Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Cusco. You’ll be picked up from your hotel by your professional guide and travel comfortably through the scenic Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, a charming Andean town surrounded by ancient Inca terraces. From here, you’ll board the train and head toward the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail, located at KM 104.

Once you disembark at KM 104, your trek officially begins. After crossing a wooden bridge over the Urubamba River, you’ll stop at the first checkpoint, where you’ll show your passport and trail permit. Nearby, you’ll explore the Chachabamba archaeological site, a small but fascinating ruin used as a ceremonial and agricultural center.

From here, the trail begins to ascend gently. The first segment of the hike passes through lush subtropical vegetation, offering incredible views of the Urubamba Valley below. Along the way, you’ll walk through varied microclimates, including humid cloud forest rich in biodiversity. Your guide will point out native orchids, hummingbirds, and butterflies that call this region home.

After a couple of hours on the trail, the reward for your efforts appears: the spectacular Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), perched dramatically on a steep mountainside. These terraces and ceremonial baths are among the most beautiful along the trail and remain remarkably well preserved. Take time to explore the site while your guide shares its historical and spiritual significance.

You’ll enjoy a hearty lunch near the Wiñay Wayna campsite, surrounded by vibrant tropical flowers and ancient stonework. After lunch, continue your trek on a mostly flat, scenic trail that leads toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. This final stretch includes a famous series of steep steps known humorously as the “Gringo Killers,” which were carved into the rock by the Inca more than 500 years ago.

As you reach the Sun Gate, the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu unfolds before your eyes—an awe-inspiring moment that words can hardly describe. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the citadel, and the crowds have thinned out, making it a perfect time for photos. This perspective of the Lost City of the Incas, framed by towering green peaks and misty cliffs, is one of the highlights of the entire journey.

Descend from the Sun Gate along a gentle path, stopping at various viewpoints for additional photo opportunities. Along the way, your guide may show you lesser-known Inca sites between the gate and the citadel. Once at the upper terraces of Machu Picchu, you’ll have time to take those classic postcard-perfect shots from the Guard House.

After soaking in the views and atmosphere, you’ll board a shuttle bus for the 30-minute ride down to Aguas Calientes, a lively town at the base of the mountain. Once checked into your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Afterward, you can explore the town, relax in the thermal hot springs, or simply rest after a full day of adventure.

Meals Included: Box lunch, dinner in Aguas Calientes
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 2Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco