2-Days Original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Max 6 People

The 2-Days Original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a chance to take in the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire. Designed for small groups of up to 6 travelers, this guided hike takes participants through essential sites, including the iconic Machu Picchu. With a focus on comfort and camaraderie, the tour provides meals, accommodations, and breathtaking vistas, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. But what awaits those who embark on this journey? The itinerary reveals a fascinating blend of history, nature, and discovery.

Good To Know

• This 2-day Inca Trail tour covers the highlights of Machu Picchu, including Aguas Calientes and UNESCO-listed sites, in a small group of up to 6 travelers.
• The package includes transportation, guided visits, accommodations, and most meals, with additional costs for the last meals, tips, and bus at Machu Picchu.
• Moderate physical fitness is required for the challenging trek, which covers approximately 26 kilometers with an average daily elevation gain of 500 meters.
• The tour offers cultural insights through well-preserved Inca ruins, such as Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Choquesuysuy, along the trail.
• Careful preparation and packing of essential gear, including hiking boots, layered clothing, and trekking poles, are recommended for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Overview of the Inca Trail Tour

The Inca Trail tour is a popular 2-day hike that’s ideal for short-time travelers. It covers top attractions like Aguas Calientes and the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu.

The small group tour has a maximum of 6 travelers, and confirmation is received at booking, although it’s non-refundable.

The itinerary includes a briefing in Cusco, transportation to the trailhead, guided visits to various Inca sites, and a tour of Machu Picchu.

The package includes meals, accommodations, and transportation.

While park entry fees and permits are covered, there are additional costs for the last lunch, dinner, tips, and the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.

Itinerary and Inclusions

Kicking off the 2-day Inca Trail tour, travelers receive a briefing at their Cusco hotel the day prior. From there, they’re picked up and transported to the Ollantaytambo Train Station, about 2 hours away. An expedition train takes them to Km 104, where the guided hike begins, visiting sites like Chachabamba, Wi??aywayna, and Choquesuysuy. On the second day, they enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. The package includes meals, a hotel stay, and transportation both ways.

Inclusions	Details
Meals	1 box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
Accommodations	1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Transportation	Private transfer, expedition train, round-trip bus
Guided Tours	Chachabamba, Wi??aywayna, Choquesuysuy, Machu Picchu

Fees and Costs

The park entry fees and permits for the 2-day Inca Trail hike are included in the package price.

However, there are a few additional costs travelers should be aware of:

• Last lunch and dinner at Machu Picchu not included ($10-$20 per meal)
• Tips for the guide and porters are recommended ($10-$20 per person)
• Last bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes is $12 per person
• Any other personal expenses, such as snacks or souvenirs

While these extra expenses are relatively minor, it’s important to budget for them to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Inca Trail experience.

Health and Safety Requirements

Not wheelchair accessible, this Inca Trail tour has a minimum age requirement of 10 years. Travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions are not recommended to join this hike. A moderate level of physical fitness is required to complete the 2-day trek.

Health Requirement	Description
Mobility	Not suitable for wheelchair users
Age	Minimum age of 10 years
Medical Conditions	Not recommended for those with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions
Fitness Level	Moderate physical fitness required

The challenging nature of the Inca Trail means this tour may not be suitable for all travelers. It’s essential to carefully consider your physical capabilities before booking.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

How does this 2-day Inca Trail tour fare in terms of customer feedback and ratings?

According to the provided information, the tour has received a stellar 5.0 rating based on 1 review across Viator and Tripadvisor.

While the sample size is small, the single review indicates a very positive customer experience.

Key highlights include:

• Highly rated 5-star experience
• No ratings below 5 stars
• Positive feedback from the sole reviewer
• Confirmation of the tour’s quality and value
• Reliable and trustworthy customer ratings

This strong customer feedback suggests the 2-day Inca Trail tour is a well-executed and enjoyable experience for travelers seeking a compact yet immersive journey to Machu Picchu.

Preparation and Packing

Preparing for the 2-day Inca Trail tour requires careful consideration of the necessary gear and supplies. Hikers should pack light, as they’ll be carrying their belongings for the duration of the trek. A good pair of hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, and sun protection are essential. Trekking poles can also be helpful for navigating the uneven terrain.

Recommended Gear	Optional Items
Backpack	Camera
Water Bottle	Snacks
First Aid Kit	Trekking Poles

With the right preparation, hikers can focus on enjoying the stunning Andean landscapes and the cultural significance of the Inca Trail.

Cultural Highlights

Winding through the Andes, the Inca Trail leads hikers on a journey through the ancient empire’s remarkable cultural legacy. Along the way, travelers encounter:

• The Chachabamba ruins, a well-preserved Inca ceremonial site

• Wiñaywayna, an impressive Inca settlement with agricultural terraces and a religious complex

• Choquesuysuy, a smaller Inca site with stunning views of the Urubamba River

• The iconic Sun Gate, the final checkpoint before reaching the magnificent Machu Picchu

• The UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu itself, a testament to the Inca’s architectural and engineering prowess

These cultural highlights offer a glimpse into the rich history and remarkable achievements of the Inca civilization, making the Inca Trail an unforgettable journey through Peru’s ancient past.

What to Expect on the Trail

Trekkers on the Inca Trail can expect a moderately challenging hike that takes them through a diverse landscape of Andean highlands, cloud forests, and ancient Inca ruins. The trek covers approximately 26 kilometers over the course of two days, with an average daily elevation gain of 500 meters. Hikers will encounter a mix of paved and stone Inca steps, as well as some steep, rocky sections. Proper preparation, including physical fitness and the right gear, is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Day	Distance	Elevation Gain	Terrain	Duration
1	16 km	1,200 m	Paved/Stone Inca Steps	5-7 hrs
2	10 km	500 m	Paved/Stone Inca Steps, Rocky Sections	3-5 hrs

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Level of Difficulty for the Inca Trail Hike?

The Inca Trail hike has a moderate difficulty level, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness. The tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Water During the Hike?

The 2-day Inca Trail tour doesn’t allow travelers to bring their own food and water. The tour provides 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast. However, travelers can purchase additional snacks and water during the hike.

What Types of Archaeological Sites Will We Visit Along the Trail?

The tour includes guided visits to several archaeological sites along the trail, such as Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Choquesuysuy. These Inca ruins provide an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Inca civilization during the hike.

How Much Time Do We Have to Explore Machu Picchu?

The tour includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the second day, providing travelers with ample time to explore the UNESCO-listed archaeological site and marvel at its impressive Inca architecture and stunning mountain setting.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Communities?

This tour doesn’t include any opportunities to interact with local communities. The focus is on hiking the Inca Trail and visiting the UNESCO-listed Machu Picchu site. There aren’t any scheduled activities to engage with the local population.

The Sum Up

The 2-Days Original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an immersive cultural experience for small groups. Hikers can expect stunning landscapes, guided tours of ancient Inca sites, and comfortable accommodations throughout their unforgettable journey. With a focus on safety and camaraderie, this tour provides adventurers a memorable way to explore the rich heritage of the Inca Empire.