Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days & 1 Night)

Embarking on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a captivating 2-day, 1-night adventure. This tour promises breathtaking views, historical insights, and an immersive experience. Hikers will explore iconic sites like Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku before discovering the renowned Machu Picchu. With comfortable accommodations, relaxing hot springs, and a small group size, this journey offers an unforgettable way to uncover the wonders of Peru’s ancient Inca heritage.

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Key Points

This 2-day, 1-night tour offers a comprehensive Inca Trail experience, including hiking, historical site visits, and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
Highlights of the tour include the Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku sites, as well as the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu independently.
The tour includes transportation, entrance tickets, overnight accommodation, and trekking equipment, providing a hassle-free and inclusive experience.
Travelers must be in moderate physical condition to participate, and certain health conditions may preclude participation for safety reasons.

Tour Overview

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 2-day, 1-night tour that allows travelers to experience the iconic Inca ruins.

A 2-day, 1-night tour that allows travelers to experience the iconic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.

With 49 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this small-group tour has a maximum of 10 travelers. Priced from $700 per person, it’s a non-refundable experience.

Highlights include hiking the Inca Trail, visiting historical sites, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

The tour includes all transportation, entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and equipment.

While not wheelchair-accessible, it’s suitable for moderately fit travelers.

Confirmation and passport details are required within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

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Itinerary Details

On the first day, travelers embark on an all-day hike along the Inca Trail, visiting notable sites like Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku. After the trek, they’ll enjoy dinner in Aguas Calientes and overnight accommodation.

| Day | Activities |

| — | — |

| 1 | Hike Inca Trail, visit Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, Inti Punku
Dinner in Aguas Calientes, overnight accommodation |

| 2 | Guided tour of Machu Picchu, free time to explore |

On the second day, travelers will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu and free time to explore the ancient ruins on their own.

Included Services

This tour includes comprehensive transportation, from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back, as well as the train to and from the Inca Trail trailhead at KM 104.

Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are provided, along with a bus to the Machu Picchu sanctuary.

Meals, accommodation in Aguas Calientes, trekking poles, and a tour guide are all included.

Travelers also gain access to the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs and Huayna Picchu.

Travelers gain access to the soothing Aguas Calientes Hot Springs and the iconic Huayna Picchu.

With a maximum group size of 10, this tour ensures a personalized experience on the Short Inca Trail.

Pickup and Schedule

Pickup points are available, with specific details confirmed by the guide one day before the tour.

The tour starts at 5:00 am. This early start ensures plenty of time to hike the Inca Trail, visit key sites, and arrive at Machu Picchu for a guided tour.

The schedule is tight, leaving no room for delays. Travelers must be punctual and ready to depart on time. As this is a group tour, the group won’t wait for late arrivals.

With an efficient itinerary and experienced guides, the tour provides an immersive Inca Trail experience culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Health and Safety Information

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required due to the all-day hike on the Inca Trail. Travelers should be prepared for strenuous hiking at high altitudes.

Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Travelers must provide an image of their passport to complete the reservation.

Safety is a top priority, and the tour guide will provide trekking poles to assist hikers throughout the journey.

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Exploring Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku

What can travelers expect during the all-day hike on the Inca Trail?

Along the way, they’ll visit Chacha Bamba, an Inca ruin site with impressive agricultural terraces and granary structures.

Next, the trail leads to Winay Wayna, a stunning complex of Inca buildings perched on a hillside overlooking the Urubamba River.

The final stop before reaching Machu Picchu is Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, offering panoramic views of the iconic citadel.

Trekkers will appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the history and natural beauty of these Inca sites along the legendary Inca Trail.

Discovering Machu Picchu

After reaching Aguas Calientes, travelers will take a bus up the winding road to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.

At the top, they’ll enter the iconic Inca citadel and explore its impressive ruins with a guided tour.

Upon reaching the top, travelers will enter the iconic Inca citadel and explore its impressive ruins with a guided tour.

The highlights include:

Witnessing the majestic Huayna Picchu mountain in the backdrop.
Discovering the intricately carved stone structures and terraces.
Learning about the Inca’s advanced engineering and architectural feats.
Capturing breathtaking photos of the entire site from the Sun Gate.

With free time to wander, travelers can enjoy the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu.

Enjoying the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs and Huyana Picchu

Travelers can unwind after their Machu Picchu exploration by visiting the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs. The hot springs are a 10-sol entrance fee and offer a relaxing soak with stunning mountain views.

For those seeking an additional adventure, the tour includes access to climb Huyana Picchu. This challenging hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape.

Whether soaking in the hot springs or conquering Huyana Picchu, these optional activities provide the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable Inca Trail experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour Option?

Yes, private tour options are available for this trek. You can request a private tour with a dedicated guide and group size to suit your preferences, though this may come at an additional cost compared to the standard group tour.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Peru?

U.S. citizens don’t need a visa to visit Peru for stays of up to 90 days. However, travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their planned stay and have a return ticket.

Is There an Age Limit for This Tour?

There’s no explicit age limit for this tour, but it requires a moderate fitness level. The tour operator recommends it’s not suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions or young children due to the challenging hiking involved.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Needs?

The tour company doesn’t offer customized itineraries. However, they can accommodate special needs or requests, like dietary restrictions, within the existing tour. Travelers should discuss any requirements with the tour guide prior to the trip.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour has a non-refundable policy. Cancellations are not permitted, and no refunds will be issued. Travelers should carefully review the terms and conditions before booking to ensure the tour aligns with their needs and expectations.