Overview
Embark on a thrilling 2-day adventure along the iconic Inca Trail, where you will hike through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes. This trek is designed for those who seek a cultural, adventurous, and moderate challenge. You will hike for six hours, with plenty of time to explore the historic Inca sites, including the Winawayna ruins, and reach the legendary Sun Gate, offering your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
The adventure culminates with an overnight stay at our exclusive campsite, which provides hot showers, freshly prepared meals, and facilities to charge your devices. This trek is ideal for families and those in moderate physical condition. With a moderate difficulty level, the hike is suitable for most participants, though the altitude may affect some. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of Peru’s most famous trail.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
- Day 2: Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
The Travels to Machu Picchu team will pick you up from your hotel at 4 a.m. to begin an unforgettable adventure. You’ll travel to the train station and board the 6:10 a.m. train departing from Ollantaytambo. Known for its spectacular views, this train ride will offer you a glimpse of the stunning Urubamba River, the towering snow-capped mountains, and fertile cornfields. As we descend, you’ll witness a shift in the landscape from high-altitude fields to lush jungle valleys, dotted with ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, as the temperature rises. This scenic journey lasts about an hour and 45 minutes until we reach Km 104, where we disembark to meet our trekking chef and porters.
Here, you’ll be served a freshly prepared breakfast before we start the hike. Don’t forget to bring your original passport, as this is the first checkpoint along the Inca Trail. After breakfast, take a moment to get ready before the trek begins.
The first site we’ll explore is Chachabamba, an ancient Inca checkpoint marking the start of your journey along the trail. Our expert guide will share fascinating historical insights about the ruins. From here, we’ll embark on a three-hour hike up to Wiñay Wayna, one of the most iconic Inca sites along the trail.
As we trek, enjoy breathtaking views of the Machu Picchu Valley and the Urubamba River, alongside diverse flora and fauna endemic to the region. The path is dotted with waterfalls and awe-inspiring views of Machu Picchu Mountain. Though the trail includes some challenging uphill and downhill stretches, the steps are well-marked and safe to navigate.
Once at Wiñay Wayna, your guide will take you on a tour of this remarkable Inca site, which includes temples, watchtowers, waterfalls, gardens, storehouses, and agricultural terraces. Following the tour, we’ll head to the lunch spot, where our trekking chef will have cold drinks and a delicious buffet-style meal prepared for you. After lunch, you’ll have a chance to rest before continuing.
Next, we’ll take a one-hour gradual hike, with both uphill and downhill stretches, leading us to the Sun Gate. Here, you’ll witness stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding valleys. The Sun Gate was historically used by the Incas to observe the sunrise during the summer solstice. From here, it’s just an hour to the Machu Picchu ruins, where we’ll explore the watchtower area for unique, crowd-free photographs.
Afterward, we’ll take a 20-minute bus ride to the Puente Ruinas campsite, where your tents will be set up and ready for you. You’ll have the opportunity to meet your porters and enjoy a social happy hour with hot drinks and dinner. In the evening, a small ceremony will take place to mark the end of your journey with the porters.
* This hiking route mirrors our 2-Day Inca Trail with Hotel.
Day 2: Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) & Return to Cusco
Your Travels to Machu Picchu team will wake you up early with your choice of hot drinks. After enjoying a freshly made breakfast, you’ll have time to prepare your duffel bags and day packs for the day’s adventures. We’ll take a 30-minute walk to the bus station, ensuring that we’re among the first to board the bus for the ride up to Machu Picchu (please note, there might be a 20-30 minute wait for the bus).
The first buses will depart at 5:30 a.m., arriving at Machu Picchu by 6:00 a.m. Remember to bring your original passport for this checkpoint. Once inside, your Travels to Machu Picchu guide will take you to the best spot to watch the sunrise over the mountains and capture some stunning photographs (weather permitting).
You’ll then enjoy a two-hour private walking tour of Machu Picchu, learning about its rich history and architecture. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore the site on your own. If you’ve booked a permit to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll start at 10:00 a.m. During your free time, you may also explore the Inca Bridge, the Sun Gate, or wander around the temple and residential areas while mingling with the llamas that roam the site.
At lunchtime, you’ll head back to Aguas Calientes for a meal before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private van will take you back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel to relax after an incredible journey.
Inclusions
Included
- Professional Guides
- Permits and Machu Picchu
- Briefing
- A Porter for your Personal Belongings
- Green Machine Porters
- Trekking Chef and Food
- Water
- Equipment
- Hotel to Hotel Service
- Transportation and Train Service
- First Aid
- Food
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 for sudden rain showers that may occur during your trek or while sightseeing.
- Sunscreen – Protect your skin from the intense mountain sun with a high SPF sunscreen.
- T-Shirt – Comfortable, moisture-wicking T-shirts are a must for trekking in the Andes.
- Entrance Fees – Always ensure you have the required tickets for all the attractions you’ll be visiting, such as Machu Picchu and other Inca sites.
- Waterproof Jacket – Given the unpredictable weather, a lightweight, waterproof jacket will keep you dry.
- Comfortable Footwear – Hiking boots with good ankle support are crucial for trekking the Inca Trail safely.
- Portable Charger – Ensure you have a portable power bank to keep your devices charged throughout the day.
- Camera – Capture the breathtaking views and ancient ruins along your journey to Machu Picchu.
- Hat – A wide-brimmed hat or cap is essential for shielding yourself from the sun.
- Bug Repellent – Protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially in the lower-altitude regions near Machu Picchu.
- Personal Medications – Pack any necessary medications or prescriptions you may need during your trip.
- Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while hiking by carrying a refillable water bottle.
- First Aid Kit – Always have a basic first aid kit on hand for minor injuries or discomfort during your adventure.
- Snacks – Carry some energy-boosting snacks like trail mix or energy bars to keep you fueled during long treks.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 2-day adventure along the Inca Trail for USD 590 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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