Overview
Embark on a thrilling 2-day adventure to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic landmarks of the world. This tour combines history, nature, and breathtaking views as you hike the Inca Trail. Starting with an early morning pick-up from your hotel, you will journey through the stunning landscapes of the Urubamba River, past spectacular snow-capped mountains and lush farmland, before beginning your trek at Km 104. Along the way, you will explore ancient Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna, learn about the history of the Incas, and enjoy some of the most awe-inspiring vistas.
On Day 2, you’ll get up early to witness the sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. After a guided walking tour of the site, you will have time to explore it at your own pace or hike Huayna Picchu for an even more elevated view of the ancient city. This trip promises to offer an unforgettable experience, with personalized attention and expert guidance, all while keeping your comfort and safety as the top priority.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Hiking to Machu Picchu
- Day 2: Visit the “Lost City of the Incas”
Itinerary
Day 1: Hiking to Machu Picchu
Your Travel to Machu Picchu Inca Trail tour begins with an early pickup from your hotel at 4 a.m. We’ll then head to the train station for a 6:10 a.m. departure on the train from Ollantaytambo. As we journey along the scenic Urubamba River, you’ll be captivated by the stunning views of lush farmlands, snow-capped peaks, and the powerful river below. The Urubamba River is one of the main tributaries of the mighty Amazon River, offering an awe-inspiring sight.
At 104 km (2,000 m), we’ll embark on our trek, where your adventure truly begins. Upon arrival, we’ll provide snacks and take a group photo before visiting the first Inca site on our journey. A brief orientation will give you insights into this fascinating historical site, followed by a walking tour.
As we continue on the Classic Inca Trail, you’ll be treated to magnificent vistas of Machu Picchu, the Urubamba River, and additional Inca landmarks. After approximately three hours of hiking, we’ll reach the stunning Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), a beautiful Incan site located at 2,600 m/8,500 ft. Here, you’ll explore incredible water fountains, temples, and agricultural terraces. The backdrop of steep cliffs and towering mountains adds a magical element to this ancient site.
After a short walk, we’ll arrive at the Travel to Machu Picchu campsite, a spot traditionally used by hikers tackling the Classic Inca Trail. You’ll enjoy a freshly prepared hot lunch, offering a perfect chance to rest, hydrate, and recharge.
From Wiñay Wayna, we’ll head towards the Sun Gate, where you’ll witness a breathtaking view of the iconic Machu Picchu. After absorbing the panoramic views, we’ll descend into the sacred site itself. One of the perks of this trek is that by the time you arrive, the day tourists will have left, leaving you with the entire site to explore in peace. After taking photographs and soaking in the atmosphere, we’ll take the bus to Aguas Calientes and head to your hotel. Enjoy a delicious dinner at Indio Feliz (included), known for serving some of the best food in Aguas Calientes. Afterward, we recommend an early night to rest for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2: Visit the “Lost City of the Incas”
We’ll start the day early to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, ensuring we witness the stunning sunrise over the site. A two-hour guided walking tour with your private English-speaking Travel to Machu Picchu guide will introduce you to the history, architecture, and significance of this world-renowned landmark. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace.
Those who have tickets to Huayna Picchu can embark on a 90-minute round-trip hike up the mountain, enjoying incredible views along the way. Once you’ve explored, you can choose to either take the bus or walk back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have the afternoon free for relaxation or shopping. Don’t forget to catch your afternoon train, which departs for Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, we’ll meet you and drive you back to Cusco.
Inclusions
Included
- Professional Guides
- Permits and Machu Picchu
- Briefing
- Hotel
- Water
- Equipment
- Porters
- First Aid
- Food
- Transportation
Not Included
- Sleeping Bag: $20
- Inflatable Air Mattress: $15
- Walking Sticks (Pair): $15
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Cusco airport is exclusively equipped for domestic flights. Therefore, all international travelers must land in Lima and go through Customs. Although your flight to Cusco may be operated by the same airline and on the same day, you will need to collect your luggage in Lima and recheck it for the flight to Cusco.
Flying is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Cusco, with several airlines operating this route. While LAN is usually the most expensive, it offers many alternatives and schedules to fit your planning.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Altitude
When booking a trip to Cusco, it is natural to have concerns about altitude sickness. Cusco’s altitude means that the air contains less oxygen, which forces your body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
It is recommended that you spend at least two days in Cusco before starting any treks in the Andes to allow your body to acclimate. Cusco is a fascinating city, full of activities, so you won’t be bored during your acclimatization period.
Altitude sickness can initially present with symptoms similar to those of a cold or hangover. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If symptoms worsen, it is important to contact our office so that we can assist you and arrange for a medical consultation.
Generally, the symptoms are mild, so it is recommended to take things slowly to allow your body to adjust. Stay well hydrated by drinking water or coca tea, which has been used for centuries to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help oxygen circulate in the blood. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and coffee, as they dehydrate the body. It is also important to avoid smoking and taking sleeping pills, as these hinder oxygen absorption.
Remember that the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even the fittest individuals can experience altitude sickness if they rush too much. Go slowly and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, which you should begin taking two days before reaching high altitude.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Umbrella: Essential to protect you from rain or sun exposure while trekking.
- Sunscreen: The high altitude and strong sun make sunscreen a must to avoid burns.
- Lightweight T-Shirt: A breathable, moisture-wicking shirt will keep you comfortable during the hike.
- Comfortable Footwear: Proper hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for the challenging terrain.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day with a refillable water bottle. Hydration is key at high altitudes.
- Insect Repellent: Necessary to protect yourself from insect bites during your outdoor activities.
- Snacks: Bring some high-energy snacks, such as granola bars or nuts, for a quick energy boost.
- Camera: Capture the beauty of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscapes for lasting memories.
- Personal Medications: Carry any personal medications, especially for altitude sickness or allergies.
- Passport: Make sure to bring your passport for entry into Machu Picchu and during train travel.
- Rain Jacket: Weather can change quickly, so having a lightweight rain jacket will keep you dry if necessary.
- Travel Insurance: It’s always best to have coverage in case of unforeseen events during your trip.
- Money for Souvenirs: There are many opportunities to purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.
- Extra Layer for Cold Weather: The mornings and evenings in the mountains can be chilly, so bring a warm layer.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 2-day adventure along the Inca Trail for USD 540 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tour requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
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