Inca Trail 2 Days

Early in the morning, we will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco to begin the 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. After arriving in Ollantaytambo, you will take a train to kilometer 104 (the starting point of the trek). Once there, you will need to get off the train and take the classic photo with a sign for the 2-day Inca Trail.

Local rangers will check your travel permit and passport. Our trek will begin with a small bridge and a short climb to Chachabamba, a lesser-known but impressive Inca site.

Chachabamba

bamba:Chachabamba is located at 2,150 meters (almost 7,053 feet) above sea level and features a rock altar that was used as a center of worship for Inti, the Sun God, and the Apus, the mountain spirits traditionally venerated by the Incas. A day hike followed by a stay in natural hot springs is the perfect way to relax after a long day of trekking.

Wiñay Wayna:

After Chachabamba, we hike for approximately four hours to Winay Wayna. Known as “eternally young” in Quechua, the most beautiful point along the trail is at 2,650 meters (8,694 feet). Formerly an administrative center of Machu Picchu, it features 20 urban areas, agricultural lands, and places of worship. The most spectacular is the Temple of the Seven Windows, built in honor of the rainbow. Our guide will provide a guided tour. Afterward, we will stop for lunch. You can use the restrooms afterward, and then we will continue to our next destination, Intipunku (Sungate).

Intipunku:

Winay Wayna is about an hour from Intipunku. It’s a trekking segment that takes us through a tropical rainforest. Next to the Sun Gate, you’ll have a panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel, nestled between Huayna Picchu and the Machu Picchu mountains. Access to the citadel for hikers is through the Sun Gate for those on the Classic Inca Trail and the Short Inca Trail. We’ll take our time to enjoy the view. Then, we’ll continue for 45 minutes to the viewpoint where you’ll have time to take photos. There are about three viewpoints (remember, the first day is dedicated to photos at the viewpoints, and the second day is the tour of the lower section, Circuit 3, but you also have the option to book Circuit 2 depending on availability). Afterward, we’ll leave the citadel, and a bus will take you to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll check you into a hotel. Aguas Calientes boasts hot springs. This is a great place to relax after a long day of hiking and spend the night enjoying the natural thermal waters. There are also several shops in town selling souvenirs, and we’ll have dinner in the evening.

The 2 day Inca Trail: the first day is 12 km or 7.5 miles. You’ll need to bring a 25-liter backpack to carry your clothes, snacks, and a box lunch. If you don’t want to carry your backpack, you can book a porter, but please contact us first.

Exploring the iconic Machu Picchu

Day 2 is dedicated exclusively to exploring Machu Picchu. We’ll start with breakfast at the hotel (5:00 a.m.) and then board the bus up to Machu Picchu. The ride takes about 25 minutes and drops us off right at the entrance (the gate opens at 6:00 a.m.). Once there, we’ll show our passports. When you book the Inca Trail 2 Days package, you automatically get Circuit 3, but Circuit 2 is the best route, so we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance for an additional $60 USD.

After touring Machu Picchu, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo town and then continue by bus to Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel.

If you’ve booked tickets for Huayna Picchu (not included), your hike will start at  10:00 a.m. The hike to the top takes about 45 minutes, so it’s a great addition if you want to enjoy those extra views. Just let us know in advance, or check with your Tour Guide for the best timing according to your trip schedule.

In the afternoon, we’ll head back to Aguas Calientes and take the 16:20 train* to reach the town of Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, we will have transportation waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco (2 hours approx).

*This tour includes the tourist class train, but you can upgrade to the Vistadome panoramic train for an extra $80 USD. Train options are subject to availability.

• Tour duration: 3 hours in Machu Picchu
• Highest Altitude: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft
• Meals: Breakfast
• Train: Expedition tourist class