The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour promises an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes and ancient Incan ruins. Participants embark on a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104, the starting point of the trail, where they’re led by knowledgeable guides through the awe-inspiring Wiñayhuayna ruins. The tour culminates in a guided exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the rich Incan heritage and bask in the breathtaking vistas. With a maximum group size of 10, this personalized experience ensures an intimate journey that leaves one eager to uncover the captivating details that lie ahead.
Key Points
- This 2-day Inca Trail tour offers a scenic hike to the iconic Machu Picchu site, featuring diverse landscapes and ancient Incan ruins.
- The itinerary includes a train ride, a visit to the Wiñayhuayna ruins, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu with opportunities for independent exploration.
- The tour is suitable for families and hikers of all ages, with a maximum group size of 10 to ensure a personalized experience.
- Meals, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide are included, with a starting cost of $600 and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
- A moderate fitness level is required due to the challenging terrain, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible or suitable for pregnant travelers.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Inca Trail Tour
- Itinerary Highlights
- Exploration at Machu Picchu
- Included Meals and Pricing
- Transportation and Meeting Points
- Physical Requirements and Group Size
- Operator and Review Ratings
- Traveler Feedback and Experiences
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food on the Hike?
- What Should I Pack for the Trek?
- Is There an Option to Explore Machu Picchu Alone?
- Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?
- Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Inca Trail Tour
The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour whisks travelers through diverse landscapes, ancient Incan ruins, and culminates at the iconic Machu Picchu site. Rated 100% by 15 reviewers, this tour is ideal for families and hikers of all ages who are short on time.
Beginning with a train ride from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104, the first day highlights scenic views and a visit to the Incan site of Wiñayhuayna.
On the second day, travelers witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu, followed by a guided tour and independent exploration.
Meals, transportation, and an experienced guide are all included, with costs starting from $600.
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Itinerary Highlights
The 2-day Inca Trail tour kicks off with a 4:30 AM pickup from the hotel, followed by a train ride from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104.
Trekkers will enjoy scenic views along the way before reaching Wiñayhuayna, an ancient Incan ruin.
On the second day, they’ll witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu and take a guided tour lasting 90 minutes to 2 hours.
After the tour, they’ll have time for independent exploration before enjoying lunch in Aguas Calientes and taking the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco.
Exploration at Machu Picchu
Upon reaching Machu Picchu, travellers can explore the ancient Incan citadel independently. After the guided tour, visitors are free to wander the site, taking in the stunning architecture, terraced gardens, and panoramic vistas. Whether scaling the steep staircases to the Sun Gate or trekking to the Inca Bridge, opportunities abound to discover hidden corners and capture breathtaking photographs.
| Exploration Activities | Duration | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Guided Tour | 90 minutes – 2 hours | Easy |
| Independent Exploration | Unlimited | Moderate |
| Climb to Sun Gate | 1-2 hours | Challenging |
The flexibility of the Machu Picchu experience allows travellers to tailor their visit to their interests and fitness level, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this remarkable Incan wonder.
Included Meals and Pricing
The 2-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu includes breakfast on the first day and lunch and dinner on the second day. Meals are included in the overall tour cost, which starts from $600.00.
The tour operator offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, as it requires a moderate fitness level.
The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Transportation and Meeting Points
Pickup options for the 2-day Inca Trail tour include direct transportation from the traveler’s hotel or a request to meet at the designated pickup location.
The tour meets at Plaza Mayor de Cusco, located at Del Medio 123 in Cusco, Peru. After the tour, guests will be dropped off at Plaza San Francisco in Cusco.
The tour operates daily from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, providing flexibility for travelers’ schedules.
Transportation to and from the trail includes a train from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104, where the hike begins, and a train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco at the end of the tour.
Physical Requirements and Group Size
The Inca Path Tour Operator recommends a moderate fitness level for participants of the 2-day Inca Trail tour. The trail involves hiking through diverse terrains, including ancient Incan ruins.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers. The group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers to maintain an intimate experience. This ensures personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides and allows the group to navigate the trail efficiently.
Hikers can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey, culminating in the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. Proper preparation and an adventurous spirit are key to making the most of this unforgettable Inca Trail experience.
Operator and Review Ratings
Inca Path Tour Operator, the company behind the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour, boasts an impressive review record.
The tour has garnered 15 reviews, all of which praise the experience with a remarkable 100% recommendation rate. Of these, 13 reviews awarded the maximum 5-star rating, while the remaining 2 gave 4 stars.
Travelers consistently commend the knowledgeable and personable guides, the memorable hikes, and the valuable experience offered, despite the fairly high cost.
With a maximum group size of 10 participants, Inca Path Tour Operator ensures an intimate and tailored journey along the iconic Inca Trail to the renowned Machu Picchu.
Traveler Feedback and Experiences
Travelers consistently commend the knowledgeable and personable guides, the memorable hikes, and the valuable experience offered, despite the fairly high cost.
Many highlight the breathtaking scenery and cultural insights gained from the tour. Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise in navigating the challenging terrain and sharing in-depth knowledge of Inca history and architecture.
The hikes through diverse landscapes are described as both physically and mentally rewarding. Despite the short duration, travelers feel they gain a meaningful connection to the Inca legacy and leave with a deep appreciation for Machu Picchu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Hike?
Travelers can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the hike, but the tour operator provides meals as part of the package. It’s recommended to check with the tour operator about any restrictions on outside food and beverages.
What Should I Pack for the Trek?
Hikers should pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, snacks, and plenty of water. It’s also recommended to bring a small first-aid kit, flashlight, and any necessary personal items for the 2-day trek.
Is There an Option to Explore Machu Picchu Alone?
Yes, there is an option to explore Machu Picchu independently after the guided tour. Travelers can spend additional time wandering the ruins on their own to soak in the ancient Incan wonder at their own pace.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?
The Inca Trail tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, so there are no additional charges for travelers. The cost covers transportation, guided tours, meals, and entrance to Machu Picchu.
Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Cusco after the Inca Trail tour. The tour operator can assist with booking additional hotel nights and arranging any desired activities or sightseeing in the Cusco area.
2 Day – Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
“I would like to start by thanking our guide, Rodrigo, for the tour. He was friendly and patient. However, I cannot recommend this tour due to its d…”
Recap
The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. Highlights include exploring Wiñayhuayna, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and opportunities for independent exploration. With a small group size and knowledgeable guides, travelers can enjoy the rich Inca heritage and enjoy breathtaking views throughout the journey.
