Experience the wonder of Machu Picchu on a short trek without camping. Starting from Chachabamba, you’ll hike through beautiful Andean landscapes for approximately six hours to reach Intipunku (Sun Gate) with spectacular views of the lost city. After descending, we head to Machu Picchu itself, exploring the fortress hidden since the Spanish conquest until its rediscovery in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. Overnight accommodation is in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, followed by a full guided tour of the citadel the next day before returning to Cusco by train.
Overview
- Activities: Archaeology, culture, history, hiking, and nature
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Hiking distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
- Maximum altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
- Group size: 2–12
- Service type: Private (custom itinerary) or Shared (fixed schedule, international group)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Itinerary Highlights
- Day 1: Cusco → Chachabamba → Wiñaywayna → Intipunku → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes. Hike 12 km / 6.2 miles, enjoy the archaeological complexes, terraces, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. Overnight in a hotel.
- Day 2: Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Cusco. Guided tour of Machu Picchu (~2.5 hours), optional Huayna Picchu climb or visit the Temple of the Moon and Inca Bridge, free time for photos, then return to Cusco by train.
Included
- Pre-tour briefing
- Round-trip transport Cusco ↔ trail start / Machu Picchu
- Entrance fees for the Inca Trail & Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide
- Meals: 1 lunch, 1 dinner (Day 1), 1 breakfast (Day 2)
- Bus to/from Machu Picchu
- 1-night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Portable radios, first aid, oxygen
Not Included
- Meals not listed above
- Hot springs entry
- Personal expenses and tips
What to Bring
Passport, water, hiking boots, insect repellent, sunscreen, rain poncho, toiletries, change of clothes, swimsuit, camera/binoculars, basic medical kit, optional walking sticks, and extra cash.
Optional
- Student discount with ISIC card
- Bag pack rental
- Luxury or first-class train services (Vistadome or Hiram Bingham)