Embark on an unforgettable 2-day journey along the legendary Inca Trail, where stunning vistas and rich history collide. This small-group hiking adventure offers convenient hotel pickup in Cusco, transporting you to the trailhead for an immersive exploration of iconic landmarks like the Winay Wayna ruins and the Intipunku Sun Gate. Experienced guides lead the way, sharing insights into the Inca civilization as you trek through breathtaking landscapes. With delectable meals and the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, this Inca Trail hike promises an unparalleled experience that will leave you yearning to uncover more of Peru’s captivating wonders.
Key Points
- This 2-day Inca Trail hike offers a guided small-group experience with pickup options from Cusco.
- The hike covers highlights like the Winay Wayna ruins, Intipunku Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu.
- Moderate fitness is required, and the hike is not suitable for those with medical conditions or pregnant travelers.
- Meals, transportation, and accommodation are included, providing a seamless and immersive Inca Trail adventure.
- The hike concludes with a return trip to Cusco around 6:30 pm, ensuring a convenient end to the experience.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Inca Trail Hike
- Itinerary Details for Day 1
- Itinerary Details for Day 2
- Inclusions and Logistics
- Traveler Requirements and Safety
- Traveler Reviews and Feedback
- Pickup Options
- Activity End Point
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Hike?
- Can I Upgrade to a Private or Semi-Private Tour Option?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Hike Beyond 2 Days?
- How Much Additional Spending Money Is Recommended for the Trip?
- Are There Any Packing Recommendations for the Hike?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More 2-Day Experiences in Cusco
- More Hiking & Trekking Tours 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 Hike
Spanning two immersive days, the 2-Day Small-Group Hike of Inca Trail offers travelers a compact yet captivating exploration of this renowned Incan footpath.
Located in Cusco, Peru, the tour boasts a perfect 100% recommendation rate among 12 reviewers. Priced from $609, the non-refundable experience includes key highlights such as visiting the Wi??ay Wayna ruins, reaching the Intipunku Sun Gate, and touring Machu Picchu’s main attractions.
With a moderate fitness level required, the itinerary features guided hiking, scenic train rides, and comfortable hotel stays.
Catering to those unable to secure permits for the classic 4-day trek, this 2-day version provides an accessible gateway to the Inca Trail’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
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Itinerary Details for Day 1
The first day of the 2-Day Small-Group Hike of Inca Trail begins with a 4:30 am pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco.
From there, the group drives to Ollantaytambo to board a train that takes them to Km 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail.
Once on the trail, they’ll trek through the scenic landscape, visiting the ruins of Wiñay Wayna and reaching the iconic Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate.
After a full day of hiking, the group will overnight in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.
Itinerary Details for Day 2
On Day 2, travelers begin their morning with breakfast in Aguas Calientes.
After fueling up, they board a bus for the journey to Machu Picchu, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the main square, ceremonial center, and temples.
Following the tour, they’ll have free time to explore Aguas Calientes and enjoy lunch.
The day concludes with the return journey to Cusco, traveling by train and car and arriving around 6:30 pm.
The experience includes:
- Breakfast in Aguas Calientes
- Bus transportation to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu’s key sites
- Free time for lunch and exploration in Aguas Calientes
- Return to Cusco via train and car
Inclusions and Logistics
The 2-day hike of the Inca Trail includes various meals throughout the experience. Travelers will enjoy breakfast on the first day and lunch and dinner on the second day.
Pickup options are available, with travelers able to meet at the Inca statue in Plaza Mayor del Cusco or at a selected pickup point. The activity ends back at the original meeting point.
This small-group hike isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Traveler Requirements and Safety
This 2-day Inca Trail hike isn’t wheelchair accessible and is located near public transportation. The hike isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate physical fitness level is required.
Key traveler requirements include:
- Ability to hike for extended periods over uneven terrain
- Tolerance for high altitudes and varying weather conditions
- Willingness to adhere to group itinerary and safety guidelines
- Appropriate gear and clothing for the trail and climate
- Readiness to navigate steep inclines and steps during the trek
While this 2-day adventure may not be suitable for all, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the legendary Inca Trail with proper precautions in place.
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Traveler Reviews and Feedback
Travelers who’ve experienced the 2-day Inca Trail hike overwhelmingly praise the tour, with a perfect 100% recommendation rate across 12 reviews.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides who provide insightful historical information. Many note the high quality of the included meals and the smooth organizational logistics of the experience.
Visitors rave about the scenic beauty and iconic sites along the trail, including the Winay Wayna ruins and Intipunku.
For those unable to secure permits for the classic 4-day trek, this 2-day option is highly recommended as it offers a chance to explore the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu in a condensed timeframe.
Pickup Options
Pickup options for the 2-day Inca Trail hike offer flexibility, allowing travelers to choose between a direct meeting point at the Inca statue in Plaza Mayor del Cusco or a selected pickup location.
This convenience ensures a seamless start to the adventure, catering to the needs and preferences of each individual participant.
The pickup options include:
- Direct meeting at the iconic Inca statue in the heart of Cusco’s main square
- Pickup from a selected hotel or accommodations within the city
- Centralized meeting point for those staying at various locations
- Efficient coordination with the tour guides and transportation
- Simple and straightforward process to begin the immersive Inca Trail experience.
Activity End Point
The activity ends back at the meeting point, allowing travelers a seamless return to their starting location. After the free time in Aguas Calientes, you will board the train and car to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 pm. This efficient logistics ensure a smooth conclusion to the 2-day Inca Trail hike.
| Return to Starting Point |
|---|
| Depart Aguas Calientes |
| Board train and car |
| Arrive in Cusco around 6:30 pm |
| Reach meeting point |
The return transportation and timing provide a convenient way for travelers to complete their Inca Trail adventure and make their way back to their original meeting spot in Cusco.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Hike?
The itinerary does not specify the maximum group size. It is a small-group hike, but the exact number is not provided. The tour can accommodate multiple travelers, as it includes pickup and transportation logistics.
Can I Upgrade to a Private or Semi-Private Tour Option?
Yes, you can upgrade to a private or semi-private tour option. The provider offers flexible tour configurations, allowing travelers to customize their Inca Trail experience based on group size and budget preferences.
Is There an Option to Extend the Hike Beyond 2 Days?
Yes, there is an option to extend the Inca Trail hike beyond 2 days. Longer trekking packages ranging from 4 to 7 days are available, offering a more immersive experience through the Andes and additional Inca ruins along the way.
How Much Additional Spending Money Is Recommended for the Trip?
According to the itinerary, additional spending money is recommended for lunches in Aguas Calientes on Day 2, as well as any extra activities or purchases the traveler may want to make during their free time in the town.
Are There Any Packing Recommendations for the Hike?
The hike recommends bringing layers of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, sun protection, snacks, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the stunning Andean scenery and historic Inca ruins along the trail.
2-Day Small-Group Hike of Inca Trail With Pick up
“My 13-year-old son and I recently fulfilled our seven-year-long dream of visiting Machu Picchu, and we couldn't have chosen a better trek company t…”
Recap
This 2-day small-group Inca Trail hike provides an immersive and breathtaking experience. Travelers will be picked up from their Cusco hotel and embark on a train journey to the trailhead. Along the way, they’ll explore iconic Inca ruins, enjoy guided tours of Machu Picchu, and savor delicious meals, all while trekking one of the world’s most famous routes with knowledgeable guides. This adventure offers a convenient and guided way to discover the beauty and history of the Inca Trail.
