On the first day of the 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you start early in Cusco with a 5:00 AM pickup. You then enjoy a 1.5-hour scenic drive through the Sacred Valley towards Ollantaytambo, journeying through majestic mountains and verdant valleys.

By 6:30 AM, you’ll arrive in Ollantaytambo, allowing you a brief pause to gather supplies or enjoy a quick breakfast. Then, it’s onward to Km. 82, the official starting point of the short Inca Trail. Here, around 8:00 AM, you’ll begin your hike. The trail gradually introduces you to the region’s beauty, taking you through a mix of flat terrains and slight inclines.

As the day progresses, you’ll reach Wiñay Wayna by mid-afternoon. This ancient site offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu from a distance and serves as a teaser for what’s to come. You’ll spend some time exploring its intricate terraces and structures, relishing in the historical and natural splendor.

By late afternoon, the final stretch of your day’s hike takes you to Aguas Calientes. The town, nestled at the base of Machu Picchu, is your resting point for the night. As dusk settles, you’ll likely feel a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. You will have completed the first segment of this remarkable Inca Trail Tour.