2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Short on time but still want the thrill of the Inca Trail? This 2-day Inca Trail hike offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural immersion, taking you through lush cloud forests, Inca ruins, and finally to the majestic Machu Picchu. Ideal for travelers who want to experience a taste of the classic route without the multi-day trek, this shorter version still includes the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku) arrival — a truly unforgettable entrance.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
We’ll pick you up early from your hotel in Cusco and drive to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, a scenic train ride will take us to KM 104, the starting point of your Inca Trail adventure. After passing the checkpoint (passport required), we’ll begin a gentle ascent through the forested mountains.
Our first stop is the Inca site of Chachabamba, a ceremonial site with finely carved stone structures. As we climb higher, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the Andes. After about 3-4 hours of trekking, we’ll reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most stunning and well-preserved Inca sites on the trail. Here, you’ll have lunch and time to explore the beautifully terraced ruins.
After lunch, we continue to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original entrance to Machu Picchu. Arriving in the late afternoon allows us to witness Machu Picchu with fewer crowds, bathed in golden light. We then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll enjoy dinner and rest in a comfortable hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: Box lunch
Tickets: Included (trail and Machu Picchu)
Day 2: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Wake up early and take one of the first buses back up to Machu Picchu. Your expert guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour, explaining the fascinating history, architecture, and mysteries of this World Wonder.
Explore key sites such as the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana stone, Sacred Plaza, and more. After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to take photos or, if pre-booked, climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views.
Later, return to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast
Tickets: Included
What does this tour include?
Included
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Entry ticket for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes (3,4 or 5★ category)
- All transportation (train, bus, transfers)
- Meals: 1 box lunch, 1 breakfast
- Oxygen bottle and first-aid kit
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (optional)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide and staff
- Extra snacks or drinks
Prices (Per Person, Based on Double Occupancy)
Group Service
| Type | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adult | $490 |
| Student | $470 |
Private Service
| Group Size | Price per Person (USD) |
| 2 people | $770 |
| 3 people | $650 |
| 4–6 people | $590 |
| 7+ people | $540 |
Group price
Optional Add‑Ons:
- Huayna Picchu permit: +$60
- Machu Picchu Mountain: +$60
- Train upgrade to Vistadome (one-way): +$40
Payment Terms
- Passport copy required to book entrance tickets
- $250 deposit at booking (non-refundable)
- Final balance due 30 days before departure
- Payments via credit/debit card or bank transfer
To book, contact us with the tour, dates, and number of people. We will confirm and send the details along with the payment link via Wise or credit card.
- Deposit 40% of the total amount.
- Remaining 60% in cash before the start of the tour in Cusco or, if preferred, up to 10 days prior by credit card. Learn more
