20+ Years of Experience
ISO 9001 Certified
Locally Based in the Sacred Valley
The Route at a Glance
The Inca Trail in its shortest form: the final section of the route and the classic entrance to Machu Picchu. Best for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a lighter walking commitment.
- Distance
- 8.52 km
- Km 104 to Machu Picchu
- Duration
- 2 days
- 1 night in Aguas Calientes
- Start
- 2,165 m a.s.l.
- Km 104
- Highest point
- 2,733 m a.s.l.
- 8,967 ft · along the trail
Altitude from the route’s GPS track. Distance measured along the trail.
Trek Highlights
- Walk a section of the original Inca Trail from Km 104.
- Pass Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy and Wiñay Wayna.
- See Machu Picchu from Intipunku, the Sun Gate.
- Tour Machu Picchu with your guide on day 2.
Day 1 of 2
Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes
An early train to Km 104, then a day on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a private pickup from your hotel at 3:40 a.m. in Cusco or 4:40 a.m. in the Sacred Valley, followed by a transfer to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you’ll board the 6:10 a.m. Expedition train to Km 104, where your trek begins.
Following ancient Inca pathways, you’ll discover remarkable archaeological sites and beautiful Andean landscapes along the way. Your first stop is Chachabamba, followed by Choquesuysuy and the impressive Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological complexes along the trail.
After approximately three hours of hiking from the starting point, you’ll continue towards Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), where Machu Picchu reveals itself in a breathtaking panoramic view. It’s a special moment — arriving at the legendary citadel on foot, just as generations of travelers have done before.
You’ll then continue along the trail before taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where dinner and a well-deserved night’s rest await at your hotel.
Highlights
- Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104.
- Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy and Wiñay Wayna.
- Panoramic view of Machu Picchu from Intipunku.
- Bus down to Aguas Calientes and dinner at the hotel.
Altitude from the route’s GPS track. Distance measured along the trail.
Day 2 of 2
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
A guided visit to Machu Picchu, then the train back.
After breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus up to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of approximately 2 hours. Explore the magnificent Inca citadel, discover its fascinating temples and ancient structures, and learn about the history and ingenuity of this extraordinary place. Your visit follows Circuit 3, the designated route for Inca Trail trekkers, taking you through the lower sector of the archaeological site. If you’d like to make your visit even more memorable, you can add the optional Huayna Picchu Mountain hike (please ask us for availability and pricing).
After your visit, you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. We also recommend adding a lunch experience at one of the town’s carefully selected restaurants. Please ask us for details and pricing if you’d like to include this option.
In the afternoon, you’ll board the tourist train to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley or Cusco.
Highlights
- Bus up to Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of the citadel, about 2 h.
- Optional Huayna Picchu hike.
- Train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco or Urubamba.
Return to Cusco or the Sacred Valley
Return by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to your hotel. Our preferred departure is at 1:37 p.m. (subject to availability). Passengers must be at the train station 30 minutes before departure for boarding. Ask us about later departures, which may be available.
Approximate schedule:
- 1:07 p.m. – Arrive at the Aguas Calientes train station.
- 1:37 p.m. – 3:05 p.m. – Expedition train, Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- 3:05 p.m. – Private transfer to your hotel: about 1 hour to the Sacred Valley or 2 hours to Cusco.
Upgrade Your Machu Picchu Train
Your program includes a standard panoramic train. Upgrade it for more windows, an open-air car or onboard entertainment.
Included
Expedition or Voyager Train
Comfortable seats and large windows. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board.
Upgrade
Vistadome Train
Enjoy larger panoramic windows, comfortable premium seating, and onboard entertainment.
Upgrade
Vistadome Observatory Train
Everything in the panoramic experience, plus an open-air observatory car with unobstructed views.
Upgrades apply to the return train or the round trip, depending on your program. Price per person, subject to availability. Departure times depend on the train you choose and are confirmed when you book.
Pack light
What to bring
The bag you carry yourself while walking.
Sun and rain
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Waterproof poncho
- Jacket
- Insect repellent (minimum 20%)
Daypack essentials
- Water (non-disposable bottle)
- Snacks
- Toilet paper and wet wipes
- Headlamp or flashlight
Documents and health
- Documents (original passport)
- Personal medication
Camera and power
- Camera / phone
- Power bank
Bring cash in soles and/or US$, also for tips.
Tripadvisor · 2026 Reviews
What Our Travelers Say
Recent Tripadvisor reviews of Santu trips in Peru, posted in 2026.
This is Santu’s overall rating, not a rating specific to the Inca Trail.
“The experience was incredible; we were 3 families and we loved it. The level of food, the tents, the guides. A ten.”
“… Giuliana exceeded our expectations. She did an amazing job listening to our wants/needs, make recommendations and take care of all the steps along the way. We felt fully informed.”
“Giuliana who is an amazing travel agent who planned everything for Us and give us lots of great ideas and she came with an amazing package that it took care of all our needs …”