The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers travelers a condensed yet captivating experience in Peru’s stunning Andes region. Over the course of 2 days and 1 night, adventurers can enjoy the rich history and breathtaking landscapes that make this one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders. From hiking along the Inca Trail to exploring captivating sites like Chacha Bamba and Winay Wayna, this journey promises an enriching and seamless exploration. With all the essential services included, travelers can simply focus on the wonder that awaits them as they uncover the secrets of Machu Picchu.
Key Points
- A 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail trekking experience in Peru’s Andes region, including a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
- Small group tours of up to 9 travelers, with a 5.0-star rating based on 48 reviews.
- Comprehensive services provided, such as transportation, meals, entrance tickets, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide.
- Day 1 activities include an all-day hike on the Inca Trail with visits to archaeological sites, followed by dinner and an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2 activities include a guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by free time for independent exploration of the Inca citadel.
👉 Check out our guide to the 2 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Cusco
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Details
- Day 1 Activities
- Day 2 Activities
- Included Services
- Meeting and End Points
- Confirmation and Accessibility
- Pricing and Policies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Tour?
- How Difficult Is the Inca Trail Portion of This Tour?
- Can I Book Additional Activities or Excursions During Free Time?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
- Can I Store My Luggage During the Hike Portion of the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cusco we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
This short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour provides a 2-day, 1-night experience exploring the iconic ruins and scenic landscapes of Peru’s Andes region.
The tour is based in Cusco and operates with small groups of up to 9 travelers. It’s received an impressive 5.0-star rating across 48 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
The itinerary covers the essentials, including a full-day hike on the Inca Trail, visits to archaeological sites, and a guided tour of the renowned Machu Picchu.
With meals, transportation, and entrance tickets included, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the highlights of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu on a short timeline.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Itinerary Details
The tour kicks off early on the first day with a transfer from Cusco, followed by an all-day hike along the Inca Trail. During this hike, travelers will visit several archaeological sites, including Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku. The day concludes with dinner in Aguas Calientes and an overnight stay.
On the second day, travelers will enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. After the guided tour, they’ll have free time to explore the ancient citadel on their own.
The tour provides all necessary transportation, including the train ticket to the trek starting point and the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back.
Day 1 Activities
On the first day, travelers embark on an all-day hike along the Inca Trail, starting with a transfer from Cusco. Along the way, they’ll visit several archaeological sites, including Chacha Bamba, Winay Wayna, and Inti Punku. As they trek, they’ll take in the stunning Andean landscapes and learn about the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization from their knowledgeable, bilingual guide.
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Chacha Bamba | Impressive Inca ruins with stunning mountain views |
| Winay Wayna | Terraced agricultural site with a ceremonial complex |
| Inti Punku | The "Sun Gate," offering a breathtaking first glimpse of Machu Picchu |
After a long day of hiking, travelers will enjoy a well-deserved dinner in the charming town of Aguas Calientes before settling in for the night.
Day 2 Activities
Travelers start their second day with a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, where they’ll explore the ruins and learn about the site’s rich history and cultural significance from their knowledgeable guide.
After the tour, they’ll have free time to wander the site independently and capture stunning photos of the iconic Inca citadel.
With the freedom to explore at their own pace, travelers can discover hidden corners, admire the breathtaking views, and gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable archaeological wonder.
The day’s activities provide the perfect balance of structure and independent exploration, ensuring a comprehensive and memorable experience at Machu Picchu.
Included Services
This short Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers. A transfer from Cusco, all-day hike on the Inca Trail, visits to archaeological sites, dinner in Aguas Calientes, and overnight accommodation are provided on the first day. On the second day, the tour includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu, as well as free time to explore the site independently.
The tour also includes the following:
| Service | Inclusion |
|---|---|
| Transportation | ✓ |
| Train ticket to trek starting point | ✓ |
| Professional bi-lingual guide | ✓ |
| Entrance tickets | ✓ |
| Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu | ✓ |
Meeting and End Points
The tour meeting point is Cusco, Peru, where participants convene at 5:00 am before the start of the journey.
From there, the group transfers to Ollantaytambo, the starting point for the Inca Trail trek.
After a full day of hiking and exploring archaeological sites, the tour ends at the Machu Picchu site, where travelers have free time to explore on their own.
The journey then returns to the original meeting point in Cusco, completing the 2-day, 1-night Short Inca Trail experience.
Ensuring a smooth start and finish, the tour’s logistics are carefully planned to provide a seamless and enjoyable trekking adventure to Machu Picchu.
Confirmation and Accessibility
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this Short Inca Trail tour. However, the tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users due to the nature of the Inca Trail hike.
Travelers should be aware of the following:
-
The hike involves ascending steep stone steps and traversing uneven terrain.
-
A moderate level of physical fitness is required to complete the challenging trail.
-
Porters are available to carry personal belongings, but travelers must carry their own daypacks.
-
Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are included in the tour.
-
Participants must adhere to the non-refundable cancellation policy.
This tour is operated by Machu Picchu Peru Tours, a reputable provider of Inca Trail experiences.
Pricing and Policies
The tour is priced from $711.54, and Machu Picchu Peru Tours offers a lowest price guarantee.
However, it has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so travelers should carefully consider their plans before booking. This means that if plans change, there are no refunds available.
The tour does include meals, transportation, and all necessary permits and entrance fees, making it a convenient option for those interested in the short Inca Trail hike and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
While a moderate level of physical fitness is required, the two-day itinerary provides a manageable challenge for most travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Tour?
The best time of year to do this tour depends on the traveler’s preferences. The dry season from May to October offers clear skies, while the rainy season from November to April has lush greenery but more unpredictable weather.
How Difficult Is the Inca Trail Portion of This Tour?
The Inca Trail portion of this tour is considered a moderate hike that requires a moderate level of physical fitness. It involves an all-day trek with some steep ascents and descents, but is manageable for most active travelers.
Can I Book Additional Activities or Excursions During Free Time?
Travelers can book additional activities or excursions during their free time. The tour operator provides optional recommendations, such as the Aguas Calientes Hot Springs or hiking Huayna Picchu, which can be arranged separately at an extra cost.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour, but participants must have a moderate level of physical fitness. Children are welcome, though the hike may be challenging for very young travelers.
Can I Store My Luggage During the Hike Portion of the Tour?
Yes, the tour operator allows participants to store their main luggage during the hike portion of the tour. Travelers can leave their larger bags at the start point and only carry essentials for the trek.
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days & 1 Night)
“It was wonderful trip with Machu Picchu Peru Tours. I would like to remind the guy Abel that wes amazing.”
Recap
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers travelers a condensed yet captivating adventure.
Hikers can experience the Andes’ stunning landscapes, explore ancient Inca ruins, and discover the iconic Machu Picchu, all while enjoying seamless logistics and inclusive services.
This two-day trek provides an enriching and unforgettable glimpse into Peru’s remarkable cultural heritage.
