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Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

5 reviews

48 hrs

From

1.161.398 ARS

This brief excursion offers you the opportunity to experience the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu without the need for extensive hiking and camping. It's one of our most concise treks to the ancient city of Machu Picchu.

Ideal for those who wish to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey but prefer not to spend numerous days on the trail. Be captivated by awe-inspiring landscapes and discover how this classic Inca Trail served as a vital connector for the entire Incan Empire.

Hiking the Inca Trail is the ultimate way to experience the adventure of Cusco!

Tour Description

Day 1: Cusco - Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu

Begin your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco as you head to the train station in Ollantaytambo, nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enjoy a scenic train journey of approximately one hour, arriving at kilometer 104, the starting point of your Inca trail trek.

Get ready to embark on your hike! From this point, you will trek for around three hours to reach the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna (`Forever Young`). Along the journey, delight in the vibrant flora and fauna, including sightings of vizcachas, spectacled bears, and a variety of bird species. A box lunch is provided to keep you fueled.

As you continue your path towards Machu Picchu through the Andean mountains, you will arrive at `Inti Punku` (`Sun Gate`). Here, you'll capture your first awe-inspiring panoramic view of the magnificent Inca ruins of Machu Picchu. Proceed down the final segment of the trail to reach the ancient city itself. The day's hike covers a total of 7.4 miles, which takes approximately six hours.

Before entering Machu Picchu, you will take a detour from the trail to descend to Aguas Calientes, postponing your visit to Machu Picchu until the following day. In Aguas Calientes, enjoy a hearty dinner and a well-earned rest to rejuvenate for your Machu Picchu experience the next day.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour – Return Train to Cusco

After breakfast, take a bus ride up to Machu Picchu. There, you will embark on a 2-hour guided walking tour, with time afterward to explore the site independently.

Marvel at this incredible wonder of the world as you wander through its streets, squares, and main areas. Learn about its fascinating history through our expert-guided tour. For those seeking more adventure, consider climbing the mountains of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu (optional), with the ascent taking roughly 45 minutes.

The Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, discovered by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. It is situated in the Urubamba province, nestled between the Andean mountains and the Amazon jungle.

Once you have finished exploring the site, return to Aguas Calientes by bus. From there, take the train back to Ollantaytambo station, and continue your journey to your hotel in Cusco using our touristic transport.

What’s included?

What’s included:

* Train Expedition round trip ticket (Classic service) * One way Train Expedition and one way Train Vistadome (Comfort Service) * Guided tour in Spanish and English   * Entrance fee to Machu Picchu Sanctuary * Box lunch and dinner on Day 1 * First aid kit * Bus up and down tickets to citadel (included only in the comfort service) * Transfer hotel / train station / hotel  * 1 night of accommodation at Aguas Calientes with breakfast included (Classic Service 3*, comfort service 4*) * Briefing a day before the trekking starts * 1 liter of water per person on day 1

What’s NOT included:

* Walking sticks * Gratuities * Travel insurance * Food and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary * Entrance ticket to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains

Frequently Asked Questions

Permits for the Inca Trail are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak season (May–September) and holidays. To secure your Machu Picchu trek, book 4–6 months in advance; during the off-season, 2–3 months is usually sufficient. The typical process involves sending your passport details, paying a deposit to secure the official permit (non-transferable), and receiving confirmation. The agency will schedule a pre-trek briefing and pick you up from your hotel. If there are no available spots, they often offer alternatives such as the 2D/1N Short Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek. Please note that the Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.

A standard package for the 4-day/3-night Inca Trail trek typically includes: permits and entrance to Machu Picchu, a bilingual official guide, camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats), porters for shared equipment, meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks), treated water from day 2, ground transportation from Cusco to Km 82, the return tourist train to Ollantaytambo, and transfer back to Cusco. It generally does not include: the first breakfast and last lunch in Aguas Calientes, sleeping bags and trekking poles (available for rent), travel insurance, tips, and personal expenses. Train seats and schedules are subject to availability. Always check the final list of included services before booking.

The classic Inca Trail is a moderate to challenging trek with elevation changes, sections of Inca staircases, and high altitude. It covers approximately 43 km over 4 days, reaching points close to 4,215 m (Warmiwañusqa Pass). It is recommended to acclimatize for 2–3 nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, stay well hydrated, and avoid alcohol. Good physical condition, with prior training in long hikes, cardio, and leg strengthening, enhances the experience. You will typically carry your own backpack; you can hire an additional porter for 5–7 kg. It is not advisable for people with heart or respiratory problems without medical authorization. Families with children should check the minimum age and requirements.

The dry season (May–September) offers clear skies and cool nights; the rainy season (November–March) brings downpours and slippery trails. April and October are transitional months. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. Essentials: original passport, waterproof trekking boots, thermal layers, waterproof jacket and poncho, hat and gloves, trekking poles with rubber tips, sleeping bag rated to approximately -10°C, headlamp, sunscreen and lip balm, insect repellent, 2L water bottle/bag, dry bags, biodegradable toiletries, wipes, camping sandals, personal first-aid kit, and cash in soles. Bring energy snacks and consider water purification tablets if you prefer to manage your own water.

Reputable agencies operate with certified guides, radio communication, first-aid kits, oxygen, and first-aid training. Altitude sickness is monitored, and descent or evacuation is coordinated if necessary. Campsites are authorized, and water is boiled or filtered. Trekking kitchens are usually well-stocked; special diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) are accommodated with prior notice. Toilets are basic (portable or camp toilets), and showers are rare. It is crucial to purchase travel insurance that covers medical assistance, evacuation, and cancellation. By law, Inca Trail permits are non-refundable and non-transferable; change policies vary by provider and must be confirmed in writing.

Questions

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Date

Number of people

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Traveler Class

Single Couple With friends Family

Cost Level

Average

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Type of Activity

Hiking & Trekking Train ride Birding

Cancellation Policy

General terms

Type of interest

Nature and Wildlife Mountains