Highlights
- Hike the 2-day Short Inca Trail via Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Inti Punku
- Visit Machu Picchu in afternoon light, then return early at sunrise
- Ride the Expedition train and explore the citadel with your guide
Description
Day 1: Short Inca Trail Tour (Cusco – Aguas Calientes)
Start early with a private transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board the train to Km 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. After passing the control point, begin your guided hike at Chachabamba, exploring its archaeological remains before continuing through the lush cloud forest, rich in flora such as orchids and native plants. Visit the impressive site of Wiñay Wayna, whose name means “Forever Young,” and enjoy lunch surrounded by spectacular scenery. Continue along the trail with panoramic views of the Urubamba River until reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll have your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu bathed in afternoon light. Explore MachuPicchu at Circuit 1-B near closing time, offering a quieter experience and unique photo opportunities. End the day with a 30 minutes bus to Aguas Calientes, hotel check-in, and dinner before resting for the next day’s visit
Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes – Cusco)
Your Inca Path Peru team will wake you up early with your choice of hot drinks. You’ll have time to pack your duffel bags and day packs and enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast. We’ll then walk about 5 minutes to the bus station to be among the first in line to ascend to Machu Picchu.
The first buses depart at 5:30 a.m. and arrive around 6:00 a.m. Remember to bring your original passport for the checkpoint. Your guide will take you to the ideal spot to witness the sunrise over the mountains and capture some amazing photos
After sunrise, enjoy a two-hour private walking tour of Machu Picchu, exploring the citadel and learning its fascinating history (guided tour around 2.5 hrs) Circuit 3.
Return to Aguas Calientes and Train Journey
You’ll need to catch your bus back to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train departure. This gives you time for lunch (not included) and to board your train to Ollantaytambo.
Includes
Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo on Day 1.
Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco on Day 2.
Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104.
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
CONSETTUR bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1.
CONSETTUR bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on Day 2.
CONSETTUR bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 2.
Entrance ticket to the Short Inca Trail.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
Professional bilingual tour guide.
1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
1 box lunch, 1 breakfast, and 1 dinner.
First aid kit.
Oxygen tank for emergency use.
Excludes
Breakfast on the first day, lunch and dinner on the final day
Tips for personal of assistance, tour guide and drivers (optional)
Additional expenses (souvenirs, extra food, etc)
Walking stick (you can ask for one in rental)
Transportations outside of the itinerary
Personal equipment
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
