2-Day Inca Trail Express Trek to Machu Picchu From Cusco

The 2-Day Inca Trail Express Trek offers travelers a chance to experience the iconic Machu Picchu in a compact yet immersive way. Navigating an 8-mile trail with stunning landscapes, this trek accommodates small groups and provides guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and select meals. Led by professional bilingual guides, the journey includes mandatory pre-departure briefings and COVID-19 precautions, ensuring an unforgettable adventure to one of the world’s most remarkable sites. But what else can this trek offer that might intrigue the discerning traveler?

Key Points

• The 2-Day Inca Trail Express Trek is a recommended, small-group trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu, suitable for less active travelers with limited time.
• The trek includes hotel pickup/drop-off, select meals, accommodation, entrance fees, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
• Moderate fitness level is required due to the 8-mile trail and 550 meters elevation gain, and recommended packing includes trekking poles, rain gear, and sun protection.
• Booking is non-refundable, with departures on specific days and a minimum of 4 travelers, and additional costs for optional activities.
• COVID-19 requirements include full vaccination for those over 18 and a negative RT-PCR test for unvaccinated minors.

Overview of the Trek

The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a 2-day express trek that’s recommended by 100% of travelers.

The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a 2-day express trek that’s recommended by 100% of travelers.

With a small group size (max 15, avg 4), this trek is ideal for less active travelers or those with limited time.

The trek includes hotel pickup/drop-off, select meals, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and entrance fees.

It’s led by professional bilingual guides and features a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.

Optional activities like the Huayna Picchu Trek and Machu Picchu Mountain Hike are available at an extra cost.

Travelers must meet moderate fitness requirements and attend a pre-departure briefing before the trek.

Itinerary and Inclusions

On the first day, the trek begins with a train transfer from Ollantaytambo to KM 104, where the hiking portion commences.

Travelers will enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.

The package includes 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner, as well as 1 night’s accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

A professional bilingual guide accompanies the group for the trek and Machu Picchu tour.

Round-trip bus transfers between Cusco-Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu are provided, along with entry fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Preparation and Requirements

Before embarking on the trek, travelers must attend a mandatory pre-departure briefing at the Cusco headquarters the day prior, typically at 6 PM.

A moderate fitness level is required, as the 8-mile trail involves mostly uphill trekking with 550 meters of elevation gain.

Recommended packing includes trekking poles, rain gear, warm clothing, sun protection, a camera, a personal first aid kit, and a water bottle.

Trekkers should pack trekking poles, rain gear, warm clothing, sun protection, a camera, a first aid kit, and a water bottle.

Travelers must bring their original passport, visa (if applicable), insurance card, and personal medications.

COVID-19 requirements include full vaccination for those over 18 and a negative RT-PCR test for unvaccinated minors.

Booking and Pricing

Prices for the 2-Day Inca Trail Express Trek to Machu Picchu start from $757.00 per person.

Booking is non-refundable, with departure days offered Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday – daily with a minimum of 4 travelers.

Single travelers share rooms, while couples receive private accommodation.

Additional costs apply for optional activities and recommended extra cash for snacks/water.

Tipping is optional, with suggested guidelines of 20-30 soles per guide per trekker.

Travelers must confirm accurate passport information upon booking, as no modifications are allowed post-confirmation.

Additional Information

Emergency contacts are provided for assistance should travelers require it during their trek.

Please note that there are no departures in February due to unfavorable climatic conditions.

Tipping is optional, but the recommended amount is 20-30 soles per guide per trekker.

It’s crucial that travelers confirm their complete and correct passport information upon booking, as no modifications are allowed after confirmation.

Travelers should also be aware that any optional activities, such as the Huayna Picchu Trek and Machu Picchu Mountain Hike, will incur additional costs beyond the package price.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

After exploring the additional details of the trek, the next focus is on the Guided Tour of Machu Picchu.

Travelers can expect a comprehensive guided tour through the iconic Inca citadel. A professional bilingual guide will lead the group, providing insights into the history, architecture, and significance of this ancient wonder.

The tour covers the main areas of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the residential sectors. Travelers will have ample time to take in the breathtaking views and capture memorable photographs.

The guided tour ensures a deeper understanding and appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Optional Activities

While the 2-day Inca Trail Express Trek includes the main Machu Picchu tour, travelers can enhance their experience by opting for additional activities.

One popular choice is the Huayna Picchu Trek, which offers breathtaking views from the iconic mountain peak.

The Huayna Picchu Trek offers breathtaking views from the iconic mountain peak, providing a unique perspective of Machu Picchu.

Another option is the Machu Picchu Mountain Hike, providing a different perspective of the renowned Inca citadel.

Both activities require an extra cost and need to be booked in advance.

Travelers should consider their fitness level and time constraints when deciding on these optional excursions to make the most of their Machu Picchu experience.

The Sum Up

The 2-Day Inca Trail Express Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco provides an immersive and unforgettable experience for travelers. With a small group, personalized attention, and professional bilingual guides, you will explore stunning landscapes, enjoy guided tours of Machu Picchu, and stay in comfortable accommodations. This compact trek offers an exceptional opportunity to discover one of the world’s most iconic sites.