A 2-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu: A Practical and Authentic Journey

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking in the footsteps of the Incas, the Smoll Group’s Inca Trail 2 days – new route to Machu Picchu offers a compelling way to do it, without the multi-day commitment or overwhelming crowds. For $685 per person, you’ll travel from Cusco to the legendary Machu Picchu through a scenic, less-trodden route that combines manageable hiking with memorable cultural sights.

What immediately appeals to us is the balance between adventure and comfort—you’re hiking for about 6 hours on the first day, with a mix of archaeological sites and breathtaking vistas, then relaxing in Aguas Calientes for the night. We also love that this route offers a more intimate experience—small groups limited to just 10 participants ensure you’re not lost in a sea of travelers. One thing to consider: the activity is listed as moderate, so it might be a bit challenging if you’re not used to walking long distances or hiking at altitude.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a shorter but authentic Inca Trail experience. If you’re pressed for time but craving a meaningful trek that avoids the crowds of the classic 4-day route, this could be your perfect choice. It’s also well-suited for those who want knowledgeable guides and a focus on the scenic and archaeological highlights.

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Key Points

Unique route: Offers a less crowded, new trail experience to Machu Picchu.
Balanced itinerary: Combines hiking, archaeological exploration, and relaxing in Aguas Calientes.
Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, fostering a more personal experience.
All-inclusive value: Includes transport, entrance fees, guides, and accommodation.
Moderate difficulty: Suitable for travelers comfortable with 6-hour hikes.
Flexibility: Options for walking down from Machu Picchu or taking the bus.

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A Closer Look at the 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Cusco to Machu Picchu

Your adventure begins early—a 5:00 am hotel pickup sets the tone for a full day. The journey kicks off with a bus ride south to Ollantaytambo, a town famous for its impressive Inca ruins. From there, you’ll board a train headed to KM 104, the starting point of the trail. This part of the trip isn’t just transportation; it’s a scenic ride where you’ll watch the lush landscape shift as you head toward the mountains.

Once at KM 104, the real hiking begins. You’ll walk up to Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, two archaeological sites that give a peek into Inca life. These sites are not as crowded as Machu Picchu but rich in history and atmosphere. Travelers often comment on the “stunning views” and the feeling of being away from the busier routes.

The walk continues to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll pause for spectacular photo opportunities of Machu Picchu. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and get a sense of the scale and mystery of the site from above. After this, you’ll descend to Machu Picchu itself—an iconic moment, whether you’re a first-timer or returning for a deeper appreciation.

The day’s hiking is about 6 hours and 12 kilometers long, marked as moderate difficulty. Some reviews emphasize the well-marked trail and manageable pace, though a few mention that the elevation can be a challenge if you’re not acclimated.

Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu and Return

After a restful night at a basic hostel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus up to the site early in the morning. A guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts about two hours, during which guides highlight key features and answer questions—an essential experience for understanding the site’s significance.

Post-tour, you have the flexibility to explore on your own or relax. Lunch in Aguas Calientes feeds into the afternoon train ride back to Ollantaytambo, then a bus to Cusco. The second day involves only a 4-kilometer walk in total, making it much lighter than the first day.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers considerable convenience: hotel pick-up and drop-off, train tickets, guided tours, entrance fees, and accommodations in Aguas Calientes. It’s a full-package deal that minimizes stress and maximizes value. However, meals other than breakfast and the included dinners/lunches aren’t covered, so plan for extra snacks or meals as needed.

Notably, entrance to Huaynapicchu Mountain is not included—an optional hike if you want to see the site from a different perspective. Also, activities like the first-day bus down are not included, but you have the option to walk if you prefer.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

Transportation: The combination of bus, train, and foot ensures a scenic and efficient journey, but be prepared for early mornings and a fair amount of travel time.
Guide Expertise: Guides are bilingual in Spanish and English and praised for their knowledge, making the experience more enriching.
Preparation: Bring a passport or ID, insect repellent, and a change of clothes. The trail is well-marked, but insect repellent helps with bites.
Weather & Conditions: Since the tour isn’t refundable if canceled due to weather or strikes, it’s wise to check the forecast and be flexible with plans.
Physical Fitness: Moderate difficulty means you should be comfortable walking 6 hours, with some elevation gains.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ passion and knowledge, adding depth to the visit. The trail itself offers a sense of discovery, away from the busy, commercialized routes, making this experience more genuine.

Value and Cost

At $685, the tour covers most essentials—entrance fees, transportation, guiding, and accommodation—making it a solid value for those eager to combine adventure and culture. The small group size also enhances the experience, avoiding the crowd effects often seen on larger tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who appreciate walking and exploring archaeological sites in a scenic, less crowded setting. It’s perfect for those with a sense of adventure but who don’t want to commit to the longer, more strenuous four-day trail. If you’re a history buff eager for meaningful insights and stunning views, you’ll find this trip rewarding. Be aware that it’s not ideal if you’re pregnant, have heart problems, or require wheelchair access, as the hike involves moderate terrain.

Final Thoughts

The Smoll Group’s Inca Trail 2 days offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for those who want to see Machu Picchu from a different angle. You’ll enjoy beautiful scenery, archaeological highlights, and the thrill of hiking an alternative route—all with the comfort of guided support and included transport.

While it’s not a strenuous trek, it does require a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. For travelers craving a meaningful journey that balances activity with culture, this tour hits the right notes—and at a price that reflects the value of the experience.

If you’re looking for a manageable, scenic, and culturally rich way to reach Machu Picchu, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

Do I need to be an experienced hiker for this trip?
Not necessarily. The hike is classified as moderate, involving 6 hours of walking and some elevation gain, but it’s manageable for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making the explanations accessible for international travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, insect repellent, a change of clothes, and personal essentials. Considering the weather, layers and rain gear might be wise.

Can I walk down from Machu Picchu instead of taking the bus?
Yes, you have the option to walk down the trail, which is well signposted, or take the bus—your choice.

Is the accommodation in Aguas Calientes comfortable?
It’s a basic hostel, offering a simple overnight stay with breakfast. It’s functional, not luxurious, but sufficient after a long day of hiking.

Are meals included?
Breakfast on Day 2, plus a box lunch and dinner on Day 1, and lunch on Day 2, are included. Other meals are not, so plan accordingly.

What happens if the trip is canceled due to weather or strikes?
No refunds are provided, but an alternative date will be offered.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the difficulty level is moderate, families with children comfortable with walking long distances may enjoy it. Not suitable for pregnant women or those with heart issues.

How far in advance should I book?
Availability varies, so booking ahead is recommended, especially since small group sizes are limited to 10.

This 2-day trek offers a fantastic glimpse into the Inca world, combining scenic landscapes, archaeological sites, and the thrill of a less-trodden route. It’s a great choice for travelers eager for adventure with a touch of authenticity—and a manageable schedule to boot.