2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
2-Day tour to Machu Picchu
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, perfect for adventurers with limited time who want to experience the magic of the Andes. This condensed yet exhilarating trek takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru, leading to the awe-inspiring ancient city of Machu Picchu.
Our expert guides will lead you along the historic Inca pathways, sharing fascinating stories and insights about the Inca civilization and their remarkable achievements. This 1-night adventure allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of the region without the longer commitment of the traditional Inca Trail.
Unique Experiences:
Historic Pathways: Walk the same trails used by the ancient Inca civilization, filled with historical significance and natural beauty.
Breathtaking Landscapes: Traverse lush cloud forests, encounter cascading waterfalls, and enjoy majestic mountain views.
Sunset and Sunrise at Machu Picchu: Witness the unforgettable sunset over Machu Picchu on day one and sunrise over Machu Picchu on day two, a sight that will leave you in awe.
ITINERARY:
Day1: Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Km104 to Machu Picchu.
Start your adventure with the convenience of a hotel pickup at 5:30 am. Our private transportation will whisk you away to the Ollantaytambo train station. Enjoy the scenic train ride, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes long, to Km 104, situated at an altitude of 2050 m (6,725 ft), where our epic trail begins.
Over the course of approximately 3 hours, prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning landscapes as we ascend to the remarkable Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, aptly named 'Forever Young', at 2650 m (8,694 ft). Explore the magnificence of this ancient site before continuing our hike for about 1 hour to the revered 'Inti Punku' or Sun Gate, perched at 2720 m (8,923 ft). Here, the panoramic view of Machu Picchu at 2400 m (7,874 ft) will take your breath away.
Descending from the Sun Gate, we'll make our way to Machu Picchu on foot, guided by our knowledgeable expert guide. Capture postcard-perfect pictures from the classic viewpoint, offering a breathtaking perspective of the entire archaeological site. Afterward, we'll board a comfortable bus to Aguas Calientes, located at an altitude of 2040 m (6,692 ft). Here, enjoy a delightful dinner and unwind for the night.
Trekking Distance: 13 km (8.07 miles)
Maximum Altitude: 2720 m (8,923 ft) at the Sun Gate
Estimated Time: 6-7 hours
Day 2: Aguas Calientes,Machu Picchu and Back to Cusco
Rise early and treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at the hotel before catching one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving early rewards you with the tranquility and quietude of the Inca City during the early morning hours, creating the perfect atmosphere for capturing stunning photos and experiencing the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu.
After witnessing this magical sunrise, embark on a comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu. Delve into its captivating history and explore its most significant buildings and temples. Our expert guide will unveil the secrets and stories behind this ancient wonder, making your experience even more enriching and memorable.
Please note that the Peruvian government has implemented new regulations since June 2024, dividing the entrance time into multiple slots throughout the day. Our tour is scheduled between 6:00 am and 10:00 am, ensuring you have ample time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Machu Picchu. If you wish to undertake additional hikes, such as Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, please purchase an extra ticket accordingly.
Once you feel you have fully absorbed the marvels of Machu Picchu, we will take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved lunch. Before leaving Machu Picchu, ensure you are aware of the designated meeting time and location in Aguas Calientes. Here, you will receive your train tickets for the return journey to Cusco. From there, we'll travel by train to Ollantaytambo, followed by our reliable private transportation that will safely transport you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Distance by bus: 6 km (3.37 miles).
Altitude of Machu Picchu: 2400 m (7874 ft)
Estimated Time: 3-4 hours