Trek to Machu Picchu: 2 Days

Embarking on a captivating two-day trek to the iconic Machu Picchu offers travelers an unparalleled adventure. Commencing with an early pickup in Cusco, this exhilarating journey takes hikers by train to kilometer 104, where they’ll embark on a 16-kilometer hike through breathtaking landscapes. With a guided tour and optional excursion to the summit of Huayna Picchu, this immersive experience provides an unforgettable exploration of Inca heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or seeking a new challenge, this captivating expedition promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Key Points

• A two-day adventure through the Inca Trail, covering a total distance of 16 km with a moderate difficulty on the first day and an easy day on the second.
• The trek includes a guided tour, train transport, one night’s accommodation, select meals, and entrance fees, with an optional visit to Huayna Picchu for an additional fee.
• Itinerary for Day 1 includes a bus ride from Cusco, a hike to Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and a bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and overnight stay.
• The Inca Trail hike on Day 2 provides stunning views of historic ruins and culminates in a guided tour of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
• Returning to Cusco involves a bus ride from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, followed by a train journey to Ollantaytambo and a bus back to Cusco.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Trek

The Trek to Machu Picchu is a two-day adventure that takes hikers through the stunning Inca Trail, offering breathtaking views of historic ruins and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Priced from $681 per person, the trek features a moderate difficulty on the first day and an easy hike on the second day, covering a total distance of 16 km.

Accompanied by a live tour guide, the experience includes train transportation, one night’s accommodation, select meals, and all necessary entrance fees.

Hikers can also opt to visit the Huayna Picchu mountain for an additional fee.

The trek offers a flexible booking process, allowing travelers to reserve their spot and pay later.

Itinerary for Day 1

The first day of the Trek to Machu Picchu begins with a pickup from Cusco at 5 am.

Travelers then take a bus to the Ollantaytambo train station and a train to kilometer 104. From there, they’ll hike to Chachabamba and climb to Wiñay Wayna, enjoying a picnic lunch with views of historic ruins along the way.

The journey continues to Inti Punku (The Sun Gate) for sunset views of Machu Picchu before taking a bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay.

The day’s hike duration is approximately 6 hours.

The itinerary for Day 1 includes:

1. Pickup from Cusco at 5 am
2. Bus to Ollantaytambo train station, train to kilometer 104
3. Hike to Chachabamba, climb to Wiñay Wayna
4. Picnic lunch with views of historic ruins, continue to Inti Punku, bus to Aguas Calientes

Inca Trail Hike

One of the highlights of the Trek to Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail hike.

On the first day, travelers depart Cusco at 5 am and take a bus to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, they board a train to kilometer 104, where the hike begins.

The 6-hour trek takes hikers through the Chachabamba ruins and up to Wiñay Wayna, offering stunning views of historic ruins. Trekkers then continue to Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, to witness the sunset over Machu Picchu.

After the hike, they bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay.

The Inca Trail portion of the trek provides an immersive experience in the region’s rich history and natural beauty.

Arrival at Machu Picchu

On the second day, travelers embark on an early bus journey from Aguas Calientes to the gates of Machu Picchu.

With the iconic ruins now within reach, the group embarks on a guided tour, exploring the archaeological site’s main square, houses, temples, mausoleums, palace, and astronomical clock.

Afterwards, those seeking an extra challenge can opt to hike up Huayna Picchu mountain for stunning panoramic views.

The rest of the day is free for independent exploration, allowing visitors to enjoy the wonder of this ancient Inca citadel.

Before departing, travelers board the train back to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco, returning around 9:30 pm.

The guided tour of Machu Picchu includes:

1. Exploration of the main square
2. Visits to houses, temples, and mausoleums
3. Examination of the palace and astronomical clock
4. Optional hike up Huayna Picchu mountain

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Guided Tour of the Site

After reaching Machu Picchu, the guided tour of the site begins. The tour provides an in-depth exploration of the archaeological marvel.

Accompanied by an expert guide, visitors learn about the history, architecture, and significance of the structures within the ancient citadel. The tour covers the main square, houses, temples, mausoleums, and the impressive astronomical clock.

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy the grandeur of Machu Picchu and gain a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization. The guided experience enhances the overall visit, ensuring travelers leave with a comprehensive appreciation for this renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Exploring Machu Picchu

Typically, visitors are granted ample free time to explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu after the guided tour. This allows them to enjoy the ancient Inca citadel at their own pace.

During this self-guided exploration, travelers can:

1. Discover hidden nooks and crannies throughout the expansive site.
2. Climb the iconic Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains for stunning panoramic views.
3. Observe the intricate stonework and engineering feats that define the Inca architectural style.
4. Soak in the serene, spiritual atmosphere that permeates the UNESCO World Heritage site.

This unstructured time empowers travelers to tailor their Machu Picchu experience, creating lasting memories of this magnificent wonder of the world.

Returning to Cusco

At the conclusion of their guided tour and self-guided exploration of Machu Picchu, travelers board a bus that takes them back down to the town of Aguas Calientes.

From there, they catch a train that brings them to Ollantaytambo, where a bus awaits to transport them back to Cusco.

The journey back to Cusco typically takes around 3.5 hours, arriving at the tour’s drop-off point in the city around 9:30 PM.

This allows participants to enjoy a final evening in Cusco, reflect on their incredible trek to Machu Picchu, and plan for their onward travels or departure from Peru.

Inclusions and Extras

The trek to Machu Picchu includes an English-speaking guide, train transportation between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes, select meals, entrance fees, and return bus service between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.

Additional optional activities include:

1. Entrance to Huayna Picchu for $53.60 per person.
2. Extra food and drink not provided in the package.
3. Flexible booking with the option to reserve now and pay later.
4. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

These inclusions and extras ensure a comprehensive and customizable trekking experience to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Transportation Are Used During the Trek?

The trek utilizes various modes of transportation, including a bus from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, and buses between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. Hikers also walk the Inca Trail and explore Machu Picchu on foot.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Amount of Luggage Participants Can Bring?

There are no specific luggage restrictions for the two-day trek to Machu Picchu. Participants can bring a reasonable amount of personal belongings, but it’s recommended to pack light for the hike.

What Are the Options for Dietary Requirements or Food Allergies?

The tour operator accommodates various dietary requirements and food allergies. Participants can inform the guide of any special needs, who’ll ensure suitable meals are provided during the trek and at Machu Picchu.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trek or Stay Longer in Machu Picchu?

There’s no option to extend the trek itself, but travelers can add extra nights in Aguas Calientes or Cusco to spend more time exploring Machu Picchu and the surrounding region at their own pace.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Trek?

The best time to take this trek is during the dry season from May to October. The weather is generally dry and clear, offering optimal conditions for hiking and exploring Machu Picchu. Travelers can expect fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures during this period.

Recap

The two-day trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins. With a moderate hike on the first day and easy hiking on the second, this experience includes guided tours, breathtaking views, and an optional ascent of Huayna Picchu, making it an exceptional exploration of one of Peru’s most iconic heritage sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: