From Cusco: 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu With Hotel

Embarking on a 2-day Inca Trail adventure to the iconic Machu Picchu is a sought-after experience for many travelers visiting Cusco. This guided tour promises to immerse adventurers in the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins of the region, culminating in a guided exploration of the breathtaking Inca citadel. With round-trip transportation, scenic train travel, and knowledgeable bilingual guides, participants can expect a personalized and unforgettable journey – but there’s more to uncover about the intricacies of this unforgettable excursion.

Key Points

• The 2-day Inca Trail tour from Cusco includes round-trip transportation, train travel, bilingual guides, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
• The first day involves a 4-hour hike to Winaywayna and Sun Gate, while the second day features a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• The tour group size is limited to 15 participants for a personalized experience, and essential items like comfortable shoes and rain gear are required.
• Booking at least 120 days in advance is recommended due to limited Inca Trail permits and availability, especially during peak seasons.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart issues, or those with low fitness levels, and certain items are prohibited on the trail.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an immersive guided experience for visitors. Priced from $600 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, train travel, and professional bilingual guides.

The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized adventure. Travelers can expect to hike for 4 hours on the first day, taking in the stunning Wiñaywayna archaeological site and panoramic views from the Sun Gate before arriving at Machu Picchu.

On the second day, guests will explore the iconic Inca citadel with a guided tour and free time for self-discovery.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and reservations can be made now with a deferrable payment.

Itinerary

On the first day, travelers are picked up from their Cusco hotels and embark on a train journey to the starting point of the Inca Trail at Chachabamba.

From there, they hike to the Wiñaywayna archaeological site, which takes approximately 4 hours. Along the way, they’re treated to scenic views from the Sun Gate before arriving at Machu Picchu.

Travelers then check into their hotel in Aguas Calientes.

On the second day, they enjoy an early breakfast and take a bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the archaeological site.

Afterward, they’ve free time to explore on their own, with an optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Inclusions

This 2-day Inca Trail tour includes comprehensive transportation services.

Travelers will enjoy private transfers between their Cusco hotel and the train station, and the Vistadome train for scenic travel.

Bus services are provided on both days to access Machu Picchu. The package also covers all necessary entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Experienced, bilingual guides accompany the group, with an additional guide for larger parties.

Porter service is included to carry backpacks up to 8 kilos per person.

Meals such as 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, breakfast, and lunch are provided throughout the tour.

Accommodation is in a double room in Aguas Calientes.

Preparation and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, a camera, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and insect repellent are essential items participants should bring on this 2-day Inca Trail tour.

Smoking, flash photography, tripods, large backpacks, plastic bottles, glass objects, and littering aren’t allowed.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart issues, wheelchair users, those with vertigo, respiratory problems, altitude sickness, or low fitness levels.

Participants should be prepared for varying weather conditions, and they must bring their original passport or ID card for check-in at the Aguas Calientes hotel.

Booking at least 120 days in advance is recommended due to limited availability.

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Booking Timeline

Travelers must book the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour at least 120 days in advance due to the limited availability of permits.

The Inca Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in Peru, and permits are strictly limited to control the number of visitors.

Booking early is essential to secure a spot on the tour, as the permits can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

It’s recommended to plan and book the tour well ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Travelers should keep in mind that the tour’s availability and pricing may vary depending on the date and group size.

Microclimates

Typically, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu traverses diverse microclimates, which hikers should prepare for.

The trek passes through varying elevations, from cloud forests to alpine conditions. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, ranging from warm and sunny to cold and rainy. Hikers may experience sudden changes in weather, such as heavy rainfall or hail, even during the dry season.

It’s essential to pack layers of clothing and have rain gear readily available. The unpredictable nature of the microclimates requires flexibility and adaptability on the trail.

Proper preparation for these shifting conditions ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable journey to the magnificent Machu Picchu.

Identification

Hikers must bring their original passport or national ID card when checking into the hotel in Aguas Calientes. This is a crucial requirement for the tour, as the guides will need to verify each participant’s identity during the check-in process.

Without the proper identification, hikers may not be able to access the Inca Trail or enter Machu Picchu.

The following are important identification tips:

• Ensure the document is valid and not expired.
• Keep the identification secure and easily accessible.
• Make copies of the document as a backup.
• Be prepared to present the ID at various checkpoints throughout the tour.
• Inform the tour operator if there are any issues with the identification.

Cancellation Policy

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows travelers to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

It’s important to note that cancellations must be made at least one day prior to the tour start date to qualify for the full refund. This gives the operator sufficient time to reallocate the spot to another interested party.

Travelers should review the cancellation terms carefully before making their reservation to ensure they understand the policy. The free cancellation option provides added peace of mind when booking this 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this guided tour. The tour has specific restrictions in place, including no large backpacks or other prohibited items, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Trek?

This guided tour doesn’t provide WiFi access during the Inca Trail trek. The remote location and natural setting mean visitors won’t have internet connectivity, allowing them to fully immerse in the Machu Picchu experience.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel in Cusco?

Yes, travelers can leave their luggage at their hotel in Cusco during the 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. The tour operator will provide transportation between the hotel and the trail’s starting point.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Poles?

The tour typically provides hiking poles for participants, so you don’t need to bring your own. However, if you prefer using your own poles, you’re welcome to bring them along on the hike.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the Train Ticket?

Yes, guests can likely upgrade their train ticket to a more premium class, such as the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains, which offer more amenities and panoramic views. Additional fees may apply for the upgrade.

Recap

This 2-day Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu from Cusco offers an unforgettable experience for $600 per person. The tour includes round-trip transportation, scenic train travel, bilingual guides, and a personalized experience with a small group size. Hikers can explore the Wiñaywayna archaeological site, witness breathtaking views from the Sun Gate, and enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, complemented by overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

You can check if your dates are available here: