Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 night

Day 1 Cusco to Aguas Calientes

1. 1

   Ollantaytambo

   1 hour 30 min

   Your journey starts in Cusco, the ancient Incan capital, now a blend of Incan and Spanish colonial architecture. Setting out early, you'll travel through Andean landscapes towards the Sacred Valley. As you approach Ollantaytambo, its historic stone ruins stand testament to its ancient significance.

2. 2

   2 hours Admission ticket included

   After a photo stop in Ollantaytambo, you'll board a train to KM 104, enjoying scenic views of the Urubamba River and surrounding landscapes. Arriving at KM 104, where the trail is less crowded, you'll begin your trek towards the lesser-known Chachabamba ruins, showcasing well-maintained stone structures set at 2250m above sea level.

3. 3

   Winay Wayna

   2 hours Admission ticket included

   From Chachabamba, you'll climb steep Incan stairways through a tropical cloud forest abundant with orchids, ferns, and birds. The ascent leads to Wiñay Wayna, a standout Incan site named “Forever Young” in Quechua. With terraced ruins against a waterfall, it's a scenic spot for a rest and maybe a meal.

4. 4

   Inti Punku Sun Gate

   2 hours Admission ticket included

   After lunch, you'll head to the Sun Gate, known as 'Inti Punku' in Quechua. This spot offers the first sweeping view of Machu Picchu set against mountains and valleys. Witnessing the Lost City of the Incas from here, after a day's journey, is an unparalleled experience.

5. 5

   Aguas Calientes

   2 hours

   As the day draws to a close, you'll begin your descent to the town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu. The town, named after its famous hot springs, is where you'll find respite for the night. After checking into your accommodation, you might choose to soak in the town’s namesake hot springs, letting the warm waters relax your muscles and reflect upon the day's adventures. Rest assured, with the most demanding part of the trail behind you, tomorrow holds the promise of exploration within the heart of the Incan citadel itself, Machu Picchu.

Day 2 Machu Picchu to Cusco

1. 1

   Machu Picchu

   3 hours

   On the second day in Aguas Calientes, you'll start early, taking a bus up to Machu Picchu. Here, amid the ancient stone constructions and lush greenery, you'll explore the rich history and mysteries of the Lost City of the Incas with the aid of a guide.

2. 2

   Ollantaytambo

   2 hours

   After descending back to Aguas Calientes for lunch and perhaps some shopping, you'll board a train to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the picturesque Sacred Valley landscapes.

3. 3

   Cusco

   2 hours

   Finally, you'll return to Cusco by bus or private transportation, concluding your two-day Inca adventure with memories of the majestic Machu Picchu.