2-Day Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu with Guide

Summary

Hiking the Inca Trail: Wiñay Wayna & Sun Gate Adventure

You’ll hike ancient paths past hidden ruins and lush terraces before catching your first real look at Machu Picchu from above—a moment you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Cusco felt crisp as we bundled into the van before sunrise—honestly, I was still half-asleep until we reached the train station. The ride out to km 104 was quiet except for the soft chatter of other trekkers and the clack of wheels on rails. Once we hopped off at Chachabamba, our guide, Julio, pointed out a tiny stand selling coca leaves—locals swear it helps with the altitude. The first steps on the trail were gentle but soon turned into a steady climb. You’ll notice how the path winds through thick cloud forest; there’s this earthy smell after last night’s rain that just hangs in the air.

Wiñay Wayna appeared suddenly—terraces stacked up like green steps against the hillside. Julio explained how these terraces once grew maize for ceremonies. We stopped here for lunch (packed sandwiches and fruit), sitting on a stone wall with orchids blooming nearby. The last stretch to Inti Punku—the Sun Gate—was tough but worth every step. When Machu Picchu finally came into view below us, everyone just went quiet for a second. It’s not just about seeing it; it’s about earning that first glimpse after hours of hiking. We took a side trail down toward Aguas Calientes as dusk settled in, checked into our small hotel (hot showers felt amazing), and grabbed dinner at a local spot where they served fresh trout from the river.

The next morning started early again—first bus up to Machu Picchu before most crowds arrived. Our guide led us through temples and plazas, sharing stories about Pachacuti and how stones were hauled up these crazy slopes. There’s time to wander on your own after the tour; I found a quiet corner near the Sacred Rock just to take it all in. If you’ve got energy left (and book ahead), you can climb Huayna Picchu for wild views over everything—though spots fill fast! Afterward, we caught the bus back down for lunch in Aguas Calientes (not included) before boarding our afternoon train back toward Cusco. By then, my legs were tired but my camera roll was packed—and honestly, so was my head with all those new memories.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cusco to Aguas Calientes via Inca Trail

• Pick up and train to km 104
• Visit Chachabamba archaeological complex
• Hike 8 km to Wiñaywaynan complex
• Lunch (box lunch)
• Continue to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) viewpoint
• Descend to Machu Picchu and bus to Aguas Calientes
• Dinner and overnight in Aguas Calientes

Day 2 — Machu Picchu tour and return to Cusco

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Free time to explore Machu Picchu
• Optional Huaynapicchu Mountain climb
• Bus down to Aguas Calientes
• Lunch (not included)
• Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy
• Transfer by car to hotel in Cusco

Top questions

How difficult is this short Inca Trail trek?

The hike is moderate—you’ll need basic fitness since there are some steep sections and stairs, especially up to Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku.

Is Huayna Picchu included in this tour?

No, but you can add it if you book early enough—only 400 people per day can climb it due to permit limits.

Are meals provided during the trip?

Lunch on day one, dinner in Aguas Calientes, and breakfast at your hotel are included; lunch on day two is not included.

What should I bring for this trek?

Bring comfortable hiking shoes, rain gear (weather changes fast), sunblock, water bottle, passport (for checkpoints), and some cash for snacks or souvenirs.

What’s included

Your trip covers hotel pickup in Cusco, train tickets both ways, bus rides to Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, entrance fees for both Inca Trail and Machu Picchu itself, one night at a comfy 3-star hotel with private bath (breakfast included), plus an English or Spanish-speaking guide who really knows their stuff. Lunch and dinner are sorted on day one—you’ll just need to grab your own lunch on day two before heading back.