Inca trail to Machu Picchu – Short route

02 Days / 01 Nights

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is rated among the best trekking trips in the world because of the exquisite natural beauty and archaeological importance. The Inca Trail is without a doubt one of the most beautiful trails in America and therefore an unforgettable experience not to be missed.

The trail leads through the protected wild nature of the Peruvian jungle and forest steppe, passes several archaeological Inca sights and offers impressive views.

The Incas used this itinerary for the pilgrimage to the sacred citadel Machu Picchu.

• Altitude: 2050 – 2650 m./6726 – 9350 feet.
• High Season: March – January
• Level of difficulty: Normal to moderate.
• Route: Closed in February

Itinerary:  

Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Wiñayhuayna – Aguas Calientes

Our journey starts early in the morning. After our arrival at KM 104 by train, the Royal Inca Trail begins with a hike to Chachabamba (2270 m./7448 feet.), where our guide will inform us about the previous function of this archaeological site.

Thereafter, we will reach Wiñayhuayna (2650 m./8694 feet.), the most important archaeological site besides Machu Picchu. After that, our trail continues towards the Sun Gate “Inti Punku”, a nice viewpoint from which we can enjoy the nightfall on Machu Picchu (2400 m./7874 feet.).

Since we have to continue our walk to our hotel in Aguas Calientes, we will only spend little time in the sanctuary of Machu Picchu on the first day.

Level of difficulty: Moderate.
Hiking time: 06 hours.
Total distance: 12 km.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We will leave our hotel towards Machu Picchu after breakfast at about 5:30am by bus. We are leaving that early because at this time the site is less crowded and the morning is a good time to enjoy the calmness and the ancient spirit of the best-known archaeological site on the continent.

After our arrival at the citadel around 6:00am, our guide will give us detailed information about Machu Picchu and the history and culture of the Inca. Thereafter, you will have enough free time to enjoy and explore the site on your own (for example: go to the Inca Bridge, explore the variety of buildings or climb Huayna Picchu for an amazing panorama picture).

*Huayna Picchu: The visit to Huayna Picchu needs to be booked long time in advance as there are only limited spaces. (additional price)

A bus takes you down to Aguas Calientes. Here you have the possibility to join the town’s hot springs (extra cost). We will leave Aguas Calientes in the afternoon.

Level of difficulty: normal.
Hiking time: 2 hours.
Total distance: 4 km.

**Prices may vary depending on travel dates. For more information, fill in the form to get in contact with a Travel Advisor.

What’s included:

Transfer.
Tourist train to km. 104.
Meals during the excursion (1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner / Optional vegetarian).
Professional bilingual guide.
Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Tourist train from the village of Aguas Calientes to Cusco or from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and Cusco by bus.
Tourist bus 2 ways, Sanctuary of Machu Picchu–Village of Aguas Calientes.
Hostel in the village of Aguas Calientes (Continental is recommended or similar).
First-aid kit, oxygen bottle and safety rope.

Not included:

Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes – 2nd day. (additionally you can pay the cost. Another possibility is a walk of an hour).
Last lunch in Aguas Calientes.
Hotel in Cusco.

Important information:

What to bring?

Backpack with rain shelter.
Sleeping bag.
Clothing for warm and cold climates like a waterproof jacket.
Rain pants and lightweight pants.
Trekking shoes.
Slippers or sandals (for showers).
Woollen or synthetic socks and a sweater.
Long- and short-sleeved polo/T-Shirts.
Rain poncho and a hat.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, disinfecting alcohol and gel, water bottle and sterilizing tablets, toiletries and toilet paper.
Camera (wrapped in plastic bag).
Flashlight and batteries.
Some snacks like chocolate bars and dry fruit.
Original passport, original ISIC student card and extra money in soles.