2-Day Route Along the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail, a renowned hiking route in Peru, offers adventurers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Andes. The 2-Day Route along this iconic trail promises an unforgettable experience, leading trekkers through significant archaeological sites and culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Hikers can expect guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and a chance to uncover the wonders of the ancient Inca civilization. While the journey may be brief, the memories and cultural insights gained along the way are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this remarkable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Aguas Calientes.

Key Points

• The Inca Trail is a 2-day hiking experience from Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu, covering archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Winaywayna.
• The first day involves a 6-hour trek to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for sunset photos, followed by a bus transfer to Aguas Calientes.
• On the second day, travellers enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, with free time for exploration or an optional Huayna Picchu hike.
• The tour includes pick-up and return transfers, train and bus transportation, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and safety equipment.
• The experience is priced from $682 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "Reserve now & pay later" option.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview

The Inca Trail route is a 2-day hiking experience along the iconic Inca Trail leading to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu.

Starting from Cusco, the journey costs from $682.00 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The route covers significant archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, culminating in the stunning Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for sunset views of Machu Picchu.

Accommodation is provided in Aguas Calientes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu is included on the second day.

Itinerary: Day 1

On the first day of the Inca Trail route, travelers start their journey with a 5:00 a.m. pick-up from Cusco. They then take a bus to the Ollantaytambo Railway Station and board a train to KM 104, where they begin a short trek along the Inca Trail to Chachabamba and Winaywayna. After a picnic lunch, they continue to Inti Punku (Puerta del Sol) to capture stunning sunset photos of Machu Picchu. Finally, they take a bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes for dinner and accommodation. The difficulty level is moderate, with 6 hours of walking time and a total distance of 12 kilometers.

Activity	Location	Time
Pick up	Cusco	5:00 a.m.
Bus to Ollantaytambo Railway Station	–	–
Train to KM 104	–	–
Trek to Chachabamba and Winaywayna	Inca Trail	6 hours
Sunset photos at Inti Punku	Machu Picchu	–
Bus to Aguas Calientes	–	–

Itinerary: Day 2

On the second day, travelers begin with a breakfast at their hotel in Aguas Calientes.

They then take a bus to Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour of the iconic ruins.

Afterward, they’ve free time to further explore the site or visit Huayna Picchu, an additional fee-based activity.

Lunch is on their own in Aguas Calientes.

In the afternoon, they board the train back to Ollantaytambo and then take a bus to return to Cusco, arriving around 9:30 PM.

This second day is considered an easy trek, with only 2 hours of walking and a total distance of 4 kilometers.

Highlights

Visiting Machu Picchu, one of the 7 wonders of the modern world, is undoubtedly a highlight of this 2-day Inca Trail route.

Travelers will also explore the significant archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, getting an up-close look at the impressive Inca ruins.

The route culminates with the stunning vista from Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, offering breathtaking photographs of Machu Picchu.

This compact itinerary packs in the most iconic highlights of the Inca Trail, allowing visitors to experience the majesty of this ancient empire in a short yet immersive journey.

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Inclusions

The 2-day Inca Trail route includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Travelers will receive pick-up and return transfers, as well as the services of a Spanish and English-speaking guide. The journey includes roundtrip train tickets to Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, plus bus transportation to and from Machu Picchu.

Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are covered, along with one night’s accommodation with breakfast in Aguas Calientes. Hikers will savor a picnic lunch and dinner during the trek.

Oxygen and first aid equipment are also provided for safety. Plus, visitors can purchase tickets to hike Huayna Picchu for an extra fee.

Availability and Meeting Point

Travelers can check availability and select their preferred starting times and number of participants on the tour’s booking page.

The 2-day Inca Trail route is offered with multiple daily departures, allowing flexibility in planning.

The meeting point for the tour is clearly marked on Google Maps, making it easy for travelers to find the designated pickup location in Cusco.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot with confidence, knowing they can make adjustments if needed.

The detailed itinerary and highlights outlined provide a clear understanding of what to expect on this immersive Inca Trail experience.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Inca Trail route is priced from $682.00 per person, offering travelers great value for this immersive 2-day experience.

Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easier to plan and book the trip.

Plus, the "reserve now & pay later" option lets customers secure their spot without paying upfront, making the Inca Trail more accessible.

With these favorable pricing and cancellation terms, adventurers can confidently embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey to explore the captivating ruins of Machu Picchu.

Additional Information

Customers can check availability for starting times and select participants and date.

The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy for travelers to find the starting location.

Oxygen and first aid equipment are provided for safety during the hike.

Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are included in the price, as well as the cost for the Huayna Picchu hike, which is 200 Soles (approximately $53.60 USD) per person.

With all the necessary logistics taken care of, customers can focus on enjoying the stunning views and cultural significance of this iconic Inca Trail route.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, guests can purchase additional food and drinks during the tour. The itinerary includes some meals, but there are opportunities to buy extra snacks or drinks in Aguas Calientes or along the trail as desired.

Is There an Age Limit for the Inca Trail Hike?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s suitable for physically fit participants aged 12 and up. Children under 12 may struggle with the moderate difficulty and long hiking times. Participants should consult with the tour operator about age suitability.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Equipment, or Is It Provided?

You can bring your own hiking equipment, but it’s not required. The tour provider offers all necessary gear, including backpacks, hiking poles, and rain ponchos. They’ll ensure you have everything needed for the Inca Trail hike.

Will There Be Bathroom Facilities Along the Trail?

The tour provides basic bathroom facilities along the Inca Trail, including portable toilets and natural areas. Hikers can expect to have access to restrooms at major sites and stops throughout the 2-day journey.

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

Travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour, though it’s not included in the package. They’ll need to book additional accommodation and transportation separately to prolong their time in the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

Recap

The 2-Day Route along the Inca Trail provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the iconic Machu Picchu and take in the rich history and culture of the Inca Empire. With meticulously planned itineraries, comfortable accommodations, and guided tours, this adventure promises a truly unforgettable experience for all nature and history enthusiasts. Participants can expect stunning landscapes, significant archaeological sites, and a chance to witness the wonders of one of the world’s most renowned ancient civilizations.

You can check if your dates are available here: