Cusco: 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The 2-day Inca Trail trek from Cusco to the iconic Machu Picchu offers adventurous travelers an unforgettable experience steeped in Andean history and natural beauty. With expert guidance, trekkers will navigate stunning landscapes, visit ancient ruins, and earn breathtaking views of the lost city from the Sun Gate. While the journey is physically demanding, the rewards of accomplishing this classic Peruvian trek are truly unparalleled. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time explorer, this carefully curated tour promises to leave a lasting impression – but the details may surprise you.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best 2 Day Tours In Machu Picchu.

Key Points

• The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is priced at $490 per person and includes round-trip hotel transfers, train ride, and a local guide.
• The trek duration is 3.5 hours to Wiñayhuayna, followed by an ascent to the Sun Gate for views of Machu Picchu.
• Overnight stay is in Aguas Calientes after exploring the Machu Picchu ruins.
• The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy and is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
• Recommended gear includes sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, sun protection, and a day pack with snacks and water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for adventurous travelers.

Priced from $490 per person, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, a train ride to the trailhead, and an expert local guide.

Hikers will trek for 3.5 hours to the Wiñayhuayna archaeological site, then ascend to the Sun Gate for stunning views of Machu Picchu.

After exploring the ruins, they’ll descend to the town of Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.

On day two, guests will tour Machu Picchu with their guide before returning to Cusco.

A non-refundable cancellation policy applies, and the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Pricing and Policies

For this 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour, the price starts from $490 per person.

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so be sure to plan accordingly. The duration is 2 days, with a live English and Spanish-speaking guide.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Passport details are required at booking, and a minimum of 2 participants is needed. The tour is unavailable in February, but vegetarian options are available.

Day 1 Itinerary

On the first day, the tour begins with a hotel pickup and a transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo.

Participants then board a train for a 1.5-hour ride to KM 104, where the trekking portion starts. The hike takes around 3.5 hours to reach the archaeological site of Wiñaywayna, where the guide will provide an explanation.

Lunch is provided in a box. The group will continue to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to enjoy views of Machu Picchu, then descend to the citadel itself in time for sunset.

From there, they’ll take a bus to Aguas Calientes Village, where they’ll spend the night in a hotel and have dinner.

Day 2 Itinerary

Participants begin the second day with breakfast at their hotel in Aguas Calientes.

After fueling up, they hop on a bus to reach the entrance of Machu Picchu for a 2-hour guided tour. The tour allows them to explore the iconic Inca citadel and learn about its history and significance.

Next, the group has the option to return to Aguas Calientes by bus or by hiking back.

In Aguas Calientes, they can:

1. Explore the local shops and markets.
2. Relax in the natural hot springs.
3. Savor the authentic Peruvian cuisine.

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Included and Excluded

The tour package includes numerous essential components, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional tour guide, transportation from Cusco to the train station, and train tickets to the trailhead.

It also covers the entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, packed lunch, dinner, and breakfast, as well as hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes and bus transportation to and from Machu Picchu.

Plus, gratuities are included.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

Visitors should bring appropriate gear, including a passport, warm clothing, hiking shoes, and personal supplies.

What to Bring

Visitors embarking on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek will need to pack a variety of essential items. The trek requires appropriate clothing and footwear to navigate the varied terrain and weather conditions.

Some must-have items include:

1. Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good traction.
2. Layers of lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing to accommodate temperature changes.
3. Sun protection, such as sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Plus, it’s important to bring a day pack, snacks, plenty of water, and any necessary medications.

Trekkers should also ensure they’ve their passport on hand, as it’s required for entering Machu Picchu.

Important Considerations

When planning an Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

First, travelers must provide their passport details at the time of booking, as this information is required. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

It’s also crucial to note that the tour isn’t available in February. Vegetarian food options are available, but it’s recommended to bring cash for any additional expenses.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have provided largely positive feedback on this Inca Trail tour, with an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.

The tour’s organization and the quality of the guide were highlighted as particular strengths.

However, some travelers raised concerns about transportation issues from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, indicating mixed experiences.

The key points from the customer feedback are:

1. Positive reviews on the tour’s organization and the guide’s quality.
2. Concerns raised about transportation problems from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
3. Mixed experiences noted in the overall reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Inca Trail Trek?

The Inca Trail trek requires a moderate level of fitness. Hikers should be able to walk for several hours each day while carrying a daypack. Proper training and preparation can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Can I Use Walking Poles on the Trail?

You can use walking poles on the Inca Trail trek. They can provide extra stability and support, especially on steep or uneven terrain. Most trekking companies recommend bringing them to enhance your hiking experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions, but it may not be suitable for young children or the elderly. Participants must be physically fit and able to handle the strenuous trekking required on the Inca Trail.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks for the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour. The tour includes some meals, but you’re welcome to pack additional snacks and packed lunches to have on the trail.

How Much Additional Spending Money Do I Need?

The recommended additional spending money for the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is around $50-$100 per person. This can cover extra snacks, tips, and any incidentals or optional activities during the tour.

Recap

The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour from Cusco offers an extraordinary trekking experience through Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage. Priced at $490 per person, the tour includes essential logistics, expert guidance, and breathtaking views of the iconic Machu Picchu. With meticulous planning and attention to customer needs, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey for those seeking to explore the wonders of the Inca civilization.

You can check if your dates are available here: