2 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

Duration
2 days, 1 night
Service
Group
Pickup
Hotel
Cancel
Non-refund
Guide
Difficulty
Easy

About this experience

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N offers a short but intense adventure through ancient Inca paths. We begin at Kilometer 104 and hike part of the Classic Inca Trail, surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes. Along the way, we explore the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna before reaching the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

We will hike approximately 11 kilometers through green valleys and stone stairways built by the Incas. Each step reveals history, nature, and the sacred energy of the mountains. This route combines a moderate challenge with incredible beauty, ideal for travelers seeking a shorter version of the Inca Trail tours.

We will finish at Machu Picchu, entering through Inti Punku (Sun Gate) to enjoy our first panoramic view of this ancestral wonder. This Inca Trail experience connects us deeply with the spirit of the Andes and the legacy of the Inca civilization.

Detailed itinerary

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

We begin our adventure early at 04:00 AM. We pick up all travelers from their hotels and travel to Ollantaytambo by private transport. At the train station, we board the train to Km 104, the starting point of our hike.

Upon arrival, we visit Chachabamba, an archaeological site located at 2,250 meters above sea level. Here we learn about Inca agricultural terraces and irrigation systems. Then we continue hiking uphill, surrounded by lush vegetation, waterfalls, and colorful orchids.

After approximately three hours of hiking, we reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive sites on the Inca Trail. Its terraces and ancient structures dominate the valley and offer insight into Inca life. Here we rest and enjoy our box lunch with stunning mountain views.

We continue hiking to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), located at 2,720 meters above sea level. From here, we enjoy our first magical view of Machu Picchu under the afternoon light—a truly unforgettable moment. Then we descend gradually to the citadel for a short stop before taking the bus to Aguas Calientes.

In the evening, we have dinner together and prepare for the visit to the Inca citadel the next day.

  • Day 1 Statistics
  • Starting point: Km 104 (2,150 m)
  • Highest point: Inti Punku (2,720 m)
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Route: Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Day 2: Visit to Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

We wake up early at 06:00 AM to take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, located at 2,430 meters above sea level. During the ride, we enjoy sunrise over the Andes and the first panoramic views of the ancient citadel.

Once inside, we take a guided tour of approximately two hours through the most important sectors of Machu Picchu. We explore the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Temple of the Three Windows while learning about Inca architecture, astronomy, and history.

After the tour, we have free time to take photos or simply enjoy the energy of this sacred site. Then we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where we can have lunch before boarding the train.

In the afternoon, we take the train to Ollantaytambo and then continue by bus to Cusco, arriving around 8:00 PM.

Day 2 Statistics

  • Starting point: Aguas Calientes (2,040 m)
  • Highest point: Machu Picchu (2,430 m)
  • Distance: 4 km
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Route: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Note: itineraries are subject to change.

Inclusions & exclusions

What's included

  • Pre-tour briefing
  • Tourist transport Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
  • Official Inca Trail Short permit (Km 104)
  • Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
  • Train tickets:
  • Ollantaytambo – Km 104:
  • Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo:
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English)
  • 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Meals:
  • 1 breakfast:
  • 1 box lunch:
  • 1 dinner:
  • Vegetarian option available
  • Trekking poles
  • First aid kit and oxygen

What's not included

  • Meals not mentioned
  • Breakfast on Day 1
  • Lunch and dinner on Day 2
  • Entrance to hot springs in Aguas Calientes
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Personal expenses or souvenirs

Recommendations

Before booking

  • Advance reservation is required due to limited Inca Trail permits
  • Minimum of 2 participants required to confirm the tour
  • Tour operates in English and Spanish
  • Good physical condition is required
  • Tour is non-refundable

Before traveling

  • Original passport used for booking
  • Small backpack (up to 20 liters)
  • Proper trekking shoes
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, repellent, hat
  • Cash in Peruvian soles for snacks or souvenirs

Policies

Due to the limited availability and personal nature of Inca Trail permits, the following conditions apply:

  • Non-refundable: Payments for Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train, and bus are non-refundable and non-transferable.
  • No changes allowed: No changes of name, date, or personal details are allowed once the reservation is confirmed.
  • Cancellations
    • 30 days or less before the tour: 100% penalty applies.
    • More than 30 days in advance: only refundable services (if applicable), minus administrative fees.
  • No-show: Failure to show up on the tour date results in full loss of the service.
  • Force majeure: In cases such as strikes or extreme weather, the tour may be rescheduled. Refunds are not guaranteed.
  • Recommendation: Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Frequently asked questions

We answer your questions about this tour

1 When should I book the Inca Trail 2D/1N?

We recommend booking at least 30 days in advance, as permits for the Inca Trail are limited and often sell out quickly, especially during high season.

2 What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 30 days or less before the tour are subject to a 100% penalty. For cancellations made earlier, conditions may vary depending on the reservation and services booked.

3 Can I hike the Inca Trail without a guide or agency?

No. The Inca Trail is a protected route regulated by the Peruvian government. Access is only permitted through authorized tour operators with licensed guides.

 

4 What is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time is from April to October, during the dry season in Cusco. These months offer more stable weather and clearer views of the Andes.

5 What level of fitness is required?

 A moderate level of fitness is recommended. The hike involves walking at high altitude and on uneven terrain, including stone steps and uphill sections.

6 Are there age restrictions for this trek?

The tour is recommended for travelers aged 10 and above who are in good physical condition. Older participants should assess their fitness level before booking.

7 Can I store my luggage during the trek?

Yes. You can safely leave your extra luggage at your hotel in Cusco or in Aguas Calientes while you complete the trek.

8 Are vegetarian or special diet options available?

Yes, we offer vegetarian and special dietary options. Please inform us at the time of booking to ensure proper arrangements.

9 Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for your safety and peace of mind during the trip.

10 How can I prepare for the altitude?

We recommend acclimatizing for at least 1–2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek. Stay well hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and follow your guide’s advice.

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Traveler Experiences

What our travelers say about our Machu Picchu tours

Our reputation is built on the experiences of real travelers. With more than 1,200 verified reviews across TripAdvisor and Google, we are consistently rated 4.9 out of 5 — one of the top-rated Machu Picchu tour operators in Cusco.

4.9
out of 5 based on
PS
MR
DK
AC
SE
+1k
+1,200 reviews
See all on TripAdvisor
Tripadvisor

"Punctuality, very attentive guide and perfect organization. From the hotel exit, transit by train, lunch schedule and guided tours."

AS

Andrey S.

October 14, 2025

Google

"Machu Picchu Peru Tours full day Sacred Valley was an amazing highlight of our trip to Peru. Do not miss it! Our driver Julio Cesar took us on time and safely to all amazing places and experiences beating the crowds. The guide, Erik, was the most passionated guide I've met. An incredible story teller, knowledgeable and giving us a superb experience. It was a real perfect day and an amazing almost private tour feeling like a super engaging history class. Don't think twice."

PN

Patricia N.

A year ago

Tripadvisor

"A very enriching experience, a lot of history, although it rained that day, was a good for nothing our tour. Our guide was very attentive and professional."

MR

Maria R.

October 12, 2025

Google

"We had a amazing tour with Machu pichu Peru tours to the vinicunca mountain, or the rainbow mountain. Tour was well organised and your tour guide took really good care of us. Also the breakfast and lunch was quite good. We can totally recommend this tour organisation."

DK

Daniel K.

2 years ago

Tripadvisor

"The tour starts very early type 3-4 am, how good you can sleep on the way, we breakfast in a very good buffet and then depart for the mountain. Here the height is the problem, you can walk up but it requires a lot of condition, the good thing is that there are horses that you can pay and for 90 suns they leave you 15-20 minutes from the top. Wear layered clothes as you can warm up when climbing. We already walk down and the road is much easier. On horseback you go up in 40 minutes, you are on the mountain an hour to take pictures and the return is about 1 hour or so. In the end we still had lunch in the same very rich buffet!"

AC

Alejandra C.

October 12, 2025

Google

"I highly recommend Machu Picchu Peru Tour. Their service is incredible. I highly recommend their guides, especially Rocio and Jhordi. They are very professional and super friendly. My recommendation is because they have everything arranged and structured so we can fully enjoy the experience: transportation, lodging, food, and tourist attractions. I hope you can take advantage of traveling with them and enjoy it as much as we did."

CG

Cesar G.

8 months ago

Tripadvisor

"I liked the Service and attention I received, plus the quality of the guide who touched us to know the sacred valley on the way to Machu Picchu was first class, with extensive knowledge of the Inca culture and with very good explanation, I highly recommend them."

SM

Salvador M.

September 19, 2025

Google

"It was a wonderful experience. Getting to know one of the wonders of the world and learning its history in detail was very rewarding. We had an excellent guide who answered every one of our questions and her support was unconditional. The guide, Veronica Quispe, and the drivers who supported us were incredible. Thank you so much. They made the trip wonderful."

PN

Patty N.

10 months ago

Tripadvisor

"They were exceptional! Everything very organized, took care of all the details, we hired all the tours, lodging and transfer, we do not regret!"

SE

Sarah E.

October 12, 2025

Google

"The quality and friendliness of the staff were impressive. Wendy served us and was always very attentive to everything, responding quickly. They offer good options without breaking your budget. A short but substantial excursion. The guide Jaime knew everything in detail and provided excellent explanations. I recommend him, especially if you're traveling with children or older adults, as he really has everything under control."

AS

Ara S.

3 years ago

Tripadvisor

"Recommended! What a beautiful place!!! Most of us went up there on mules. Important to clarify if the person weighs more than 110 kg he will not be able to carry it and will have to walk up. It is still very expensive, to have proper footwear."

VL

Veronica L.

October 12, 2025

Google

"I had the wonderful experience of coordinating a group trip with Carolina from this agency, and it was very positive. They were always willing to help and facilitate the trip. On the tours, we had the opportunity to meet Alex on the Sacred Valley tour. He is an excellent guide, very friendly and knowledgeable about all the sites, making the tour very entertaining. In Machu Picchu, we were guided by Edmar, an excellent, knowledgeable, and friendly guide."

KD

Kevin D.

2 years ago

Google

"I loved that the travel agency made everything easy for me in Cusco. All I had to worry about was being on time for pickup and choosing what to eat at the buffet. The agency itself took care of everything. If I could highlight anything, it's the fact that I had a different guide on each tour, and they were all very kind and polite. They did their jobs well and knew how to explain the history of each place."

EG

Enrique G.

10 months ago

Google

"The excursion to the Sacred Valley of the Incas was a great one. Our guide, Veronica, accompanied us the entire time and did her best to make the experience as informative as possible."

AG

Agustin G.

A year ago