From Cusco: 2-Day Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu

Exploring the legendary Inca Trail is a bucket-list experience for many adventure-seekers. This 2-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of this iconic region. With a focus on personalized service and small group sizes, the tour provides an opportunity to discover key archaeological sites, marvel at the panoramic views, and have the option to explore the renowned Machu Picchu. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you captivated by the Inca’s enduring legacy.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu covers archaeological sites along the Inca Trail and provides a guided visit to the iconic ancient citadel.
• The tour is priced from $590 per person and includes hotel pickup, bilingual guides, train transportation, and meals.
• Participants have the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for stunning views of the Inca ruins.
• The tour has a small group size limit of 10 people to ensure a personalized experience, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
• Proper preparation, including booking at least a month in advance and bringing recommended items, is essential for a safe and memorable Inca Trail adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu offers a 2-day journey through the Andes, taking travelers from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel.

Priced from $590 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, bilingual guides, train transportation, entrance fees, meals, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot without upfront payment.

The tour covers key archaeological sites along the Inca Trail before reaching the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu on the second day.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day of the tour, travelers depart from their Cusco hotels before dawn to embark on a train journey stretching 65 miles from Ollantaytambo to the starting point of the Inca Trail.

They’ll hike to archaeological sites like Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy, and Wiñaywayna, finally reaching the Puerta del Sol viewpoint at 2,500 meters to catch their first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

The day concludes with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and dinner.

On the second day, travelers rise early to visit Machu Picchu, exploring its key areas with the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Afterwards, they’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco.

Day 1: Exploring the Trail

Departing from their Cusco hotels before dawn, travelers embark on a train journey stretching 65 miles from Ollantaytambo to the starting point of the Inca Trail.

The first day’s hike takes them through a series of archaeological centers, including:

• Chachabamba, an Inca administrative center
• Choquesuysuy, a religious site with ancient terraces
• Wiñaywayna, a stunning Inca settlement perched on a mountain ridge

As they ascend, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views, culminating in a stunning panorama of Machu Picchu from the Puerta del Sol at an elevation of 2,500 meters.

The day concludes with a restful overnight stay in the town of Aguas Calientes, where a well-deserved dinner awaits.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes

After a day of hiking and exploring the Inca sites, travelers arrive in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, nestled in the valley below Machu Picchu.

The group checks into their hotel, where they’ll spend the night. Aguas Calientes, also known as "Machu Picchu Pueblo," is a lively hub with restaurants, shops, and thermal hot springs.

Travelers can take a relaxing soak in the hot springs, enjoy a hearty Peruvian meal, or simply wander the town’s cobblestone streets.

The overnight stay provides an opportunity to rest and recharge before the early morning visit to the iconic Machu Picchu the next day.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Day 2: Discovering Machu Picchu

An early start beckons as the group departs their hotel in Aguas Calientes for the short bus ride up to the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Upon arrival, they’re immediately captivated by the majestic ancient citadel. The guided tour explores key areas, including:

• The Main Plaza, showcasing the impeccable Inca stonework
• The Intiwatana, a mysterious ritual stone used for astronomical observations
• The Temple of the Sun, an architectural marvel aligned with solstices and equinoxes
• The Room of the Three Windows, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Andes

After the in-depth exploration, visitors have the option to conquer the challenging hike up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking vistas before the afternoon train return to Cusco.

Included Services

The tour package includes a comprehensive suite of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable Inca Trail experience.

It provides hotel pickup and return to Cusco, as well as a bilingual guide (Spanish and English) and a tour guide assistant for groups over 8 participants.

The package includes train transportation from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of the trek.

Entrance fees to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are covered, and meals such as 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner are provided.

Accommodation in Aguas Calientes and round-trip bus transportation from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu are also included.

For safety, the tour provides an emergency oxygen bottle and a first aid kit.

Participant Restrictions

This Inca Trail tour has certain participant restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyability of the experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for several groups, including:

• Pregnant women
• Individuals with back, mobility, heart, or respiratory issues
• Those with epilepsy
• People with low fitness levels
• Travelers with insect allergies

These restrictions are in place to protect the well-being of all participants and provide the best possible Inca Trail adventure.

Guests should carefully consider their physical abilities and health status before booking this tour to have a safe and memorable experience.

Preparation and Requirements

Booking this Inca Trail tour must occur at least a month in advance.

Tour operators require a WhatsApp number for easy communication.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, extra clothes, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash.

Sharp objects, weapons, alcohol, drugs, explosives, noisemakers, and fire are strictly prohibited. This precaution ensures the safety and enjoyment of all hikers.

Proper preparation is key to making the most of this two-day trek to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Own Backpack or Do I Need to Rent One?

You can use your own backpack for the Inca Trail tour. It’s not necessary to rent one. Just make sure it’s comfortable and can hold the necessary items you’ll need during the hike.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Backpack I Can Carry?

There’s no strict weight limit, but participants are advised to pack light. Hikers should aim to carry a backpack weighing no more than 10-15 lbs to ensure a comfortable trek along the Inca Trail.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring Machu Picchu?

The itinerary allows for an early morning visit to Machu Picchu on the second day, with ample time to explore the key areas of the citadel and optionally climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Can I Purchase Additional Snacks or Meals During the Tour?

During the tour, participants can purchase additional snacks or meals in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. There are various restaurants, cafes, and markets where hikers can buy extra food and drinks as needed.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with health issues, or those with low fitness levels. Participants must be able to complete the moderate-difficulty hike.

Recap

The 2-day Inca Trail tour from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich history. With a small group size, bilingual guides, and included transportation, participants can enjoy the iconic Inca sites and enjoy breathtaking views. This tour provides a personalized experience that’s sure to create lasting memories for any traveler.

You can check if your dates are available here: