2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Exploring the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers. The 2 Day Short Inca Trail offers a captivating alternative, allowing trekkers to experience the highlights of this historic route in a shorter timeframe. This guided tour takes adventurers through stunning Andean landscapes, visiting remarkable archaeological sites before the grand finale – witnessing the breathtaking reveal of the ancient Inca citadel. With convenient logistics and an intimate group size, it’s a tempting option for those seeking an enriching Machu Picchu experience on a tighter schedule.

Key Points

• The 2-day Short Inca Trail tour includes a scenic drive, train ride, and a trek along the Inca Trail, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu.
• The tour is priced at $689 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The tour includes a pre-departure briefing, professional bilingual guide, transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, meals, and accommodation.
• The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with health issues, or those over 55 years, and certain activities are prohibited.
• Booking for optional hikes to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain should be done in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The 2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is priced from $689.00 per person.

Booking options include reserving now and paying later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour lasts 2 days and limits group size to 10 participants. It’s available in English and Spanish, with pickup from the Cusco Historic Center Hotel.

The tour is a 2-day experience with a group size capped at 10 participants, offered in English and Spanish, with pickup from the Cusco Historic Center Hotel.

Travelers can explore archaeological sites, visit Machu Picchu, and stay overnight in Aguas Calientes.

The tour includes transportation, train tickets, entrance fees, meals, and accommodation, but excludes personal expenses and gratuities.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by a train ride along the Urubamba River.

Hikers start the trek at Kilometer 104, passing archaeological sites like Chachabamba. They’ll explore Wiñay Wayna at 2,700 meters, enjoying a boxed lunch.

Reaching Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate, they descend to Aguas Calientes for the night.

The next morning, they take the first bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the site, including the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone, and Sacred Plaza.

After free time to explore, they return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and the train back to Cusco.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a pre-departure briefing, a professional bilingual guide, round-trip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, round-trip Expedition train tickets to Aguas Calientes, entrance fees to Machu Picchu and the Short Inca Trail, a boxed lunch on Day 1, dinner and breakfast, one night’s hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and a free luggage storage service in Cusco.

| Inclusions | Exclusions |

|————|————|

| Pre-departure briefing | Personal expenses |

| Professional bilingual guide | Gratuities |

| Round-trip transportation | – |

| Round-trip train tickets | – |

| Entrance fees | – |

| Meals and accommodation | – |

| Luggage storage | – |

Important Information

Although the 2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a remarkable experience, it may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, wheelchair users, those over 55 years, and people with vertigo.

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, snacks, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. Smoking, alcohol, drugs, littering, and feeding animals aren’t allowed.

A valid passport is required for entrance to Machu Picchu. Booking for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes should be done in advance due to limited availability.

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Additional Tips and Considerations

Booking for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes should be done in advance due to limited availability.

Booking for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes should be done in advance due to limited availability.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, stay hydrated, and respect the local environment. Be ready for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing.

While on the trail, avoid smoking, consuming alcohol or drugs, and littering. Feeding animals is also not allowed.

Ensure you have a valid passport, as it’s required for entrance to Machu Picchu.

Following these tips and considerations will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable 2-day Inca Trail experience to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Scenic Drive and Train Journey

After departing from Cusco, the tour begins with a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo, a charming town nestled in the Urubamba Valley.

From there, participants board the Expedition train, which winds alongside the Urubamba River, offering breathtaking views of the Andes.

The journey includes:

• Panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush, green landscapes

• A chance to spot local wildlife, such as Andean condors

• Glimpses of traditional Quechua villages and agricultural terraces

• The opportunity to learn about the region’s rich history and culture

• A sense of excitement as the train approaches the starting point of the Inca Trail hike.

Exploring Inca Ruins and Machu Picchu

Upon reaching the trailhead at Kilometer 104, hikers embark on a captivating journey through the Inca ruins. They explore the archaeological site of Chachabamba, where the remnants of an Inca administrative and religious center come to life. The highlight of the day is the arrival at Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca complex perched at 8,860 feet. After a boxed lunch, the trail leads to the iconic Sun Gate, offering the first glimpse of the majestic Machu Picchu. Descending to Aguas Calientes, hikers enjoy their overnight stay before the next day’s guided tour of the ancient citadel.

| Site | Elevation |

| — | — |

| Chachabamba | – |

| Wiñay Wayna | 2,700 m (8,860 ft) |

| Sun Gate | – |

Accommodation and Meals

The tour includes one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, the town situated at the base of Machu Picchu.

Travelers will enjoy a boxed lunch on the first day, a dinner in Aguas Calientes, and a breakfast the following morning. The meals are designed to fuel adventurers as they explore the awe-inspiring Inca ruins.

Some additional highlights:

• Breakfast and dinner are served at local restaurants, providing a taste of Peruvian cuisine.

• Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

• Bottled water is provided throughout the tour.

• The hotel offers basic amenities and comfortable beds for a good night’s rest.

• Luggage storage is available in Cusco.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the 2-Day Inca Trail Hike?

No, pets are not allowed on the 2-day Inca Trail hike. The tour specifically states that feeding animals and littering are prohibited to preserve the natural environment. Bringing pets would not be permitted for the safety and comfort of all participants.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour group size is limited to 10 participants. This small group size allows for a more personalized experience and easier navigation along the trail.

Is It Possible to Extend the Stay in Machu Picchu?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Machu Picchu. The tour package includes a guided tour, but you’re free to explore the site further on your own after the tour. Just be sure to catch the last bus back to Aguas Calientes.

Can I Book This Tour Last Minute?

Yes, you can typically book this Inca Trail tour at the last minute, as there’s often availability. However, it’s best to reserve in advance to ensure your spot, as group sizes are limited. Last-minute bookings may be subject to surcharges.

Is There an Age Limit for Participating in the Inca Trail Hike?

There is an age limit of 55 years for this Inca Trail hike. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back/heart problems, wheelchair users, and people with vertigo, regardless of age.

The Sum Up

The 2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a captivating and enriching experience for travelers. With stunning landscapes, rich Inca history, and knowledgeable guides, this intimate tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the iconic Machu Picchu. Priced at $689 per person, it’s a great way to discover the magic of the Andes in a short time frame.

You can check availability for your dates here: