About this experience
Our 2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel perfectly combines adventure, comfort, and exclusive access, ideal for travelers who want the authentic Inca Trail experience without camping.
Unlike standard tours, you’ll enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Intipunku) at sunset on Day 1, enjoying breathtaking views with fewer crowds. Along the way, hike the most scenic section of the trail and visit important archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, guided by knowledgeable local experts.
This tour includes two Machu Picchu circuits: Circuit 1 on Day 1 for panoramic viewpoints and classic photos, and Circuit 3 on Day 2 for a deeper guided exploration of the temples, plazas, and terraces.
Enjoy added comfort with a 3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes, chef prepared picnic meals, and a panoramic Vistadome train on the return. With small groups, full logistics, and enhanced safety equipment, everything is arranged so you can focus on the experience.
At a glance
- Duration: 48 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 48 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Guide
Plan the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with practical guidance on permits, the Km 82 route, timing, published access rates, and booking decisions.
Choosing the Right Train to Machu Picchu
PeruRail or IncaRail, Vistadome or Expedition, Ollantaytambo or Poroy. The trade-offs nobody explains until you're already at the station.
Machu Picchu Day Trip From Cusco
A Machu Picchu day trip from Cusco is possible, but it requires advance entry tickets, carefully matched transport, and a very early start. Use this practical guide to choose a circuit, build a realistic schedule, compar
What is included
- Return panoramic train (Vistadome)
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets – Circuit 1 (Day 1)
- Pre tour safety briefing
- Train to Km 104 (Expedition or Voyager)
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
- Lunch
- Breakfast at the hotel (Day 2)
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- Free luggage storage
- Breakfast and picnic lunch (Day 1)
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 3 (Day 2)
- All transportation during the tour
- 1 night in a 3 star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Satellite phones, first aid kit, and oxygen tank
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Professional tour guide
- 1 dinner at a local restaurant (Day 1)
- Round trip bus to Machu Picchu (Day 2)
Not included
- Food Except What is mentioned
- Personal Expenses
- Tips for the guide and drive (optional)
- Lunch on Day 2
- Dinner on Day 2
Itinerary and highlights
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We will pick you up early from Cusco’s Main Square at approximately 5:30 a.m. (depending on the train schedule). From there, you’ll travel by private van to the train station in Ollantaytambo. The drive takes about 1.5 hours along scenic mountain roads until reaching Kilometer 104, the starting point of the hike.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Salkantay Travel Peru
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance ticket
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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