Machu Picchu Express: 2-Day Short Inca Trail Adventure
Inca Trail Explorer: 2-Day Private Machu Picchu Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating adventure with our ‘Machu Picchu Express,’ a 2-day private tour along the Short Inca Trail. Perfect for those with limited time or preferring a less strenuous journey, this trek covers a 10-kilometer scenic route filled with natural beauty and historical intrigue. Day one highlights include the magnificent Wiñayhuayna archaeological site and a hike to Inti Punku, known as the Sun Gate, offering breathtaking views. After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, wake up to explore the iconic Machu Picchu. This tour combines the allure of ancient Inca paths with the comfort of modern accommodations. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, it’s a unique opportunity to explore the Inca realm and witness the grandeur of Machu Picchu, entering through the revered Sun Gate. This journey promises an intimate and unforgettable experience in Peru’s heart.
Highlights
- Sun Gate Panorama: Experience the iconic Inti Punku (Sun Gate), offering unparalleled views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean landscapes.
- Machu Picchu Sunrise: Wake up in Aguas Calientes for an early visit to Machu Picchu, witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over this world-famous Incan citadel.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Enjoy modern comforts in Aguas Calientes, blending adventure with relaxation during your Short Inca Trail journey.
- Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich Inca heritage as you traverse ancient paths and learn about Peru’s storied past from expert guides.
- Exclusive Access: Join a private tour for an intimate and personalized experience along the Short Inca Trail, culminating in the majestic beauty of Machu Picchu.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Journey from Km 104 to Aguas CalientesBegin your exclusive adventure on the Short Inca Trail starting at Km 104. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Andean landscapes as you trek towards Aguas Calientes. This trail offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites, including a visit to the enchanting Wiñayhuayna ruins. As you hike, enjoy panoramic views and learn about the rich Inca heritage from your expert guide.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Exploration
Awake early for an unforgettable visit to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Witness the sunrise over this iconic Incan citadel, a magical and serene moment. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour, uncovering the secrets of this ancient wonder and experiencing its mystical allure up close.
Prices for this trek
Hotel Category | Double or Triple room | Single room Additional cost |
---|---|---|
Budget | US$ 743 | US$ 28 |
Tourist | US$ 760 | US$ 33 |
Superior Tourist | US$ 808 | US$ 79 |
* Minimum 2 passengers to confirm the booking; solo traveler is subject to an additional fee.
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
Includes and excludes
Included
- Accommodation: one night in Aguas Calientes hotel with breakfast included.
- The itinerary includes all admission costs (Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu).
- English-speaking local guides lead the trek (an assistant guide for groups of over eight trekkers).
- All transfers: airport, train station, bus station transfers, Hotel pickup, and drop-offs.
- Train ticket: Cusco to Km 104 and Aguas Calientes to Cusco (Expedition Class).
- Meals: According to the itinerary (vegetarian or special diets are available).
- We bring a first-aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle.
- All ground transportation.
- 24-hour support by our local staff.
Not Included
- The price does not cover domestic or international flights. Consult a travel agency if necessary.
- VISA procedures, travel insurance, pre, and post-tour accommodation.
- Additional personal costs (alcoholic beverages, laundry).
- The price does not cover gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff.
- Guidance in another language (Germany, French, others), in case you request them, please ask your travel agent.
- Additional items are not included explicitly in the itinerary description.
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Trip code: SIT2D01-PVT
Day 1 – Inca Trail: Km 104 to Aguas Calientes
- Pick up at 05:40 from the hotel and transfer to Poroy station to board the train to km 104 and meet the guide.
- The train will stop at the Chachabamba archaeological site (2,170m/7,119ft) head of the trail; we begin the 5-hour climb to the Inca Trail. This path rewards us with amazing views of the big valley and gorgeous waterfall near the famous Wiñayhuayna Archaeological Site (2,700m/8,858ft), which translates as “Forever Young.”
- We continue along tiny trails with luxuriant flora of broad-leaf plants and giant ferns. The precipice of the high mountain adds to the thrill. The Sun Gate’s (2,670m/8,759 ft) stone threshold materializes unexpectedly along the route.
- Behold the magnificent city of Machu Picchu, surrounded by twisting gorges and wooded peaks. The remaining 45 minutes we spent going towards Machu Picchu enter.
- There are 30-minute buses from Machu Picchu citadel to Aguas Calientes (2,050m/6,726ft).
- Train Schedule; Cusco (06:40) – Km 104 (09:20)
- Approximate distance: 10 km (6, 21 miles) – Estimated time walking: 5-6 hours.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Meals: Box lunch
Day 2 – Visit the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu & Back to Cusco
- Hotel breakfast; at 07:00, take a bus to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (2,430m/7,972ft). Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the mountaintop fortress earned every bit of its notoriety.
- Around 08:30, the guided tour begins; the guide expertly directs through the astounding ruins and main streets. Then wander around the town squares and climb the intricately carved stairways made of stone. Machu Picchu is considered the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom.
- The guided tour takes around two hours.
- From 12:30 to 13:30, take the bus to Aguas Calientes.
- From 13:30 to 15:00, take lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- Board the train to return to Cusco later in the day. Arrive at Poroy station and then be picked up and transported to the Cusco hotel.
- Train Schedule; Aguas Calientes (15:20) – Cusco (19:05)
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.