The 2-Days Original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an exceptional adventure for small groups of up to six travelers. Priced from $590 per person, this tour promises stunning views, cultural insights, and a guided exploration of the breathtaking Machu Picchu. With accommodations, meals, and transportation included, it’s an ideal choice for adventurous spirits aged 10 and above. But what makes this hike truly captivating? Let’s explore the details.
About Your Stay
- This 2-day Inca Trail hike offers a guided tour of Machu Picchu and visits to other Inca archaeological sites, with a maximum group size of 6 travelers.
- The tour cost starts from $590 per person and includes meals, accommodations, train tickets, and permits, but excludes the last lunch and dinner.
- Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
- Guided visits to Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Choquesuysuy are included, and the second day features a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- The tour has a 5.0 rating based on positive customer reviews, highlighting the efficient itinerary and small group size.
Tour Overview
The 2-day Inca Trail hike is suitable for travelers with limited time, as it highlights the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu and the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
This small group tour has a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The total cost starts from $590 per person, with non-refundable confirmation received at booking.
The highlights of the tour include guided visits to Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Choquesuysuy along the Inca Trail, as well as a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day.
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Itinerary and Inclusions
A briefing at your hotel in Cusco one day prior to departure kicks off this 2-day Inca Trail hike.
The next day, you’ll be picked up and transported to Ollantaytambo Train Station before boarding an expedition train to Km 104.
Transported to Ollantaytambo Train Station, then board an expedition train to Km 104 for the trek.
Along the trail, you’ll visit Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Choquesuysuy with a guide.
The second day features a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
Meals, hotel accommodations, train tickets, and permits are included.
Extra costs include the last lunch, dinner, tips, and the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
Hiking poles are available, but this moderate hike isn’t suitable for all travelers.
Additional Costs and Recommendations
While the tour includes most expenses, travelers should budget for a few additional costs. The last lunch and dinner aren’t covered, so hikers will need to plan for those meals.
Tips for the guide and driver are also recommended. The bus ride from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes costs around $12. Hiking poles can be rented if needed.
Health and Safety Requirements
Although the Inca Trail hike isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for travelers aged 10 years and above.
However, the tour operator recommends against this trek for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions. This is because the hike requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
The Inca Trail hike is not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions due to its moderate physical demands.
Hiking poles are available for those who need them.
The tour operator emphasizes the importance of considering one’s health and fitness level before booking the tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the Inca Trail.
Reviews and Ratings
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 5.0 rating based on one review across Viator and Tripadvisor. The tour has no negative ratings, demonstrating a high level of customer satisfaction.
| Rating Source | Rating |
| — | — |
| Viator | 5.0 |
| Tripadvisor | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Travelers praise the tour’s highlights, including the stunning Machu Picchu and the guided visits to historic Inca sites along the trail. The small group size and efficient itinerary also contribute to the tour’s positive reviews.
Day 1: Departure and Hiking the Inca Trail
On the first day, the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
You’ll travel by private transport to Ollantaytambo Train Station, about a 2-hour drive. From there, you’ll board an expedition train to Km 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail hike.
Your guide will lead you through the archaeological sites of Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Choquesuysuy. Included is a box lunch during the hike.
You’ll arrive at your private 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes for the night, with dinner provided.
The first day covers the initial trek along the Inca Trail.
Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu
What does the second day of the tour have in store?
On the second day, travelers will get to experience the iconic Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast, they’ll take the bus up the mountain to the archaeological site.
Travelers will experience the iconic Machu Picchu, taking a bus up the mountain to the archaeological site after an early breakfast.
A guided tour will provide insights into the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the ruins, take in the stunning vistas, and capture photos of this wonder of the ancient world.
After the tour, they’ll return to Aguas Calientes by bus and board the train back to Ollantaytambo and Cusco, completing the 2-day Inca Trail adventure.
What to Expect on the 2-Day Inca Trail Hike
Although the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a challenging hike, the two-day version is suitable for travelers with limited time. This shortened trek includes guided visits to key Inca sites like Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu on the second day. Accommodation is provided in Aguas Calientes, and transportation is arranged from Cusco.
| Highlights | Included | Additional Costs |
| — | — | — |
| Aguas Calientes | Permits and fees | Last lunch and dinner |
| Machu Picchu | Guided tours | Tips |
| Inca ruins | Meals and accommodation | Bus from Machu Picchu |
Moderate fitness is required, and the tour is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions. The two-day Inca Trail offers an opportunity to experience the essence of this famous trek.
Questions About Your Stay
Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
The tour itinerary and inclusions are fixed, but some details like hiking gear and extra meals can be customized to individual preferences. The small group size allows for a personalized experience within the set program.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 6 travelers. The tour overview states that the "Small group size" is "maximum of 6 travelers", ensuring an intimate and personalized experience on the 2-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
How Difficult Is the 2-Day Inca Trail Hike?
The 2-day Inca Trail hike requires a moderate level of physical fitness. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions. A good level of fitness is needed to complete the hike comfortably.
Are Permits and Passes Included in the Tour Cost?
The tour includes all necessary permits and fees for the 2-day Inca Trail hike, covering a minimum of 2 people. This cost is bundled into the total price of the tour, which starts from $590 per person.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
The tour is non-refundable once booked. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour cost is not eligible for a refund, according to the tour overview information provided.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure for small groups. With guided visits to archaeological sites, stunning views, and a personalized experience, this moderately challenging hike is ideal for adventurous travelers aged 10 and above. All accommodations, meals, and transportation are included, making it a convenient and immersive way to explore this iconic Peruvian destination.
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