Cusco: Inca Trail 2 days trekking – Machu Picchu

Imagine walking in the footsteps of the Incas, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, ancient ruins, and a sense of stepping back in time. This 2-day trek from Cusco takes you along the famous Inca Trail, leading to the incredible Machu Picchu. For $600 per person, you’ll get a taste of Peruvian history, nature, and adventure that’s hard to match. The trip includes train rides, guided tours, and a night in Aguas Calientes, making it a well-rounded experience for those ready to walk among ancient stones and modern marvels.

What we love most about this tour is how smoothly everything flows—from the early start that gets you to Machu Picchu before the crowds, to the scenic vistas from Puerta del Sol that reward your effort. The inclusion of a professional bilingual guide ensures you don’t just see ruins but understand their significance. Plus, the small group size (limited to 10 participants) means you’ll get personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

One potential consideration is that this tour must be booked at least a month in advance, since tickets to Machu Picchu are limited and sell out quickly. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions, so travelers in those categories should look for alternative options.

This trek is best suited for adventurous travelers craving an authentic, active experience with a focus on history and natural beauty. If you’re comfortable with a fair bit of walking, enjoy guided storytelling, and want to see Machu Picchu from a trail less traveled, this is a prime choice.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Walk along the historic Inca Trail, witnessing archaeological sites and stunning landscapes.
• Expert guidance: A professional bilingual guide enriches your understanding of Inca history and culture.
• Convenient logistics: Includes train rides, hotel in Aguas Calientes, bus transfers, and park tickets.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Early access to Machu Picchu: Be among the first visitors at sunrise, avoiding crowds and capturing iconic photos.
• Advance booking required: Tickets are limited, so plan at least a month ahead to secure your spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Inca Trail Trek

Day 1: The Trek Begins — From Ollantaytambo to Wiñaywayna

Our adventure kicks off early in the morning, with hotel pickup in Cusco. We’re headed to Ollantaytambo, where a scenic train ride awaits. The journey covers about 65 miles, offering glimpses of terraced hillsides and Peruvian countryside before arriving at the trailhead.

Once we disembark, our walking begins with crossing the Sacred River via a charming bridge—a perfect introduction to the rugged beauty ahead. Along the route, we pass through Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, both archaeological sites that give insight into Inca agricultural practices and ceremonial spaces. These stops aren’t just sightseeing; they help you imagine how the Incas used this landscape.

The day’s highlight is reaching Wiñaywayna, an impressive archaeological site and botanical garden where a short guided tour helps make sense of the stone terraces and terraces used for farming. We then hike toward Puerta del Sol, the famous vantage point that offers a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu perched in the distance. It’s a moment that makes all the uphill effort worthwhile.

After soaking in the view, we descend into Aguas Calientes, a lively town where we spend the night. Dinner here is a perfect chance to taste local cuisine, and the hotel offers a comfortable place to rest after the day’s exertions.

Day 2: The Grand Arrival — Machu Picchu

We rise early for the second day, catching a bus up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu. This early start means we beat most travelers, allowing for incredible photos and a more personal tour of this marvel.

Your guide takes you through the main temples and plazas, explaining the significance of each structure. You’ll learn about the Incas’ sophisticated engineering, their religious practices, and the purpose of key sites like the Intihuatana stone and the Temple of the Sun. After your guided visit and some free time for photographs, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes to explore the town or grab a quick lunch.

In the afternoon, the train takes you back to Ollantaytambo, and from there, we return to Cusco. The combination of treks, train rides, and bus transfers makes this a well-rounded adventure, with logistics handled smoothly so you can focus on the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers outstanding value by combining transportation, guided interpretive tours, entrance tickets, and accommodations. The price of $600 includes hotel pickup, train from Ollantaytambo, ticket to Machu Picchu, Inca Trail permit, meals (one breakfast, lunch, dinner), and a stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.

However, it’s important to note that breakfast on the first day and dinner on the second are not included. Also, if you’re interested in climbing Huayna Picchu, that’s an extra permit not covered here. The tour also provides basic safety gear like a first aid kit and oxygen bottle, which add peace of mind.

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The Experience and the Group

With a small group of up to 10 travelers, you’ll find the atmosphere relaxed and friendly. Having a bilingual guide like Juan (a name often mentioned in reviews) means a richer understanding of the sites, stories, and Inca symbolism.

Participants often comment on how well-organized and smooth the logistics are, especially given the complexities of train schedules, park regulations, and permits. “Everything was taken care of, so we could just enjoy the hike,” said one traveler, highlighting how stress-free the experience can be.

Travel Tips and Practicalities

• Be sure to book your tickets to Machu Picchu at least a month in advance, as they are limited and sell out fast, especially for the sunrise time slot.
• Pack comfortable sports shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses), and a reusable water bottle—trekking can be hot and dusty.
• Bring passport for park entry, and leave extra cash for souvenirs or snacks.
• This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day trek along the Inca Trail is a chance to walk through history, surrounded by spectacular landscapes and archaeological sites. It balances active adventure with cultural storytelling, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick peek at Machu Picchu.

The inclusion of transportation, guides, and accommodations makes it a practical package, especially if you’re keen to experience the trail with fewer logistical headaches. The early start and small group size enhance the feeling of exclusivity and connection to the landscape and history.

If you’re comfortable with a fair amount of walking, eager to visit Machu Picchu without the crowds, and want to learn from knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a blend of adventure, culture, and comfort.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While the trek covers significant ground over two days, it involves hiking on uneven terrain, so good physical condition is recommended. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable walking for several hours.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
The tour provides essentials like a first aid kit and oxygen, but it’s wise to bring comfortable sports shoes, sun protection, a water bottle, and a change of clothes for the hike.

Can I book this tour if I haven’t secured my tickets to Machu Picchu?
No, you must check availability and book your tickets at least a month in advance, as the permits are limited and sell out quickly.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of no more than 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention from your bilingual guide.

Are meals included?
The tour includes one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner, but breakfast on day 1 and dinner on day 2 are not included. You can explore local restaurants in Aguas Calientes for additional meals.

Is luggage storage available?
The tour doesn’t specify luggage storage, so it’s best to travel light—bring only what you need for the hike and your day in Aguas Calientes.

Can children join this trek?
The tour details don’t specify age restrictions, but given the physical activity involved, it’s best suited for older children and teenagers with good stamina.

What about weather considerations?
The tour runs rain or shine, so pack accordingly. Sunshine is common, but be prepared for sudden weather changes with a rain jacket or poncho.

This 2-day Inca Trail adventure offers a fantastic balance of active exploration and cultural discovery. For travelers eager to experience the hidden beauty of the Andes and the mystery of Machu Picchu up close, it’s a memorable, well-organized way to connect with Peru’s most iconic site.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby