Tour Details

Duration

2D/1N

Difficulty

Moderate

Tour Style

Cultural

Altitude

3,050 m.a.l.s

Group Size

1 - 12 people

Distance

12 km

Tour Map

The 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu covers 12 km on paths cut through mountains and cloud forests centuries back. Ruins and ancient terraces show up throughout, guide breaks down what you're looking at without dragging it out. Wiñay Wayna hits mid-route, terraces and structures still standing, hard to miss.

Path pushes up to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu sitting visible above the treeline from there. The climb is the hardest stretch, body knows it, but the view lands. Historical context stays present the whole way, nothing heavy, just enough to make the surroundings click.

Machu Picchu covers temples, plazas, terraces, time to move freely and stop where it makes sense. Each section has a story, guide covers it on the spot. Two days, 12 km, back to Cusco when it wraps.

We'll begin our adventure before dawn with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco (3,400 m) between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m. If you're staying in the Sacred Valley (2,900 m), you can opt for a 5:00 a.m. pickup. We'll enjoy a scenic 1 hour 45 minute drive to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m). There, we'll board the train at 6:10 or 6:40 a.m., heading to Kilometer 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail.

Upon reaching kilometer 104, our guide will check permits and give a brief introduction to the route. We will hike uphill for 3 hours, ascending to Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m) through lush vegetation and along ancient stone paths. We will explore this archaeological site and enjoy a picnic lunch. Then we will continue for 2 hours along a mostly flat trail to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate (2,720 m), from where we will admire Machu Picchu (2,430 m) rising above the mountains and vegetation.

We will descend for 45 minutes to the upper terraces of Machu Picchu. There, our guide will explain the Guardhouse and the agricultural terraces. Afterward, we will take a 30-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m) to check into our hotel. In the evening, we'll enjoy a special dinner at a local restaurant and review the plan for the following day.

Important notes: This day includes lunch and dinner, hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes, entrance tickets, and transportation. The hike covers 12 km in hot and humid conditions. We must bring water, light clothing, and sunscreen. Train schedules may vary by ±30 minutes depending on availability, and the exact time will be communicated in advance.

Statistics Day 1 

  • Distance: 12 km
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,700 m 
  • Minimum Altitude: 2,000 m 
  • Route: KM 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Inti Punku → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate, with long climbs and uneven trails

We will wake up early at 4:30 a.m. and have breakfast at 5:00 a.m.Then, we will head to the bus station to catch one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (2,430 m) at 5:30 a.m. The 30-minute ride will take us directly to the main entrance, which opens at 6:00 a.m., offering stunning views of the valley and rivers.

We will enter the lower area of ​​Machu Picchu for a 2.5-hour guided tour. Our guide will lead us through temples, plazas, and terraces, explaining the history and significance of the Inca citadel. After the tour, we will have an additional 30 minutes to explore the site on our own. If we have booked an additional ticket, we can climb either Waynapicchu (2,720 m) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,050 m). The hike takes 2–2.5 hours round trip, and the trail is well-maintained.

After the visit, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (30 minutes), where you can relax, explore the town, or have lunch at a local restaurant. Later, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, our private transfer will take us back to Cusco (2 hours), dropping us off directly at our hotel.

Important Notes: The entry time to Machu Picchu may vary depending on Peruvian government availability. We will always prioritize early entry times. The tour itinerary may vary, and the best available route at the time of booking will be prioritized.

Day 2 Statistics

  • Guided tour time: 2.5 hours
  • Minimum altitude: 2,430 m 
  • Maximum altitude: 3,050 m 
  • Route: Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu (Optional Mountain) → Ollantaytambo → Cusco
  • Difficulty level: Moderate

What's Included:

Hotel delivery in Cusco.

    Cusco to Ollantaytambo Private transit.

      The price of the ticket train Ollantaytambo - Kilometer 104.

        Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

          Machu Picchu transportation to Aguas Calientes.

            1-night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

              Guide on trek and Machu Picchu tour, professionally licensed.

                Breakfast and lunch on Day 1

                  Breakfast on Day 2

                    Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu Guided tour.

                      First aid pack and basic medical supplies.

                        What's Not Included:

                        Optional tickets are Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu.

                          Travel or medical insurance

                            Such necessities as snacks, souvenirs or beverages.

                              Tips for guides or staff

                                Food that is not mentioned in the itinerary.

                                  First class train tickets (Vistadome or Hiram Bingham)

                                    Clothes

                                    • Pantalones ligeros
                                      Lightweight and comfortable trousers

                                    Equipment

                                    • Poncho
                                      Rain poncho

                                    Essential

                                    • Dinero en soles
                                      Cash (soles) and/or credit cards

                                    Recommended

                                    • Snacks
                                      Energy snacks (bars, nuts, etc.)
                                    • Camara
                                      Photographic Camera
                                    • Cargador recargable
                                      Portable charger

                                    Tour Route Map

                                    Tour Map

                                    Initial Deposit:

                                    To guarantee your reservation for a tour or package with Super Tour Machupicchu, a non-refundable initial deposit is required. The amount of this deposit varies depending on the selected itinerary.

                                    Payment can be made via PayPal or credit/debit card. Please note that a 5% service fee will be applied to card payments, and an 8% fee will be applied to PayPal transactions.

                                    By proceeding with the reservation, you confirm that you have read, understood, and fully accepted our Terms and Conditions.

                                    Reservation Confirmation:

                                    Your reservation will be considered confirmed and binding once Super Tour Machupicchu has received all your information and verified your deposit. At that moment, a legally binding contractual agreement will be established between both parties, marking the official beginning of your next adventure.

                                    Shared Responsibility:

                                    All individuals included in the reservation are jointly responsible for the agreement with Super Tour Machupicchu. The person signing the contract represents each individual listed in the reservation, meaning all parties are informed and agree to our Terms and Conditions.

                                    Required Information for Reservation:

                                    Along with the non-refundable deposit, it is essential to provide the following personal details during the reservation process:

                                    • Full name

                                    • Passport or ID number

                                    • Gender

                                    • Nationality

                                    • Date of birth

                                     

                                    These details are crucial to ensure your experience with Super Tour Machupicchu is safe, organized, and memorable.

                                    The Short Inca Trail covers about 12 kilometers, passing through peaceful spots like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. Along the way, you walk among ancient stone paths and terraces full of Inca history.
                                    The trail reaches its highest point at Wiñay Wayna, which sits 2,720 meters above sea level, offering scenic views and a sense of achievement for every trekker.
                                    Yes, meals include breakfast and lunch on the first day, and breakfast on the second day before visiting Machu Picchu, carefully planned to keep you energized.
                                    Yes, the tour provides a one-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, giving you rest and comfort before your guided visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
                                    Yes, a certified guide accompanies the entire trail, explaining the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of the Inca sites along the route.
                                    No, tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu are optional and can be purchased separately, depending on availability and personal preference.
                                    The trek starts around 4:00 A.M., with transportation picking you up in Cusco and taking you to Ollantaytambo, where the train departs from Kilometer 104.
                                    The return journey involves a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a car transfer back to Cusco, arriving in the early evening after a smooth trip.
                                    Yes, the trek is suitable for teenagers and adults with moderate fitness, but due to stairs and uphill paths, children need supervision and some physical preparation.

                                    We'll begin our adventure before dawn with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco (3,400 m) between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m. If you're staying in the Sacred Valley (2,900 m), you can opt for a 5:00 a.m. pickup. We'll enjoy a scenic 1 hour 45 minute drive to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m). There, we'll board the train at 6:10 or 6:40 a.m., heading to Kilometer 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail.

                                    Upon reaching kilometer 104, our guide will check permits and give a brief introduction to the route. We will hike uphill for 3 hours, ascending to Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m) through lush vegetation and along ancient stone paths. We will explore this archaeological site and enjoy a picnic lunch. Then we will continue for 2 hours along a mostly flat trail to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate (2,720 m), from where we will admire Machu Picchu (2,430 m) rising above the mountains and vegetation.

                                    We will descend for 45 minutes to the upper terraces of Machu Picchu. There, our guide will explain the Guardhouse and the agricultural terraces. Afterward, we will take a 30-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m) to check into our hotel. In the evening, we'll enjoy a special dinner at a local restaurant and review the plan for the following day.

                                    Important notes: This day includes lunch and dinner, hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes, entrance tickets, and transportation. The hike covers 12 km in hot and humid conditions. We must bring water, light clothing, and sunscreen. Train schedules may vary by ±30 minutes depending on availability, and the exact time will be communicated in advance.

                                    Statistics Day 1 

                                    • Distance: 12 km
                                    • Maximum Altitude: 2,700 m 
                                    • Minimum Altitude: 2,000 m 
                                    • Route: KM 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Inti Punku → Machu Picchu → Aguas Calientes
                                    • Difficulty Level: Moderate, with long climbs and uneven trails

                                    We will wake up early at 4:30 a.m. and have breakfast at 5:00 a.m.Then, we will head to the bus station to catch one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (2,430 m) at 5:30 a.m. The 30-minute ride will take us directly to the main entrance, which opens at 6:00 a.m., offering stunning views of the valley and rivers.

                                    We will enter the lower area of ​​Machu Picchu for a 2.5-hour guided tour. Our guide will lead us through temples, plazas, and terraces, explaining the history and significance of the Inca citadel. After the tour, we will have an additional 30 minutes to explore the site on our own. If we have booked an additional ticket, we can climb either Waynapicchu (2,720 m) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,050 m). The hike takes 2–2.5 hours round trip, and the trail is well-maintained.

                                    After the visit, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (30 minutes), where you can relax, explore the town, or have lunch at a local restaurant. Later, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, our private transfer will take us back to Cusco (2 hours), dropping us off directly at our hotel.

                                    Important Notes: The entry time to Machu Picchu may vary depending on Peruvian government availability. We will always prioritize early entry times. The tour itinerary may vary, and the best available route at the time of booking will be prioritized.

                                    Day 2 Statistics

                                    • Guided tour time: 2.5 hours
                                    • Minimum altitude: 2,430 m 
                                    • Maximum altitude: 3,050 m 
                                    • Route: Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu (Optional Mountain) → Ollantaytambo → Cusco
                                    • Difficulty level: Moderate

                                    What's Included:

                                    Hotel delivery in Cusco.

                                      Cusco to Ollantaytambo Private transit.

                                        The price of the ticket train Ollantaytambo - Kilometer 104.

                                          Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

                                            Machu Picchu transportation to Aguas Calientes.

                                              1-night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

                                                Guide on trek and Machu Picchu tour, professionally licensed.

                                                  Breakfast and lunch on Day 1

                                                    Breakfast on Day 2

                                                      Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu Guided tour.

                                                        First aid pack and basic medical supplies.

                                                          What's Not Included:

                                                          Optional tickets are Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu.

                                                            Travel or medical insurance

                                                              Such necessities as snacks, souvenirs or beverages.

                                                                Tips for guides or staff

                                                                  Food that is not mentioned in the itinerary.

                                                                    First class train tickets (Vistadome or Hiram Bingham)

                                                                      Clothes

                                                                      • Pantalones ligeros
                                                                        Lightweight and comfortable trousers

                                                                      Equipment

                                                                      • Poncho
                                                                        Rain poncho

                                                                      Essential

                                                                      • Dinero en soles
                                                                        Cash (soles) and/or credit cards

                                                                      Recommended

                                                                      • Snacks
                                                                        Energy snacks (bars, nuts, etc.)
                                                                      • Camara
                                                                        Photographic Camera
                                                                      • Cargador recargable
                                                                        Portable charger

                                                                      Tour Route Map

                                                                      Tour Map

                                                                      Initial Deposit:

                                                                      To guarantee your reservation for a tour or package with Super Tour Machupicchu, a non-refundable initial deposit is required. The amount of this deposit varies depending on the selected itinerary.

                                                                      Payment can be made via PayPal or credit/debit card. Please note that a 5% service fee will be applied to card payments, and an 8% fee will be applied to PayPal transactions.

                                                                      By proceeding with the reservation, you confirm that you have read, understood, and fully accepted our Terms and Conditions.

                                                                      Reservation Confirmation:

                                                                      Your reservation will be considered confirmed and binding once Super Tour Machupicchu has received all your information and verified your deposit. At that moment, a legally binding contractual agreement will be established between both parties, marking the official beginning of your next adventure.

                                                                      Shared Responsibility:

                                                                      All individuals included in the reservation are jointly responsible for the agreement with Super Tour Machupicchu. The person signing the contract represents each individual listed in the reservation, meaning all parties are informed and agree to our Terms and Conditions.

                                                                      Required Information for Reservation:

                                                                      Along with the non-refundable deposit, it is essential to provide the following personal details during the reservation process:

                                                                      • Full name

                                                                      • Passport or ID number

                                                                      • Gender

                                                                      • Nationality

                                                                      • Date of birth

                                                                       

                                                                      These details are crucial to ensure your experience with Super Tour Machupicchu is safe, organized, and memorable.

                                                                      The Short Inca Trail covers about 12 kilometers, passing through peaceful spots like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. Along the way, you walk among ancient stone paths and terraces full of Inca history.
                                                                      The trail reaches its highest point at Wiñay Wayna, which sits 2,720 meters above sea level, offering scenic views and a sense of achievement for every trekker.
                                                                      Yes, meals include breakfast and lunch on the first day, and breakfast on the second day before visiting Machu Picchu, carefully planned to keep you energized.
                                                                      Yes, the tour provides a one-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, giving you rest and comfort before your guided visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
                                                                      Yes, a certified guide accompanies the entire trail, explaining the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of the Inca sites along the route.
                                                                      No, tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu are optional and can be purchased separately, depending on availability and personal preference.
                                                                      The trek starts around 4:00 A.M., with transportation picking you up in Cusco and taking you to Ollantaytambo, where the train departs from Kilometer 104.
                                                                      The return journey involves a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a car transfer back to Cusco, arriving in the early evening after a smooth trip.
                                                                      Yes, the trek is suitable for teenagers and adults with moderate fitness, but due to stairs and uphill paths, children need supervision and some physical preparation.