Cusco, Wiñaywayna, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
- Time 2 days / 1 night
- Tour Type Hiking
- Altitude 4200 m.s.n.m.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Trip Description
Welcome! If you are looking for an exciting experience in Peru, I have the perfect solution for you! Would you like to explore the famous Inca Trail for two days and enjoy an unforgettable night at our campsite in Aguas Calientes? During the hike, you will enjoy six hours of breathtaking views through the short trail of the Inca Trail, on our first day we will hike for four hours uphill to explore the impressive ruins of Wiñaywayna, as well as receive a delicious lunch and rest surrounded by nature, we will continue for only one more hour until we reach the majestic view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
After an exciting day of trekking, you will rest at our first day camp located near the town of Aguas Calientes, where a delicious dinner prepared by our talented trekking chef awaits you, imagine sleeping under the stars in the middle of the impressive mountains of the Peruvian Andes! All this while our team of professionals takes care of all the details so that you can enjoy this unique experience to the fullest.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the history and culture of Peru in a very special way. Book now our two-day tour along the Inca Trail and live an adventure you will never forget, we are waiting for you!
Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco | KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu
Explore breathtaking landscapes surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation as you hike the original Inca Trail. Visit Inca archaeological sites and admire the majesty of Machu Picchu before spending the night in Aguas Calientes.
Day 02: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Discover the mysteries of enchanting Machu Picchu in the company of a guide, before returning to Aguas Calientes. Afterwards, you will board a train to Ollantaytambo, where a private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.
Places to visit and activities to do on the Inca Trail 2 days – 1 night
| Day 1 | Day 2 | |
| Exit point | Km 104 | Aguas Calientes |
| Arrival point | Puerta del Sol – Machu Pichu Pueblo – Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu |
| Distance / duration | 11 km / 8 h | |
| Activities | Transfer from Cuzco to the Inca Trail and hike | Visit Machu Picchu and return to Cuzco. |
| Breakfast | ||
| Lunch | ||
| Snack | ||
| Dinner |
Complete Itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Puerta del Sol – Machu Picchu
Cusco (3,400 masl): A pick-up service will be provided at the hotel to transfer the traveler to Ollantaytambo. Once there, you will take a train to Km.104 to start the short version of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Pick up time at the hotel will be around 5:00 a.m.
Ollantaytambo Station (2,870 masl): With the company of a guide, the traveler will be able to transfer from his hotel to the town of Ollantaytambo in a trip of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. At that place, you will board the Expedition train to the starting point of the tour, which is known as KM 104 “Chacha Bamba”.
Km 104 Chacha Bamba (2,100 masl): To start the Inca Trail, at the starting point it is necessary to present the corresponding permit, the original passport and, if you have an ISIC card, you must also present it. Here you will begin the hike, which will last between 3.5 and 4 hours, until you reach Wiñayhuayna, where you will take a pleasant rest and enjoy a snack. During this part of the hike, the traveler will be able to appreciate spectacular flora and breathtaking scenery.
Inti Punku (2,700 masl): After lunch, we will hike for two hours to Intipunku, also known as “Puerta del Sol”, where we will be able to enjoy impressive views of Machu Picchu and the nearby mountains. Once there, we will have about 20 minutes to rest and admire the beauty of the landscape.
Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): Then, we will proceed to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas.
Aguas Calientes and Camp (2,040 masl): Afterwards, we will go by bus for 20 minutes to the Puente Ruinas camp. Upon arrival, you will find your tents already set up and will be able to rejoin the porters. You will have an hour of free time for hot drinks and dinner. In the evening, a small ceremony will take place with the chef and the porters, as it will be their last night together. Despite this, they will still be there to prepare breakfast and say goodbye the next morning. This trail is the same as the 2-day Inca Trail with hotel.
Highlights include trekking the Inca Trail, panoramic views from the Sun Gate, enjoying the sunset from Machu Picchu and camping at the foot of the lost city of the Incas.
- Distance: 7 miles / 11 kilometers (6 hours)
- Highest Point Altitude: 2,870 meters above sea level (cold climate)
- Rated: Easy
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Warm and very humid
- Overnight: Hotel Aguas Calientes
- Meals included: Lunch (box lunch) and Dinner
Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Santuario de Machu Picchu – Cusco
Machu Picchu: The last day of the excursion will start early with breakfast at 5:00 a.m. at the hotel, followed by a bus ride to the Machu Picchu Citadel. To enter, you will need to present your passport, entrance ticket and ISIC card if you have the latter. A guide will accompany you on a tour of approximately 2 hours to explore the various ruins and temples. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the city and take pictures. Then, you will use your bus ticket to go down to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. The “Expedition Train” departs at 6:30 p.m. and arrives in Ollantaytambo after 2 hours. There, a bus will take you back to Cusco, where you will arrive around 10:30 p.m. to finish your trip.
- Highest point Altitude: 2,650 meters above sea level (cold climate)
- Considered: Easy
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Warm and very humid
- Meals included: Breakfast
Including
Which includes the Inca Trail:
- Pick up from your hotel at departure
- Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
- Train tickets to the trek (together with your guide)
- Entrance fee to the Inca Trail
- Lunch (box lunch) at Wiñay Wayna
- Visit the following Inca archaeological sites (Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku and Machu Picchu)
- Bus tickets to the city of Aguas Calientes
- Camping
- 1 tent
- Breakfast on the second day at the hotel
- Bus back to Machu Picchu on Day 2
- Entrance fee to Machu Picchu
- 2 hours private guided tour by your guide
- Tourist train expedition round trip
- Tourist bus back to Cusco
- Transfer back to your hotel
- All entrance fees to the places to visit
- Taxes included
Recommendations
What to bring
- Original passport
- ISIC (student discount card), if you have one
- Small backpack
- Rain poncho
- Good hiking pants, hiking boots, sun, hat and sunglasses
- Camera batteries and extra
- 2 liters of water
- Extra money
- Insect repellent
- Trekking poles
- Snacks
Extras for your 2-day Inca Trail
- Walking sticks (10 $ a pair of sticks)
- Extra porter for personal belongings (60 $ for 7 Kilos -. Max 7 Kilos)
- Upgrade to single room in Aguas Calientes (35 $)
- Upgrade to Vistadome train (80 $)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu (65 $) – There is only limited space at Huayna Picchu (400 people per day), so it is a good idea to book in advance.
- We can help you book hotels (standard and deluxe) if you prefer.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURInca Trail to Machu Picchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people | |
Tour Summary
What is included in the tour
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
| |
Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the service in VISTADOME Train the additional is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.
Differential prices for students, children, infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers
What is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, especially in June and July.g
The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. Rainfall can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.
Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.
What is the weather like in Cusco?
The climate in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.
- The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
- Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rains and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.
It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.
What to see in Machu Picchu?
- The Intihuatana, The Temple of the Sun: a large ceremonial building, probably dedicated to the god Inti, the sun god in Inca mythology.
- The Main Temple: A large structure with an impressive panoramic view of the nearby mountains.
- The Main Street: The main road that runs through the center of the city and connects the main areas of Machu Picchu.
- The Sun Gate: The main entrance to Machu Picchu and one of the most iconic points of the city.
- The thermal baths: Inca system of thermal baths.
- The Huayna Picchu mountain: an optional hike that offers even more impressive panoramic views of the ruins of Machu Picchu, the hike lasts 1 hour uphill to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain.
What to bring on my trip to Cusco?
If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:
- Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking, and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
- Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure you bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
- Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles for shopping in local markets, paying for cabs and tipping.
- Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
- Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.
Where is Huayna Picchu?
Huayna Picchu is a mountain located in Machu Picchu. It is located north of the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and is one of the most iconic mountains in the area.
The climb to the top of Huayna Picchu is a popular activity for visitors to Machu Picchu, as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the archaeological site and the surrounding area. However, the ascent is quite steep and can be challenging for some visitors, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the experience safely.
What is Aguas Calientes like?
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located in the Urubamba River valley, near Machu Picchu. It is the starting point for most visitors who want to visit Machu Picchu, as it is where the train stations and access to the buses that take visitors to the entrance of Machu Picchu are located.
Aguas Calientes has a vibrant tourist atmosphere and is a fairly small town. There are a variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, souvenir stores and travel agencies to cater to visitors. Due to its location in a mountainous area, the city has many stairs and steep streets, but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
In addition to serving as a base for visitors to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes has some tourist attractions of its own, such as the hot springs that give the town its name, a small historic church and some nearby Inca ruins.
Where is Inti Punku?
Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site located on the route of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level, and is the traditional entry point to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
It is a stone structure located on top of a mountain with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River valley.
The hike to Inti Punku is the final section of the Inca Trail route. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and nature before reaching the ceremonial gate and getting their first view of the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Which camps will you visit during the trek?
- Wayllabamba Camp: Wayllabamba camp is where hikers spend their first night on the Inca Trail after walking a steep and demanding section of the route. The camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to relax and socialize.
- Runkuraqay Camp: Runkuraqay camp is the second camp on the Inca Trail route after Wayllabamba camp. Hikers spend their second night at this camp after hiking up a steep section of the trail and passing through the Warmiwañusca Pass (known as the Dead Woman’s Pass) at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The Runkuraqay camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp is rocky and sparsely vegetated, but offers stunning views of the nearby mountains.
- Wiñayhuayn Camp: Wiñay Wayna camp is the third and last camp on the Inca Trail route before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu the following day. The camp is surrounded by vegetation and close to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. The Wiñay Wayna camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp has a lot of tropical plants and flowers, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature.
