Cusco: 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure. Trekkers can witness the stunning Wiñayhuayna ruins, catch breathtaking sunset views of the iconic Machu Picchu, and explore the ancient citadel on a guided tour. Starting at just $490 per person, this tour provides an opportunity to take in the rich history and natural beauty of the region. With early morning hotel pickup and a scenic train ride, the journey promises an experience unlike any other.

Key Points

• A 2-day Inca Trail tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced from $490 per person, including transportation, guided trekking, and overnight accommodations.
• The first day involves a 3.5-hour guided hike to Wiñayhuayna, a visit to the Sun Gate, and sunset viewing at Machu Picchu.
• On the second day, a bus ride to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour, followed by free time to explore Aguas Calientes.
• The tour includes most meals, entrance fees, and professional guides, but excludes gratuities and is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.
• The itinerary is flexible, allowing for personalization of the experience, and the tour is conducted in both English and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is a 2-day adventure that costs from $490.00 per person.

The tour features an early morning hotel pickup and is conducted in English and Spanish. Travelers should note the non-refundable cancellation policy.

The 2-day itinerary includes a train ride, guided trekking, a visit to Machu Picchu, and overnight accommodations.

All transportation, entrance fees, and most meals are included. However, gratuities are excluded, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Itinerary Details

The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour starts with an early morning hotel pickup, followed by a 1.5-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo train station to KM 104.

The tour begins with an early hotel pickup, followed by a 1.5-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 to start the hike.

Trekkers then embark on a 3.5-hour guided hike to Wiñayhuayna, where they’ll explore the ruins. The journey continues to the Sun Gate for panoramic views of Machu Picchu before descending to the ancient citadel to witness the sunset.

After a bus ride to Aguas Calientes, the group enjoys dinner and an overnight stay.

The second day begins with a bus ride to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour, followed by free time to explore the local shops and hot springs before returning to Cusco.

Day 1: Trekking to Wiñayhuayna and Machu Picchu

After an early morning hotel pickup, travelers embark on a 1.5-hour train ride from Ollantaytambo train station to KM 104, the starting point of the trek. They then begin a 3.5-hour guided hike to Wiñayhuayna, a remarkable Inca site. Upon arrival, they enjoy a guided tour of the site.

| Highlights | Details |

|————|———|

| Trekking | 3.5 hours |

| Wiñayhuayna | Guided tour of the Inca site |

| Lunch | Provided |

| Sun Gate (Inti Punku) | Views of Machu Picchu |

| Machu Picchu | Enjoy the sunset |

Travelers then continue to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for breathtaking views of Machu Picchu before descending to the iconic site and enjoying the sunset. They then take a bus to Aguas Calientes, where they have dinner and stay overnight.

Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes

On the second day, travelers begin with breakfast at their hotel in Aguas Calientes.

They then take a bus up to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour of the ancient Inca ruins.

After the tour, they’ve free time to explore the local shops and hot springs in Aguas Calientes before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo and transferring to Cusco.

Free time in Aguas Calientes allows travelers to soak in the hot springs and browse local artisan shops before returning to Cusco.

• Guided tour of Machu Picchu provides insight into the history and significance of the site.

• Free time in Aguas Calientes allows travelers to soak in the hot springs and browse local artisan shops.

• Return journey by train and transfer offers a comfortable and scenic conclusion to the 2-day adventure.

• Flexibility in the itinerary enables travelers to personalize their experience.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a range of services, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional tour guide, and all necessary transportation, including train tickets and entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Meals are also provided, with a packed lunch on the first day, dinner in Aguas Calientes, and breakfast on the second day.

Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is included, along with a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

However, the tour excludes gratuities, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Preparation and Recommendations

To prepare for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, travelers should bring essential items like their passport, warm clothing, sunglasses, sandals, hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and a daypack.

Keep in mind:

• Passport details are required at booking, so don’t forget this important document.

• The tour has a minimum of 2 participants, so find a travel companion.

• The trail isn’t available in February, so plan accordingly.

• Vegetarian meals can be provided, so dietary needs can be accommodated.

Customer Feedback

Customers have praised the overall organization and quality of the tour guide, with a 4.6/5 rating based on 5 reviews.

A German traveler, Lorenz, highlighted the excellent organization and knowledgeable guide.

However, a GetYourGuide traveler from the US mentioned some transportation issues.

While specific feedback from a Danish customer, Magnus, wasn’t provided, the generally positive reviews emphasize the tour’s strengths.

Travelers emphasize the professionalism of the guide and seamless logistics, though transportation concerns suggest room for improvement.

Book Your Inca Trail Adventure

If you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey along the Inca Trail to the iconic Machu Picchu, you can easily book your adventure.

The 2-day Inca Trail tour offers a comprehensive package that covers all the essentials, from hotel pickup to guided tours and transportation.

To book your trip, you’ll need to provide your passport details and ensure you meet the minimum participant requirement of 2 people.

Keep in mind that the tour isn’t available in February, and vegetarian meals are available upon request.

Review the inclusions and exclusions carefully to ensure the tour meets your needs.

• Easy booking process

• Passport details required

• Minimum 2 participants needed

• Vegetarian meals available

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Carry Alcohol on the Inca Trail Trek?

It’s generally not recommended to carry alcohol on the Inca Trail trek. The trek can be physically demanding, and consuming alcohol may affect one’s ability to safely complete the hike. Tour providers typically advise against bringing alcohol for this reason.

Do I Need to Have Previous Hiking Experience?

No, you don’t need prior hiking experience for this trek. The tour is suitable for active travelers in good physical condition, though the Inca Trail does require a moderate level of fitness to complete the hikes.

Is There Wifi Available During the Tour?

There’s no WiFi available during the tour. The remote nature of the Inca Trail means there’s no internet connectivity along the hike. Guests should plan accordingly and unplug from technology to fully enjoy the experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Inca Trail?

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, but there are no specified age restrictions. Participants must be able to complete the strenuous 3.5-hour trek on the Inca Trail.

Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 4 People?

Yes, the tour can accommodate larger groups. The minimum group size is 2 participants, and there’s no stated maximum group size. Travelers should book early to secure availability for their preferred tour dates.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating Inca heritage on this 2-day Inca Trail adventure. Experience the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and explore the iconic Wiñayhuayna ruins. With a scenic train ride, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to discover the breathtaking beauty of Cusco and the Andes. Book now to embark on this transformative journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: