Cusco || 2-Day Tour to Machu Picchu by the Abra Malaga Route

Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, is the gateway to one of the world’s most iconic wonders – Machu Picchu. Travelers seeking to experience this breathtaking site can embark on a 2-day tour from Cusco, taking the scenic Abra Malaga route. This comprehensive package offers a seamless journey, guiding visitors through the Sacred Valley, up to stunning heights, and a guided exploration of the legendary ruins. With a night’s stay in a cozy lodge and a return to Cusco, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But what awaits those who choose this path, and how does it truly capture the essence of Machu Picchu?

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Cusco takes travelers to the iconic Machu Picchu ruins via the scenic Abra Malaga route.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, one night’s accommodation, meals, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Prices start at $158 per person, with a "reserve now & pay later" option and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with heart issues, or wheelchair users.
• Travelers should bring their passport, snacks, water, and binoculars for the best experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

According to the tour overview, this 2-day trip to Machu Picchu is available from Cusco, with prices starting from $158.00 per person.

Travelers can choose the "reserve now & pay later" option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour is led by live guides fluent in Spanish and English and lasts for 2 days.

Additional fees apply for the train tickets, entrance to Wayna Picchu, and bus ascent and descent to Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Details

Embarking on the 2-day tour, travelers will be picked up from their hotels in Cusco between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m. on the first day. They’ll be transported by minibus through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll stop for breakfast. The journey continues as they ascend to an altitude of 4,316 meters for scenic views, then descend through the jungle to Santa Maria (1,250 meters). Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant in Santa Teresa, followed by a 3-hour walk to Machu Picchu Village. Travelers will have dinner and an overnight stay in a local lodge.

Day 1	Day 2
Pickup at hotel in Cusco	Early breakfast at hotel
Minibus to Ollantaytambo	5:00 a.m. ascent to Machu Picchu
Breakfast stop	2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
Ascend to 4,316 meters, descend to Santa Maria	Descent to Aguas Calientes
Lunch in Santa Teresa, walk to Machu Picchu Village	Return to Cusco by bus

Day 1 Itinerary

Travelers are picked up from their hotels in Cusco between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m. on the first day.

They’re then transported by minibus through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll stop for breakfast, not included in the tour.

The group will ascend to 4,316 meters for scenic views before descending through the jungle to Santa Maria, located at 1,250 meters.

Lunch is provided at a local restaurant in Santa Teresa, followed by a 3-hour walk to Machu Picchu Village.

Travelers will have dinner and stay overnight in a local lodge.

Day 2 Itinerary

On the second day, an early breakfast is served at the hotel around 5:00 a.m. before the group ascends to Machu Picchu on foot.

Once at the iconic site, travelers will enjoy the stunning sunrise and a 2-hour guided tour to explore the ruins.

After the tour, the group will descend to Aguas Calientes by foot or bus. The journey back to Cusco is by bus, arriving around 9:30 PM.

Throughout the day, the English and Spanish-speaking guide will provide commentary and assistance.

This second day allows visitors to fully enjoy the wonder of Machu Picchu.

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Inclusions and Exclusions

What does this 2-day Machu Picchu tour include and exclude?

The tour includes hotel pickup, minibus transportation, an English and Spanish speaking guide, 1 night’s accommodation with breakfast, and lunch and dinner on the first day. It also covers the entrance fee to Machu Picchu.

However, the tour excludes lunch and dinner on the second day, as well as the train tickets ($33 per person), the entrance fee to Wayna Picchu ($55 per person), and the bus ascent and descent to Machu Picchu ($24 per person).

Participants should also be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users.

Participant Restrictions

The 2-day Machu Picchu tour has certain participant restrictions.

This tour isn’t suitable for:

1. Children under 8 years old.
2. Pregnant women.
3. Individuals with heart problems.
4. Wheelchair users.

These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

The hiking and trekking involved in this tour may be physically demanding, and the high altitude could pose additional challenges for certain individuals.

It’s important for potential travelers to carefully consider their physical capabilities before booking this tour.

Preparation and What to Bring

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, as it is required for entry to Machu Picchu. Plus, snacks, water, and breathable clothing are essential for the trek. Binoculars can enhance the viewing experience, and personal medication should be carried in case of any health issues. A pen can be useful for taking notes during the guided tour.

What to Bring	Why
Passport/ID	Entry Requirement
Snacks	Energy Source
Water	Hydration
Breathable Clothing	Comfort During Activity
Binoculars	Enhance Sightseeing
Personal Medication	Emergency Preparedness
Pen	Note-Taking

Reserve and Cancellation Policy

According to the tour details, a reserve now & pay later option is available for this Cusco 2-Day Tour to Machu Picchu.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to change their plans.

The tour also has the following reserve and cancellation policy:

1. Reserve now and pay later option available.
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
3. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance may incur fees.
4. No-shows or late cancellations will result in forfeiture of the full tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size is not explicitly stated in the overview. However, it mentions hotel pickup and minibus transportation, suggesting a small to medium-sized group, likely with a maximum capacity of around 15-20 participants.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Luggage Allowed?

The tour does not have any specific restrictions on the types of luggage allowed. Participants should bring essential items like passports, snacks, and personal medication, and pack light for the hike to Machu Picchu.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu or Cusco After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu or Cusco after the tour. The tour operator can provide advice and assistance in arranging additional accommodations and activities to extend the trip as desired.

Are There Any Age Discounts for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not offer age discounts for children or seniors. The minimum age requirement is 8 years old, and the tour is not suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women due to the strenuous nature of the hike.

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour or Add Additional Activities?

Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour or add additional activities for an extra cost. Contact the tour operator for more details on available upgrade options and pricing.

Recap

Embarking on the Abra Malaga route, travelers will enjoy Cusco’s stunning landscapes, culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. This 2-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, from exploring the Sacred Valley to guided tours of the iconic ruins. With carefully curated inclusions and convenient transportation, it’s an unforgettable journey that captures the essence of Peruvian heritage and natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: