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

Setting out on a 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco is a breathtaking experience. This guided tour offers private transportation, a scenic Vistadome train ride, and hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, providing a comfortable journey. Participants will explore the ancient ruins and enjoy stunning views along the way. While the trek may not be suitable for everyone, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of the Inca civilization.

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Key Points

This 2-day guided tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu is priced at €551.70 per person and includes private transportation, train, Inca Trail, and site tickets.
The tour involves a 4-hour hike through the Inca Trail, reaching Wiñaywayna on Day 1 and exploring Machu Picchu on Day 2.
Accommodation is provided in Aguas Calientes, with meals and a bilingual guide included in the package.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with health conditions, wheelchair users, or those with low fitness levels.
Advance booking is required due to limited availability, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 2-day guided tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu is priced from €551.70 per person.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes private transportation, Vistadome train, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets, bilingual guides, porter service, select meals, and hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

The tour includes private transportation, Vistadome train, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets, bilingual guides, porter service, select meals, and hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with health conditions, wheelchair users, or low-fitness participants.

Advance booking is required due to limited availability.

Preparation and packing the right gear are essential for navigating the varying microclimates along the trail.

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Itinerary Details

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their hotel in Cusco and transported to the train station at Poroy or Ollantaytambo.

They board the Vistadome train and ride along the Urubamba River to the 104-kilometer mark of the Inca Trail. From there, they hike for 4 hours through the ceremonial baths and lush tropical forest to reach Wiñaywayna.

Travelers explore this site before continuing to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, for their first glimpse of Machu Picchu. They then take a bus to Aguas Calientes and overnight in a hotel.

Day 1: Chachabamba to Wiñaywayna

From the 104-kilometer mark of the Inca Trail, travelers begin their 4-hour hike to Wiñaywayna. The path leads through the lush, tropical forest of Chachabamba, offering glimpses of ceremonial baths and the stunning natural landscape.

Hikers will:

Traverse a variety of terrains, from gentle slopes to steep switchbacks.
Admire the rich biodiversity, including exotic flora and fauna.
Reach the Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, for their first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
Arrive at the Wiñaywayna archaeological site, exploring its terraced gardens and ancient structures.

After this invigorating trek, travelers will take a bus to Aguas Calientes for their overnight stay.

Arrival at Inti Punku (Sun Gate)

After traversing the lush, tropical forest, hikers finally reach the Inti Punku, or Sun Gate.

From this vantage point, they’re treated to the iconic views of Machu Picchu. The ruins emerge below, nestled between the Andean peaks. Hikers can pause here, taking in the breathtaking panorama before descending to the citadel.

This is the final checkpoint on the Inca Trail, marking the end of the day’s hike. Weary but exhilarated, travelers savor the moment, knowing they’re just moments away from exploring the legendary lost city of the Incas.

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Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu

Early the next morning, travelers board a bus that whisks them from their hotel in Aguas Calientes up to the Machu Picchu archaeological site.

A knowledgeable guide leads them on a captivating tour, revealing the secrets of this ancient Inca citadel. Visitors marvel at the intricate stonework, impressive plazas, and sacred temples.

After the guided exploration, travelers have free time to:

Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic vistas.
Wander the ruins, imagining life in this once-thriving civilization.
Snap photos of the iconic structures against the dramatic Andean backdrop.
Savor a delicious lunch in Aguas Calientes before the return journey to Cusco.

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Included Transportation and Services

The tour package includes private transportation to and from the train station in Cusco.

Private transportation to and from the train station in Cusco is included in the tour package.

A Vistadome train takes travelers along the Urubamba River to the 104-kilometer mark of the Inca Trail.

Buses provide transportation from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on both days.

All necessary tickets are included, covering the Inca Trail and admission to Machu Picchu.

A professional bilingual guide leads the group, and a porter service carries backpacks up to 8 kg per person.

Meals include 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast, with vegetarian options available.

Accommodation is provided in a double room in Aguas Calientes.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

Although the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for certain individuals.

The tour may not be appropriate for:

Pregnant women, as the hike can be physically demanding.
People with heart problems, vertigo, respiratory issues, or altitude sickness, as the high elevation and strenuous activity could pose health risks.
Wheelchair users, as the trail isn’t accessible for those with mobility limitations.
Participants with a low fitness level, as the 6-7 hour hike requires a good level of physical condition.

Important Preparation and Information

To properly prepare for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour, travelers should bring a comfortable pair of hiking shoes, warm clothing suitable for various microclimates, a hat, camera, sunscreen, ample water, rain gear, and insect repellent.

Smoking, flash photography, tripods, large backpacks, plastic bottles, glass objects, and littering are prohibited.

Travelers should book at least 120 days in advance due to limited availability and consider their physical fitness for the 6-7 hour hike.

They’ll need to bring their original passport or ID card and check-in at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Single Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a single traveler. The price is the same per person, and solo travelers are welcome to join the group tour. There’s no additional cost or restriction for single participants.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

There’s no specific discount for children or seniors on this tour. However, the tour operator may offer flexible pricing options for families or seniors. It’s best to inquire directly about any available discounts or special rates.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. The tour package includes one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, but you’re free to book additional nights if you wish to explore the town further.

Are Dietary Requirements Catered for During the Meals?

The tour accommodates dietary requirements. Vegetarian meals are available upon request. Participants should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure their needs are met during the included meals.

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour for More Personalized Experience?

Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour for a more personalized experience. This option provides a dedicated guide, flexible schedule, and tailored itinerary to suit your preferences and pace during the 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Inca Trail tour from Cusco offers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu. Travelers will enjoy a scenic train ride, an invigorating hike, and explore the ancient ruins with expert guides. While not suitable for everyone, the tour provides a comfortable journey and stunning views. Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited availability.

You can check availability for your dates here: