Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days

Your adventure begins early at 4:00 AM, when we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. We travel by private transport for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll enjoy breakfast before boarding the train to KM 104, the starting point of your Short Inca Trail hike.

From KM 104, we begin walking along one of the most scenic sections of the Classic Inca Trail. The trail gradually ascends on original stone pathways built by the Incas, surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating archaeological sites, diverse flora and fauna, and incredible mountain views.

One of the highlights of the day is the stunning archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna. Built into the mountainside with impressive terraces and temples, it’s considered one of the most beautiful sites on the entire Inca Trail. After exploring the site with your guide, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

After lunch, we continue hiking through the lush cloud forest, home to orchids, exotic plants, and colorful birds. In the afternoon, you’ll reach the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above. Seeing the citadel spread across the mountain ridge is a truly unforgettable moment. From there, we hike approximately 45 minutes following Circuit 1 (Route 1 –…

After visiting Machu Picchu, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, arriving around 5:00 PM. Your guide will assist you with hotel check-in. You’ll then have free time to relax — you may choose to visit the hot springs or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this charming town. In the evening, we gather for dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel…

Today is the highlight of your adventure. Early in the morning, your Bigfoot guide will pick you up from your hotel, and together you’ll walk to the bus station to catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (around 5:30 AM). The 30-minute ride takes you up the winding mountain road to the entrance of the citadel. At the checkpoint, you’ll present your…

Once inside, your guide will take you to one of the best panoramic viewpoints to capture unforgettable photos of Machu Picchu. You’ll then explore the citadel following Circuit 3 (Route 3B – Royal Route) for approximately 2 to 3 hours. During the guided tour, you’ll discover the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, including: Temple of the Sun Royal Inca Houses Sacred water fountains Agricultural…

After completing the guided tour, you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Here you’ll have free time for lunch before heading to the train station. In the afternoon, you’ll board your return train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private driver will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 PM.