Journey to Machu Picchu and Short Inca Trail: The Ultimate Guide

Traveling to Machu Picchu and hiking the Short Inca Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime life changing experience, promising an unforgettable journey immersed in the wonders of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. To plan your trip with less stress and more excitement, make sure you are aware of the essential elements that will make the most of your experience.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Machu Picchu
Where is Machu Picchu Located in Peru ?
What was the purpose of Machu Picchu ?
The Temple of The Three Windows
The Temple of the Sun
The Royal Tomb
How to Get to Machu Picchu
From Lima to Machu Picchu
From Cusco to Machu Picchu
From Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu
From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Tickets & Rules
The Best Way to Purchase Your Machu Picchu Ticket
When is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu ?
Recommended Tour Operators
Where to Stay for your Machu Picchu Trip ?
Hiking from Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Winay Wayna
Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
What to Bring with You ?

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu meaning “Old Mountain” in Quechua, stands out as the most sought-after destination in Peru for countless avid travelers. Personally, I have felt a compelling and mysterious spiritual attraction to explore the enchanting “Lost City” of Machu Picchu since the 2010s.

It is a truly divine place with profound spiritual significance on Earth, hidden for centuries beneath dense forest vegetation in the heart of the Andes jungles until the renowned American explorer Hiram Bingham’s revelation in 1911.

Machu Picchu as a Spiritual Energy Spot

Machu Picchu holds spiritual significance not just for its historical importance but also due to its unique location. Many believe that it sits atop one of the Earth’s energy vortexes, which are concentrated hubs of energy known for their healing properties. Additionally, the broader region, encompassing Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu, is considered the Sacral Chakra of the planet.

When you find yourself at Machu Picchu, particularly if you are sensitive to energy, you undoubtedly sense the distinctive vibes emanating from the site. This ancient wonder is among the planet’s mysterious locations, situated on a high mountain range adorned with morning mists from the Urubamba River and clouds.

Inca Civilization Masterpiece

In the 15th century, the Inca Emperor Pachacuti constructed Machu Picchu as one of his royal estates. During this period, the Inca Empire reached its zenith, expanding its southern borders to the Maule River, encompassing the current territory of Chile. Additionally, the empire extended its northern boundary to the Ancasmayo River in Colombia.

Since the rediscovery of Machu Picchu, about 75% of Machu Picchu’s buildings have been still intact. As a result of the Spanish conquest in the 16^th century, most of the Incan sites were destroyed and exploited for gold. Spanish conquistadores never discovered the citadel possibly due to its hidden location deep in the jungle of Andes mountains.

There is also speculation that the citadel was abandoned at some point, with various theories attempting to explain why this might have occurred.

Moreover, in 1983, UNESCO officially designated Machu Picchu as a World Heritage Site. This acknowledgment highlights the site’s dual significance as both a historical treasure and a sanctuary for rich flora and fauna.

Where is Machu Picchu Located in Peru?

Machu Picchu, situated in the north of the Vilcabamba mountain of the Andes, overlooks the Urubamba valley, in Peru. Machu Picchu is situated deep within the lush, cloud-covered jungle in the providence of Urubamba. The Urubamba River, referred to as the celestial river by locals, is visible from various vantage points around Machu Picchu.

Positioned 50 miles northwest of Cusco, the closest town to Machu Picchu is Aguas Calientes. The bus ride from Aguas Calientes bus stop to the Machu Picchu entrance is approximately 30 minutes.

What was the purpose of Machu Picchu ?

Machu Picchu is thought to have served dual purposes as a retreat site for the royal family and a sacred ritual site for worship. At its peak, the site used to accommodate a maximum of 1000 people.

The inhabitants used terraces for agriculture purposes to grow corns, potatoes, quinoa and other grains for food.

The structures near the entrance gate were probably used for residential purposes. Some of these buildings featured two floors, with one floor used for housing and the other potentially used as storage for grains.

In addition to sun and earth, water held sacred significance for the Incas. The city features 16 water fountains and a network of diverse subterranean open channels designed to transport water throughout the site.

The Incas demonstrated exceptional skill in stonework, adeptly cutting and carving heavy granite stones, seamlessly aligning them without any gaps or mortar. Even with considerable advancements in 21st-century technology and numerous theories, engineers today remain uncertain about the methods employed to carve, lift, and precisely place these massive blocks atop one another.

The Temple of the Three Windows

Most of the important ritual sites, including the Temple of the Tree Windows and the Temple of Sun are in the eastern part of the sacred plaza.

The Temple of the Three Windows holds spiritual and astronomical significance for the Incas. It is believed that each window symbolizes the Inca realms of the sky (Hanan Pacha), the earth (Kay Pacha), and the underworld or the world of the dead (Ukhu Pacha).

Additionally, the windows were likely used for astronomical observations such as tracking the rise of sun and other celestial bodies. During the winter solstice of the southern hemisphere, on June 21, the sun’s rays directly enter through the central window.

The Temple of the Sun

Situated just a few steps away from the citadel’s main square, the Temple of the Sun, dedicated as a ritual site for worshiping the Sun, was the most revered deity for the Incas. It is also believed that the temple was exclusively accessible to priests and Inca nobles.

The Temple of the Sun is the only circular shaped site found in Machu Picchu, sculpted from huge granite rocks atop the Royal tomb. The access to the interior of the temple is not allowed. Despite the absence of present-day ornaments within the temple, it is believed that gold and silver ornaments used to decorate the walls. Some evidence of ornaments has been identified on the walls, suggesting that valuable items were likely looted after the Spanish conquest.

Incas demonstrated a sophisticated interest in observing astronomy, incorporating their astronomical knowledge into the architecture of their buildings.

The temple was also used as the astronomical observatory to monitor the arrival of the solstices and seasonal changes. This information was crucial for agricultural purposes, guiding the planting and cultivation of crops.

The Water Mirrors/Mortars are situated at the base of the Temple of the Sun. Resembling mortars, they are carved into natural granite rock. It is believed that these mirrors served the purpose of observing the sky, containing water to reflect both the sky and the moon.

The Royal Tomb

The Royal Tomb, carved into a solid rock structure, functions as the foundational base of the Sun Temple, possibly serving primarily as a site for burial offerings and worship. Supporting this theory, excavators have discovered human bones along with burial offerings, including ceramics, at this location.

The three steps on the right side of the Royal Tomb represent the realms of the Inca religion. The lowest first step features the snake, symbolizing the underworld or death; the middle step represents the jaguar, symbolizing the middle world, and the highest step, represented by the condor, symbolizes the upper world/sky.

How to Get to Machu Picchu

There are a few ways to reach Machu Picchu. Flying is not feasible, as the nearest airport is in Cusco. Driving is also not an option. The primary choices include taking a train to the closest town, Aguas Calientes, or hiking there via the Inca Trail.

From Lima to Machu Picchu

By Plane: If you’re planning to travel to Machu Picchu from Lima, the quickest route is to fly from Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) in Lima to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco. From Cusco, you can then take the train from Poroy or San Pedro stations to Aguas Calientes. Latam and Avianca are among the airlines that operate flights between Lima and Cusco. The flights typically lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

By Bus: The most economical but time-consuming option is to travel by bus from Lima to Cusco via the Nazca-Arequipa/Abancay-Cusco route. The bus journey might last up to 23 hours! Numerous bus operators provide comfortable amenities, including reclining seats, air conditioning, toilets, USB cable slots for charging. Additionally, some even offer small food bags containing a sandwich, snack, and water. Among the reputable bus companies are Peru Hop, Cruz de Sur, and Transzela.

From Cusco to Machu Picchu

If flying from other destinations to reach Machu Picchu, you’ll need to fly to Cusco and then use ground transportation and a train.

To reach Machu Picchu, you can take a Peru Rail or Inca Rail train from Poroy Station, approximately a 30-minute drive from Cusco. The journey lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Alternatively, a train from San Pedro Station, reopened in 2019, offers another option. Located just 5 minutes from Mercado San Pedro (San Pedro Market) in Cusco, this route adds an extra hour to your journey, taking approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach Aguas Calientes, the nearest town to Machu Picchu.

Check out my article Explore the Best of Cusco, Lake Titicaca, Arequipa: Travel Tips to learn more about Cusco and beyond.

From Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu

An alternative and quicker route to reach Machu Picchu is by taking a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. Ollantaytambo, situated at the tip of the Sacred Valley, is a 2-hour drive from Cusco and is also home to the ancient Ollantaytambo Inca ruins. Both PeruRail Expedition and Vistadome trains and and Inca Rail operate trains between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Do you also have plans to visit Ollantaytambo and Sacred Valley? Check out my The Ultimate Sacred Valley Adventure: Ollantaytambo and Pisac for more information.

From Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

Aguas Calientes, named for nearby thermal baths, is the closest town to Machu Picchu. If only planning to visit Machu Picchu, you can take the train and get off at the train station stop in Aguas Calientes. After reaching there, you can take a bus from the bus station.

If you plan to visit Machu Picchu at sunrise, be ready to wait at the bus stop as early as possible, as long lines tend to form rapidly before 5 am.

Rather than taking a bus back from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, you can choose to take the 2-mile hiking trail connecting the two. The descent requires less effort and takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach Aguas Calientes. We chose to walk down, enjoying a pleasant hike. After descending the steps, you’ll cross a suspension bridge to reach the town.

Higher Altitude Acclimatization in Andes Mountains

Cusco, situated at an elevation of 11,152 feet/3,999 meters above sea level, is higher than Machu Picchu, which stands at an altitude of 7,972 feet /2,430 meters. Upon landing in Cusco, you may experience altitude sickness, also known as “soroche,” given its location in the Andes mountains. To acclimate to the high altitude, it is advisable to spend a day or two in Cusco before proceeding to Machu Picchu.

During our Machu Picchu trip, we spent two nights in Cusco and then one night in Ollantaytambo. If you have flexibility, you might opt to spend your first or second night in Ollantaytambo before heading to Machu Picchu. Acclimating to the higher elevation may be more comfortable there due to its lower altitude of 9,160 feet/2,792 meters.

Machu Picchu Tickets & Rules

There are 5 available circuits or Machu Picchu entry ticket types are available to purchase to visit Machu Picchu per day. The morning shift for visits is 6 am – 12 pm and afternoon visits are from 12pm – 17:30 pm.

• Only 4,500 visitors can visit the citadel of Machu Picchu per day.

In addition to exploring the Machu Picchu citadel, if you have an interest in visiting Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu mountains simultaneously, be aware that only 200 tickets are available for each mountain daily. Given the high demand, these tickets tend to sell out quickly. It is advisable to secure your tickets at least 2-3 months in advance to ensure availability.

If you have an interest in visiting only the Machu Picchu citadel, there will be 2,950 tickets available per day in 2024. See the following official site for Machu Picchu visit tickets.

Be aware that entering Machu Picchu requires the presence of a guide. Even if you purchase your own ticket, you still must have a guide; entry without a guide is not allowed.

What’s the Best Way to Purchase Your Machu Picchu Ticket?

The best method for obtaining your ticket is to book your Machu Picchu visit through a tour operator, given the numerous options available. Purchasing your Machu Picchu trip ticket through a tour operator can significantly save you time. Tours facilitated by guides generally include ground transportation, accommodation, train tickets, Machu Picchu visit, and hiking tickets. Moreover, they provide your Machu Picchu entrance tickets just before your entry and guide you throughout your tour of the Machu Picchu site and Inca trail hike.

When is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?

The optimal time to explore Machu Picchu is from April to October, considered the prime months for a visit. January to March marks the rainy season, making it less favorable for travel. During our visit in early May, we encountered occasional rain while trekking the Inca Trail.

Recommended Tour Operators

There are several tour operators to choose from for your Machu Picchu and Inca trail trip. Options range from economical to luxurious. The only way to experience the Inca Trail, you must purchase your Inca Trail trip through a tour operator. You can’t hike the Inca Trail on your own; a guide or a tour operator must accompany you.

Some of the recommended tour operators are:

• Alpaca Expeditions provides a range of budget-friendly Machu Picchu and Inca Trek expedition options. Each option typically encompasses accommodation, permits/tickets, transportation, and a guide, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
• Enigma Peru, a locally based Peruvian tour operator, provides a diverse array of treks and expeditions, including both short and classic Inca Trail adventures, as well as immersive Machu Picchu experiences.

• Wayki Trek is a local and specialized tour operator based in Peru, providing a variety of experiences that encompass the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and alternative trekking adventures.
• Inca Expert Travel provides travelers with customizable tour options, allowing them to select their preferred pricing tier: Comfort, the economical choice, Superior, or Luxury. Additionally, the flexibility extends to choosing accommodation preferences and adjusting trip length. For those passionate about Peruvian cuisine, the tour offers an enticing option to book an enjoyable gastronomic experience at the finest restaurants in Lima and Cusco locations.

Where to Stay for your Machu Picchu Trip?

Hotels in Aguas Calientes

Accommodation choices in Aguas Calientes vary to suit different budgets. When booking through tour operators, they might manage your accommodation arrangements. However, certain operators could have exclusive arrangements with specific hotels, potentially limiting your choices. Alternatively, other tour operators offer customization, allowing you to select your preferred hotel based on personal preferences and budget considerations.

If you intend on booking your accommodation independently, make sure to book in advance as much as possible. Some of the recommended options are:

Luxury Hotels
• Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
• SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel
Boutique Hotels
• Hatun Inti Boutique Hotel
• Casa del Sol Machu Picchu
Budget Hotels
• Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu
• Inti Punku Machu Picchu Hotel & Suites
• Panorama B&B

Hiking from Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you have extra time, I strongly recommend embarking on the hike from KM104 to Machu Picchu. Covering approximately 8 miles, this trek takes around 6-7 hours. KM104 offers the shortest hiking trail, usually completed in a single day.

While hiking the Inca Trail, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the stunning Andes mountains, explore the lush greenery of the tropical rainforest with its unique flora and fauna, and discover ancient Incan sites such as Chachabamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku.

The most convenient route to reach KM104 is by taking the train to Aguas Calientes and disembarking at KM104. While there isn’t a designated KM104 train stop, the train attendants are knowledgeable about passengers with Inca Trail tickets. They will notify and guide these passengers to get off when the train arrives at KM104.

How Difficult is Hiking the Short Inca Trail?

Although the 1-day hike takes 6-7 hours, a significant portion of the trek is steep, making it somewhat challenging. Additionally, due to the high elevation of the trail, the hiking experience can be slightly more demanding. However, once you reach Sun Gate, the descent begins, and the hike becomes easier.

A decent shape person with moderate fitness can complete the short Inca trail hike.

1-Day Short Inca Trail Hiking Experience

Upon disembarking from the train, your initial step is to cross the suspension bridge over the Urubamba River.

Following a brief walk, you’ll encounter the first ancient Inca site, Chachabamba. Discovered in 1940, later than Machu Picchu, this site is believed to have served as a place of worship for water and as a checkpoint for individuals en route to Machu Picchu.

Winay Wayna

After 2-3 hours of moderately steep hiking, you’ll arrive at Winay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca sites after Machu Picchu. Similar to Machu Picchu, Winay Wayna remained undiscovered by Spanish conquerors.

The Winay Wayna ancient Inca ruins, is nestled on a mountainside, deeply immersed within the cloud forest, seamlessly integrated with nature. Translating to “forever young,” Winay Wayna derives its name from one of the orchids flourishing in the vicinity. Accessible exclusively with the purchase of an Inca Trail ticket, only 500 trekkers can visit Winay Wayna per day. Similar to the Machu Picchu Citadel, a guide is mandatory for the Inca Trail experience.

The site comprises agricultural terraces, spaces for religious rituals and housing, as well as water fountains dedicated to ceremonies. In close proximity, a waterfall cascades over the mountaintop.

Following the exploration of the Winay Wayna ruins, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute break, or potentially more depending on the tour operator, at a designated resting spot for lunch and restroom use.

Typically, guides distribute lunch boxes to hikers. It’s worth noting that this resting place is the sole location along the hiking trail equipped with restroom facilities, so it’s advisable to take advantage of this opportunity when available.

Inti Punku (Sun Gate)

After climbing the arduous Monkey Steps, you reach the final stop before Machu Picchu. You get to witness one of the most spectacular views of Machu Picchu and breathtaking views of Urubamba valley and Andes mountains. The unforgettable views will remain among my fondest life memories. If you wish to witness this beauty with your own eyes, be sure to visit the Sun Gate.

Inti Punku served as the primary entrance to Machu Picchu. It was believed to be guarded by Inca soldiers, allowing access only to elite Incas.

How to Get to Inti Punku/ Sun Gate

If you are hiking the Inca Trail, Inti Punku will be your final stop on the way to Machu Picchu. Moreover, it is the first location on the Inca Trail where you can catch the initial glimpse of Machu Picchu before arriving there. The path between Inti Punku and Machu Picchu is incredibly scenic, featuring rich flora, fauna, and breathtaking views of mountains and Machu Picchu. Considering stops for pictures and enjoying the scenery, you might need 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Machu Picchu.

Alternatively, with a regular Machu Picchu ticket, you can also walk to the Sun Gate/Inti Punku, but it is important to do it before touring the Machu Picchu citadel. If you walk briskly, you can reach there in 30 minutes one way. However, as the trek offers some of the best views, plan to spend approximately 45 minutes for one leg of your hiking journey.

What to Bring with You ?

Make sure you bring plenty drinking water with you. The weather in the region can change rapidly, transitioning from sunny to rainy conditions. Therefore, it is essential to dress in layers and have rain gear on hand. Waterproof hiking pants and sturdy hiking shoes are crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience.

Numerous hikers begin their Inca Trail journey at KM104 en route to Aguas Calientes. Consequently, it’s essential to pack your clothes and overnight essentials in a waterproof backpack. Carrying a heavy backpack can add difficulty to your hike, particularly considering that a significant portion of the trail is comprised of stone steps, and some areas, like the “Monkey Steps,” are narrow and steep.

Additional items to bring with you:

• Sunscreen protection
• Mosquito repellent
• Hat
• Light snacks
• Wet wipes
• Power bank charge
• Your passport
• A good quality lightweight camera or phone for taking photos and videos