Highlights
- Hike the legendary Inca Trail and explore hidden inca gems.
- Arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate, just like the Incas.
- Discover Wiñay Wayna’s stunning terraces along the Inca Trail.
- Enjoy personalized service with small groups for an intimate experience
- Experience Machu Picchu at its most magical moments: sunset and sunrise.
Description
Day 1
Your journey begins at 4:00 AM with hotel pickup in Cusco. A scenic drive takes you to Ollantaytambo, where you board a 1.5-hour train ride along the Urubamba River to Chachabamba or km 104 (7,218 ft / 2,200 m, Km 104), the starting point of your trek.
Following the Inca Trail, visit Chachabamba, an important ceremonial and administrative Inca site, before ascending through cloud forests to Wiñay Wayna (8,694 ft / 2,650 m), an impressive complex with agricultural terraces and temples. The trail continues toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate, 8,924 ft / 2,720 m), where the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu (7,972 ft / 2,430 m) unfolds before you, bathed in the golden afternoon light. After taking in this breathtaking moment, descend to Aguas Calientes, check in at your 3-star hotel, and enjoy a well-earned dinner.
Day 2
Wake up early and take a morning bus to Machu Picchu, entering at your designated time according to your ticket schedule. Explore the citadel’s most iconic sites, including temples, terraces, and astronomical structures, while your guide unveils the history and engineering marvels of the Inca civilization. After your guided tour, if you secured an extra ticket (booked 3 to 6 months in advance), embark on the Huayna Picchu (8,924 ft / 2,720 m) or Machu Picchu Mountain (10,112 ft / 3,082 m) hike for spectacular panoramic views.
In the afternoon, board the Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo, then continue by bus to Cusco, arriving in the early evening with unforgettable memories of your journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.
Includes
Pre-departure briefing at our Cusco office to prepare for your adventure.
Hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience.
All transportation, including a scenic Expedition train ride to the trailhead and a return journey on the panoramic Vistadome train.
One night’s accommodation in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Meals included: Boxed lunch on Day 1 (Inca Trail) and dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
Professional English-speaking guide.
Entrance tickets to both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Bus transfer from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1, and round-trip bus service between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu on Day 2.
Excludes
Meals not included: Breakfast on Day 1, lunch and dinner on Day 2.
Drinks: Water is not provided, so please bring your own.
Optional hikes: Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional $85 per person).
Travel insurance: Not included, we recommend purchasing your own.
Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and staff are not included.
Important Information
- Small group experience: This tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants for a more personalized and intimate experience.
Passport requirement: A valid passport must be carried with you during all activities.
Year-round availability: This tour operates year-round, except in February, when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund