How to Plan Your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tour in 2 Days 1 Night from Cusco

If you’re looking for a quick and efficient way to explore the Inca Trail and visit the iconic Machu Picchu, then the 2-day 1-night tour from Cusco is perfect for you. This tour allows you to follow in the footsteps of the Incas and witness some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Here is everything you need to know to plan your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour.

What’s Included

The 2-day 1-night Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour includes:

• An English-speaking tour guide
• All transfers to and from your hotel in Cusco
• Round-trip bus ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
• Entry fees to Machu Picchu
• One night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
• All meals during the tour except breakfast on the first day and dinner on the second day

Please note that the international and domestic airfares and the Wayna Picchu ticket are not included in the tour price. Additionally, earlier train service Vista-dome way back is optional at an extra cost.

The Itinerary

Day 1:

• 04:00 – 04:30 am – Pick up from your Cusco hotel and transfer to Ollantaytambo
• 07:45 am – Board the train from Ollantaytambo to KM104, where the trek begins
• 10:00 am – Start the trek at 2,100 meters above sea level (6,890 feet)
• 01:00 pm – Reach the first ruin of the day, Chachabamba (2,170 m/7,120 ft)
• 02:30 pm – Arrive at the Wiñay Wayna ruins (2,650 m/8,694 ft)
• 05:00 pm – Finish the trek at Machu Picchu (2,400 m/7,872 ft)
• 06:00 pm – Check-in at your hotel in Aguas Calientes
• 07:00 pm – Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Day 2:

• 05:30 am – Wake up and have breakfast at your hotel
• 07:00 am – Board the bus to Machu Picchu with your guide
• 08:00 am – Arrive at Machu Picchu and start the guided tour
• 09:30 am – Free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own
• 12:00 pm – Return to Aguas Calientes by bus
• 01:00 pm – Take the train back to Ollantaytambo
• 04:00 pm – Transfer by bus from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco

What to Pack

• Passport (an absolute necessity for entry into Machu Picchu)
• Daypack
• Water bottles and a hydration system
• Warm clothing (the temperatures can drop substantially at night)
• Hiking boots/shoes
• Rain gear (especially during the rainy season)
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• Sunglasses and a hat
• Camera and extra battery or charger

Booking Your Tour

You can book your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2-Day 1-Night tour from Cusco on the Viator website. Make sure to book your tour ahead of time to ensure availability, especially during the peak season (June to August).

Final Thoughts

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the beauty and wonder of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, then this 2-day 1-night tour from Cusco is perfect for you. With hassle-free transportation, food, and lodging, you can focus on enjoying the incredible scenery and rich history of this iconic destination.

An Insider’s Guide to Cusco: The Gateway to Machu Picchu

Cusco is a beautiful city with a rich history, incredible architecture, and a vibrant culture that seamlessly blends the traditions of the past with modern living. Its central location in the Peruvian Andes also makes it the gateway to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous ancient wonders of the world. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to have an unforgettable visit to the city of Cusco.

Local Attractions

Cusco is filled with intriguing attractions that reflect both its Andean and Spanish Colonial influences. Some of the must-see attractions include the Plaza de Armas, which is the city’s central square that is surrounded by many beautiful colonial buildings. Additionally, the 16th-century Cathedral of Santo Domingo is located in the Plaza and is a perfect example of colonial architecture.

If you want to experience the Incan heritage of the city, visit the Sacsayhuaman fortress. This ancient site was originally built in the 15th century by the Inca Empire. Today, the ruins reflect the incredible architectural and engineering capabilities of the Inca people.

Another fascinating attraction is the Qorikancha temple, which was once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. Here, you can learn about the Incan religion and how it was practiced.

Dining Spots

Cusco is also home to many outstanding dining spots that offer delicious and authentic Peruvian cuisine. The city’s food scene is well-known for its use of local ingredients and exotic flavors. One of the must-try dishes is Cuy, which is a roasted guinea pig and considered a delicacy in Peru. While it may seem unusual to some visitors, it is worth trying since it has a unique taste.

Some of the top dining spots in Cusco that you should try include Chicha por Gastón Acurio, Pachapapa, and Cicciolina.

Cultural Experiences

Cusco is renowned for its cultural experiences that provide a glimpse into the life and traditions of the local people. One of the top cultural experiences is the Inti Raymi festival, which is held every year in June. This festival is a celebration of the Inca Empire, and it features traditional dances, colorful costumes, and amazing rituals.

Another cultural experience is learning about the traditional Andean music and dance. Many local community centers offer opportunities to learn from experts or take a dance class. This will provide an immersive experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the local culture.

Local History

Cusco has a rich history that spans thousands of years. The city was once the capital of the Inca Empire, and many ancient Incan structures still exist today. The city also served as a major base of power during the Spanish Colonial era in South America.

If you want to learn more about the history of the city, visit the Museo Inka, which features an extensive collection of artifacts dating back to the pre-Columbian period. The Casa Concha Museum is another great museum to visit, as it showcases several works from the Inca Empire.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

Cusco has many hidden gems that are off-the-beaten-path and worth exploring. One of them is the San Blas neighborhood, which is a quiet and picturesque area in the heart of the city. Here, you can admire the colonial architecture and explore the many artisan shops and galleries.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting the Sacred Valley, which is a beautiful area located just outside of Cusco. The valley is home to several Inca ruins and offers a tranquil escape from the city.

Cusco is a city full of surprises and offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. From exploring ancient ruins to trying the local delicacies, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city.