2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Day 1 – Cusco;Sun Gate;Machu Picchu / Day 2 – Machu Picchu;Cusco

Day 1: Cusco – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu: We will pick you up from your hotel at 04:30am to catch the train to the starting point of the hike at km.104 on the Cusco–Machu Picchu railroad. On arrival, we will visit the nearby Chachabamba archaeological complex, and then begin the four-hour ascent up the 8km trail to the impressive Wiñaywayna archaeological complex comprised of an agricultural sector with numerous terraces, a religious and an urban center. On the way up, we will be able to enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River Valley, the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex on the opposite side of the river, and a beautiful waterfall minutes away from Wiñaywayna. Leaving Wiñaywayna, an hour’s trek along a trail of flat stones on the edges of the highland jungle cliffs brings us to ‘Intipunku’ (Sun Gate). Along this trek, we will get our first glimpse of the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. From Intipunku you will descend to Machu Picchu and then travel by bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will be accommodated at the selected hotel. Total distance: 13 km (8.08 miles). Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours. Altitude at starting point: Chachabamba 2150m (7052 ft) Maximum altitude point: 2,650 m (8,692 ft).

Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco. - We will wake up early and board a bus to Machu Picchu where we begin a complete guided tour of the Inca citadel that will take approximately two hours. We will then have free time to walk around, climb up the Huayna Picchu Mountain**, where one can experience spectacular views of all of Machu Picchu, the valleys and mountains that surround it, or visit the Temple of the Moon or the impressive Inca Bridge. In the afternoon, we will be in the town of Aguas Calientes where, if you like, you can visit and relax in its hot springs. From here you will take the train back to the city of Cusco that will arrive after nightfall. You have the option to stay in Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) as many nights as you would like and have the chance to climb Putucusi Mountain, hike to Mandor Waterfalls, relax at the hot spring or explore the Site Museum of Machu Picchu. You have categories of accommodation to choose from one to 5 stars. **Entry to Wayna Picchu must be booked at the time of the reservation and has an additional cost of $60 US.