The 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. The trek covers 12 kilometers starting at Kilometer 104 (approx 2170 m / 7119 ft) following a section of the original Inca Trail to the Machu Picchu archaeological site (approx 2430 m / 7972 ft).
The route is suitable for various fitness levels and includes passage through archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna (approx 2650 m / 8694 ft) culminating at Inti Punku the Sun Gate (approx 2720 m / 8923 ft) which offers a wide view of Machu Picchu. Tour guides provide information about the sites. The service includes hotel pickup and return transport. Logistics such as permits entry tickets and transportation are managed by the operator
AVAILABILITY AND BOOKING
Daily availability for the 2-day Inca Trail is strictly limited by the Peruvian government regulations for site preservation. Approximately 200 permits are issued daily with about 150 allocated to travelers and the remainder to support staff such as guides. Early booking is necessary due to these limits.
Their website displays real-time availability linked to the official government system
Booking well in advance is recommended.
This tour package includes the official permit for the 2-day Inca Trail hike and the entry ticket to Machu Picchu. The ticket grants access to Circuit 2 allowing visits to the Classic Viewpoint and a guided tour of the main Inca citadel.
Day 1:
Day 2:
Early Morning Pickup: Pickup occurs from hotels in Cusco (approx 3399 m / 11152 ft) between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m. Pickup from locations in the Sacred Valley is also an option. Transport is provided to the journey’s starting point.
Drive to Ollantaytambo Station: A drive of approximately 1 hour 45 minutes leads to the Ollantaytambo train station (approx 2792 m / 9160 ft). The route passes through regional landscapes.
Train to Km 104: Board a train at Ollantaytambo station typically departing around 6:40 a.m. for the journey towards Km 104.
Meeting Guide & Starting Hike: At Km 104 you meet your guide. Proceed to the Inca Trail control point to present permits and tickets provided by the operator.
Hiking to Wiñaywayna: After the checkpoint the hike begins with a climb from approximately 2000m to 2700m elevation over about 3 hours. This section leads to the Wiñaywayna archaeological site.
Exploration and Lunch at Wiñaywayna: Time is allocated for exploring Wiñaywayna. The guide provides historical context. Lunch is consumed here.
Hike to Intipunku (Sun Gate): Following lunch the trek continues for 2 hours on a relatively flat path towards Intipunku the Sun Gate. This location provides views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding area.
Descent to Machu Picchu: A 45-minute descent hike follows from the Sun Gate to the main Machu Picchu site.
Exploring Machu Picchu Upper Area: Upon arrival proceed to the upper part of Machu Picchu for photo opportunities including the view with Waynapicchu mountain. The guide discusses the Guardian’s House and agricultural terraces. Approximately 1 hour is spent in this area. Note this is the only access to this upper viewpoint section during the 2-day tour.
Departure to Aguas Calientes: After the time in the upper area exit the site and take a bus down to Aguas Calientes town (approx 2050 m / 6726 ft). This 30-minute bus journey is included. Proceed to the assigned hotel.
Evening in Aguas Calientes: Check into the hotel provided by the operator in Aguas Calientes. Rest is possible. Around 7 p.m. dinner is arranged at a local restaurant featuring Peruvian dishes. Plans for the next day can be discussed with the guide.
Important Notices:
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Meals Included: Lunch Dinner
Weather: Anticipate hot and humid conditions
Accommodation: Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
Tickets: All required journey tickets are included
Wake-up is scheduled for 4:30 AM with breakfast at 5:00 AM. Proceed to the bus station for one of the first buses departing at 5:30 AM from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. The 30-minute bus ride reaches the main Machu Picchu entrance which opens at 6:00 AM.
Upon entry at 6:00 AM access is to the lower area of the archaeological site. The guide leads a tour of approximately 2.5 hours visiting key sectors of Machu Picchu and providing information about the site. After the guided tour participants have about 30 minutes for independent exploration within this lower circuit. Total time allowed inside Machu Picchu is typically limited to around 3 hours per park regulations.
For participants with pre-booked tickets for Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain the guide assists with locating the entrance at the scheduled time. Only one of these mountains can be visited Waynapicchu is frequently suggested. Reservations for Waynapicchu must be secured significantly in advance. The hike takes 2 to 2.5 hours round trip. No guide service is included for these optional mountain hikes they are marked routes monitored by park staff.
After the Machu Picchu visit take the bus back to Aguas Calientes (30-minute trip). Once in Aguas Calientes you have free time for exploring the town resting or having lunch (cost not included). Proceed to the train station for the return train typically departing at 2:30 PM or 2:55 PM to Ollantaytambo station (approx 1.5-hour journey). At Ollantaytambo station a transfer vehicle will meet participants (driver holds sign with names) for the 2-hour road trip back to Cusco dropping off directly at hotels.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 2-DAY INCA TRAIL TOUR
This package covers the following elements for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:
Note: This trek does not include porter service. Participants must carry all personal belongings during the hike. Pack lightly bringing only necessary items.
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