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 enjoyed at a local restaurant in town.

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Machu Picchu - After an early breakfast at the hotel, guests meet to take an early bus along the winding road to Machu Picchu. As the bus ascends to the sacred city, there is a chance to witness the stunning sunrise over the Andes. All guides are experts and enthusiasts in 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 time 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.

• Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
• Inca Trail Permit
• Round trip train tickets
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on day 1
• Tour guide
• Lunch
• Dinner

• 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

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a feasible option for those with time limitations or preference for a less strenuous journey. The trail begins at the 104 Kilometer point of the Machu Picchu railway line, leading to two archeological sites, Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This hike further presents an opportunity to access the hidden Inca city through the legendary Sun Gate, offering the first view of the ancient ruins to the trekkers. A night’s stay in Aguas Calientes is included before waking up on the second day for a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

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