Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu

Early Pickup in Cusco

Your Inca Trail 2 Days adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco.

Travel by tourist transportation for approximately 1½ hours toward Ollantaytambo, enjoying views of Andean farmland, mountain scenery, and the Urubamba Valley along the way.

Train to the Short Inca Trail Access

At Ollantaytambo station, board the tourist train and travel along the Urubamba River toward the official access point for the Short Inca Trail.

The traditional route begins at Km 104 – Chachabamba, located at approximately 2,150–2,170 meters above sea level. At the checkpoint, travelers must present the original identification document used when the Inca Trail permit was issued.

Operational Note:
Access to Route 5 may occasionally be authorized through Km 106 – Choquesuysuy instead of Km 104 according to official safety, maintenance, or trail conditions. The final access point will follow instructions issued by the competent authorities.

Chachabamba Archaeological Site

When the traditional Km 104 access is operating, begin with a visit to Chachabamba, an archaeological complex located near the Urubamba River and associated with ceremonial activities along this section of the Inca road network.

After the guided explanation, begin the main ascent along sections of original Inca stone trail surrounded by cloud forest and mountain vegetation.

Hike Through the Cloud Forest

Continue uphill for several hours through one of the most scenic sections of the Short Inca Trail.

Along the way, enjoy mountain views, waterfalls, native vegetation, orchids, and increasingly impressive views over the Urubamba Valley.

Wiñay Wayna – 2,650 m

Reach Wiñay Wayna at approximately 2,650 meters (8,694 ft), one of the most remarkable archaeological sites of the entire Inca Trail.

Explore its extensive agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas, stone structures, stairways, and sophisticated system of water fountains while your guide explains the site’s importance within the wider Inca road network.

After the visit, enjoy your included box lunch and take time to rest before continuing toward Machu Picchu.

Final Hike to Intipunku – The Sun Gate

Continue along the original trail through forested sections and stone stairways toward Intipunku.

At approximately 2,720 meters (8,924 ft), the Sun Gate marks the highest point of this Short Inca Trail itinerary and provides the unforgettable first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

First Arrival at Machu Picchu

From Intipunku, continue downhill toward Machu Picchu, enjoying panoramic viewpoints along the final approach.

The exact access and viewing areas available on Day 1 follow the current regulations established for visitors arriving through the Inca Trail.

Bus to Aguas Calientes & Hotel

After completing the day’s hike, descend from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes by shuttle bus.

The Day 1 downhill bus ticket is not included in the standard package and is paid separately.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check into your comfortable hotel and enjoy the included dinner before resting for the following morning’s Machu Picchu visit.