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Discover the best of Peru in two unforgettable days. Explore the turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and experience the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu, combining breathtaking Andean landscapes, adventure, and Inca history in one incredible journey.
Moderate
Train, Culture, Adventure
Altitude: 5,036 m / 16,522 ft above sea level
02ppl Min Average 06ppl - 08ppl Max
If you’re looking to experience two of Peru’s most iconic destinations in a short time, this 2-day Humantay Lake & Machu Picchu Tour is the perfect choice. Start your adventure with a hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, where crystal-clear turquoise waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The next day, travel by scenic train to explore the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, with an expert guide who will bring its fascinating history to life.
Combining spectacular mountain scenery, authentic Andean culture, and the rich legacy of the Inca civilization, this tour offers the perfect balance of adventure, history, and unforgettable memories—all in just two incredible days.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. We’ll travel through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes to the trailhead of Humantay Lake, passing traditional villages, scenic valleys, and the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
Upon reaching the starting point, you’ll enjoy a rewarding hike to the spectacular Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft. Marvel at its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fed by the glaciers of the towering Humantay Mountain, and take time to admire the incredible scenery and capture unforgettable photos. After the hike, we’ll descend and enjoy a delicious lunch before continuing to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
From Ollantaytambo, board the comfortable Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Relax as you travel through the scenic Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River and entering the lush cloud forest. Upon arrival, our staff will escort you to your hotel, where you can rest before your visit to Machu Picchu the following morning.
On the second day, take the shuttle bus to the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Accompanied by a professional bilingual guide, explore its remarkable temples, agricultural terraces, ceremonial plazas, and fascinating Inca history while enjoying spectacular panoramic views. After your guided tour, return by train to Ollantaytambo, where our transportation will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo.
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. As the sun begins to rise over the Andes, we’ll drive through picturesque valleys, traditional villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery toward Mollepata, where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast before continuing to the trailhead at Soraypampa.
From Soraypampa, you’ll begin a rewarding hike to the spectacular Humantay Lake, located at 4,200 m (13,780 ft) above sea level. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, the lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise waters, creating one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Peru. You’ll have plenty of time to admire the scenery, take incredible photos, and learn about the cultural importance of the lake from your guide.
After descending from the lake, we’ll return for a delicious lunch before beginning our journey to Ollantaytambo Train Station. Here, you’ll board the comfortable Expedition Train, enjoying a scenic ride through the Sacred Valley alongside the Urubamba River and into the lush cloud forest. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), our staff will escort you to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 2: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take the shuttle bus up the winding road to the world-famous Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Accompanied by a professional bilingual guide, you’ll explore the site’s most important temples, ceremonial plazas, agricultural terraces, and panoramic viewpoints while discovering the fascinating history and engineering of the Inca civilization.
Following your guided tour, you’ll have free time to take photos and enjoy the magical atmosphere before returning by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes. Depending on your train schedule, you may have time to explore the town or enjoy lunch at one of its local restaurants.
Later, board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting to transfer you comfortably to your hotel in Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, or Cusco, bringing your unforgettable two-day adventure to a memorable close.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Private service US$550 (Upon Request)
Experience the perfect combination of nature, adventure, and Inca history on our 2-Day Humantay Lake & Machu Picchu Tour. Designed for travelers who want to make the most of their time in Peru, this journey takes you to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Humantay Lake and the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo as you travel through the spectacular Andes to the trailhead of Humantay Lake. After a rewarding hike, you’ll be surrounded by crystal-clear glacial waters and towering snow-capped peaks, creating one of the most unforgettable landscapes in Peru.
After exploring Humantay Lake, continue to Ollantaytambo Train Station and board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). The following day, discover the magnificent Machu Picchu with a professional guide, exploring its ancient temples, terraces, ceremonial sites, and fascinating Inca history.
The best time to enjoy this two-day adventure is during the dry season from April to October, when the skies are usually clear and hiking conditions are ideal.
The months of June, July, and August are the most popular, so booking your tour well in advance is highly recommended.
During the rainy season (November to March), the landscapes become greener and less crowded, although occasional rain showers are common, especially in the Andes.
Humantay Lake & Machu Picchu Travel Information:
Humantay Lake is famous for its brilliant turquoise waters, created by glacial melt from the majestic Humantay Mountain. Surrounded by dramatic Andean scenery, it is one of Peru’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Discover the incredible architecture, engineering, and history of Machu Picchu while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and cloud forest.
Following your Humantay Lake adventure, you’ll travel by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying one of the most scenic railway journeys in South America.
Essential Travel Tips
This carefully designed itinerary combines two of Peru’s most iconic destinations into one unforgettable adventure. Hike to the breathtaking Humantay Lake, travel aboard a scenic train through the Sacred Valley, and explore the world-famous Machu Picchu with an expert guide. With comfortable transportation, quality accommodations, and seamless logistics, you can simply relax and enjoy an incredible journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
IMPORTANT INFO
Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Please provide your full flight details at least 14 days prior to arrival. Look for our representative holding an orange INCA EXPEDITIONS board at the arrival terminal. We can accommodate tours on any date that suits you!
THE BRIEFING
A pre-trek briefing will be held at 6:00 pm the night before your trek at our office.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Certainly! During the Machu Picchu Tour, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel, whichever is more convenient. Please ensure you do not pack items you will need for your hike.
HOW TO BOOK THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR
Please provide the following information for each participant:
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
To avoid high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay the balance in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco. ATMs are available within the historical center. Alternatively, you can pay online via VISA or PAYPAL, with a 5.5% service fee. To pay through PAYPAL, log into your PAYPAL account and use our email address
HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
According to Peruvian law, students must be under 18 years old at the time of the trek or tour to qualify for the discount. Students aged 18 and above need to present a valid university ID. For students aged 11 to 17, the discount is $30 USD. For children aged 2 to 11, the discount is $40 USD. Children aged 0 to 2 are free. All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of booking to receive the discount. Send copies to info@incasexpeditions.com.
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?
No, once the tickets are purchased, government regulations do not permit any changes. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable. If you cancel your Machu Picchu Tour, the deposit is not refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT FOR THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR?
Yes, you must bring your original passport. It is crucial that it matches the passport number used to book your Machu Picchu entrance, train ticket, and other reservations. The rangers and train company will check your passport. If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us your old passport information to secure your permit, and we can update it for a fee of $25 USD per person. We need copies of both old and new passports to make this change. If you prefer not to pay this fee, bring both passports with you to Peru. You must show both passports to enter Machu Picchu or board the train.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR?
Weather in the area is unpredictable. We recommend bringing a warm jacket for the early morning and a rain poncho in case of rain.
ARE WE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE MACHU PICCHU TOUR?
Yes, our package includes dropping you off at your hotel after the trek or tour. If your hotel is in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you there as well. If you stay in Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up from there.
The tour includes hotel pickup from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo, tourist transportation, professional bilingual guide, entrance tickets to Humantay Lake and Machu Picchu, Expedition Train tickets, shuttle bus to Machu Picchu, one night accommodation in Aguas Calientes, meals as specified, and guided tours.
The tour begins with hotel pickup between 4:00 AM and 4:30 AM from Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo.
Humantay Lake is located at approximately 4,200 m (13,780 ft) above sea level.
The hike is considered moderate. It involves uphill walking at high altitude, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
The hike takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours uphill and 1 hour downhill, depending on your pace.
Yes. Horses are available for rent from local villagers at the trailhead for an additional cost. They are subject to availability.
The tour includes the comfortable Expedition Train. Upgrades to the Vistadome Train are available upon request and subject to availability.
You’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) before visiting Machu Picchu the following morning.
Your Machu Picchu entrance time depends on ticket availability. The guided tour takes place on the second day.
The guided tour usually lasts 2 to 3 hours, depending on the assigned circuit.
Your entrance circuit is assigned based on availability at the time of booking. Early reservations offer the best chance of securing your preferred circuit.
Yes. Anyone in good health with a moderate fitness level can enjoy this tour. The main challenge is the altitude during the Humantay Lake hike.
Bring your original passport, comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, reusable water bottle, snacks, camera, and a small backpack.
Yes. We highly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before the tour to adjust to the altitude.
Yes. The tour includes breakfast and lunch on Day 1, hotel breakfast on Day 2, and meals specified in the itinerary.
Yes. Most hotels offer luggage storage, and we recommend traveling with only a small backpack for the train and Machu Picchu visit.
The dry season, from April to October, offers the best weather for hiking and sightseeing, although the tour operates year-round.
No. Travel insurance is not included, but it is strongly recommended for all travelers.
Yes. Hotel accommodations and train services, including the Vistadome Train, can be upgraded for an additional cost, subject to availability.
This tour combines two of Peru’s most iconic destinations in one unforgettable adventure. You’ll hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Humantay Lake, travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley by train, and explore the world-famous Machu Picchu—all with expert guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully planned logistics.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
The journey to Machu Picchu on the 1-Day Train Expedition tour allows you to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing trip, surrounded by Andean landscapes, rivers, and mountains that make the journey an essential part of the experience, before arriving at one of the most impressive wonders of the world.
