2-Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail From Cusco

The 2-Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail from Cusco offers an exciting opportunity for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive Inca experience. Combining the iconic Machu Picchu with the stunning beauty of the Inca Trail, this tour promises to captivate participants as they trek through the awe-inspiring landscapes and uncover the rich history of the region. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and all meals provided, the tour caters to those who want to make the most of their time in Peru. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time explorer, this tour might just be the perfect way to…

Good To Know

• This 2-day tour combines visiting the iconic Machu Picchu with a segment of the famous Inca Trail, covering approximately 12 km of hiking.
• The tour includes expert guidance, meals, and comfortable accommodations, and is rated 100% recommended by previous participants.
• On the first day, the tour takes travelers from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, then by train to km104 to begin the hike through the Wiñay Wayna ruins.
• The second day features a guided tour of Machu Picchu, allowing in-depth exploration of the archaeological marvels.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation by bus and train, as well as admission tickets to Machu Picchu and the archaeological sites.

Tour Overview

The 2-Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail from Cusco offers travelers an immersive experience combining the iconic Machu Picchu with a challenging hike along a segment of the renowned Inca Trail.

Rated 100% recommended by previous participants, this all-inclusive tour promises stunning views, archaeological discoveries, and an overnight stay near Machu Picchu.

Over the course of two days, explorers will trek approximately 12 km, visiting the Wiñay Wayna ruins before reaching the Sun Gate for their first glimpse of the ancient Inca citadel.

With an expert guide, delicious meals, and comfortable accommodations, this tour provides the perfect balance of adventure and comfort on the path to Machu Picchu.

Itinerary Details

Spanning two immersive days, the itinerary for the Short Inca Trail tour provides travelers with an unforgettable experience.

On the first day, guests are picked up from their Cusco hotels or a central meeting point and travel to Ollantaytambo. From there, they board a train to km104, the starting point of the trek.

The approximately 12 km hike takes visitors through the archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna before reaching Machu Picchu, where they enjoy a box lunch and explore the site, including a visit to Inti Punku for their first glimpse of the iconic ruins.

After dinner in Aguas Calientes, guests spend the night.

The second day features a guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by the return journey to Cusco.

Day 1 Highlights

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from guests’ Cusco hotels or a central meeting point, followed by a scenic journey to Ollantaytambo.

From there, participants board a train to kilometer 104, the starting point of the trek. The group then embarks on a roughly 12-kilometer hike, visiting the archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna along the way.

A box lunch is provided, and the first glimpse of the iconic Machu Picchu is enjoyed from Inti Punku.

After exploring the site, the group descends to Aguas Calientes for dinner and overnight accommodations, setting the stage for the next day’s guided tour of the famous Inca citadel.

Day 2 Highlights

After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, the group starts their day with a hearty breakfast.

They then head to the Machu Picchu site for a guided tour, learning about the history and significance of this iconic Inca citadel. The tour lasts approximately two hours, providing an in-depth exploration of the archaeological marvels.

Once the tour concludes, the group returns to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Cusco.

This concludes the Short Inca Trail adventure, offering travelers a comprehensive and immersive experience of Machu Picchu combined with a challenging hike on a portion of the renowned Inca Trail.

Included in the Tour

This tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

It covers all meals, including dinner on the first day, lunch on both days, and breakfast on the second day. Admission tickets to Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites are provided, eliminating the need for additional purchases.

The tour also includes round-trip transportation by bus and train, ensuring a hassle-free journey. Accommodation in Cusco is also included, allowing you to relax and recharge after the day’s activities.

With these inclusions, you can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Inca Trail.

Transportation Details

Pick-up is available from hotels in Cusco’s historic center or a designated meeting point. The tour includes round-trip transportation by bus and train:

1. From Cusco, travelers board the bus to Ollantaytambo, where they’ll catch the train to kilometer 104 to begin the short Inca Trail hike.

2. After the trek, the train takes guests back to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu.

3. From there, a bus transports the group back to Cusco, completing the tour.

All transportation is pre-arranged and included in the tour package, providing a seamless experience for participants.

Physical Requirements

Although a moderate fitness level is required for this tour, the Short Inca Trail is generally considered less strenuous than the full Inca Trail. Travelers should be prepared for approximately 12 km of hiking with an elevation gain of 1,000 meters. It’s recommended to bring insect repellent with 20% DEET to protect against mosquitoes. The trek may involve some steep ascents and descents, so sturdy hiking boots are essential. The following table outlines the physical requirements in more detail:

Criteria	Requirement
Fitness Level	Moderate
Distance	12 km
Elevation Gain	1,000 meters
Terrain	Steep ascents and descents
Gear	Hiking boots, insect repellent

Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Short Inca Trail tour, with a perfect 5.0 rating based on 12 reviews.

Hikers highlight exceptional guides, such as Lenin, who are noted for their deep knowledge and attentive care. The stunning views and memorable experiences during the trek are also commonly praised.

This tour is recommended for those seeking a shorter hiking experience on the iconic Inca Trail, providing an opportunity to discover the archaeological wonders of Machu Picchu.

The top reasons for praise include:

1. Exceptional guides with extensive knowledge
2. Breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences
3. Suitability for those seeking a shorter Inca Trail hike

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It’s an all-inclusive package that can be booked by individual travelers or small groups. The tour provides hotel pick-up and round-trip transportation from Cusco.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Inca Trail Trek?

No, pets are not allowed on the Inca Trail trek. For safety and preservation of the trail, only human participants are permitted. The tour does not accommodate bringing animals along the hike to Machu Picchu.

Is It Possible to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to upgrade to a private tour. Travelers can request a private version of the 2-day Short Inca Trail tour from the tour operator. This provides a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, though a moderate fitness level is recommended. Children are welcome to participate as long as they can handle the physical demands of the trek.

Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. The tour operator can provide assistance with booking additional nights in Aguas Calientes, allowing visitors more time to explore the town and surrounding area.

The Sum Up

The 2-Day Short Inca Trail tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure. Participants trek through stunning landscapes, explore ancient ruins, and visit the iconic Machu Picchu. With expert guides, meals, and comfortable accommodations, this tour provides an immersive Inca experience. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views or a deeper connection with Peru’s rich history, this tour is highly recommended for those looking to explore the Inca Trail.