Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – MACHU PICCHU
4:00 AM Pick-up from your hotel for your transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board the train to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Before beginning your hike, remember to bring your original passport, as it is required for entry to the trail checkpoint.
The adventure begins with a visit to Chachabamba, the first archaeological site on the route. Then, we will begin an approximately 4-hour uphill hike to Wiñaywayna, one of the most impressive sites on the trail. We will take our time to explore its terraces and enjoy the view before sharing a boxed lunch.
We continue the final part of the trail to the Sun Gate (Intipunku). From there, you will have your first view of Machu Picchu, just as the sunset light bathes the citadel. It is a special moment, and there are usually very few visitors at that time.
Afterward, we’ll descend for about 30 minutes to the citadel of Machu Picchu itself to explore Circuit 1. This route will allow us to obtain the best views of the Inca citadel from unparalleled panoramic vantage points, with few crowds. You’ll get picture-perfect photos of the Inca citadel.
Finally, we’ll take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where a delicious dinner awaits us.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
DAY 2: EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU – RETURN TO CUSCO
This day is dedicated exclusively to exploring Machu Picchu, known as the Lost City of the Incas. We’ll start early with breakfast and then board one of the first buses to the entrance. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to see the sun peeking over the mountains as Machu Picchu begins to reveal itself.
The guided tour through Circuit 3 lasts between 2 and 3 hours. We will visit the most important sites: the aqueducts, temples, ceremonial plazas, palaces, and agricultural terraces, including the central part of Machu Picchu.
Lunch on your own.
Bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes.
PM departure by train back to Ollantaytambo, where our transportation will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.
