Inca Trail 2 days

Inca Trail 2 days is the most recommended option, suitable for those who don’t have as much time to complete the full Classic Inca Trail but still desire an authentic experience. Along the way to Machu Picchu, you’ll encounter impressive archaeological sites, breathtaking views of exotic mountains, fantastic valleys, snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna from the cloud forest.

Those who trek this option of the Inca Trail will have the privilege of seeing the Machu Picchu citadel in the afternoon when it’s less crowded with tourists, allowing for unforgettable views of Machu Picchu. You can also visit the Machu Picchu citadel again the following morning.

DAY 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 am to head to Ollantaytambo, where the train station is located. From here, it’s an 80-minute train ride to reach Chachabamba at 2000 meters above sea level in the cloud forest. Then we’ll proceed directly to the checkpoint in Chachabamba where your hike will begin (make sure to have your passport handy). Our first stop is the beautiful Inca site, also called Chachabamba. Afterward, we’ll start a gradual uphill hike for 4 hours to reach the most beautiful Inca site, Wiñay Huayna (Forever Young), located at 2700 meters above sea level, providing the perfect opportunity to learn about Inca history. While enjoying exotic views of mountains, fantastic valleys, glaciers, and the Urubamba River. Next, a delicious boxed lunch, and then we’ll hike to the Sun Gate, one of the entrances to the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. You’ll have the privilege of seeing the citadel almost empty of tourists. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the area and get the best photos. After that, we’ll take the bus to the town of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes) located at 2000 meters above sea level where we’ll have dinner at a local restaurant. We’ll spend the night at a hotel. We recommend going to bed early so you can fully enjoy Machu Picchu the next day.

Difficulty: Moderate.
Distance: 12 km. / 7.5 Miles.
Altitude: 2000 meters above sea level & 2700 meters above sea level.
Time: 8 hours.
Weather: Warm and Humid.
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel.

DAY 2: Machu Picchu Citadel – Cusco

We’ll wake up early this morning to be among the first people to enter the Inca Citadel. We’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast, leave the hotel, and head straight to catch the bus to be among the first to ascend Machu Picchu at 5:30 am. This will allow us to witness a spectacular sunrise at Machu Picchu, which is truly a magical and unforgettable sight. We’ll have a guided tour lasting 2 to 3 hours where your guide will share the history and point out the best spots to get the most incredible photos. After that, you’ll have free time to explore the urban area on your own (please note that once you leave the Machu Picchu citadel, you won’t be able to re-enter on your own).

Then, you’ll take the bus from Machu Picchu to the town of Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) where you can appreciate the town of Aguas Calientes and have free time to visit the town of Aguas Calientes (optional). In the afternoon at the designated time, you’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll meet the driver and return to the city of Cusco, your return will be directly to your hotel.

• Difficulty: Easy.
• Altitude: 2000 meters above sea level & 2400 meters above sea level.
• Time: 2 – 3 hours.
• Weather: Warm and Humid.
• Meals: Breakfast (hotel).

Backpack:

– Good hiking backpack (25 to 30L).
– 2 liters of water.
– Sun hat.
– Sunglasses.
– Camera.
– Toilet paper.
– Plastic bag for waste.
– Sunscreen and lip balm.
– Personal first aid kit.
– Hand sanitizer.
– Insect repellent and suitable clothing for mosquitoes.

Official Documents:

– Valid and original passport (the same one you used to book your hike).
– Travel insurance (it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for your trip).

Clothing:

– 1 t-shirt.
– Comfortable pants.
– Jacket.
– Underwear.
– Hiking socks.
– Sweater or fleece.
– Swimsuit.

Footwear:

– Trekking shoes.
– Tennis shoes or sandals or other comfortable footwear.

Extra Money:

– Beverages.
– Souvenirs.
– Tips (Optional).