Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, beckons adventurers with its stunning vistas and captivating history. The 2-day tour of the Short Inca Trail offers an immersive experience, blending scenic train rides, guided explorations, and free time in the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Hikers can expect breathtaking landscapes, a picturesque picnic, and the opportunity to witness the ancient ruins through the iconic Sun Gate. This tour promises a perfect balance of culture, nature, and awe-inspiring moments that will leave visitors eager to uncover more about this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.
Key Points
- The 2-day Machu Picchu tour via the Short Inca Trail is priced at £403.66 per person and includes train tickets, Inca Trail access, and a professional guide.
- The tour features an early morning hotel pickup, a train ride to kilometer 104, a picnic lunch, and entry to Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate.
- Participants will have the opportunity to witness stunning sunset views over Machu Picchu and explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes during the overnight stay.
- The second day includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu, free time in Aguas Calientes, and a return train ride.
- The tour provides permanent assistance via WhatsApp, and essential items like passport, sun protection, and hiking gear are recommended for the participants.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary and Experience Highlights
- Day 1 Highlights
- Overnight in Aguas Calientes
- Day 2 Highlights
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- What to Bring and Important Information
- Traveler Feedback and Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?
- Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?
- Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to More Than 2 Days?
- How Much Personal Space Is Available in the Overnight Accommodations?
- Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers for Group Bookings?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tours in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
This 2-day Machu Picchu tour offers a captivating journey along the Short Inca Trail. Priced at £403.66 per person, it includes hotel pickup, train tickets, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu access, a professional guide, select meals, and bus transportation.
The tour is limited to 8 participants and available in English and Spanish. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and book without an upfront payment.
The 2-day itinerary features stunning sunset views from the Sun Gate, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and time to explore the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
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Itinerary and Experience Highlights
The 2-day tour kicks off with an early morning hotel pickup at 4:00 am, setting the stage for an adventure along the captivating Short Inca Trail.
Travelers will board a train to kilometer 104, the starting point of the hike. Along the way, they’ll enjoy a picnic lunch before entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate to witness the stunning sunset views.
The evening is spent in Aguas Calientes, where they’ll have dinner and an overnight stay.
On the second day, they’ll take a bus to Machu Picchu for a 2.5-3 hour guided tour, followed by free time in Aguas Calientes and a train ride back to Ollantaytambo and then Cusco.
Day 1 Highlights
Guests kick off the 2-day tour with an early morning hotel pickup at 4:00 am, setting the stage for an adventure along the captivating Short Inca Trail.
They board a train and disembark at kilometer 104, the starting point of the hike. Along the way, they enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning Andean scenery.
As they approach Machu Picchu, they enter through the iconic Sun Gate, taking in the breathtaking sunset views over the ancient ruins.
The day ends in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where they’ve dinner and rest up for the next day’s exploration.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes
After reaching Aguas Calientes, guests spend the evening in this charming town at the base of Machu Picchu.
They’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants, which offer a variety of Peruvian and international cuisine. With its lively atmosphere and stunning mountain views, Aguas Calientes provides a relaxing retreat after the day’s hike.
Guests can wander the streets, visit artisan markets, or simply unwind at their hotel before the next day’s early start.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is basic, with hostels and guesthouses catering to the needs of Machu Picchu visitors.
Though not luxurious, the lodgings offer a comfortable place to rest and recharge.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 2 Highlights
Early the next morning, travelers board a bus that whisks them up the winding road to Machu Picchu’s main entrance.
The guided tour of this iconic Inca citadel lasts 2.5 to 3 hours, allowing visitors to:
- Marvel at the intricate stonework and architectural wonders
- Spot wildlife like Andean condors soaring overhead
- Explore hidden corners and capture stunning panoramic views
After the tour, they return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and free time before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo and the bus to Cusco, concluding this unforgettable 2-day Machu Picchu adventure.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The 2-day Machu Picchu tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, train tickets, entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, a professional guide, one lunch, one dinner, and one breakfast.
Plus, the package covers bus rides to and from Machu Picchu, as well as permanent assistance via WhatsApp.
Travelers should note that tips for staff and any additional meals or accommodations in Aguas Calientes aren’t included in the package.
It’s essential to bring essentials like a passport, sun protection, and appropriate hiking gear.
Proper waste disposal is mandatory within the Machu Picchu area.
What to Bring and Important Information
Travelers should bring essential items like a passport, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, water, rain gear, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking shoes.
Appropriate clothing for diverse climates is recommended, with a preference for earthy tones to avoid attracting mosquitoes.
Plus, visitors should be mindful of the following:
- Trash disposal is prohibited in the Machu Picchu area, so travelers must carry any waste back to Aguas Calientes.
- Expect basic hostel-style accommodations in Aguas Calientes, though there are alternative hotel options for those seeking European-style standards.
- The trek’s difficulty is noteworthy, but the stunning views and overall experience make it well worth the effort.
Traveler Feedback and Reviews
Based on the available feedback, travelers have consistently rated this Machu Picchu: 2-Day Tour a perfect 5/5 score across 3 reviews. Guests praised the guides’ in-depth knowledge and clear communication throughout the experience. While the trek is noted as challenging, the stunning vistas and unforgettable moments make it well worth the effort. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is described as basic hostel-style, so travelers seeking European standards may want to consider alternative hotels. This tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the iconic Machu Picchu through the Short Inca Trail.
| Ratings | Score |
|---|---|
| Overall | 5/5 |
| Guide Knowledge | 5/5 |
| Trek Difficulty | 4/5 |
| Accommodation | 3/5 |
| Value | 5/5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?
Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the trek. The tour includes a picnic lunch, but additional snacks and meals can be purchased or packed to supplement the provided meals.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age or fitness requirements, but participants should be able to hike for several hours over uneven terrain. Those with concerns should consult the tour provider for specific guidance on the trek’s difficulty.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to More Than 2 Days?
Extending the tour beyond 2 days is possible, but not included in the standard package. Travelers interested in a longer experience can inquire about customizing the itinerary with the tour operator, which may incur additional costs.
How Much Personal Space Is Available in the Overnight Accommodations?
Accommodations on this tour are basic hostel-style shared rooms. Travelers should expect limited personal space, but the focus is on the stunning Inca Trail hike and Machu Picchu experience. Alternative higher-end hotels are available for those seeking more privacy.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers for Group Bookings?
No information is provided about group discounts or special offers for this Machu Picchu tour. The pricing details indicate the cost is per person, and there’s no mention of group rates or deals.
Machu Picchu: 2-Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail
Recap
The 2-day Machu Picchu tour via the Short Inca Trail offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Hikers will enjoy breathtaking landscapes, a guided exploration of the ancient site, and free time in Aguas Calientes, making it a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. With its convenient itinerary and inclusions, this tour is a must-consider for anyone seeking to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu.
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