About this experience
This is the short version of the famous Inca Trail, for those who have less time available but do not want to miss out on this unique trek. The Incas built a very extensive network of almost 40,000 kilometers of hiking trails, to the far reaches of the vast empire, which stretched from Quito in Ecuador to Santiago in Chile and Mendoza in Argentina.
At a glance
- Duration: 48 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 48 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
- Night at a hostel in Aguas Calientes
- Pick-up from Cuzco hotel by bus to the train station of Ollantaytambo and back
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional, English speaking guide
- Round-trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu surroundings and back
Not included
- Bus up and down from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (12 USD one way)
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance fees to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
- Sleeping bag and walking sticks
- First breakfast, last lunch and last dinner
- Extra porter for personal items (ask before departure)
Itinerary and highlights
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- All passengers are picked up at their ho(s)tel before the start of the tour. The exact time will be told some days before the start of your tour. Make sure to be ready!
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- PaRa Travels
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Questions about this experience
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