Cusco,Wiñayhuayna, Machu Picchu
- Time 2 Days/ 1 Night
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 4215 m.a.s.l.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Description of the Trip
Designed for those with little time, our 2-day Inca Trail will give you the opportunity to enjoy the last part of the famous 4-day trek in just two days. During the tour, you will explore fascinating archaeological sites such as the impressive Wiñay Wayna. You can relax in the middle of beautiful hills and enjoy a lunch. Then, you will arrive at the Puerta del Sol, from where those who make the 4-day trek enter Machu Picchu. Here you will also have the first spectacular views of the impressive Machu Picchu in the distance. It’s an amazing landscape, so make sure you enjoy it to the fullest before you leave – we’ll be back the next day. Your comfort is our priority, therefore, you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, you will enjoy a delicious dinner after your day of hiking and you will be able to rest properly.
Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu –
Experience the authentic Inca Trail, enjoying breathtaking panoramas such as majestic mountains and lush vegetation. Discover the fascinating archaeological remains of the Inca culture and admire the breathtaking view of Machu Picchu for the first time, before spending a night in Aguas Calientes.
Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Discover the charms of Machu Picchu with your guide, reveal its secrets and return to Aguas Calientes. Then, take the train to Ollantaytambo and find our private transportation waiting for you to return to Cusco.
Day 1 | Day 2 | |
Departure point | Km 104 | Aguas Calientes |
Arrival point | Sun Gate– Machu Pichu Pueblo – Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu |
Activities | Transfer from Cusco to the Inca Trail and hike | Visit of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco |
Distance / duration | 11 Km. / 8 h. | |
Breakfast | ||
Lunch | ||
Snack | ||
Dinner |
Full itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Puerta del Sol – Machu Picchu
Cusco (3,400 masl): You will be picked up at your hotel early in the morning and transferred to Ollantaytambo. From there, we will board the train to Km.104, where our short version of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will begin.
Ollantaytambo Station (2,870 masl): With your guide, you can make a trip of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours from the hotel to reach the charming town of Ollantaytambo. From there, we will board the Expedition train that will take us to the starting point called KM 104, also known as “Chacha bamba”.
Km 104 Chacha bamba (2,100 masl): At the starting point, you must present your Inca Trail permit, original passport and ISIC card (if you have it). From here, we will start walking for 3.5 to 4 hours to Wiñayhuayna, where we will enjoy a snack. The trail to Wiñayhuayna offers a beautiful landscape and an incredible flora to enjoy.
Inti Punku (2,700 masl): After lunch, we will embark on an additional two-hour excursion to Intipunku, known as “Puerta del Sol”. From there, we will enjoy exceptional views of Machu Picchu and the majestic surrounding mountains. We will have about 20 minutes to rest and admire the beautiful scenery.
Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): Then, we will head to the mythical lost Inca city, Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): Afterwards, we will board a bus to Aguas Calientes and head to the hotel. We will arrive there around 16:00 to 17:00 hours. Once at the hotel, you can rest for a while and then enjoy a delicious dinner at one of our recommended restaurants.
- Distance: 7 miles / 11 km (6 hours)
- Highest point Altitude: 2,870 meters above sea level (cold climate)
- Considered: Easy
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Hot and very humid
- Night: Hotel Aguas Calientes
- Meals included: Lunch (box lunch) and Dinner
Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Sanctuary – Cusco
Machu Picchu: On the last day, we will have an early breakfast at the hotel and then we will take the bus to the Citadel of Machu Picchu. You will need to present your passport, entrance ticket and ISIC card (if you have one) to enter. You will take a guided tour of about 2 hours through the ruins and temples, then you will have free time to explore and take photographs. Then, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes and then the “Expedition” train to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. The train leaves at 6:30 p.m. and arrives in Ollantaytambo in 2 hours. A bus will be waiting for you there to take you back to Cusco. Your trip will end around 10:30 p.m.
- Highest point Altitude: 2,650 meters above sea level (cold climate)
- Considered: Easy
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Hot and very humid
- Meals included: Breakfast
Which includes
Which Includes The Inca Trail:
- Pick up from your hotel on departure
- Transfer to the train station of Ollantaytambo
- The train tickets to the hike (together with your guide)
- Entrance to the Inca Trail
- Lunch (box lunch) in Wiñay Wayna
- Visit the following Inca archaeological sites (Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku and Machu Picchu)
- Bus tickets to the city of Aguas Calientes
- Hotel 3* Aguas Calientes.
- Breakfast on the second day at the hotel
- Bus back to Machu Picchu on Day 2
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- 2 hours private guided tour by your guide
- Expedition tourist train round trip
- Tourist bus back to Cusco
- Transfer back to your hotel
- All the entrance to the places to visit
- Taxes included
Recommendations
Recommendations:
- Original passport
- ISIC (student discount card), if you have one
- Small backpack
- Poncho for the Rain
- The good hiking pants, hiking boots, sun, hat and sunglasses
- Camera batteries and extra
- 2 liters of water
- Extra money
- Insect repellent
- Trekking poles
- Snacks
Extras for your 2-Day Inca Trail:
- Canes ($10 a pair of sticks)
- Extra porter for personal belongings (60 $ for 7 Kilos -. Max 7 Kilos)
- Upgrade to Single Room in Aguas Calientes ($35)
- Upgrade to Train Vistadome ($80)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu ($65) – There is only a limited space at Huayna Picchu (400 people per day), so it is a good idea to book in advance.
- We can help you to book hotels (standard and luxury) if you prefer.
Prices
TOUR IN SHARED SERVICETour Inca Trail 2D 1N to Machu Picchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum of 02 people |
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Summary of the Tour
What the tour includes
TIPO DE TREN TURISTICO
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Important note:
The VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION – Peru Rail train service is available. If you prefer to add the service on the VISTADOME train, there will be an additional cost of US$ 45.00 per person for the round trip.
There are special prices for students, children and infants
FAQS
Frequently asked questions from travelers
Is it necessary to hire the service of a travel agency?
It is important to understand that the Inca Trail is a special situation in many aspects, since it can only be done through a formal travel agency that has a valid contract with the Machu Picchu authorities. We are one of the few companies that can currently provide the service without outsourcing to a second or third company.
What is the best travel season for Inca Trail?
Cusco offers a wide variety of climates that will surprise us at every moment. There are two different seasons:
- The dry season runs from the beginning of April to September. During this time, the rains are infrequent, which gives us sunny days and a pleasant climate to enjoy the scenery. It is the preferred season for many travelers.
- The rainy season is the second option, from the end of September to March. Here, the rains are more frequent, but they also give us an unforgettable experience. The vegetation of the sanctuary and its surroundings is shown in more intense colors due to the frequency of precipitation. In addition, this season is not chosen by many travelers, which means that the visiting spaces are more free and available to us.
Can I change the departure date after the permits have been purchased?
Unfortunately NOT. Once the permits have been acquired, the Peruvian government does not allow changes or modifications to be made to the departure date after the purchase. Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. In case of canceling the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit will not be refunded at all.
Do I need my original passport on the Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days?
Yes! You must bring your original passport and make sure it is the same one you used to book your 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit. Passports will be verified when entering Machu Picchu, during the Inca Trail tour and when boarding the train. If you are renewing your passport, please send us a copy of the old passport to guarantee your permission and we will be able to make the change when you get the new passport. Please send the new passport as soon as possible.
How easy is the Short Inca Trail trail?
The Short Inca Trail is less demanding than the traditional way, but still involves a hike through mountainous terrain. It is advisable to have a moderate level of physical fitness.
How long does it take to complete the Short Inca Trail?
The estimated time to finish the Short Inca Trail is about 6 hours.
How demanding is the physical hike of the Short Inca Trail?
The physical hike on the Short Inca Trail is of moderate level, but still involves a physical effort.
What do you need to take to do the Short Inca Trail?
It is advisable to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for walking, as well as water and food, extra clothes, a raincoat and sunscreen.
What are the differences between the short Inca Trail and the Traditional Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a shorter and less physically challenging version compared to the traditional Inca Trail. Both options offer an impressive experience, but the short tour may be more suitable for people with time constraints or physical condition.
What points of interest does the short Inca trail have?
The Short Inca Trail, which is completed in about 2 days, passes through several points of interest along the route. Some of these points include:
- Chachabamba: It is the starting point of the short Inca Trail. Here is an archaeological site consisting of agricultural terraces and Inca constructions.
- Wiñay Wayna: It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the tour. Wiñay Wayna has terraces, water fountains, platforms and an impressive panoramic view.
- Intipunku (Sun Gate): It is a structure located at the entrance of Machu Picchu. From here, you get a magnificent view of the Inca citadel.
- Machu Picchu: The final destination of the Short Inca Trail. Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca citadel considered a wonder of the world. Here you can explore the ruins, the temples, the agricultural terraces and enjoy the stunning panoramic views.
In addition to these points of interest, the camino itself offers spectacular landscapes, mountain views and the opportunity to enjoy the nature and history of the Andean region.
Is there an age limit?
There are no age restrictions for doing the Short Inca Trail. Both young people and adults of any age are suitable to undertake this experience. It is common to see happy families and groups of friends enjoying this adventure together, walking step by step without difficulties. The tour provides the opportunity to create unforgettable memories and share special moments amidst the natural beauty and history of the route.
Is previous hiking experience needed to do the Inca Trail?
No previous hiking experience is necessary, but good physical condition is recommended. Challenging terrain, preparation and consulting health professional if necessary.
Is it dangerous?
The Inca Trail may have associated risks, such as variable weather conditions and irregular terrain, but with proper planning and following the necessary precautions, it can be done safely.
Are there toilets along the way?
Along the Inca Trail, toilets are available at designated campsites, although they can be simple and shared. Outside the camps, there may be no toilets, so it is advisable to bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Is it mandatory to have travel insurance to do the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail itself does not have travel insurance, as it is considered a safe route. However, it is recommended that tourists purchase travel insurance separately. This type of insurance can be useful in medical emergency situations or other unforeseen events during the tour.
Is there electricity on the route?
There is no electricity on the Inca Trail. Carrying portable batteries is recommended due to the lack of plugs and charging points. The availability of electricity is limited, as services and accommodation depend on solar energy or generators. It is advisable to conserve energy and be aware of consumption to avoid exhausting the limited energy resources on the route.
How much does it cost to enter the butterfly garden of Machu Picchu?
This is located near the Machu Picchu campsite and is a charming place where you can appreciate a wide variety of butterflies in their natural habitat. This wonderful sanctuary houses hundreds of species of butterflies, providing a unique and educational experience.
The entrance prices to the Machu Picchu Butterfly Garden may vary, so I would recommend checking the updated prices before your visit. Generally, the prices range around S/10 soles and S/15 soles
Does it cost the entrance to the site museum ‘Manuel Chávez Ballón’?
The Machu Picchu Museum is an unmissable place for those who wish to deepen their knowledge about the ancient Inca city and its history. This museum exhibits a wide collection of artifacts and archaeological objects found in the area, providing a fascinating insight into the Inca culture and its relationship with Machu Picchu.
The entrance prices to the Machu Picchu Museum may vary, so I would recommend checking the updated prices before your visit. Generally, the prices range around 22 soles for an adult tourist and 11 soles for a Peruvian tourist (free with the entrance ticket of Machu Picchu).
What is Huayna Picchu?
Huayna Picchu is a mountain in the Archaeological Park of Machu Picchu, Peru, known for its conical shape and panoramic views. It requires a steep hike and a special ticket to access the top, from where the wonders of Machu Picchu and breathtaking landscapes are appreciated. Due to its popularity, access to Huayna Picchu is limited and a special ticket is required to climb the mountain.
How long does it take to get up and down from Huayna Picchu?
The average time can vary depending on the pace and physical condition of each person. It usually takes between 1 and 2 hours to complete the ascent and descent.
What is the cost of the ticket?
The price to enter Huayna Picchu is 200 Peruvian soles (about 62 dollars). If you get your ticket through a tourist agency, it is likely that the price will be higher due to the commission for the purchase.
What time to choose to ascend the mountain?
There are three timetable options to access the mountain:
- Group 1 (entrance to Machu Picchu from 6 am and to Huayna Picchu from 7 to 8 am)
- Group 2 (entrance to Machu Picchu from 7 am and to Huayna Picchu from 7 to 8 am)
- Group 3 (entrance to Machu Picchu from 8 am and to Huayna Picchu from 10:30 to 11:30 am)
What is the daily capacity of entry to the mountain?
The daily capacity of visitors at Huayna Picchu is limited to 400 people.
Can I go without a tour to Huayna Picchu?
No, it is not possible to visit Huayna Picchu without a tour or organized entrance. Access to Huayna Picchu is restricted and controlled to preserve the safety and care of the archaeological site. You must obtain an entrance ticket that includes access to Huayna Picchu, either through a tourism agency or by purchasing it directly on the official site.