Inca Trail Express

Our day begins with a journey through the Sacred Valley, once the heart of the Incan Empire. This fertile region has served as an important agricultural center for thousands of years, with its ruins stretching from Pisac to Ollantaytambo before reaching Chinchero.

Our first stop is Pisac, an important Inca site known for its extensive agricultural terraces and strategic location as the southern gateway to the valley. After exploring the ruins, we’ll visit the town’s artisan market before continuing to Ollantaytambo, an Inca fortress that guarded the northern entrance of the valley. As we climb its terraces and walk through its narrow streets, we’ll gain insight into its military, religious, and agricultural significance.

Finally, we head to Chinchero, a traditional Andean village home to the Royal Hacienda Ruins of Tupac Inca Yupanqui. Here, we’ll see a well-preserved Inca wall in the main square and visit the colonial church built atop Inca foundations. After taking in the beauty and history of Chinchero, we return to Cusco.

Today you’ll begin your journey along one of the most scenic and culturally rich sections of the Inca Trail. We’ll pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the train station, where a beautiful ride through the Andes brings you to Kilometer 104, the official starting point of your trek. From here, you’ll begin a gradual ascent along ancient stone paths toward the stunning archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), located at 2,680 meters (8,792 ft). This site, with its cascading terraces and ceremonial structures, is considered one of the most impressive along the trail and offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Inca engineering.

After lunch and time to explore the site, you’ll continue hiking toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll catch your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu, perched high above the cloud forest. The trail then winds down toward the citadel, offering incredible photo opportunities along the way. Instead of entering Machu Picchu, we’ll take a side path and descend to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll enjoy dinner and have the evening free to relax, explore the town, or unwind in the natural hot springs. Tomorrow, you’ll return to explore Machu Picchu in depth during your full guided tour.

After spending the night in Aguas Calientes, today you’ll return to Machu Picchu for a more in-depth exploration of this awe-inspiring site. The day begins with a short bus ride back up to the entrance, where you’ll begin a different route through the citadel than the one you experienced the day before. This path takes you through a wide variety of key areas—such as ceremonial fountains, agricultural terraces, royal quarters, and sacred temples—offering a deeper look into the daily life, spirituality, and genius of Inca engineering. The stonework, layout, and harmony with the surrounding landscape are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Your expert guide will accompany you through the site, sharing fascinating insights, stories, and theories that help bring Machu Picchu’s history to life. After your visit, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch, explore the artisan markets, or unwind in the town’s famous hot springs (optional, not included). Later in the afternoon, you’ll catch your return train and transfer back to your hotel, concluding your two-day journey along one of the most iconic trails in the world.

As your adventure in Peru comes to a close, we’ll ensure your departure is smooth and stress-free. One of our representatives will meet you at your hotel at the designated time and escort you to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. Once there, you’ll have ample time to check in for your flight and prepare for your journey home or onward.

We hope that your time in Cusco has been filled with unforgettable experiences. As you bid farewell to the Inca imperial capital, we wish you safe travels and look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in the future.