Cusco, Wiñaywayna, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
- Time 2 days / 1 night
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 4200 m.a.s.l.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Trip Description
Are you looking for a unique Inca Trail experience but have little time available? We have the perfect solution for you! Our 2-day tour will allow you to experience all the wonder of the last leg of the famous 4-day trek in just a couple of days. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit fascinating archaeological sites, including the impressive Wiñay Wayna. In addition, you will be able to relax amidst beautiful hills and enjoy a delicious box lunch on your way to the Sun Gate, where you will have the first spectacular views of Machu Picchu in the distance. You can’t miss this dream landscape!
To make sure your experience is comfortable and memorable, you will spend the night in a cozy hotel in Aguas Calientes and enjoy a delicious dinner after a day of hiking. Your comfort is our priority, so you can get a good night’s sleep before continuing to explore Machu Picchu the next day – don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unique Inca Trail adventure with us!
Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco | KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu
Experience the authentic Inca Trail adventure as you marvel at breathtaking landscapes surrounded by majestic mountains and lush vegetation! Discover fascinating Inca archaeological sites and enjoy your first view of Machu Picchu before spending a night in Aguas Calientes. You can’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore the history and natural beauty of the Peruvian Andean region!
Day 02: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Discover the marvelous secrets of the enigmatic Machu Picchu in the company of a guide, before returning to Aguas Calientes. Afterwards, you will take the train to Ollantaytambo where our private transportation 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 | |
Starting point | Km 104 | Aguas Calientes |
Arrival point | Sun Gate – 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 – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Cusco (3,400 masl): Our abridged version of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu starts at your hotel, where you will be picked up around 5:00 a.m., to take you to Ollantaytambo and from there board the train to Km. 104.
Ollantaytambo Station (2,870 masl): After leaving the hotel, you and your guide will make a journey of about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we will board the Expedition train to our starting point called KM 104, also known as “Chacha bamba”.
Km 104 Chacha bamba (2,100 masl): At the beginning of the Inca Trail hike, it is necessary to present your access permit, your original passport and, if you have one, your ISIC card. This will be the starting point to begin walking for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours until we reach Wiñayhuayna, where we will take a break to enjoy a delicious snack. During the hike to Wiñayhuayna, we will be able to appreciate the beautiful flora and landscape that surrounds us, making this a truly incredible walk.
Inti Punku (2,700 masl): After lunch time, we will continue hiking for two additional hours to Intipunku, also known as “Puerta del Sol” (Sun Gate). From there, we will be able to enjoy magnificent views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains for about 20 minutes, during which time we can rest and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): After that, we will head to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas.
Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): Afterwards, we will take a bus to Aguas Calientes and head to the hotel. We will arrive approximately between 4:00 and 5:00 in the afternoon, at which time we will check into the hotel for a short rest. Afterwards, you can enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the recommended restaurants we have available.
- Distance: 7 miles / 11 kilometers (6 hours)
- Highest point Altitude: 2,870 meters above sea level (cold weather)
- Rated: Easy
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Warm and very humid
- Overnight: Aguas Calientes Hotel
- Meals included: Lunch (box lunch) and Dinner
Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Picchu Sanctuary – Cusco
Machu Picchu: On the last day, we will get an early start with breakfast at 5:00 a.m. at the hotel before heading by bus to the Machu Picchu Citadel. To enter, you will need to present your passport, entrance ticket and ISIC card (if you have one). You will then take a guided tour for about 2 hours, exploring the different temples and ruins. After the visit, you will have free time to explore the city and take pictures.
After enjoying the magnificent city of the Incas, you will use your bus ticket to go down to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. The Expedition train leaves at 6:30 pm and arrives in Ollantaytambo two hours later. There a bus will be waiting for you to take you back to Cusco, where your trip will come to an end around 10:30 pm.
- Highest point Altitude: 2,650 meters above sea level (cold weather)
- Rated: Easy
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Warm and very humid
- Meals included: Breakfast
Which includes
What is included in the Inca Trail:
- Pick up from your hotel at departure
- Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
- Train tickets to the trek (along with your guide)
- Entrance fee to the Inca Trail
- Lunch (box lunch) in Wiñay Wayna
- Visit the following Inca archaeological sites (Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku and Machu Picchu)
- Bus tickets to the city of Aguas Calientes.
- Hotel 3* Aguas Calientes.
- Breakfast on the second day at the hotel
- Bus back to Machu Picchu on Day 2
- Entrance 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), in case 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 days Inca Trail
- Walking poles (10 $ a pair of poles)
- 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 $) – There is only limited space at Huayna Picchu (400 people per day), so it is a good idea to book in advance.
- We can help you book hotels (standard and deluxe) if you prefer.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURInca Trail to Machu Picchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people | |
Tour Summary
What is included in the tour
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
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Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the service in VISTADOME Train the additional is US$ 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 rainfall 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.
- Medication: 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.