Duration

2 Days

Best for

Trekking

Accommodation

Flexible

Group/Private

Moderate

Express Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

Journey Highlights

  • Enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate
  • Explore Wiñay Wayna’s terraces, temples and ceremonial spaces
  • Reach Machu Picchu before the crowds
  • Experience the Inca Trail in just two days

The Express Inca Trail is the perfect option for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail but have limited time.

This compact adventure allows you to walk in ancient footsteps through the Andean rainforest, discovering impressive archaeological sites, lush landscapes, and breathtaking mountain views.

Along the way, you will explore iconic Inca constructions before arriving at the legendary Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, just as the Incas once did.

Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and wake up early to explore Machu Picchu with fewer crowds, making this a short but truly unforgettable experience.

Itinerary

Highlights:

  • Start of the Inca Trail at KM 104
  • Visit to Chachabamba archaeological site
  • Exploration of Wiñay Wayna
  • Arrival to Sun Gate (Inti Punku) with first view of Machu Picchu

Detailed description:

Your adventure begins early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a transfer to Ollantaytambo, where you will board the train to KM 104, the starting point of your trek.

After a short briefing, you will begin hiking along a section of the Classic Inca Trail. The first stop is Chachabamba, an ancient control point of the Incas.

Continue your hike through lush cloud forest landscapes until reaching Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological complexes along the trail, known for its terraces, temples, and ceremonial spaces.

After enjoying your lunch and some rest, continue the hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you will witness your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

From there, descend and take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel and enjoy dinner.

Highlights:

  • Sunrise experience at Machu Picchu
  • Guided tour of the citadel
  • Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Train and bus return to Cusco

Detailed description:

After an early wake-up, take the bus up to Machu Picchu to arrive before the crowds and enjoy the magical morning atmosphere.

Explore the citadel with a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, visiting its most important temples, terraces, and viewpoints while learning about its history and construction.

After the tour, you will have the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (if pre-booked), offering spectacular panoramic views.

Later, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transport will take you back to Cusco in the evening.

What's included

What's included

  • Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (Day 1: Circuit 1 / Day 2: Circuit 3)
  • Pre-tour briefing and professional guides
  • Guided tour in Machu Picchu
  • Private group transportation
  • Train tickets
  • Medical kit / First aid kit
  • 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes (hotel)
  • Meals included:
    • Day 1: Box lunch and dinner
    • Day 2: Breakfast
  • Snacks and water on Day 1
  • Cloth snack bag (eco-friendly for waste management)
  • Return trip from Machu Picchu by train

Not included:

  • Breakfast on Day 1
  • Lunch and dinner on Day 2
  • Bus ticket Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu
  • Entrance to Huchuy Picchu
  • Trekking poles
  • Tips (optional)
From $ 00 USD

Express Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

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