Cusco,Wiñayhuayna, Machu Picchu,Huayna Picchu
- Time 2 Days/ 1 Night
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 4215 m.a.s.l.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Moderate
Description of the Trip
Discover the incredible experience of the Inca Trail in just 48 hours! During the journey, you will have the opportunity to explore amazing archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, while enjoying an outdoor lunch surrounded by picturesque hills. You will also visit the emblematic Puerta del Sol to admire the breathtaking views of the majestic Machu Picchu for the first time. In addition, you can choose to ascend the Huaynapicchu Mountain and enjoy stunning panoramas of the ancient Inca citadel. At the end of the day, you will rest in a cozy hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy an exquisite dinner and enjoy a restful sleep before exploring Machu Picchu the next day. Do not miss the opportunity to live a unique adventure in Peru!
Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco -KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu –
Embark on the authentic Inca Trail through stunning mountain landscapes and lush vegetation. Discover Inca archaeological sites and enjoy the first glimpse of Machu Picchu before spending the night in Aguas Calientes.
Day 02: Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Discover the charms of Machu Picchu with your guide, revealing its secrets before returning to Aguas Calientes. Later, you will take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle will be waiting to take you back 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 meters above sea level): You will be picked up at your hotel and taken to Ollantaytambo, from where you will board the train to reach the starting point at km.104.
Ollantaytambo Station (2,870 masl): From this point, we will take the Expedition train to our starting point called KM 104, also known as “Chacha Bamba”.
Km 104 Chacha bamba (2,100 masl): At the starting point, it is required to present the Inca Trail permit, original passport and, if you have it, the ISIC card. Here we will start the 3.5 to 4 hour hike to Wiñayhuayna, where we will enjoy a tasty snack. The road to Wiñayhuayna offers a beautiful landscape and an impressive flora to admire during the tour.
Inti Punku (2,700 masl): After lunch, we embark on a two-hour hike to Intipunku, known as “Puerta del Sol”, from where we get panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. Here, we will have about 20 minutes to rest and admire the beautiful landscape.
Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): After, we will go to the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu.
Aguas Calientes and Campground (2,040 masl): Afterwards, we will take a short 20-minute bus ride to the campground in Puente Ruinas. Once there, the tents will be ready for your comfort. You will have the opportunity to meet with the porters and enjoy a happy hour with hot drinks and dinner. In the evening, there will be a small ceremony to say goodbye to the chef and the porters, who will still be present to prepare breakfast and bid you a warm farewell the next day.
- 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 5:00 a.m. at the hotel before boarding the bus to the Citadel of Machu Picchu. To enter, you must show your passport, entrance ticket and ISIC card, if you have one. Then, you will take a guided tour of approximately 2 hours through the ruins and temples. After the visit, you will have free time to explore the city and take pictures at your leisure.
Once you have enjoyed the magnificent Inca city, you will use the bus ticket to descend to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. The Expedition train leaves at 6:30 p.m. and arrives in Ollantaytambo after 2 hours. In Ollantaytambo, a bus will be waiting 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 it
- 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:
Huayna Picchu (Young Mountain): Huayna Picchu is the mountain north of Machu Picchu. A 45-minute walk is required to reach the top, crossing a dense forest and challenging staircases for those afraid of heights. You can do this hike after visiting Machu Picchu, with an additional cost of $75. We recommend booking at least a month in advance due to its popularity. Please note that the weather in the area is unpredictable and out of our control.
- 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 ($75) – There is only a limited space at Huayna Picchu (400 people per day), so it is a good idea to book in advance.
- We can help you to book hotels (standard and luxury) if you prefer.
Prices
TOUR IN SHARED SERVICETour Inca Trail 2D 1N to Machu Picchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum of 02 people |
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Summary of the Tour
What the tour includes
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
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Important note:
The VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION – Peru Rail train service is available. If you prefer to add the service on the VISTADOME train, there will be an additional cost of US$ 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 the 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 are the points of interest of the short Inca trail?
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).
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.
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.
