Exploring the mystique of the Inca Empire’s most iconic site, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a captivating 2-day private tour from Cusco. Operated by FLY CUSCO, this adventure promises an immersive experience through breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and the guidance of expert local leaders. With a minimum of two participants and a starting price of $580 per person, the tour includes essential amenities like meals, transfers, and comfortable accommodations. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time visitor to Peru, this private journey to the Lost City of the Incas is bound to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- A 2-day private tour that covers the Short Inca Trail and a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu.
- Includes meals, transfers, admission tickets, train/bus transport, and 3-star hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Designed for adventurous travelers with moderate fitness levels, not recommended for those with medical conditions or mobility issues.
- Detailed itinerary briefing provided the night before departure, ensuring participants are well-prepared for the Inca Trail experience.
- The 16-kilometer Short Inca Trail offers a condensed yet physically demanding experience of the Inca civilization’s rich history and majestic Andean landscapes.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Tour
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Meeting and Pickup Details
- Health and Fitness Requirements
- Itinerary Briefing
- Hiking the Short Inca Trail
- Exploring Machu Picchu
- Return to Cusco
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Type of Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?
- Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
- Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Personal Items?
- What Are the Payment Options for the Tour?
- Is Travel Insurance Required for This Tour?
- Recap
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Overview of the Tour
The 2-Day Private Tour to Machu Picchu provides adventurous travelers an opportunity to explore the iconic Inca site via the Short Inca Trail.
Operated by FLY CUSCO, a travel agency based in Cusco, Peru, the tour starts at $580.00 per person, with a minimum of 2 people required per reservation.
The tour includes meals, transfers, admission tickets, train and bus transportation, as well as accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Pickup is available from various locations in Cusco’s historic center, and the tour departs at 5:00 AM.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
The 2-Day Private Tour to Machu Picchu includes a comprehensive package of meals, transportation, and accommodation. The tour provides breakfast and lunch on both days, as well as a briefing service, admission tickets, train and bus tickets, and a 3-star hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. Pickup and drop-off services are also included. However, the tour is non-refundable, and tips are optional. The inclusion and exclusion details are summarized in the table below:
| Included | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Meals, Transfers, Admission Tickets | Refunds, Tips |
| Briefing, Hotel, Train/Bus Tickets | – |
| Pickup/Drop-off | – |
| Optional Tips | – |
The tour is designed for adventurous travelers with a moderate fitness level, not recommended for those with medical conditions or mobility issues.
Meeting and Pickup Details
Pickup for the 2-Day Private Tour to Machu Picchu is available from hotels, apartments, or houses located in the historic center of Cusco.
The meeting point is Plaza Regocijo in Cusco, 08002, Peru, with a start time of 5:00 AM. The tour will end at the same meeting point.
Key details:
- Pickup location: Hotels, apartments, or houses in Cusco’s historic center.
- Meeting point: Plaza Regocijo, Cusco 08002, Peru.
- Start time: 5:00 AM.
The detailed itinerary will be explained during a meeting at 5:00 PM the night before departure, either at the hotel or the agency office located at Portal Panes 123, Office 201, Second level Plaza de Armas, Cusco.
Health and Fitness Requirements
This 2-day private tour to Machu Picchu isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and prior acclimatization in Cusco is recommended. The tour involves traveling long distances at high altitudes, which can be challenging for some.
Participants should be adventurous travelers capable of handling the demands of the tour. The itinerary covers extensive walking, so those with physical limitations may struggle to complete the journey.
It’s essential to carefully consider one’s health and fitness before booking this tour.
Itinerary Briefing
A detailed itinerary briefing takes place at 5:00 PM the night before departure, either at the hotel or the agency office.
This pre-tour meeting aims to ensure all participants are fully informed and prepared for the upcoming adventure.
The briefing covers three key aspects:
-
A thorough overview of the 2-day itinerary, including distances, terrain, and estimated timings.
-
Guidance on the necessary gear and supplies to bring, such as proper hiking attire, water, snacks, and any required medications.
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An opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns participants may have about the tour.
This comprehensive briefing helps set the stage for a successful and enjoyable Inca Trail experience.
Hiking the Short Inca Trail
The Short Inca Trail takes hikers on a captivating journey through the stunning Andean landscapes, offering a more manageable alternative to the full Inca Trail.
Over the course of two days, trekkers will cover approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles), ascending to an elevation of 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) before descending to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
The route features a variety of terrain, including cloud forests, rocky mountain paths, and ancient Inca staircases.
While physically demanding, the Short Inca Trail provides an opportunity to experience the majesty of the Andes and the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization in a more condensed timeframe.
Exploring Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, the famed Inca citadel perched high in the Andes, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the remarkable achievements of the ancient Inca civilization.
As part of the 2-day tour, travelers will have the opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at its stunning architecture, mysterious terraces, and breathtaking vistas.
The highlights of the Machu Picchu experience include:
- Climbing the iconic Huayna Picchu mountain for panoramic views of the ruins.
- Visiting the Temple of the Sun, a sacred Inca structure aligned with celestial events.
- Wandering through the Royal Sector, home to the Inca emperor’s residence and other important structures.
With expert guidance, travelers will uncover the rich history and significance of this lost city, leaving with a deeper appreciation for the Inca legacy.
Return to Cusco
After exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu, the 2-day private tour now returns travelers to the historic city of Cusco.
On the second day, guests enjoy a private transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, completing the Inca Trail adventure.
The tour includes all necessary transportation, including train and bus tickets, to seamlessly transition from Machu Picchu back to the tour’s starting point.
With included accommodation in Aguas Calientes, the tour logistics are handled, allowing participants to focus on the cultural experience.
Throughout the 2-day journey, participants receive support from the tour operator, FLY CUSCO, ensuring a smooth and memorable return to Cusco.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Transportation Is Provided During the Tour?
The tour provides various modes of transportation, including private transfers, train tickets, and bus tickets. Specifically, it includes a train ride from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104 and a bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
The tour cannot be customized to individual preferences. It is a fixed 2-day itinerary with set inclusions and requirements. Travelers must meet the minimum group size and health/fitness standards to participate in this non-refundable tour operated by FLY CUSCO.
Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Personal Items?
The tour has restrictions on luggage size and weight due to transportation limitations. Travelers can bring a daypack for essentials, while larger bags will be transported separately. Personal items must comply with trail regulations.
What Are the Payment Options for the Tour?
The tour price can be paid with credit card or cash, payable directly to the travel agency, FLY CUSCO. However, the tour is non-refundable, so no refunds are available for cancellations.
Is Travel Insurance Required for This Tour?
The tour operator does not require travel insurance for this tour. However, it’s recommended to purchase travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances, such as trip cancellations or medical emergencies during the trip.
2-Day Private Tour: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu From Cusco
“From start to finish, this tour was so well organized. Our tour guide, Victor, met with us at our hotel the night before to brief us on the hike, r…”
Recap
This unforgettable 2-day private tour along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a unique opportunity to take in the ancient Inca heritage. Operated by FLY CUSCO, the tour provides expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu site. With breathtaking landscapes and a seamless return to Cusco, this adventure is a must-experience for anyone seeking to discover the wonders of the Inca Empire.
