From Lima to Machu Picchu in 48 Hours: The Ultimate Luxury Getaway Guide

There are moments during a journey when you feel inspired to go further and experience something truly extraordinary. If you are currently in Lima and wondering whether it is possible to visit Machu Picchu in just two days without feeling rushed, the answer is yes.

A 48 hour journey to the most iconic Inca sanctuary in the Andes can be smooth, inspiring, and deeply rewarding. With proper planning, comfortable transportation, and the right place to stay, your short escape can feel like a transformative experience rather than a quick excursion.

This guide is designed for travelers who value efficiency, comfort, and meaningful moments. It also shows why staying in Aguas Calientes enhances the entire experience and turns a short trip into a luxury getaway.

Why a 2 Day Trip to Machu Picchu Works Perfectly

Many travelers believe that visiting Machu Picchu requires a long expedition. While multi day treks are extraordinary, they are not the only way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With Peru’s efficient domestic flights and scenic rail services, you can:

Fly from Lima to Cusco in just over one hour
Board a panoramic train through the Sacred Valley
Spend the night in Aguas Calientes
Visit Machu Picchu early the next morning
Return to Lima on the second evening

The secret lies in choosing the right schedule and prioritizing comfort. A well organized itinerary allows you to enjoy the journey without unnecessary stress.

Day 1: From Lima to Aguas Calientes

Morning Flight to Cusco

Begin your adventure with an early flight from Lima to Cusco. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival, you will notice the altitude difference, as Cusco sits at 3,399 meters above sea level.

To ensure a smooth start:

Select a morning departure
Arrange private airport transfers in advance
Stay hydrated and move at a relaxed pace

Instead of remaining long in Cusco, many travelers prefer to transfer directly to the Sacred Valley, where the altitude is lower and the environment feels calmer.

Scenic Train to Aguas Calientes

From Ollantaytambo station, you will board one of Peru’s renowned rail services operated by:

PeruRail
Inca Rail

Both companies offer comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and premium service categories for travelers seeking a refined experience.

The journey to Aguas Calientes takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Along the way, you will follow the Urubamba River as the landscape transitions from Andean highlands to lush cloud forest. This train ride is not simply transportation. It is part of the experience.

Why Staying in Aguas Calientes Changes Everything

Many visitors attempt to return to Cusco on the same day they visit Machu Picchu. While possible, this approach often feels rushed and physically demanding.

Spending one night in Aguas Calientes allows you to:

Access Machu Picchu early in the morning
Avoid peak visitor hours
Rest properly after your visit
Enjoy fine dining inspired by Peruvian ingredients
Experience a spa session to relax before or after exploration

For travelers who appreciate privacy and thoughtful service, staying at a boutique riverside property elevates the journey. Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel offers elegant Andean inspired rooms, personalized attention, and the calming sound of the river just outside your window.

Instead of exhaustion, you end your first day in comfort.

Evening in Aguas Calientes

After check in, enjoy a gentle walk through the village streets. Browse the artisan market, enjoy tea with mountain views, or schedule a spa treatment to prepare your body for the next morning.

A refined dinner featuring trout, quinoa, and native potatoes creates a memorable prelude to your visit. Going to sleep early ensures you wake up refreshed and ready.

Day 2: Machu Picchu at Sunrise

Taking one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu is one of the best decisions you can make.

Early entry offers:

Cooler temperatures
Soft golden light for photography
Fewer crowds
A peaceful atmosphere

As the morning mist lifts and reveals the ancient stone terraces, you begin to understand why Machu Picchu is considered one of the most extraordinary places on earth.

What Is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is a 15th century Inca citadel believed to have been built under the reign of Emperor Pachacuti. It sits at approximately 2,430 meters above sea level, surrounded by dramatic peaks and cloud forest.

Recognized globally for its engineering precision and spiritual significance, Machu Picchu reflects the Incas’ advanced understanding of astronomy, agriculture, and architecture.

How Long Do You Need at Machu Picchu?

Most visitors spend between 2 and 4 hours exploring the site, depending on the selected circuit and whether they hire a guide.

During your visit, you may see:

The Temple of the Sun
The Sacred Plaza
Agricultural terraces
The Intihuatana stone

Because you stayed overnight in Aguas Calientes, you will not feel pressured to rush. After your guided exploration, return to town for a relaxed lunch before boarding your train.

Afternoon Return to Lima

In the afternoon, take the train back to Ollantaytambo, transfer to Cusco airport, and board an evening flight to Lima.

By night, you are back in the capital with unforgettable memories and remarkable photographs. In just 48 hours, you experienced one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures without compromising comfort.

Practical Tips for a Smooth 48 Hour Journey

- Book Entrance Tickets in Advance

Machu Picchu limits daily visitor numbers. Secure your tickets before confirming flights.

- Choose Strategic Train Schedules

Morning departure from Cusco region and afternoon return works best for a two day itinerary.

- Pack Smart

Bring comfortable walking shoes, light layers, sunscreen, and your passport, which is required for entry.

- Consider Altitude

Cusco is high altitude, while Machu Picchu is lower. Sleeping in Aguas Calientes reduces the impact of altitude discomfort and makes the experience more pleasant.

Why Casa del Sol Enhances a Short Trip?

A quick journey does not have to feel rushed. In fact, it can feel exclusive and intentional when every detail supports your comfort.

Casa del Sol Machu Picchu Boutique Hotel offers:

Riverside tranquility
Elegant Andean design
Personalized service
Fine dining experiences
Spa treatments ideal after mountain exploration

After walking through ancient terraces and absorbing centuries of history, returning to a serene suite transforms your visit into something restorative.

You are not simply checking a destination off a list. You are allowing yourself to experience Machu Picchu with presence and balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How do you travel from Lima to Machu Picchu in 2 days?

Fly from Lima to Cusco, take a train to Aguas Calientes, stay overnight, visit Machu Picchu early the next morning, and return to Lima in the evening.

- What is the fastest way to reach Machu Picchu from Lima?

The fastest route is a morning flight to Cusco followed by a scenic train to Aguas Calientes.

- Is 48 hours enough for Machu Picchu?

Yes. With proper planning and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, 48 hours is sufficient for a comfortable and meaningful visit.

Conclusion: A Short Escape That Feels Extraordinary

Traveling from Lima to Machu Picchu in 48 hours is entirely achievable and remarkably rewarding. The key is thoughtful planning, scenic rail travel, and choosing accommodations that prioritize rest and refinement.

If you are already in Lima and considering this journey, this is your opportunity. Allow yourself to wake up early in Aguas Calientes, witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu, and return to a riverside sanctuary designed for relaxation.

A short trip can create lifelong memories.
And the right hotel makes all the difference.

Wonderful stay

The hotel is beautiful, elegant, and decorated very tastefully. The atmosphere very nice. Very comfortable, spacious room with terrace, jacuzzi, and river view !!Spectacular! The shower a delight. All the staff is very friendly and helpful. Congratulations on having such dedicated and cordial staff. The dinners were delicious, very thoughtful, and original dishes. Our stay at the hotel was memorable.

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1/5

Excellent

We stayed one night there and really the service has been exceptional. I have nothing but good words for the establishment. We stayed in a suite which was excellent! It had a jacuzzi. Breakfast very good. The staff is always attentive. And the restaurant is a luxury. We took the 4-step menu and it has been spectacular. I would definitely go back and recommend it.

Lola L

2/5

Beautiful hotel and wonderful breakfast!

We enjoyed our stay here while visiting Machu Picchu. The hotel was very clean, the staff very friendly and polite, and the breakfast was amazing! Seriously, the breakfast was really a beautiful spread of so many options. It is in a nice location and easy to explore from there.

Overall a really nice and would recommend it!

Martin

3/5

Unforgettable

I went to Machupicchu with family and stayed at the Casa Del Sol hotel again. The hotel is just beautiful. There have been renovations since I was last there, the dining room is beautiful and crisp! An absolute delight to dine in. But the best part of the hotel is the people. The staff really goes above and beyond to make sure we have every need attended to! The staff welcomed us back like old friends, and even helped us celebrate my mother's birthday with a bottle of wine! We stayed for 2 nights, but we could have stayed longer just to enjoy the rooms and the spa.

Chrissy

4/5

Beautiful Hotel in Aguascalientes

I loved staying at the hotel so much! As soon as we got off our bus we were greeted by very friendly staff and walked less than 100 meters to the hotel. Their food is amazing and staying in this hotel is so relaxing, especially after a day spent in Machu Picchu. Every single one of the staff is so friendly and makes sure you are as comfortable and happy as you can be. I especially loved how the hotel was just next to the river and the beautiful rooms they provided. I hope I can go back someday!

Mikenzie T

5/5