INCA TRAIL TREK 2 DAYS
Description
Discover Machu Picchu with our “Short Inca Trail” 2-day tour! This journey is specially designed for those who want to immerse themselves in the nature, culture, and history of the Incan civilization.
Unlike traditional routes, this itinerary allows you to explore the ancient paths of the Incas, along with the world wonder, Machu Picchu. Whether you choose the short Inca Trail trek or any of our other carefully curated tours, you will marvel at spectacular landscapes as our professional guide immerses you in the region’s history and culture, leading you to its main archaeological sites. Our package includes trekking along the Inca Trail, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and all transfers via bus and train. In short, this is a unique opportunity to explore the ancient Incan trails and Machu Picchu, nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, in just 2 days.
Itinerary
First Day: Visit to The "Lost City of The Incas"
Our 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail tour to the Machu Picchu citadel starts very early, around 3:30 AM. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer you to the exclusive bus station for train passengers, where we’ll board the bus to the Ollantaytambo train station.
We will board the train to Km 104. The Inca Trail is rated 2/5 in difficulty and is suitable for ages 12 and up or individuals in adaptable physical condition. This tour is designed for adventurous visitors who want to take on the challenge of the short Inca Trail 2 days. Offering an alternative to the traditional 4-day hike while still providing the unforgettable experience of visiting Machu Picchu.
We will disembark from the train at kilometer 104 to begin our trek. We will cross a bridge to reach the Route 05 entry checkpoint. The first point we reach is Chachabamba. Along the way, we will pass the impressive Phuyuwachi waterfall, a natural formation flowing from the heights of Phuyupatamarka, where we will observe a variety of wild flora and native birds.
After approximately 4 hours of walking, we will reach Wiñayhuayna, an impressive archaeological site with Inca terraces. We will continue our hike until we reach Intipunku (Sun Gate), where we will have a beautiful view of Machu Picchu. We’ll then begin our descent to the citadel to take the iconic photo and admire this world-famous attraction. After completing our Inca Trail, we will take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will transfer to the hotel to settle in for the night.
This route is a world-renowned destination with stunning geography that features archaeological sites, diverse landscapes, and climates. These have fostered the evolution of a rich variety of plants, animals, and insects that inhabit our mountains and jungle.
Second Day: Visit to The "Lost City of The Incas"
Early in the morning, we will have breakfast at the hotel and take a bus to the Archaeological Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The 25-minute ride will bring us directly to the site.
We will begin a guided tour of one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Many travelers prefer the two day inca trail to machu picchu to fully experience the breathtaking beauty of this route. Its design includes agricultural terraces or platforms, supported by stone retaining walls, as well as a hydraulic system featuring channels and aqueducts for water transport. The Machu Picchu citadel is part of a much larger area, covering over 35,000 hectares, and is a major tourist attraction that welcomes 1.5 million visitors annually. It is a world wonder that radiates energy through its beauty and majesty.
In the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where we will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Cusco
Included
- Pre-tour assistance.
- All transfers in tourist transportation.
- Assistance during the whole tour.
- Professional guided tour, English — Spanish.
- All entrance tickets to archaeological sites and tourist attractions mentioned in the tour.
- Entrance to Inca Trail.
- Train ticket, Ollantaytambo — Km.104.
- Train ticket Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
- Bus ticket, Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes.
- Bus ticket, Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu.
- Box lunch.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
No Included
- Food not mentioned.
- Tips.
- Other services not mentioned.
Recomendations
- Book in Advance.
- Bring your passport or ID.
- Arrive half an hour early at the train station.
- In the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, you will climb many stairs, wear suitable non-slip shoes.
- Carry in a small backpack, a camera, a sun-protective hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a water bottle.
- Take precautions and care when climbing, as there are many stairs to climb. The walk becomes safe if you follow the recommendations and the guide's instructions.
- Visit and enjoy the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes.
- Regarding your luggage, you can carry up to 7 kilos on the train.
- In high season, the number of visitors to Machu Picchu increases, so in some cases, you may have to queue to board the bus to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
Faqs
1. How many hours do we hike on the first day?
On the first day, the hike lasts between 6 and 7 hours, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions. Along the route, you will visit archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, while enjoying stunning mountain and jungle scenery. Our guide provides informative stops and rest breaks so you can enjoy each section without rushing. We carefully organize the itinerary to ensure a safe, pleasant, and truly authentic hiking experience.
2. Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, it is essential to book in advance because Inca Trail permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the high season. Our agency handles your official permit through the Ministry of Culture, ensuring availability according to your travel date. Booking early allows you to secure your spot, choose the best train schedule, and plan your itinerary in a calm and organized way.
3. What type of accommodation is used in Aguas Calientes?
We include one night in a comfortable, clean, and well-located tourist hotel in Aguas Calientes. We work with accommodations that ensure a pleasant rest after the hike, offering hot water, Wi-Fi, and an early breakfast. If you wish to upgrade your hotel category, we can arrange it easily and without complications. Our goal is to provide you with a comfortable night so you wake up refreshed and ready for your visit to Machu Picchu.
4. How early is Machu Picchu visited on the second day?
On the second day, the tour begins very early to take advantage of the best daylight hours and avoid large crowds. Depending on availability, your entrance time will be between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m. Our guide will accompany you from the hotel to the main gate, ensuring an organized and smooth visit. This planning allows you to explore Machu Picchu with greater tranquility, enjoy clearer views, and take photographs with better lighting.
5. Does the tour include meals during the journey?
Yes, we include a nutritious box lunch on the first day to help you stay energized during the hike, as well as dinner in Aguas Calientes and breakfast on the second day. We work with quality meal options and can also coordinate vegetarian or special dietary alternatives upon request. We ensure that you are well-fed at every stage of the tour, providing comfort and peace of mind throughout the entire experience.
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