Your adventure begins before dawn with a hotel pick-up between 3:00–3:20 am in our comfortable tourist transport. We’ll journey for about two hours through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 8,858 ft),

At dawn, your journey begins at Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the 5:05 a.m. train for an unforgettable ride along the Urubamba River. As the sun rises, watch mist roll off dramatic peaks and valleys carpeted in green—a cinematic preview of what’s ahead. Just over an hour later, the train halts at the iconic Km 104, the hidden gateway to the legendary Short Inca Trail.

After stepping off the train, we cross the Urubamba River and pass the checkpoint with our passports—the official start of the hike. Only ten minutes in, you’ll discover Chachabamba, a fascinating archaeological site hidden deep in the jungle at 2,170m (7,120 ft). From there, the trail ascends for about 2.5 hours along narrow mountain paths, surrounded by lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls, until we reach the breathtaking Wiñaywayna ruins at 2,650m (8,700 ft).

Our journey takes us to the stunning archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, an ancient gem hidden in the cloud forest. Here, our professional guide will bring its terraces, temples, and legends to life with stories that connect you to the heart of the Inca world. After fully exploring this magical place, we’ll pause at the Wiñay Wayna campsite to enjoy a delicious box lunch—carried by each traveler from the start of the trek. Energized, we continue along a gentle trail framed by lush tropical forest for about 1.5 hours, until the path reveals Intipunku, the legendary Sun Gate.

The famous Sun Gate is located at 2,720 m / 8,923 ft. From here, prepare for your first unforgettable glimpse of Machu Picchu, emerging like a hidden jewel beneath you.

After marveling at sweeping mountain views from the iconic Sun Gate, follow the ancient stone pathway to Machu Picchu for 45 minutes’ walk. With Circuit 1, you’ll stand at the legendary lookout point, the perfect spot for panoramic, postcard-worthy photos of the citadel. As golden light softens the ruins, soak in the magic, capture memories that will last a lifetime, and then board your bus

After completing your unforgettable hike and stepping through the Sun Gate with your first magical view of Machu Picchu, you’ll board the official bus for a scenic 25-minute ride down to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,700 ft). Here, you’ll unwind in our cozy, handpicked hotel—perfect for resting after a day filled with adventure and discovery. In the evening, savor a well-deserved dinner at one of the town’s top local restaurants, where traditional Peruvian flavors meet fresh, regional ingredients. Surrounded by the charm of this small mountain town, you’ll have time to relax, reflect, and recharge your energy for the highlight awaiting tomorrow