Short Inca Trail 2 Days Private Guided Trek to Machu Picchu

Duration2 days

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish, Spanish

Private tourOnly your group will participate

Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

What makes this tour unique is the chance to experience the Short Inca Trail in a private and personalized way, combining adventure, history, and comfort in just two unforgettable days. Unlike standard visits, you will trek through cloud forests and explore remarkable Inca ruins such as Wiñay Wayna, before arriving at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Intipunku), a perspective that few travelers get to enjoy. After a relaxing overnight stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, you will re-enter Machu Picchu at sunrise with your expert guide, exploring the temples, plazas, and terraces with fewer crowds and the best light for photos. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking both cultural depth and a comfortable adventure, making it one of the most rewarding ways to reach the Lost City of the Incas.

What's included

3-way Shuttle bus tickets: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
Short Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
1-night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (3-Star, upgrade available)
Dinner
Return Train to Ollantaytambo or Cusco
Transfers: Hotel → Train Station → Trailhead and return
Fluent English/Spanish-speaking private guide
Breakfast
Train ticket from Ollantaytambo train station to 104 Km
Meals included: Box Lunch on Day 1

Meals: Day 1 Breakfast and Day 2 Lunch and Box Lunch
Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional, subject to availability)
Personal Expenses
Gratuities

What to expect

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes
10h

Early in the morning, transfer from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo. Take a scenic train ride to Km 104, the start of the trek. A 3-hour hike ascends through Andean landscapes to reach the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, where we'll explore Inca terraces and temples. Then, we continue for 2 hours to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), from where you'll have your first spectacular view of Machu Picchu. Descend to the top of the citadel for iconic photos. Finally, bus to Aguas Calientes, dinner, and overnight at the hotel.
Winay Wayna
3h · Admission ticket included

The Wiñay Wayna archaeological complex, whose name means "Forever Young" in Quechua, is one of the most impressive sites on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Built high on the mountain, it combines agricultural terraces, temples, and dwellings, surrounded by a spectacular cloud forest filled with orchids and natural waterfalls. This site was an important ceremonial and agricultural center, and its architecture reflects the grandeur of Inca engineering. Visiting Wiñay Wayna in Machu Picchu, Peru, is like discovering a little-known sacred site of enormous beauty and spirituality, connecting nature, history, and culture in perfect harmony.
Intipuncu
2h · Admission ticket included

The Intipunku, known as the Gate of the Sun, is one of the most iconic entrances to Machu Picchu and a privileged viewpoint. During the Inca era, it was the main entrance for those arriving via the Inca Trail, receiving the first rays of the sun that illuminated the sacred citadel. From this spot, you'll have one of the most spectacular views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains, ideal for unforgettable photos. Hiking to the Intipuncu in Machu Picchu, Peru, is a unique experience that combines history, nature, and spirituality, offering a special connection with the grandeur of the Andes.

Day 2: Machu Picchu – Tour Guiado – Regreso a Cusco

Machu Picchu
5h

After an early breakfast, take a bus ride up to Machu Picchu for a 2.5-hour guided tour of the main temples, plazas, and archaeological sites. You'll then have free time to explore or climb (optional extra payment to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain). Return by bus to Aguas Calientes Town, return train to Ollantaytambo, and then transportation back to Cusco.
Intihuatana Stone
30m · Admission ticket included

The Intihuatana Stone, located at the top of Machu Picchu, is one of the most enigmatic sites in the Inca citadel. Known as the "Sundial," this carved granite monolith was used for astronomical observations and rituals related to the sun, the source of life and energy for the Incas. Your official guide will accompany you to this ceremonial site, where you will learn about its importance in the Andean worldview and enjoy one of the best panoramic views of the archaeological site. Visiting the Intihuatana Stone in Machu Picchu, Peru, is an experience that connects history, science, and spirituality in one place.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The Plaza de Armas is located in the historic center of Cusco, about 10 minutes by car from the airport. From most hotels in the city center, it’s just a short walk. Visitors can easily reach it by taxi or on foot by following Avenida El Sol, the main avenue that leads directly to the square.

End point

The Plaza de Armas is located in the historic center of Cusco, about 10 minutes by car from the airport. From most hotels in the city center, it’s just a short walk. Visitors can easily reach it by taxi or on foot by following Avenida El Sol, the main avenue that leads directly to the square.

Pickup details

Hotel pick-up is included from central Cusco or the Sacred Valley. If your accommodation is outside the designated area, we will arrange a nearby meeting point. Please be ready 10 minutes before departure and provide your hotel name and address when booking.

Additional information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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