Cusco – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Wiñay Wayna - Guests are picked up from their Cusco hotel early in the morning and transported by van to the train station at Ollantaytambo. The train journey takes about an hour before making an unscheduled stop at KM 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail and the beginning of the hike. Upon passing through the Inca Trail checkpoint, the first archaeological site encountered is Chachabamba. These ruins served as one of the final resting places for Inca pilgrims before reaching Machu Picchu. After several hours, the group arrives at Wiñay Wayna. Named after an orchid and meaning “Forever Young” in Quechua, this site offers breathtaking views across the Sacred Valley. Once the tour concludes, the hike continues for another 1-2 hours on a relatively flat section of the trail. Around 4:00 pm, the group reaches the Sun Gate. Intipunku offers the first glimpse of the magnificent Machu Picchu. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, guests are taken to check in at their hotel. Dinner is arranged at a local restaurant in town.

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu - Guests enjoy an early breakfast at their hotel before meeting to take an early bus along the winding road to Machu Picchu. As the bus ascends gradually to the sacred city, there is a chance to witness the stunning sunrise over the Andes. All guides are experts and passionate about the history and legends of Machu Picchu, ensuring that the 2-hour tour of the site vividly brings the city to life. There is ample opportunity to take photos of the city and the wild llamas roaming the terraces. For those who have chosen to climb Huayna Picchu mountain, the hike begins at 10 AM (note that Huayna Picchu is not included in the trek price). Those not climbing the mountain will have additional time in Machu Picchu before returning to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, guests board the expedition train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. From Ollantaytambo or Poroy, they are transferred by vehicle to their Cusco hotel.

• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1
• Tour guide
• Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket through circuit 3
• Lunch
• Round trip train tickets

• Hiking poles (can be rented from us)
• Tips
• Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on day 2 (US $24).
• Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Dinner in Aguas Calientes on Night 1

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is perfect for those with limited time or seeking a less demanding experience. This exciting hike begins at KM 104 on the Machu Picchu train line, following a path that leads to the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This trek also offers the chance to enter the lost city through the renowned Sun Gate, providing trekkers with their first breathtaking view of the site. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and wake up on Day 2 for a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.