2 day hike to Machu Picchu

A Practical and Authentic 2-Day Hike to Machu Picchu

If you’re short on time but eager to soak in the magic of Machu Picchu, this 2-day trek offers a fantastic balance of scenery, history, and manageable walking. Starting from Cusco, you’ll journey through the Andean landscape on a route that’s less strenuous than the classic Inca Trail but still packed with unforgettable moments. For $650 per person, you get a well-organized experience that includes hotel stays, transfers, guided tours, and all fees, making it a good value for those who want a hassle-free adventure.

What we really like about this tour is the personalized service—it’s a private experience for your group, allowing for a more flexible and intimate exploration. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, turning what could be a challenging hike into a memorable journey filled with stories and insights. The second thing that stands out is the spectacular scenery: from archaeological sites like Wiayhuayna to the Sun Gate with panoramic views of Machu Picchu, you’ll be wowed at every turn.

One aspect to consider is that this tour requires moderate physical fitness. While it’s less demanding than the full Inca Trail, you’ll still hike about 13 km over two days with around 6 hours walking each day. If you’re not accustomed to walking long distances or rugged terrain, that’s something to keep in mind. Also, some additional costs like the Huayna Picchu Mountain fee are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to climb higher and get a different perspective on the site.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers with limited time who still want to experience the thrill of reaching Machu Picchu on foot. If you’re someone who appreciates guided insights, scenic landscapes, and a personalized itinerary, you’ll find this experience engaging and rewarding.

Key Points

• Less demanding route: Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels looking to enjoy a scenic Inca trail experience.
• Private tour: Your group will have exclusive attention, making your visit more personalized.
• Comprehensive package: Includes hotel, transfers, lunch, guide, train, and entrance fees—no hidden costs.
• Early start, unforgettable views: Depart at 7:00 am, arriving early at Machu Picchu for prime photos and less crowding.
• Authentic insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendliness—adding depth to your visit.
• Limited time, big impact: Perfect for those with a busy schedule but who still want a meaningful adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Machu Picchu Trek

Starting Point and Logistics

Your journey kicks off early in the morning at Cusco, with a pickup and transfer to km 104, where the hike begins. This is a significant advantage: starting early allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy the site in a more peaceful setting. The arrival on the train to the starting point is smooth, and the entire transport arrangement appears well-coordinated, according to reviews.

Day 1: Walking Through History and Nature

Your first day involves about 6 hours of hiking, covering roughly 13 km. You’ll start at km 104, walking through the lush Peruvian landscape toward Chachabamba, an archaeological site where your guide will explain its historical significance. This stop is often praised for its combination of nature and history, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

Next, you’ll move on to Wiayhuayna, a site considered second in importance only to Machu Picchu itself. This site is a highlight, with some reviews emphasizing how the guide’s stories brought the stones and ruins alive—”the guide kept spirits high,” as one reviewer put it. After exploring Wiayhuayna, you’ll hike towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers stunning vistas of Machu Picchu in the distance. Many travelers describe the view from the Sun Gate as breathtaking and worth every step, with one review describing the arrival as a moment “that gave me chills.”

Since the day ends with a descent to Aguas Calientes, you’ll check into a cozy hostel, ready for an early start the next day. The first day’s pace is manageable but requires a good level of fitness; the walk is scenic and includes some uphill segments, but nothing overly strenuous.

Day 2: Reaching Machu Picchu

The early morning departure from Aguas Calientes involves a quick bus ride up and over to Machu Picchu, arriving around 6:00 am. This timing is ideal—you’re among the first visitors, giving you the chance to experience the site with fewer crowds and capture those iconic photos at sunrise. Your guide will lead you through the main highlights, sharing stories and explanations that deepen your understanding of Inca ingenuity and purpose.

After the guided tour, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore independently. Many reviews mention how the guides’ insights enhanced their appreciation for the site, turning a sightseeing stop into a meaningful encounter with history. If you choose to climb Huayna Picchu, be aware that this additional fee is not included, but you can decide on the spot if time and energy permit.

Post-visit, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo, then enjoy a private van transfer to Cusco. The entire process is well organized, with reviewers noting how smoothly everything ran.

Accommodation and Food

The tour includes a night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, making the early start feasible and reducing fatigue. Lunch is provided on the trail, giving you energy for the hike, while dinner and breakfast are not included—so you may want to carry some snacks or plan to dine in Aguas Calientes. According to reviews, the lunch provided during the hike is satisfying and a welcomed break.

Pricing and Value

At $650 per person, this package offers good value, considering the included hotel, train tickets, entrance fees, guiding services, and transfers. It’s a comprehensive experience that minimizes logistical headaches, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery and history without worrying about tickets or transportation.

Who Will Love It?

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, guided experience that balances scenic hiking with cultural insights. It’s ideal for those with moderate fitness, appreciating personalized service, and seeking a more intimate visit rather than large group tours. If you’re short on time but want to reach Machu Picchu on foot, this is a solid choice.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive prepared for a moderate hike; comfortable footwear and layers are recommended.
• Book early—this tour is popular, booked on average 9 days in advance.
• Bring cash or cards for extra expenses, like optional Huayna Picchu climbing or souvenirs.
• Consider the weather: clear days will offer the best views, but be prepared for rain or sun.
• Arrive early at Machu Picchu to beat crowds and capture stunning photos.
• If you want to climb Huayna Picchu, plan to reserve your ticket well in advance as it’s not included in the package.
• Keep your mobile ticket handy; the tour offers pickup and seamless transfers.

The Sum Up

This 2-day guided hike to Machu Picchu offers a balanced mix of manageable walking, expert guidance, and stunning scenery, making it perfect for travelers with limited time but high expectations. The personalized service and well-organized logistics mean you can focus on enjoying the journey rather than worrying about the details.

While it requires a moderate level of fitness, those who love a scenic walk and want to experience Machu Picchu early in the morning will find this tour particularly rewarding. The stories and insights from knowledgeable guides transform a simple hike into a meaningful adventure that you’ll remember for years.

If you’re a traveler who values authenticity, comfort, and well-planned logistics—and want to make every step count—this tour is a superb choice. It combines convenience with a genuine adventure, allowing you to connect with the landscape and history in a way that large group tours often miss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the walk is manageable for most with moderate fitness, some hiking experience helps, as you’ll walk about 13 km over the two days with around 6 hours of walking each day.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a hotel in Aguas Calientes, train tickets, transfers, guided tours, the Inca trail entrance fee, and lunch during the hike. Additional expenses like Huayna Picchu mountain fee are not included.

What should I bring on the hike?
Comfortable hiking shoes, layers for weather changes, water, sun protection, and any personal essentials. Carrying a small backpack with snacks and a camera is recommended.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu?
The fee for Huayna Picchu is not included, and tickets are limited, so plan ahead if you wish to climb it. It’s best to check availability early.

What is the best time to book?
Since the tour is booked on average 9 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve at least a week early, especially during peak season.

How early do we start on Day 2?
The tour starts early in the morning, with departures around 5:30 am for the bus to Machu Picchu, arriving around 6:00 am—perfect for sunrise photos.

Is transportation from Cusco included?
Yes, the entire transfer process—from hotel pickup, train to km 104, and return to Cusco—is included, making the experience effortless.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Who would this tour suit best?
Adventure travelers who want an authentic and guided approach, those with moderate fitness levels, and anyone who appreciates a personalized experience and early access to Machu Picchu.

This 2-day trek balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience Machu Picchu without the rigors of the full Inca Trail. It’s a journey that promises stunning views, expert guides, and enough time to truly appreciate one of the world’s most iconic sights.