Cusco: 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu With Hotel

Exploring the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers. This 2-day tour from Cusco offers an immersive experience, showcasing the trail’s breathtaking beauty and the iconic Inca citadel. With meals, transportation, and accommodation included, it’s a convenient way to embark on this unforgettable journey. But what awaits along the trail, and how can you make the most of your limited time? Let’s dive in and uncover the details.

Key Points

• This 2-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu includes a scenic train ride, guided hike with views of archaeological sites, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• The tour price of $530 per person covers meals, transportation, bilingual guides, entrance fees, and hotel stay in Aguas Calientes.
• The hike is suitable for active travelers with a moderate fitness level and is not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with health issues.
• Participants are advised to bring essential items like passports, comfortable clothing, and necessary supplies, while certain items are prohibited for safety reasons.
• The tour offers a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cusco: 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour offers a captivating adventure through the heart of the Andes. Priced at $530 per person, it features a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

During the 2-day duration, guests will enjoy a scenic train ride, guided hikes with stunning Andean vistas, and a comprehensive tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Included in the package are meals, transportation, bilingual guides, entrance fees, and a one-night hotel stay. This tour is ideal for active travelers seeking an immersive Inca Trail experience.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, guests transfer from their hotel to the Ollantaytambo train station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

They then embark on a scenic train ride to Km. 104 at an elevation of 2,200 meters above sea level. From there, the hike begins, offering views of Andean mountains and archaeological sites like Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku.

The day ends with a descent to Machu Picchu and a bus ride to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

The second day features a guided tour of Machu Picchu, visiting key sites, and optional exploration.

Day 1: Trekking and Sites

After being transferred from their hotel to the Ollantaytambo train station, guests embark on a scenic 1.5-hour train ride to Km. 104 at an elevation of 2,200 meters above sea level.

They then begin their trek, taking in views of the Andean mountains and archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna at 2,650 meters.

The hike continues to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, at 2,720 meters.

Finally, they descend to Machu Picchu and take a bus to Aguas Calientes for their overnight stay.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Exploration

Guests embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, lasting approximately 3 hours.

Guests embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, lasting approximately 3 hours.

The tour covers key archaeological sites, including:

• The Royal Mausoleum, where Inca royalty was laid to rest

• The Temple of the 3 Windows, a sacred structure aligned with the sun

• The Main Temple, a landmark of Inca architecture and engineering

• The Sacred Plaza, a ceremonial center of the ancient city

• The Intihuatana, a sacred stone believed to have been used as a solar calendar

Following the guided tour, guests have free time for independent exploration.

They may also choose to hike to Huayna Picchu for an additional fee.

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Inclusions and Transportation

The tour package includes dinner, lunch, and breakfast throughout the 2-day experience.

Private transportation is provided from your hotel to the train station in Ollantaytambo. A bilingual tour guide accompanies you throughout the trek and tour of Machu Picchu.

Entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are covered. Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104 and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo are included.

Round-trip bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes are also provided. A one-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes is included, as well as transportation from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

Participant Restrictions and Recommendations

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 years old, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, people over 65 years, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Recommended items to bring include:

Passport, comfortable shoes and clothes, change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, cash.

• Passport

• Comfortable shoes and clothes

• Change of clothes

• Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent

• Cash

Prohibited items are weapons, sharp objects, intoxication, smoking in the vehicle, and alcohol.

A moderate physical fitness level is required for the trek. Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience on the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Prohibited Items and Fitness Level

As this tour requires a moderate physical fitness level, certain items are prohibited for safety reasons.

Weapons or sharp objects, intoxicants, and smoking aren’t allowed. Alcohol and drugs are also prohibited, and alcoholic drinks can’t be brought onto the vehicle.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, participants should be in good physical condition. The hike along the Inca Trail involves several hours of walking and climbing, so a moderate level of fitness is necessary.

Travelers should be prepared for the rigors of the trek and follow the guide’s instructions for a successful journey to Machu Picchu.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve this 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour with a simple "Reserve now & pay later" option.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Some key points about the booking and cancellation policy:

Flexible payment options, full refunds for cancellations, no hidden fees, and personalized customer support.

• Flexible payment options with the "Reserve now & pay later" feature

• Full refund available if cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to the tour

• No hidden fees or additional charges for booking or cancellation

• Convenient online booking process through the tour provider’s website

• Personalized customer support available to assist with any questions or concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Store My Luggage During the Trek?

Yes, you can store your luggage during the trek. The tour operator provides storage facilities in Cusco, so you can leave any extra belongings behind before starting the hike to Machu Picchu.

What Is the Weather Typically Like on the Trek?

The weather on the trek is typically cool and sunny during the day, with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F (10-21°C). Evenings can be chilly, so layering clothing is recommended to stay comfortable throughout the hike.

How Often Are Rest Breaks Provided During the Hike?

Rest breaks are provided regularly throughout the hike, allowing trekkers to catch their breath and take in the breathtaking scenery. The guide ensures adequate time is allotted for rest and hydration during the trek.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Bag?

Yes, porters can be hired to carry bags during the Inca Trail hike. This service costs an additional fee and must be arranged in advance with the tour operator. Porters can significantly reduce the physical demand of the trek.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours offer more personalized attention and flexibility, but they typically cost more than group tours. Check with the tour operator for private tour pricing and availability.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Inca Trail trek is an excellent choice for active travelers seeking to experience the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu. With meals, transportation, guides, and accommodations included, it offers a convenient and immersive adventure. The option to reserve now and pay later, along with free cancellation, makes it a flexible and accessible opportunity to explore this iconic Inca site.

You can check availability for your dates here: