Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñaywayna – Aguas Calientes
- Pick up from your hotel and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Train ride to Km 104 and start of the trek (2,200 m / 7,217 ft).
- Visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy.
- Ascend through semi-tropical forest with waterfalls and orchids.
- Arrive at Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) and enjoy a guided visit.
- Continue hiking to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
- Descend to Machu Picchu and then take the bus to Aguas Calientes for overnight stay.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Early breakfast at the hotel.
- Bus up (or optional hike) to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours).
- Free time to explore or optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
- Return by bus to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo, and transfer back to Cusco.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñaywayna – Aguas Calientes
We will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel and transfer you to Ollantaytambo train station. The train journey offers scenic views of the Sacred Valley, farmlands, and snow-capped peaks until reaching Km 104 (2,200 m / 7,217 ft), the starting point of the Inca Trail. After crossing the Urubamba River, we’ll pass through the control point where your passport or ID must be presented.
Just 15 minutes into the hike, we’ll visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy hidden in the semi-tropical forest. From here, the trail ascends gradually with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, waterfalls, and a variety of orchids. After about 4 hours, we’ll arrive at Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), an impressive site with agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Rainbow, and more than 20 structures. The name Wiñaywayna means “forever young,” inspired by a native orchid of the area.
Following a box lunch and a guided tour, we’ll continue hiking for about 2 more hours through stone stairways until we reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku, 2,720 m / 8,923 ft), where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. From here, we descend for approximately 30 minutes to the citadel. After this first encounter, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo, 2,160 m / 7,086 ft) for dinner and an overnight stay in a basic accommodation. In the evening, you may relax at the hot springs or explore local restaurants and bars.
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco
After an early breakfast, we will head up to Machu Picchu either by bus (ticket included) or on foot for those who prefer hiking. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours, visiting the most iconic areas such as the Royal Mausoleum, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana, the ancient solar clock of the Incas. After the tour, you’ll have 5–6 hours of free time to explore further or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional permits required).
In the afternoon, we’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, and continue by private transfer to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Included
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Bus transfer Cusco – Ollantaytambo
- Train Ollantaytambo – Km 104
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide
- Box lunch and dinner on Day 1
- Basic accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast on Day 2
- Train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Transfer Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Not included
- Lunch and dinner on Day 2
- Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)
- Personal expenses (hot springs, bars, souvenirs)
- Tips for guides and staff
Recommendations
- Carry your passport or valid ID (mandatory for entry).
- Bring light clothing for the day and warm layers for the night.
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes and bring rain gear.
- Use sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Pack essentials in a small backpack: water, snacks, and personal items.
- Book Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets well in advance if desired.
