers. You will explore Wiñay Wayna and admire its impressive terraces. The route then leads to higher points with unique panoramic views of the Andean surroundings. Every step brings you closer to the main archaeological site.
Arrival at the Sun Gate takes place in the afternoon, offering the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from above. From there, the descent continues to Aguas Calientes to rest and recover energy. A calm and relaxing atmosphere awaits after a day full of experiences, ending the journey with a deep sense of cultural connection.
At sunrise, we will go up to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu to explore its architecture. We will walk through temples, plazas, and terraces full of history. We will visit spaces that preserve a special energy. We will finish the trip returning to Cusco with an unforgettable experience together with Sisa Peru Tours.
Trip Summary
We will experience the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu on a short but very complete route. We will walk among green mountains and trails filled with living history. We will move forward to areas with wide views of the valley and the river. We will maintain a steady pace to enjoy every section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N begins at Km 104 and continues toward ancient ceremonial centers. You will explore Wiñay Wayna and admire its impressive terraces. The route then leads to higher points with unique panoramic views of the Andean surroundings. Every step brings you closer to the main archaeological site.
Arrival at the Sun Gate takes place in the afternoon, offering the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from above. From there, the descent continues to Aguas Calientes to rest and recover energy. A calm and relaxing atmosphere awaits after a day full of experiences, ending the journey with a deep sense of cultural connection.
At sunrise, we will go up to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu to explore its architecture. We will walk through temples, plazas, and terraces full of history. We will visit spaces that preserve a special energy. We will finish the trip returning to Cusco with an unforgettable experience together with Sisa Peru Tours.
Detailed Itinerary
The pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 A.M. and take the route to Ollantaytambo. We will arrive at the station and board the train to Km 104. We will walk along the Urubamba River and see wide landscapes with high mountains. We will advance to a control point where we will show our passports to enter the short Inca Trail.
We will climb a steep path with stone steps. We will see dense vegetation and orchids in season. We will have open views of the valley while following a safe and marked route. We will arrive at the archaeological complex of Chachabamba, where we will learn about its ritual function.
Continue to Wiñay Wayna, a huge archaeological site with agricultural terraces and water channels. We will explore its ceremonial sectors and enjoy wide canyon views. We will take a break and enjoy our lunch in a nearby area. Then we will continue along a narrow path that borders mountain walls.
We will move forward to Inti Punku, also called the Sun Gate. From there we will see Machu Picchu for the first time. We will have time for photos and enjoy a clear sunset if the weather allows it. We will descend to the park exit and take the bus to Aguas Calientes.
We will arrive in town and check into the reserved hotel. We may walk around the center or visit the hot springs. We will end the day with a relaxed dinner in the town.
Day 1 Statistics:
Distance: 12 km
Highest altitude: 2,720 meters above sea level
Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level
Route: Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Aguas Calientes
Difficulty: Moderate
We will wake up early and take the bus to Machu Picchu at 5:30 A.M. We will arrive at the entrance and enter the archaeological site after the control. We will walk along wide paths and see the first temples from high terraces. We will have soft morning light to observe everything clearly.
We will visit the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, and the Main Plaza.
We will explore agricultural areas and very well-preserved urban sectors. We will see water channels that still function and explain each structure calmly. We will have pauses to take photos from various panoramic points.
We may hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if we have tickets. Our guide will accompany us to the designated access points. We will finish the visit and descend by bus to Aguas Calientes. We will have free time for lunch and to walk around the town.
We will board the train to Ollantaytambo in the afternoon. Our transport will wait for us at the station. We will arrive in Cusco around 10:00 P.M. We will rest after experiencing a complete journey along the Inca route.
Day 2 Statistics:
Distance: 3 km
Highest altitude: 2,720 meters above sea level
Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level
Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
What's Included?
Includes
Transfer from hotel in Cusco
Train ticket Ollantaytambo – Km 104 (Expedition train)
Train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (Expedition train)
Inca Trail entrance ticket
Machu Picchu entrance ticket
Professional bilingual guide
Bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (Day 2)
Lunch Day 1
Dinner Day 1
Breakfast Day 2
1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
First aid kit
Not Included
Hotel in Cusco
Breakfast Day 1
Lunch Day 2
Dinner Day 2
Huayna Picchu ticket (optional)
Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (optional)
Hot springs entrance ticket (optional)
Upgrade to Vistadome train (optional)
Upgrade to Hiram Bingham train (optional)
Personal expenses and shopping
Travel insurance
Tips ( optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
The short Inca Trail (2D/1N) requires a moderate level of fitness. The hike includes uphill sections and stone steps, but it is suitable for most travelers in good health.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance. Permits for the Inca Trail are limited and can sell out quickly, especially during high season.
Yes, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is included as part of the tour package.
Yes, but it depends on availability. These tickets are optional and must be booked in advance due to limited spaces.
No, this tour includes a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. There is no camping involved.
The tour includes lunch and dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2. Other meals are not included.
The tour operates in all weather conditions. It is recommended to bring a rain poncho or waterproof jacket, especially during the rainy season.
You will return to Cusco around 10:00 P.M. on Day 2, depending on train schedules.
Weather varies depending on the season. Days are usually warm, while mornings and evenings can be cooler. Rain is common between November and April.
Yes, most hotels in Cusco offer luggage storage. You can also bring a small backpack for the trek.
Travel Recommendations
Original passport
Small and light backpack
Water bottle
Energy snacks
Sunscreen
Hat
Sunglasses
Waterproof jacket
Rain poncho
Light quick-dry clothing
Warm clothes for the afternoon
Trekking shoes or boots
Power bank
Camera
Cash (Peruvian soles)
Personal hygiene items

