Machu Picchu: Short Inca Trail hike with guide & hotel

Summary

Follow ancient footsteps from Cusco to Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate

You’ll walk ancient paths from Cusco to Machu Picchu with a local guide, passing orchids at Wiñay Wayna and seeing that first view through the Sun Gate. Enjoy dinner in Aguas Calientes and an early morning tour among llamas before heading back — it’s an experience you’ll remember long after your boots are clean again.

What’s the experience like?

“You know, the orchids here are called Wiñay Wayna — forever young,” our guide Raul said, grinning as he pointed at a cluster of purple blooms poking out from the mossy stones. I was still catching my breath after the climb up from Chachabamba, sweat mixing with that earthy mountain smell and something sweet I couldn’t place. We’d left Cusco before sunrise — I barely remember the drive to Ollantaytambo or even boarding the train, just flashes of fog on the windows and Raul’s stories about Inca pilgrims making this same journey, but slower and probably with less complaining about knees.

The trail itself felt quieter than I expected. Every so often we’d pass another small group or a porter humming softly in Quechua. At Wiñay Wayna, Raul let us wander for a bit — I sat on a stone wall and tried to imagine what it was like centuries ago. The valley below looked endless, green fading into blue haze. Lunch was simple but tasted better than anything back home (maybe it was just the altitude). There’s this moment when you first see Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate — late afternoon light slanting across terraces, everything silent except for someone behind me whispering “wow” in Spanish. I didn’t expect to feel so small and lucky at the same time.

Aguas Calientes is louder than you’d think — steam rising from street food stalls, kids chasing each other past tired hikers. Dinner was in a little place Raul picked; he ordered for us and laughed when I tried to pronounce “ají de gallina.” My legs were jelly but my head was buzzing. The next morning we woke up early (again) for the bus up to Machu Picchu itself. Mist everywhere at first, then suddenly sunlight breaking through and llamas wandering around like they owned the place. Raul knew every corner of those ruins — he told us about lost temples and showed us where to get photos without crowds (not easy). If you’re thinking about doing this short Inca Trail hike from Cusco, just know it’s not really about distance or difficulty — it’s more about those weird little moments that stick with you after you’re home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Inca Trail Hike to Aguas Calientes

• Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
• Train to KM 104 trailhead
• Visit Chachabamba ruins
• Hike to Wiñay Wayna archaeological site
• Hike to Sun Gate (Intipunku) for Machu Picchu views
• Arrive and check in at Aguas Calientes hotel
• Dinner in local restaurant

Day 2 — Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco

• Early breakfast at hotel
• Bus to Machu Picchu
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• Optional Huayna Picchu hike (not included)
• Free time at Machu Picchu
• Return to Aguas Calientes
• Train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy
• Transfer to Cusco hotel

Top questions

How long is the Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu?

The hike starts at KM 104 and takes most of one day, with several hours walking plus stops at Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching Machu Picchu.

Is hotel pickup included from Cusco?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Cusco is included at the start of the tour.

Do I need a permit for this Inca Trail trek?

Yes, an Inca Trail permit is required but it’s included in your booking for this tour.

Is dinner included in Aguas Calientes?

Dinner in a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes is included on day one of the trip.

Are there guided tours inside Machu Picchu?

Yes, there is a two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu with an expert local guide on day two.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu during this tour?

You can choose to climb Huayna Picchu mountain if you book it separately; it’s not included by default.

What meals are provided during the trip?

The tour includes lunch on day one and dinner in Aguas Calientes; breakfast is provided by your hotel on day two.

How do we return to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

You’ll take an expedition train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, then transfer by vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.

What’s included

Your trip includes hotel pickup in Cusco, round-trip train tickets between Ollantaytambo and KM 104/Aguas Calientes, all necessary entry fees including your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and Inca Trail permit, guided tours throughout with a local expert, lunch during the hike, dinner at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes, bus tickets between Machu Picchu and town on both days, plus transfers back to your hotel at journey’s end.