Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel: Km 104 & Sun Gate (2 Days)

1. 1

   Day 1 •Cusco – Scenic Train to Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes

   2,720 m(8,923 ft)

   Early morning pickup from your Cusco or Sacred Valley hotel and transfer to Ollantaytambo station. Board the scenic train to Km 104 (2,170m / 7,119 ft). Pass through the official SERNANP checkpoint and begin hiking with an immediate visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba. Ascend gradually through orchid-draped cloud forest alongside rushing waterfalls to reach the magnificent agricultural terraces and water fountains of Wiñay Wayna (2,650m / 8,694 ft) for a guided exploration and fresh lunch. Continue along the authentic paved stone path to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) at 2,720m (8,923 ft) to witness the breathtaking late-afternoon panorama of Machu Picchu. Descend to the main gates and board the Consettur bus down to Aguas Calientes town for check-in at your selected hotel and a celebratory dinner.

   Key highlights

   Km 104 Chachabamba archaeological complexSpectacular terraced citadel of Wiñay WaynaEntering Machu Picchu on foot through Inti Punku (Sun Gate)Comfortable 3-star hotel night in Aguas Calientes with private bathroom

   Meals: Box Lunch, Dinner

   Lodging: Selected 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Private room, hot shower, Wi-Fi)
2. 2

   Day 2 •Aguas Calientes – Sunrise Machu Picchu Tour (Circuit 1 or 2) – Scenic Train to Cusco

   2,430 m(7,972 ft)

   After an early buffet breakfast at the hotel, take the 25-minute Consettur switchback bus to the main entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430m / 7,972 ft). Enter with your certified collegiate guide to enjoy the premier morning light across the citadel. Experience an in-depth 2.5-hour tour covering the Upper Guardian Terrace, Temple of the Sun, Sacred Plaza, and agricultural sector. Travelers with advance permits can add the summit climb to Huayna Picchu (+$70 USD) or Montaña Machu Picchu / Montaña Vieja (+$70 USD). In the afternoon, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, board your scenic return train to Ollantaytambo, and transfer in private transport directly to your hotel in Cusco.

   Key highlights

   Sunrise panoramic vista of Machu Picchu citadelComprehensive 2.5-hour guided archaeological circuit (Circuit 1 or 2)Optional Huayna Picchu or Montaña Vieja summit climb ($70)Scenic return train journey along the Urubamba river

   Meals: Breakfast

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