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Classic Inca Trail 2 days / 1 night

Cusco, Wiñaywayna, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu

  • Time 2 days / 1 night
  • Tour Type Hike
  • Altitude 4200 m.a.s.l.
  • Place Cusco
  • Difficulty Moderate
+51 979 711 874

Trip Description

Our tour “Inca Trail 2 days – short version” is perfect for those who want to know the flora and fauna of the region, but have little time to do it.

This route covers part of the 4-day Inca Trail and will give you a unique experience as you ascend to the top of the mountain to enjoy a spectacular arrival and spectacular views of Machu Picchu.

During the hike, you will be able to visit Wiñay Huayna, a beautiful ruin on the way to Machu Picchu, and continue to the Sun Gate to see the Lost City of the Incas for the first time.

Short itinerary

Day 01: Cusco – km104 – Chachabamba – Wiñaywayna -Aguas Calientes

The excursion begins with the pick up at your hotel and transfer to the train station. Once there, you will board the train that will take you to km 104, from where you will begin the hike. During the tour, you will visit Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, and then arrive at Intipunku, where you will have a panoramic view of Machupicchu. Afterwards, you will descend to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in a hotel.

Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Early in the morning, we will enjoy breakfast at the hotel and take a bus that will take us to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Sanctuary, a trip that will last 30 minutes. Once there, our guide will accompany us on a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the Inca City of Machu Picchu. In the afternoon, we will return by train and take you back to your hotel in Cusco from the station.

Places to visit and activities to do on the Inca Trail 2 days – 1 night

 Day 1Day 2
Starting pointKm 104Aguas Calientes
Arrival pointSun Gate – Machu Pichu Pueblo – Aguas CalientesMachu Picchu
Distance / duration11 km / 8 h
ActivitiesTransfer from Cuzco to the Inca Trail and hikeVisit Machu Picchu and return to Cuzco.
Breakfast
Lunch
Snack
Dinner

Complete Itinerary

Day 01: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

Cusco (3,400 masl): The short version of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will start at your hotel around 5:00 a.m., where you will be picked up to be transferred to Ollantaytambo and board the train that will take you to Km.104.

Ollantaytambo Station (2,870 masl): With the help of a guide, you will take a trip of about 1 to 1.5 hours from the hotel to reach the town of Ollantaytambo. From there, you will board the Expedition train to go to the starting point called KM 104 “Chacha bamba”.

Km 104 Chacha bamba (2,100 masl): At the beginning of the trek, it is necessary to present the corresponding Inca Trail permit, the original passport and the ISIC card if you have one. This is the starting point of the trek, where we will start walking for approximately 3.5 to 4 hours until we reach Wiñayhuayna, where we will take a break and enjoy a delicious snack. During the hike to Wiñayhuayna, we will be able to appreciate a beautiful landscape and impressive flora.

Inti Punku (2,700 masl): After lunch, we head to Intipunku “Sun Gate” for another two hours of hiking, from where we will have a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu and its surrounding mountains. There, we will have a rest time of approximately 20 minutes to admire the beauty of the landscape.

Machu Picchu (2,430 masl): Afterwards, we will go to the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes (2,040 masl): Afterwards, we board a bus to Aguas Calientes and transfer you to your hotel. We estimate that we will arrive around 16:00 to 17:00 in the afternoon. After that, we will go to the hotel to rest a little and then you can enjoy an exquisite dinner in one of the restaurants that we recommend.

  • Distance: 7 miles / 11 kilometers (6 hours)
  • Highest point Altitude: 2,870 meters above sea level (cold weather)
  • Rated: Easy
  • Zone: High Cloud Forest
  • Climate: Warm and very humid
  • Overnight: Hotel Aguas Calientes
  • Meals included: Lunch (box lunch) and Dinner

Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Sanctuary – Cusco

Machu Picchu: On the last day of our trip, we will get an early start with breakfast at 5:00 a.m. at the hotel before heading to the bus that will take us to the Machu Picchu Citadel. In order to enter, you will need to present your passport, entrance ticket and ISIC card, if you have the latter. Then, accompanied by a guide, you will take a tour of about 2 hours visiting the different temples and ruins of the city. You will then have free time to explore and take pictures on your own. Once you have enjoyed all that the city has to offer, you will use the bus ticket to go down to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco via Ollantaytambo. The “Expedition” train leaves at 6:30 pm and arrives in Ollantaytambo after 2 hours. In Ollantaytambo a bus will be waiting for you to take you back to Cusco, where your trip will end around 10:30 pm.

  • Highest point Altitude: 2,650 meters above sea level (cold weather)
  • Rated: Easy
  • Zone: High Cloud Forest
  • Climate: Warm and very humid
  • Meals included: Breakfast

Which includes

What is included in the Inca Trail:

  • Pick up from your hotel at departure
  • Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
  • Train tickets to the trek (along with your guide)
  • Entrance fee 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
  • Tourist train expedition round trip
  • Tourist bus back to Cusco
  • Transfer back to your hotel
  • All entrance fees to the places to visit
  • Taxes included

Recommendations

What to bring

  • Original passport
  • ISIC (student discount card), in case you have one
  • Small backpack
  • Rain poncho
  • 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 days Inca Trail

  • Walking poles (10 $ a pair of poles)
  • Extra porter for personal belongings (60 $ for 7 Kilos -. Max 7 Kilos)
  • Upgrade to single room in Aguas Calientes (35 $)
  • Upgrade to Vistadome train (80 $)
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu (65 $) – There is only limited space at Huayna Picchu (400 people per day), so it is a good idea to book in advance.
  • We can help you book hotels (standard and deluxe) if you prefer.

Prices

SHARED SERVICE TOUR

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

PRICE PER PERSON

Minimum 02 people

Tour Summary

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel (only Cusco and is optional)
  • Informative talk in our office
  • Day 01: Cusco – km104 – Chachabamba – Wiñaywayna -Aguas Calientes
  • Day 02: Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

What is included in the tour

  • Pick up from your hotel at departure
  • Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
  • Train tickets to the trek (along with your guide)
  • Entrance to the Inca Trail
  • Lunch (box lunch) at 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
  • Tourist train expedition round trip
  • Tourist bus back to Cusco
  • Transfer back to your hotel
  • All entrance fees to the places to visit
  • Taxes included

TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN

  • Departure and Return: Expedition or Voyager

Important note:

The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the service in VISTADOME Train the additional is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.

Differential prices for students, children, infants.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers

What is the best time to travel to Cusco?

The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, especially in June and July.g

The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. Rainfall can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.

Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.

What is the weather like in Cusco?

The climate in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.

  • The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
  • Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rains and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.

It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.

What to see in Machu Picchu?

  • The Intihuatana, The Temple of the Sun: a large ceremonial building, probably dedicated to the god Inti, the sun god in Inca mythology.
  • The Main Temple: A large structure with an impressive panoramic view of the nearby mountains.
  • The Main Street: The main road that runs through the center of the city and connects the main areas of Machu Picchu.
  • The Sun Gate: The main entrance to Machu Picchu and one of the most iconic points of the city.
  • The thermal baths: Inca system of thermal baths.
  • The Huayna Picchu mountain: an optional hike that offers even more impressive panoramic views of the ruins of Machu Picchu, the hike lasts 1 hour uphill to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain.

What to bring on my trip to Cusco?

If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:

  1. Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking, and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
  2. Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
  3. Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
  4. Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure you bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
  5. Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles for shopping in local markets, paying for cabs and tipping.
  6. Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
  7. Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.

Where is Huayna Picchu?

Huayna Picchu is a mountain located in Machu Picchu. It is located north of the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and is one of the most iconic mountains in the area.

The climb to the top of Huayna Picchu is a popular activity for visitors to Machu Picchu, as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the archaeological site and the surrounding area. However, the ascent is quite steep and can be challenging for some visitors, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the experience safely.

What is Aguas Calientes like?

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located in the Urubamba River valley, near Machu Picchu. It is the starting point for most visitors who want to visit Machu Picchu, as it is where the train stations and access to the buses that take visitors to the entrance of Machu Picchu are located.

Aguas Calientes has a vibrant tourist atmosphere and is a fairly small town. There are a variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, souvenir stores and travel agencies to cater to visitors. Due to its location in a mountainous area, the city has many stairs and steep streets, but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.

In addition to serving as a base for visitors to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes has some tourist attractions of its own, such as the hot springs that give the town its name, a small historic church and some nearby Inca ruins.

Where is Inti Punku?

Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site located on the route of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level, and is the traditional entry point to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

It is a stone structure located on top of a mountain with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River valley.

The hike to Inti Punku is the final section of the Inca Trail route. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and nature before reaching the ceremonial gate and getting their first view of the citadel of Machu Picchu.

Which camps will you visit during the trek?

  • Wayllabamba Camp: Wayllabamba camp is where hikers spend their first night on the Inca Trail after walking a steep and demanding section of the route. The camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to relax and socialize.
    Runkuraqay Camp: Runkuraqay camp is the second camp on the Inca Trail route after Wayllabamba camp. Hikers spend their second night at this camp after hiking up a steep section of the trail and passing through the Warmiwañusca Pass (known as the Dead Woman’s Pass) at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The Runkuraqay camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp is rocky and sparsely vegetated, but offers stunning views of the nearby mountains.
  • Wiñayhuayn Camp: Wiñay Wayna camp is the third and last camp on the Inca Trail route before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu the following day. The camp is surrounded by vegetation and close to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. The Wiñay Wayna camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp has a lot of tropical plants and flowers, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature.

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