2-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu via Sun Gate from Cusco

• Pick up from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning.

• Drive for approximately two hours to the Ollantaytambo train station.

• Board the train for approximately one hour to KM 104, also known as Chachabamba.

• Begin the trek on the Inca Trail.

• Hike uphill for approximately four hours through lush Andean scenery.

• Arrive at the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, meaning Always Young.

• Enjoy a boxed lunch in the mountains while taking time to rest and admire the panoramic views.

• Continue hiking toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate.

• Reach the Sun Gate and enjoy the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from above.

• Descend for approximately 45 minutes to reach Machu Picchu.

• Explore the upper section of Machu Picchu following Circuit 01.

• Take the iconic postcard photograph of the citadel.

• Travel by bus or hike down to Aguas Calientes.

• Arrive in Aguas Calientes at approximately 5:00 PM.

• Check in to the hotel with assistance from your guide.

• Enjoy free time before dinner, with the option to visit the hot springs.

Have dinner and spend the night at the hotel.

Walking Distance: 12 kilometers.

Difficulty Level: Moderate.

Meals Included: Lunch and dinner.

Accommodation: Two- or three-star hotel.

Overnight: Aguas Calientes.

• Take an early morning bus to Machu Picchu, starting at approximately 5:30 AM.

• Witness sunrise over Machu Picchu, weather permitting.

• Enter the archaeological site and experience the atmosphere of this New Seven Wonder of the World.

• Follow Circuit 03 during a guided tour lasting approximately two to three hours.

• Visit key landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, Inca Houses, water fountains, agricultural terraces, Sacred Rock, the Temple of the Condor, and storehouses.

• Return to Aguas Calientes after the guided visit.

• Enjoy lunch on your own in Aguas Calientes.

• Transfer to the train station for the return journey to Ollantaytambo.

• Board the afternoon train, depending on ticket availability.

• Continue by private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

• Arrive at your hotel in Cusco at approximately 7:30 PM.

• Difficulty Level: Easy.

Optional Activities

• Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with a reservation.

• Visit the local museum in Aguas Calientes.

• Relax at the Aguas Calientes hot springs, with the entrance fee paid locally.