Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N from Cusco

Day 1: Inca Trail Hike and Sun Gate Arrival

Your adventure begins early with a 4 a.m. hotel pickup in Cusco or a 6 a.m. departure from Ollantaytambo. Board the 6:40 a.m. train along the Sacred Valley, enjoying spectacular Andean scenery before arriving at Km 104, the official start of the Inca Trail hike.

The Inca Trail trek begins with a gentle ascent over the Vilcanota River, surrounded by lush cloud forests teeming with vibrant wildlife, orchids, and cascading waterfalls. Midway, you’ll visit Chachabamba, an ancient Inca site of agricultural and ceremonial importance. Your expert guide will share fascinating history as you continue climbing through verdant landscapes.

Next, you reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most spectacular Incan ruins on the trail, perched at 2,600 meters (8,500 ft). After a lunch break, continue towards the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original Inca entrance to Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel nestled among cloud-covered peaks.

Descending from the Sun Gate, you’ll explore the famous upper terraces of Machu Picchu and the Guardhouse viewpoint, ideal for capturing unforgettable photos. Afterward, take a bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll rest at a comfortable hotel and enjoy the town’s artisan shops and thermal baths.

Accommodations: 3-star hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Lunch

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Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour, Optional Hike, and Return to Cusco

Begin your day with breakfast before a scenic 25-minute bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance. As the mist lifts, behold the dramatic terraces and ancient stonework of this world-renowned archaeological site.

Join your expert guide for a detailed 2.5-hour tour covering key highlights of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, Room of the Three Windows, Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana stone, an ancient astronomical marker. Your guide’s knowledge will bring the rich history and spiritual significance of the site to life.

Please note: The Machu Picchu entrance ticket for Day 2 is not included in the package and must be purchased separately. We recommend purchasing tickets for popular circuits such as Circuit 2A, Circuit 2B, Circuit 3B, or Circuit 3A. The guided tour covers the Machu Picchu portion, while the Huayna Picchu hike is self-guided.

After your guided tour, enjoy optional hikes to either Huayna Picchu—a steep, rewarding climb with panoramic views—or Machu Picchu Mountain, a longer but gentler ascent offering spectacular vistas of the entire valley.

Conclude your visit with a return to Aguas Calientes for lunch or souvenir shopping before boarding the train back through the Sacred Valley. Transfer by bus to Cusco, arriving in the evening with memories of your unforgettable Inca Trail and Machu Picchu adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

What to Bring for the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Packing wisely is key to enjoying your Inca Trail trek and making the most of your visit to Machu Picchu. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you prepare for this unforgettable journey:

📄 Essential Documents

• Passport – Required at all Inca Trail checkpoints and Machu Picchu entry
• Valid Student ID – Only if you booked with a student discount (must match passport)

🎒 Backpack

• A small, lightweight daypack (20–25L) with good weight distribution

💧 Water

• Start the Inca Trail hike with at least 1.5 to 2 liters of water
• No refill or purchase points until you reach Machu Picchu

👕 Clothing & Footwear

• Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
• 1 moisture-wicking hiking shirt + hiking pants
• 1 clean outfit for photos at Machu Picchu
• 2 sets of undergarments and walking socks
• Rain gear – Waterproof jacket or rain poncho

🌞 Sun & Insect Protection

• Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
• Insect repellent – essential for the trail and Aguas Calientes

🎒 Optional Items

• Bathing suit – for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
• Personal medication and a basic first aid kit

📸 Electronics & Extras

• Camera or smartphone for capturing your Machu Picchu memories
• Extra cash (in soles) for snacks, souvenirs, or guide tips

🍫 Trail Snacks

• Lightweight, energy-boosting options like nuts, energy bars, or dried fruit

✅ Pro Tip: Pack light and smart! A well-prepared backpack ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable experience along the scenic 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The Inca Trail 2-day trek to Machu Picchu is rated as a moderate-level hike, suitable for any reasonably fit traveler. While the route offers stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences, it includes some challenging sections and reaches altitudes up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Proper altitude acclimatization is essential to fully enjoy the journey and avoid altitude sickness.

If you’re arriving from sea level, we strongly recommend spending at least two full days in Cusco before starting your Inca Trail 2-day trek. This allows your body to adjust to the high altitude and ensures you have the stamina and energy needed to complete the trek comfortably and safely on your way to the breathtaking Machu Picchu.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is open for trekking all year round, except for the month of February when the trail is closed for annual maintenance. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is between April and October, as these months offer the most comfortable and dry weather conditions.

June, July, and August mark the high season, when the Inca Trail can become fully booked. To secure your spot on this world-famous trek, it’s essential to make your Inca Trail reservations well in advance.

During the wet season in January and March, the trail can be slippery and challenging. If you choose to hike during these months, be sure to bring a high-quality rain jacket, waterproof hiking boots, and protective covers for your gear to stay dry and comfortable on your journey to Machu Picchu.

Terms and Conditions for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tour

• The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is non-transferable. Participants cannot change the departure date without incurring cancellation fees.
• All reservations must be canceled in writing and are subject to applicable cancellation fees.
• If you cancel or change the tour date with 10 or more days’ advance notice, a cancellation fee of $400 per person will apply.
• Cancellations made with less than 10 days’ notice incur a 100% cancellation fee of the total tour cost.
• If a traveler abandons the trek at any point due to altitude sickness, health issues, or any other reason, no refunds or claims will be accepted.
• Travelers agree to cover all expenses related to tour abandonment, including meals, lodging, return transportation, and medical costs.
• All clients must have valid personal travel insurance covering accidents, medical expenses, loss of property, and any other potential risks during the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour.
• Services may be interrupted or canceled due to weather conditions, natural disasters, civil unrest, strikes, or other unforeseen events. In case of cancellation for your safety, we will coordinate with suppliers to obtain refunds when possible.