TourismCusco

Tours & experiences

Inca Trail Short to Machupicchu Sunset in Inti Punku

About this experience

This short walk offers a unique experience towards Machu Picchu, starting at km 104 and proceeding to the Wiñayhuayna resort. The route culminates in Inti Punku, 2,650 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset over Machu Picchu. The next day, a guided tour of the sanctuary is held, ideal for those seeking a less physically demanding adventure. Perfect for travelers with little time or who prefer a more accessible tour.

- Short and accessible walk to Machu Picchu
- Enjoy a spectacular sunset in Inti Punku
Guided tour of Machu Picchu Shrine the next day
- Ideal for those who have little time or are not in advanced physical shape

At a glance

  • Duration: 48 hr
  • Private experience

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Inca Trail Short to Machupicchu Sunset in Inti Punku
Pickup included

Plan your experience

Time on the tour48 hr
Getting therePickup offeredSee pickup details
Guide languagesEnglish (live guide), Spanish (live guide)
Tour arrangementPrivate 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

What is included

  • English professional guides.
  • Basic hotel in Aguas Calientes in double occupancy.
  • Tourist train ticket Cusco - Km 104 (start of the walk) and Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
  • Roundtrip bus tickets Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu (2 routes).
  • First aid kit, oxygen.
  • All transfer services from/to the hotel in the city of Cusco
  • Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
  • Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch and 1 dinner. Vegetarian option available.

Not included

  • Lunch (second day).
  • Entrances to the hot springs of Aguas Calientes.
  • Entrance fee to Huaynapicchu

Itinerary and highlights

The first day begins with the early pick-up of travelers from their hotels in Cusco and/or the Sacred Valley, and then transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo. During this journey, you have the opportunity to admire the sunrise over the Andes.

In Ollantaytambo, travelers take the Expedition train that will take them to Km 104, starting point of the hike

Upon reaching Km 104, after passing through the control and showing passports, the hike begins near the Vilcanota River, overlooking the ruins of Chachabamba. These ruins were an ancient Inca altar dedicated to the cult of the sun and sacred mountains, which are still revered by local people.
The route continues south, slowly ascending through a cloud forest full of abundant vegetation. The trail offers panoramic views and crosses diverse landscapes, such as open meadows and leafy forests.
After about three hours of walking, you reach the ruins of Wiñaywayna

Wiñaywayna, an impressive place for both its beauty and its archaeological value. There, travelers enjoy lunch while learning about Inca history and culture thanks to explanations from an expert guide. Afterwards, the hike continues through the cloud forest, passing prominent places such as stone stairs and tambos (resting places). The final part of the journey leads to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), from where you get the first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. From Inti Punku, descend for about 45 minutes until you reach the famous Machu Picchu viewpoint, ideal for enjoying the sunset over the citadel. Finally, take a bus to Aguas Calientes, where you dine and rest at the reserved Hotel, preparing for the exciting second day of adventure.

The second day, after breakfast, take the first bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of 2 to 3 hours of this fascinating Inca citadel. During the tour, you will visit key places such as the Royal Mausoleum and Intihuatana. Afterwards, travelers have free time to explore or return to Aguas Calientes for lunch.

Return to Cusco by train in the afternoon, arriving at Poroy or Ollantaytambo station, from where you transfer to Cusco, where our staff waits to transfer you to your hotel.
The experience includes assisted transfers, archaeological visits, walks through beautiful natural landscapes and exploring Machu Picchu. It is recommended to take advantage of the Combo option, which includes a visit to the Sacred Valley and a night in Ollantaytambo before starting the trekk. Alternative return options allow you to adjust the itinerary according to the preferences and schedules of the travelers.

Meeting and pickup information

  • If passengers are in Sacred Valley Hotels we can also pick them up from that point

Languages and tickets

  • English — Guide
  • Spanish — Guide
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • Peru Inkas Top Travel

Accessibility and practical details

  • 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

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Questions about this experience

How long is this experience?
The supplier lists a duration of 48 hr.
What are the pickup arrangements?
If passengers are in Sacred Valley Hotels we can also pick them up from that point
Which guide languages are listed?
English (live guide), Spanish (live guide).
What ticket format is listed?
Mobile ticket.
What ticket age bands are listed?
Youth tickets: age 9–17; Adult tickets: age 18+. Check the practical details for participation requirements.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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