The 2-Day Short Inca Trail from Cusco provides an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. Accompanied by expert guides, hikers will journey through picturesque landscapes, explore ancient ruins, and culminate with a breathtaking first glimpse of the iconic Machu Picchu. With a small group size and personalized attention, this tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich history and culture of Peru. Discover the wonders that await on this extraordinary 2-day trek.
Key Points
- A 2-day Inca Trail trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced from $534 per person with a non-refundable cancellation policy.
- Led by experienced English and Spanish-speaking guides, the trek accommodates up to 13 participants for a personalized experience.
- The itinerary includes scenic train travel, a hike to Wiñay Wayna, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Moderate fitness level is required, and children under 8 years old are not permitted on the trek.
- Reservations require passport information, and early booking is recommended for entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
Tour Overview
The 2-day Short Inca Trail from Cusco offers a compact yet rewarding hiking experience for travelers seeking to explore the iconic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Priced from $534 per person, the tour is led by experienced English and Spanish-speaking guides. It accommodates up to 13 participants and features a non-refundable cancellation policy.
The 2-day itinerary includes scenic train travel, a 3-hour hike to Wiñay Wayna, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and round-trip transportation. Included services cover transfers, accommodation, meals, entry tickets, and more.
A compact yet rewarding 2-day itinerary featuring scenic train travel, a hike to Wiñay Wayna, and a guided tour of iconic Machu Picchu.
The trail isn’t suitable for certain groups, and advanced reservations are required.
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Pricing and Policies
Priced from $534 per person, the 2-Day Short Inca Trail from Cusco offers an affordable option for travelers looking to experience the iconic Inca ruins. However, there’s a non-refundable cancellation policy, so it’s crucial to plan carefully. The tour runs for 2 days and limits group size to 13 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. English and Spanish-speaking guides are available to bring the history and culture to life.
| Tour Details | Information |
| — | — |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Group Size | Limited to 13 |
| Language | English and Spanish |
| Cancellation Policy | Non-refundable |
| Price | From $534 per person |
Itinerary: Day 1
After being picked up from their hotel in Cusco’s historic center, travelers embark on a scenic journey through the Sacred Valley en route to the Ollantaytambo train station.
They board the train, which takes them to the starting point of the hike. The 3-hour trek leads them to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, where they’ll explore the ruins and enjoy lunch.
Next, they visit Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, for their first glimpse of the iconic Machu Picchu.
Afterwards, they take a bus to Aguas Calientes and check into their hotel before dinner at a local restaurant.
Itinerary: Day 2
On the second day, travelers enjoy breakfast at their hotel in Aguas Calientes before taking a bus up to Machu Picchu.
At the iconic site, they receive a guided tour from their expert local guide, learning about the history and significance of this ancient Inca citadel.
An expert local guide leads travelers on a tour of the ancient Inca citadel, sharing its rich history and significance.
After the tour, guests have free time to explore the ruins on their own, taking in the stunning views and capturing memorable photos.
The journey then continues as they board the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco, completing their 2-day Inca Trail adventure.
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Guided tour of Machu Picchu
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Free time to explore the ruins
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Train back to Ollantaytambo
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Transfer to Cusco
Included Services
The Inca Trail trip includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
It starts with a pre-departure briefing to prepare travelers. All transfers between Cusco and Ollantaytambo are provided, along with standard hotel accommodation.
An official guide accompanies the group throughout, offering insights in English and Spanish. Meals like a lunch box on day one, dinner, and post-Machu Picchu lunch are included.
Admission tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are covered, as are bus and train tickets. A first aid kit is available in case of emergencies.
Important Considerations
Although the Inca Trail trek may be suitable for many travelers, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for certain individuals.
The trek requires a moderate fitness level and isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or children under 8 years old.
Before booking, travelers should ensure they have:
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Travel insurance
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Necessary toiletries and a daypack
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A valid passport or ID
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The physical capability to complete the hike
Plus, large bags and pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
Reservations require passport information for all participants, and entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is limited and has medium-high difficulty.
Customer Feedback
Travelers who have experienced the Inca Trail trek through this tour provider generally report highly positive experiences. According to customer reviews, the guides, especially Lenin, are praised for their extensive knowledge and enthusiasm. However, some issues with pre-tour communication and logistics have been highlighted.
| Rating | Number of Reviews | Percentage |
| — | — | — |
| 5 Stars | 8 | 80% |
| 4 Stars | 2 | 20% |
| 3 Stars | 0 | 0% |
| 2 Stars | 0 | 0% |
Booking and Availability
Booking the Inca Trail trek through this tour provider requires passport information for all participants. Availability can be limited, so it’s best to book well in advance.
Booking the Inca Trail trek requires passport details for all participants. Limited availability makes early booking advisable.
This tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so travelers must be certain of their plans.
Inca Trail treks have several key requirements:
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Not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or children under 8
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Good physical condition needed for the medium-high difficulty of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
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Travelers must bring essential items like travel insurance, toiletries, and a daypack
Given the specialized nature of this trek, booking early and ensuring you meet the requirements is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old. The minimum age requirement is 8 years old, as the trail involves strenuous hiking that may be challenging for younger participants.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Participants are allowed to bring their own food and snacks on the tour. However, one lunch box is provided on the first day. Bringing additional provisions can help ensure you have sufficient sustenance during the hike.
How Much Does Porters Service Cost for Carrying Luggage?
The porter service to carry luggage on the 2-Day Short Inca Trail costs an additional fee. Prices may vary, so customers should check with the tour operator for the latest rates when booking their trip.
Is There Any Medical Support During the Hike?
The tour includes a first aid kit for minor medical issues. However, it’s important for participants to have proper travel insurance in case of emergencies, as there’s no dedicated medical support during the hike.
Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Tour?
Customers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu after the tour, but they’ll need to book this separately. The tour package only includes the guided visit on Day 2, so any additional time at the site must be arranged independently.
The Sum Up
The 2-Day Short Inca Trail from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins of the Inca Empire. With expert guides, a small group size, and a comprehensive itinerary, this tour provides a personalized and immersive experience for those seeking to explore the iconic Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this 2-day trek is a must-do for any traveler visiting Cusco.
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