Cusco: Inca Trail 2 Days Trekking – Machu Picchu

The Cusco: Inca Trail 2 Days Trekking to Machu Picchu offers an immersive experience for those seeking to explore the rich history and awe-inspiring landscapes of Peru. Priced at $600 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive package that includes hotel pickup, train transport, meals, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes. Participants will have the opportunity to uncover ancient ruins, cross the Sacred River, and gaze upon the stunning views from the Sun Gate. With the guidance of professional guides and a commitment to sustainable practices, this trek promises an unforgettable adventure for nature and history enthusiasts. But what exactly can travelers expect as they embark on this remarkable journey?

Key Points

• This Inca Trail tour offers a 2-day trek to Machu Picchu, starting from $600 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, train transport, entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and travel insurance for a comprehensive Machu Picchu experience.
• The itinerary covers hiking through the Sacred River, visiting Inca ruins, exploring the Sun Gate, and touring Machu Picchu with a guide.
• Certain individuals may not be suitable for the trek, and essential items to bring include passport, sunglasses, camera, and proper hiking shoes.
• The tour adheres to environmental guidelines, prohibiting alcohol, drugs, and littering to preserve the Inca Trail’s natural and cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Inca Trail 2 days trekking to Machu Picchu typically costs from $600.00 per person.

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and it allows travelers to reserve their spot without paying anything upfront.

The trek lasts 2 days and is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants. Knowledgeable guides lead the tours in both Spanish and English.

Along with the trek, the package includes hotel pickup, train transportation, entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and travel insurance.

Itinerary Details

Early on the first day, participants travel to Ollantaytambo and board a train to the trek’s starting point, 65 miles away.

They then cross the Sacred River, pass by Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, and arrive at Wiñaywayna for a brief guide.

The hike continues to the Sun Gate, where they’ll enjoy views of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Afterwards, they descend to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay.

On the second day, participants take an early morning bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance.

A guided tour explores the site’s important areas and temples.

After lunch, they return to Aguas Calientes, then take the train back to Ollantaytambo and on to Cusco.

Day 1: Hike to Machu Picchu

Participants embark on an exhilarating journey as they depart their Cusco hotels early in the morning for the adventure ahead.

After a scenic 65-mile drive to Ollantaytambo, they board a train that takes them to the trek’s starting point. Crossing the Sacred River, they pass through the ruins of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy before arriving at Wiñaywayna, where the guide provides a brief orientation.

The group then hikes to the Sun Gate, marveling at the first glimpse of the majestic Machu Picchu below. Descending to Aguas Calientes, they enjoy a well-deserved dinner and an overnight stay, resting up for the next day’s exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.

Day 2: Visit to Machu Picchu

Aguas Calientes bustles with activity as the group rises early to catch the first bus up to the Machu Picchu entrance.

After an hour-long ride, they arrive at the iconic citadel and embark on a guided tour. The guide highlights the most important areas, including:

• The Intihuatana, a ritual stone that was used as a solar calendar
• The Temple of the Sun, a sacred structure aligned with the sun’s position
• The Royal Tomb, where the remains of the Inca emperor were laid to rest

With a deeper understanding of Machu Picchu’s history and significance, the group explores the site further before returning to Aguas Calientes for lunch and the journey back to Cusco.

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Inclusions

The tour’s comprehensive inclusions ensure a seamless and enriching experience for travelers.

The package includes hotel pick-up service, a professional bilingual guide, and all necessary transportation – from the train ride to Machu Picchu’s starting point to the return journey.

Admission tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are provided, along with meals and accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

Safety is a priority, with a first-aid kit and oxygen bottle included.

Travelers can also take advantage of the train tickets to and from Ollantaytambo.

Important Information

When must the tour be booked? The tour must be booked at least 2 months in advance or guests should check availability for their desired date.

Certain individuals may not be suitable for this trek, including pregnant women, those with back problems, wheelchair users, and the visually impaired.

What should guests bring? Guests should bring their passport or ID, sunglasses, a camera, and proper hiking shoes.

The tour has some environmental guidelines, prohibiting:

• Alcohol and drugs
• Littering
• Anything that could damage the environment

This 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu requires advance planning and preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Prohibited Items

Along With the environmental guidelines, travelers on the 2-day Inca Trail trek must also be mindful of prohibited items. The rules are clear – no alcohol, drugs, or littering is allowed. These restrictions help maintain the integrity of the ancient Inca ruins and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all participants.

Prohibited Item	Reason	Consequence
Alcohol	Risk of intoxication, disruptive behavior	Denied access, possible fine
Drugs	Illegal, safety hazard	Denied access, possible legal action
Litter	Damages environment, desecrates sacred sites	Fine, removal from tour

Adhering to these regulations is crucial for preserving the Inca Trail’s cultural heritage and protecting the natural environment for future generations of visitors.

Environmental Guidelines

Preserving the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Inca Trail is a top priority for tour operators and visitors alike.

Hikers are expected to adhere to strict environmental guidelines to minimize their impact on the fragile ecosystem. These include:

• Packing out all personal trash and disposing of it properly at designated waste collection points
• Refraining from collecting or disturbing local flora and fauna
• Staying on marked trails to avoid trampling vegetation and eroding the landscape

Tour guides work closely with hikers to ensure these guidelines are followed, fostering a responsible and sustainable trekking experience along this iconic Incan pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Altitude Range During the Trek?

The trek covers an altitude range of approximately 7,218 to 8,924 feet (2,200 to 2,720 meters), starting from the Sacred River and reaching the Sun Gate for views of Machu Picchu.

Can I Bring a Walking Stick for the Hike?

Walkers are generally permitted to bring walking sticks for the hike, as they can provide additional stability and support on the trails. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure there are no restrictions.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter for My Luggage?

Yes, the tour company offers an option to hire a porter to carry your luggage during the 2-day trek. This can be added to your booking for an additional fee.

What Is the Emergency Protocol in Case of Injuries?

The tour operator provides a first-aid kit and oxygen bottle on the trek. In case of injuries, the guide will administer immediate care and arrange for prompt evacuation to the nearest medical facility if necessary.

Can I Book a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, you can book a private tour for your group. The tour operator offers private tours with a maximum group size of 10 participants. You’ll have a dedicated bilingual guide and can customize the itinerary to your group’s needs.

Recap

The Cusco: Inca Trail 2 Days Trekking to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of the Inca Empire. With its comprehensive itinerary, professional guides, and commitment to sustainability, this trek promises an unforgettable experience for nature and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re crossing the Sacred River or marveling at the sun-drenched ruins, this tour will leave a lasting impression on all who embark on this extraordinary journey.

You can check if your dates are available here: