2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by Vistadome Train

Walking the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu fits the classic route into two days. You leave Cusco (or the Sacred Valley) by hotel pick-up and take a train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, where the trail begins and a breakfast cooked by the trekking chefs sets you up for the walk.

The path climbs at a steady pace through cloud forest and mountain scenery, passing the Inca site of Chachabamba and then Wiñay Wayna, known for its wide terraces. A buffet lunch is served along the way. In the afternoon you reach the Sun Gate and your first view of the citadel, then descend by the upper terraces on Circuit 1. A bus takes you to Aguas Calientes for a night at a 3-star hotel, and a dinner out in a local restaurant.

On day two you take an early bus up to Machu Picchu and follow Circuit 3 with your guide, to the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Sun, the ritual fountains and the ceremonial sectors. Extra climbs up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are possible on request, with permits arranged beforehand. After lunch of your own in town, the panoramic Vistadome train brings you back to Ollantaytambo and a transfer to Cusco.

• Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entry, guide and chefs
• Hotel night, breakfast, lunch and dinner on day one
• Safety briefing the day before and free luggage storage