Inca Trail 2 Days

Tour Type

Hiking

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

2D

Languages

Español, English

Best Time

March - Jan.

Group Size

08 people Max.

It is the only tour where you can see the citadel of Machu Picchu in two opportunities, the first day arriving by Wiñayhuayna + Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and taking the iconic photo of the wonder, and the second day going up by Aguas Calientes visiting Machupicchu by circuit #3.

The famous 4-day and 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are the most famous treks in the world and the number one trek in Peru. They are the most booked trips by thousands of tourists, offering 4 and 2 days of hiking along original paved Inca trails, with a variety of fascinating Inca archaeological sites and the breathtaking scenery of Machu Picchu National Park, which can only be accessed by those who get a ticket many months in advance that can only be purchased through a local travel agency in Cusco, and Lorenzo Expeditions has such authorization, so learn more about this adventure below.

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñayhuayna – Intipunku – Aguas Calientes:

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days begin at 4:30 a.m. traveling to Ollantaytambo first to have breakfast and later to the train station. It will take us to km. 104. It is here that will begin our hike today we will pass through Chachabamba, an Incan archaeological site with an altitude of 2250 masl. or 7,381.89 ft. continuing ascent until we reach Wiñay Wayna the second archaeological site, where we will have a guided tour. Throughout the journey, you will appreciate the beautiful views of the Urubamba River as well as the great variety of vegetation of this nature reserve (historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu).

We will have lunch, Box Lunch style, after which continue with our hike to the Sun Gate, “INTI PUNKU” where we will have the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. After a short stop for a few photographs and a short explanation, we begin to descend to the Inca citadel. It is here that we will have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sunset over Machu Picchu. Then we take the bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes where our hotel is located. After dinner, our guide will coordinate the last details for our visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Meals included: Breakfast | Box Lunch | Dinner

Day 2:  Machupicchu

With a two-hour guided tour of this great ancient city, you will visit the temples, enclosures, sacred fountains, terraces, etc. You will then have some free time to explore Machu Picchu. If you make your reservations ahead of time, you will be able to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or the Machu Picchu Mountain.  After you have finished exploring Machu Picchu we will return by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes where we will take the train to Ollantaytambo and bus will take us to the Cusco City Hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast
  • Tour with Professional guide (08 people maximum).
  • Transportation from Cusco – Ollantaytambo.
  • Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to 104km Chachabamba
  • Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.
  • Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (first day).
  • Bus Aguas calientes -Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes (second day)
  • Hotel Andino*** in Aguas Calientes.
  • Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail + Wiñayhuayna + Intipunku (first day)
  • Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu circuit #3 (second day)
  • Specified Meals: 02 Breakfast, 01 Box Lunch and 01 Dinner.
  • Vegetarian or vegan food upon request.
  • First aid kit.
  • Huayna Picchu tickets or Machu Picchu Montaña admittions (extra cost $60).
  • Hiking sticks (extra cost $15 USD).
  • Drinks.
  • Tips.
  • Travel health insurance (obligatory)

We recommend carrying only the necessary luggage for the two days of the tour. Large backpacks with equipment that are not needed for the expedition should be left in the city of Cusco (at your hotel or in our main office).

This are the main things you have to bring to your inca trail 2 days adventure:

  • A small backpack of 30 to 40 liters capacity.
  • 01 T-Shirts.
  • 01 trekking pant (fast drying).
  • A light sweater.
  • Waterproof clothing.
  • Warm jacket (of feather or fiber).
  • Hiking boots.
  • Flips flops.
  • Hat or cap.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Canteen.
  • Repellent for mosquitoes (30% Deet or more).
  • Personal medications.
  • Flashlight.
  • Personal hygiene items: Wet wipes, toothpaste and toothbrush.
  • Original Passport.
  • The most friendly and positive attitude possible.

These are the different options how you can improve your experience in Machu Picchu after doing our 02 inca trail trek.

1. Huayna Picchu

The cost of the ticket is $60 dollars per person.

Huayna Picchu is a mountain within the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu, it is a 45 minute hike to the top.

To purchase this additional you have to let us know at least 3 months in advance due to high demand, schedules and details of your visit to this site will be confirmed in the previous meeting that we will have.

2. Machu Picchu Mountain

the cost of the ticket is $60 dollars per person.

Machu Picchu Mountain is another place that many travelers want to climb to have a spectacular view of Machu Picchu.

Do you want to know more about the Inca Trail? Read our useful information section and learn more about availability, entrance fees and more.

Availability of the Inca Trail 2 days

A maximum of 250 people per day can access the classic Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu at km 104; this number includes all support staff, which means that only left like 200 spaces for travelers.

What you need to know about the Classic Inca Trail 2 days

  • This 2-day trek to Machu Picchu is not recommended for travelers with back problems.
  • You will have a guide during your Inca Trail trek and your visit to Machu Picchu.
  • Daily departures with a group of 2 or more people.
  • No departures in February due to trail maintenance.
  • No wheelchair access.

DO NOT FORGET ESSENTIALS: original passport, insurance card, and personal medications.
This hike will be composed of a maximum of 8 travelers.

About strikes

Strikes and road blockades are common in Peru and can disrupt our Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu and train service to and from Machu Picchu. We will make every effort to ensure that your trip to Machu Picchu continues as planned, with some changes.

If the strike occurs on the first day of your 2-day Machu Picchu tour, we will take you to Aguas Calientes village the night before your departure date.

If the strike occurs on the last day of your 2-day Inca Trail tour. Hidroelectrica is an option. This means you will have to walk 2 hours more from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica. Then catch 5 hours bus to Cusco. Drop you off in Cusco around 11:00 p.m. (extra price).

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

The return from Machu Picchu to Cusco requires a lot of logistics. But we have already organized it.

The estimated time by train is 2 hours from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
The estimated time by train is 4 hours from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.
Once at the station, our transporter will be waiting for you. He will transfer you to Cusco and then to your hotel.

The estimated time from Ollantaytambo to Cusco is 2 hours.
The estimated time from Poroy to Cusco is 40 minutes.

Weather on the classic Inca Trail 2 days

Weather is unpredictable in the Andes. The dry season on the Inca Trail runs from April to October and the rainy season from November to March, but this does not mean any rain in the dry season or no sun in the rainy season, so be prepared. Whichever season you do the 2-day trek to Machu Picchu, make sure you have rain gear, such as a raincoat.

The best time to hike the Inca Trail

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is from May to October, as these months are sunny, with clear skies that allow us to see the stars at night and not suffer the road wet by rain.

The rainy season starts at the end of October and ends at the end of April. The rains are so intense that in February that’s why the Inca Trail is closed.

Travel Insurance

We recommend that you take out travel insurance because, if you become ill or injured while away from home, you can be reimbursed for treatment provided as a result of a covered medical emergency during your trip.

Physical Demands

This is a moderate hike, so good physical condition is strongly recommended. Sometimes the altitude differences on the Inca Trail make the trek difficult.

What type of backpack is necessary for the trip?

For this trip, we recommend a 30-40 liter backpack with clothes that are only necessary for the 2 days of the trip. The rest of your luggage will be left in storage at your hotel in Cusco or at the Lorenzo Expeditions office in Cusco too.

How can I access Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu Montaña?

To climb one of the two mountains, you must purchase the entrance ticket in advance. Huaynapicchu has an extra cost of $60 USD per person, and it is recommended to book tickets at least 3 months in advance.  If you wish to book the entrance ticket for Huaynapicchu, please contact our reservations team.

Will there be accommodations, or will we be camping?

The one night will be in accommodations. (hotel in Aguas Calientes)

Is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hard?

Altitude is the most difficult aspect of the Inca Trail for many people. If you have spent two or three days acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand, the altitude on most hikes will not cause you any problems.

How long is Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu?

The classic 2-day Inca Trail is 11 km.

Does the Inca Trail lead to Machu Picchu?

Yes, the Incas used the Inca roads to connect all their territories with Cusco, thus, we can find Inca roads throughout Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. Today it is called Qapaq Ñan, which is translated as Imperial Road.

How to book Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

To reserve, you have to hire an authorized tour operator (required by the Peruvian Government). Lorenzo Expeditions is one of the best options with high quality and personalized service.

Where is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu located?

Your trip to Machu Picchu will begin in the city of Cusco, and this impressive two-day trek begins at a place called Kilometer 104.

How difficult is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Talking in days would be:
Day 1:  Moderate to a bit difficult as there are several steep sections.
Day 2:  Easy, on this day you visit Machu Picchu.

How to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

First, look for a licensed agency, Lorenzo Expeditions is a licensed tour operator. Then book in advance, especially in high season.

Price from $555 / person

Tripadvisor Logo 2024

Related tours

From $2845 / person

From $2395 / person

From $99 / person

From $695 / person