Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO TRAIN STATION – KM 104 – INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU
Your adventure to Machu Picchu begins before sunrise, with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m. (we also offer pickup from the Sacred Valley upon request around 5:00). As the first light of day appears, you’ll enjoy a scenic 1 hour and 45-minute drive to the Ollantaytambo train station. There, you’ll board a train around 6:10 or 6:40 a.m., heading to Kilometer 104, the official starting point of your Inca Trail hike.
At Km 104, your professional guide will greet you and accompany you throughout the journey. After showing your entry permits and tickets at the Inca Trail checkpoint and receiving a short briefing, you’ll begin a gradual 3-hour uphill hike, ascending from 2,000 to 2,700 meters through lush vegetation and ancient stone paths. Your destination is Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the trail.
Once there, you’ll explore the site with your guide and enjoy a packed picnic lunch, provided at the start of the hike (note: cooking is not allowed along this part of the trail due to park regulations). After a well-deserved rest, the trail continues for about 2 more hours along a mostly flat path to the iconic Inti Punku (Sun Gate). From this unique viewpoint—only accessible to Inca Trail hikers—you’ll get your first unforgettable glimpse of Machu Picchu from above.
After soaking in the views, you’ll hike about 45 minutes downhill to reach the upper terraces of Machu Picchu, the perfect spot for those classic postcard photos with Huayna Picchu in the background. Here, your guide will explain the significance of the Guardian’s House and the agricultural terraces. You’ll spend approximately one hour in this area, as this will be your only visit to the upper part of the site on Day 1. The main citadel will be fully explored on Day 2.
Later, you’ll take the included 30-minute bus ride down to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, around 7:00 p.m., you’ll enjoy a special dinner at a local restaurant, a perfect opportunity to try Peruvian cuisine and go over the next day’s plan with your guide.
Please note that train schedules may vary by up to 30 minutes, depending on availability, but we’ll inform you in advance of any changes. If the weather is on your side, you might even witness a stunning sunset over Machu Picchu, a moment you’ll never forget.
Important Notes: This day includes lunch and dinner, as well as accommodation in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. All necessary entrance and transportation tickets are included in your package. The hike covers a total distance of 12 km (7 miles) and takes place in hot and humid conditions, so we recommend bringing water, sunscreen, and light clothing. Please note that train schedules are subject to change and may vary by up to ±30 minutes depending on availability. We will inform you of the exact departure time in advance to ensure smooth coordination.
FINAL DAY – EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU & RETURN TO CUSCO
We’ll start the day early, waking up at 4:30 AM and having breakfast at 5:00 AM. Shortly after, we’ll head to the bus station to catch one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu at 5:30 AM. The scenic 30-minute ride will take us directly to the main entrance, which opens at 6:00 AM.
Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, we’ll enter the lower area the Inca city of the archaeological site for a 2.5-hour guided tour. During this time, your expert guide will take you through the most important and iconic areas of the citadel, sharing the fascinating history and significance of this Wonder of the World. After the tour, you’ll have about 30 additional minutes to explore the site on your own. Please note that, according to park regulations, the maximum time allowed inside Machu Picchu is 2.5 hours.
If you’ve booked an additional ticket to either Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your guide will assist you in reaching the correct entrance at the designated time. Keep in mind that it’s only possible to climb one of these mountains, and Waynapicchu is the most popular option. Due to limited availability, it must be reserved well in advance. The hike takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours round trip, and although it is not guided, the trail is well-maintained, with park rangers and security cameras along the way.
After your visit, you’ll take the 30-minute bus ride back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have some free time to relax, explore the town, or enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Later, make your way to the train station to board the train back to Ollantaytambo, usually departing at 2:30 PM or 2:55 PM. The train ride takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, our private transfer will be waiting for you with a sign showing your name to take you on a 2-hour drive back to Cusco, dropping you off directly at your hotel.
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
🧭 Pre-Trek Briefing
- Conducted the evening before your departure at 6:00 PM in our central Cusco office.
- Includes a detailed explanation of the itinerary, safety protocols, and packing recommendations.
- You’ll receive your printed train tickets and Machu Picchu entry tickets during the session.
🏨 Hotel Pickup & Drop-off
- Seamless transportation from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley (e.g., Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, Calca, Pisac).
- We take care of pickup before the tour and drop-off after the tour, ensuring a stress-free journey.
🚐 Private Transport to/from Ollantaytambo Train Station
- Round-trip private transportation from your hotel to Ollantaytambo station, and back to your hotel at the end of the tour.
🚆 Train Ticket to Km 104 (Trailhead)
- Scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of the trek.
- Departure at 6:10 AM or 6:40 AM, depending on availability.
🛂 Inca Trail Permits & Entry Tickets
- All necessary permits and entry tickets for the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are included—no paperwork required on your end.
🎟️ Machu Picchu Entry – Two-Day Access
- Includes two entries to Machu Picchu
- Day 1: Arrive via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and reach the Classic Viewpoint around 3:00–4:00 PM. Enjoy stunning panoramic views and a brief explanation from your guide.
- Day 2: Return for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of the citadel, exploring temples, plazas, and key archaeological sectors.
- This two-day entry allows you to experience both the famous viewpoint and the inner citadel, making for a deeper, more immersive experience.
🏨 Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- One-night stay in a comfortable hotel such as Andino Machu Picchu or similar category.
- Ideal for a restful night before your second-day visit to Machu Picchu.
🍽️ Meals Included
- Day 1: Packed lunch during the hike + dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel before visiting Machu Picchu.
🚆 Return Train Ticket
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, departing around 2:20 PM or 2:55 PM, depending on availability.
👨🏫 Professional Guided Tour
- Enjoy a guided experience led by a licensed expert, offering historical and cultural insights into both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
🩺 Emergency Equipment
- Your guide will carry an oxygen tank and a complete first-aid kit, prioritizing your safety throughout the trek.
🌄 This carefully crafted itinerary takes care of every detail, allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable moments of the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Not Included
🍽️ Breakfast on Day 1
- The first day’s breakfast is not included, as the tour starts very early in the morning. We recommend having breakfast at your hotel (if available) or bringing a light snack
🍛 Lunch on Day 2
- Similar to breakfast on the first day, lunch on the second day is not covered in the package. After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will have time in Aguas Calientes to choose a local restaurant and enjoy a meal at your own expense.
💰 Gratuities and Tips
- Tips for guides, drivers, porters, and hospitality staff are not included in the package. While not mandatory, they are a voluntary gesture of appreciation for excellent service and are highly appreciated by the team.
What to Pack
What to Pack
🎒 INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU – PACKING LIST
Please note: This trek does not include porter service, so you’ll need to carry all your belongings during the hike. Packing light is essential to enjoy this short but demanding adventure. Below is our recommended checklist:
📄 Essential Documents
- Passport – Required at all checkpoints
- Valid Student ID – Only if you booked with a student discount
🎒 Backpack
- A small, lightweight daypack (20–25L) that fits comfortably and distributes weight well
💧 Water
- Begin the hike with at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water
- No refill or purchase points until Machu Picchu
👕 Clothing & Footwear
- Comfortable hiking boots with good grip and ankle support
- 1 moisture-wicking hiking shirt + hiking pants
- 1 clean outfit for your visit to Machu Picchu (perfect for photos!)
- 2 sets of undergarments and walking socks
- Rain gear – Waterproof jacket or a rain poncho
🌞 Sun & Insect Protection
- Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellent, especially for the trail and Aguas Calientes
🎒 Optional Items
- Bathing suit – If you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
- Personal medication and a basic first aid kit
📸 Electronics & Extras
- Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
- Extra cash for snacks, souvenirs, or tips
🍫 Snacks
- Lightweight options like nuts, energy bars, or dried fruit for a quick boost on the trail
✅ Pro Tip: Pack smart and light to enjoy a more comfortable and rewarding experience on your 2-Day Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu.
Prices
Pricing
INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2D-1N PRICES (GROUP SERVICE) – 2025 SEASON
The prices for the Inca Trail 2 Days vary based on whether you are a student or an adult. Below, we outline the group service pricing details:
PRICE: INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2D-1N
- STUDENT: $420 USD per person – (Valid student ID required)
- CHILD: $420 USD per person – (For visitors aged 8 to 17 years)
- ADULT: $450 USD per person
👣 Group Size: On the 2-Day Inca Trail, we usually form groups of 6 to 8 people, with a maximum of 12. For groups of 10 or more, we provide two guides—a main guide and an assistant guide—to ensure personalized attention and support throughout the trek.
Check Student Price: +info
Addons & Upgrades
Addons & Upgrades
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS & PRICES:
Here you’ll find information about optional services that you can add to your 4-Day Inca Trail package when booking your tour.
- 🎟️ Waynapicchu Mountain Entry: $60 USD
- 🏔️ Machu Picchu Mountain Entry: $60 USD
- 🚆 Vistadome Train Upgrade (Return): $40 USD
- 🥾 Trekking Pole Rental (Pair): $10 USD
🏔️Waynapicchu: The Iconic Mountain Above Machu Picchu: Climb the famous peak behind Machu Picchu for stunning panoramic views and Inca ruins. Entry is limited to 400 people per day, divided into 4 time slots (7 a.m. to 10 a.m.). If you’re doing the Inca Trail, we usually book the 9 or 10 a.m. slots. The hike takes 2–2.5 hours round trip, is unguided, and includes steep sections, so it’s not recommended if you have vertigo. Check availability at https://tuboleto.cultura.pe/llaqta_machupicchu; we handle the booking for you.
🏔️Machu Picchu Mountain: A Scenic Alternative Hike: Rising to 3,080 m, Machu Picchu Mountain offers panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding valleys. It’s a separate peak from the archaeological site and requires a special ticket, with 400 daily spots split into two time slots (7–8 a.m. & 8–9 a.m.). For Inca Trail trekkers, we usually book the 8–9 a.m. slot after your guided tour. The round-trip hike takes 3 to 3.5 hours, with a steady ascent via original Inca stone steps. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
🚆 Vistadome Train Upgrade one way – $40 USD:The Inca Trail includes a standard return train (Expedition or Voyager), but you can upgrade to the Vistadome for a more scenic and comfortable experience. This premium train features panoramic windows, a glass roof, and onboard entertainment like music and traditional dance. The upgrade from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is available for $35 USD per person and adds a luxurious touch to the end of your adventure.
🥾 Trekking Pole Rental – $10 USD (Pair): Trekking poles are highly recommended for the 2-Day Inca Trail, helping with balance and reducing strain on your knees through steep, uneven, and varied terrain. You can rent a pair from Machu Picchu Reservations for $15 USD for the entire trek. Note: poles are not allowed inside Machu Picchu or on the mountain hikes. Add them during your booking or rent them at our office in Cusco.
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Reservation
HOW TO BOOK THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS & APPLICABLE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
STEPS TO BOOK THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
- Step 1:
Click the “BOOK ONLINE” button to check availability. You’ll be taken to the calendar and our booking platform. If your desired date is available, select it and proceed with your reservation. - Step 2:
Once you choose your date, you’ll be asked to select your number of participants, and the type of traveler (adult, student, or child). Then, you can choose whether to pay only the $250 deposit per person (non-refundable) or the full amount. Either option is available. - Step 3:
Next, fill out the personal information form for each participant, including: full name, passport number, WhatsApp number, hotel in Cusco, and more. - Step 4:
After that, you’ll be able to add optional extras if you wish, such as trekking poles, or entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Once you’ve selected any extras, continue to the next step. - Step 5:
Finally, you’ll be directed to the payment form. You can pay with any debit or credit card, and in some countries, bank transfers are also available. Payments by card include a 2.9% transaction fee, which is covered by the client. - Once your payment is completed, you’ll automatically receive a payment confirmation email. Within 24 hours, we’ll send you the final tour confirmation, including all details and your Inca Trail Permits and Machu Picchu entry tickets and train tickets.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR BOOKING
To confirm your Inca Trail 2 days reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $250 USD per person is required. This amount secures your spot on the tour and is used to purchase your Inca Trail Permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
Cancellations:
- If you decide to cancel your tour, the deposit will not be refunded. However, any tickets already purchased (such as the Permits and Machu Picchu entrance) can still be used by you on the original date for which they were issued, as tickets cannot be changed or refunded.
- If you paid the full amount for the tour and later cancel, you will receive a refund of the remaining balance, excluding the $250 USD deposit.
Date Changes:
- You may change your tour date as long as there is availability. Please note that new Permits and new Machu Picchu and train tickets will need to be purchased for the new date, and you will be required to pay a new deposit of $250 USD per person to cover these additional costs.
Remaining Balance Payment:
- If you only paid the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid at least 24 hours before the tour starts. You can pay through:
- Our online booking platform
- Or in person at our offices in Cusco, in cash (USD or soles)
- Card payments are also accepted, with an additional 3.9% processing fee
Customer Support:
- For any changes, cancellations, or modifications to your reservation, please email us at: 📧 machupicchureservations@gmail.com
- If you contact us during business hours (7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.), one of our agents will respond immediately.
Gallery
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Why Choose Machupicchu Reservations
Why Choose Machupicchu Reservations
Expertise and Experience: Our team of knowledgeable and experienced professionals ensures that you receive accurate information, well-organized itineraries, and top-notch guidance throughout your trip.
Personalized Service: We tailor our tours to cater to each traveler’s unique preferences and requirements, ensuring a customized and memorable experience.
Quality and Safety: Our commitment to quality and safety guarantees an enjoyable and worry-free adventure. We collaborate with professional guides, reliable transportation services, and carefully selected accommodations to deliver the best possible experience.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel: Machu Picchu Reservations is dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact and supporting local communities. We promote eco-friendly practices and contribute to the well-being of the regions we explore.
Competitive Pricing: We offer a range of affordable packages and options, allowing you to experience the magic of Machu Picchu without breaking the bank.
Excellent Customer Support: Our friendly and responsive customer support team is available to assist you at every stage of your journey, from pre-trip planning to post-trip inquiries.
Choose Machu Picchu Reservations for a remarkable and hassle-free adventure, as we strive to make your dream trip to Machu Picchu an unforgettable reality.
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