Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Short 2 Day Tour – A Guide on How to Explore Machu Picchu in Just 2 Days

Are you visiting the city of Cusco and have limited time but still want to visit the magnificent Machu Picchu? Look no further than the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Short 2 Day Tour, a perfect way to explore one of the wonders of the world in just 2 days. In this guide, we will take you through the details of the tour, the itinerary, and highlight the things you need to know before embarking on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Experience

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Short 2 Day Tour is an ideal experience for those who want to witness the beauty of Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas but are pressed for time. This tour allows you to explore the most iconic landmarks of the Inca Trail in just 2 days, including Machu Picchu, Sun Gate Peru, and Huayna Picchu.

Itinerary

The Itinerary of the tour is designed to make the most out of your limited time while giving you an authentic experience of the Inca Trail.

Day 1: Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo

The tour starts with an early morning pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, where you will be driven to Ollantaytambo. From there, you will embark on a 1.5-hour panoramic train ride to Chachabamba, taking in the picturesque views of the Urubamba river along the way. After reaching Chachabamba, you will start hiking up to Wiñaywayna, where you can explore the cloud forest around the area while learning about the history of the Incas through live commentary from your tour guide. The hike up to the Sun Gate Peru, one of the highlights of the tour, follows shortly after. From the top, you can witness the breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu and its surrounding landscape. After the photo stop, you’ll head down to the Machu Picchu area and explore the citadel before moving on to picturesque Aguas Calientes, where you will stay the night after dinner.

Day 2: Machu Picchu to Cusco

On the second day, you will be waking up early to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The tour guide will take you on a guided tour of the citadel while explaining the significance and history of the citadel. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the area, climb up to Huayna Picchu or Montana Machu Picchu (optional and with an extra fee), or just relax and take in the stunning views of the surroundings. After exploring Machu Picchu, you will board a train back to the Ollantaytambo station, followed by transportation to your accommodation in Cusco.

Pickup Location

The pickup location for the tour is at your accommodation in Cusco.

Highlights

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Short 2 Day Tour is packed with highlights, which makes it a perfect fit for those with limited time. – Return to Machu Picchu twice: for the sunset and for the sunrise, experience the city in a different light on both occasions – Interact and learn with experienced tour guides: learn about the history and significance of the landmarks through live commentary from experienced guides – Visit the cloud forest around Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna: explore the natural wonders of the area – Learn about the history of the Incas through live commentary: gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Inca Empire – Travel by panoramic train back to your hotel: enjoy the stunning views of the Peruvian landscape during the transportation

Optional Extra Fee

There are additional fee-based activities available on the tour, including: – Huayna Picchu: a steep climb to the summit of the mountain beside Machu Picchu. This activity costs an extra $35 USD per person and needs to be booked in advance. – Montana Machu Picchu: a hike to the top of Montana Machu Picchu that offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu and its surrounding landscape. This activity costs an extra $25 USD per person and must be pre-booked.

Arrive Back at

The tour ends in Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

Booking the Tour

You can book the tour on the official website of GetYourGuide, a reliable travel booking platform that offers a wide range of tours and activities in Peru. Book the tour here and make the most out of your visit to Cusco by exploring the iconic landmarks of the Inca Trail in just 2 days.

Book Your Tour Now

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Short 2 Day Tour is an ideal experience for those who have limited time in Cusco but still want to explore the magnificent Machu Picchu and its surrounding areas. With its well-planned itinerary, scenic train journeys, and experienced tour guides, the tour offers an authentic experience of the Inca Trail while making the most out of your limited time. Book the tour now and take a step towards exploring the iconic landmarks of Peru’s history and culture.

FAQ About Cusco

Cusco is a fascinating historic city located in the heart of the Andes in Peru. It served as the capital of the Inca Empire until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. Today, it is a thriving tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, you may have some questions. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about Cusco to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Cusco?

Cusco has a mild climate and can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is from June to August when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also the peak season when the city is crowded with tourists. Shoulder season from April to May and September to November can also be a good time to visit as there are fewer visitors, and the weather is still pleasant.

2. How do I get to Cusco?

Cusco has a modern airport, Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, which serves flights from Lima, Arequipa, and other major cities in South America. International flights from the US or Europe will have to connect through Lima. Once you arrive in Cusco, you can take a taxi or a bus to your hotel.

3. What should I know about altitude sickness?

Cusco is located at an altitude of 3,399 meters (11,152 feet) above sea level, which makes it prone to altitude sickness. Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, and shortness of breath. To avoid altitude sickness, make sure to drink plenty of water, take it easy on your first day in Cusco, and avoid alcohol or drugs. You may also want to talk to your doctor about medication to prevent altitude sickness.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Cusco?

Cusco is full of fascinating historic attractions, so it can be challenging to choose which ones to visit. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• Machu Picchu
• The Sacred Valley
• The Inca Trail
• The Plaza de Armas
• The Cathedral of Santo Domingo
• The Qorikancha Temple

5. What should I wear in Cusco?

Cusco has a cool climate, so it’s essential to bring warm clothes, especially at night. You may also need a rain jacket, as rain is common during the wet season from December to March. If you’re planning to hike, you’ll need good hiking shoes and layers of clothes.

6. Is it safe to walk around Cusco?

Cusco is generally a safe city, but like any large tourist destination, it’s essential to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in deserted areas. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings.

7. What is the currency in Cusco, and how do I get money?

The official currency in Cusco is the Peruvian sol (PEN), and you can exchange money at banks or exchange offices. ATMs are prevalent in Cusco, and credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants in the city center.

8. What are the best restaurants in Cusco?

Cusco has a vibrant food scene, with many restaurants serving traditional Peruvian cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants in Cusco include:

• Chicha
• Green’s Organic
• Cicciolina
• Limo
• Pachapapa

9. Can I drink the tap water in Cusco?

It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Cusco, as it may cause stomach problems. It’s best to drink bottled water or use a water filter.

10. What are the best souvenirs to buy in Cusco?

Cusco is a great place to buy souvenirs, especially traditional textiles, jewelry, and alpaca wool products. Popular items to buy include:

• Alpaca wool sweaters, scarves, and gloves
• Traditional Peruvian textiles, such as blankets and rugs
• Handmade pottery and ceramics
• Silver and gold jewelry

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions about Cusco and helped you plan your trip. Remember to take it slow on your first day in Cusco to avoid altitude sickness and to drink plenty of water. Don’t forget to explore the city’s fascinating historic sites and try some delicious Peruvian cuisine. Cusco is a unique and beautiful destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cusco

Cusco, located in southeastern Peru, is a city known for its rich cultural heritage and archaeological sites. As a visitor to Cusco, you will have plenty of options for sightseeing and activities. Here is a detailed guide to help you plan your visit to Cusco.

1. Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic sites in Peru and perhaps even the world. Built during the 15th century, it is believed to have been an estate for the Incan emperor Pachacuti. To get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, you can take a train from Ollantaytambo, which is around two hours away by car or bus. Alternatively, you can also do a trek, with the Inca Trail being the most popular option.

2. Explore Sacsayhuaman

Sacsayhuaman is an Incan fortress located just outside of Cusco. Built from huge boulders, the fortress is impressive even today. You can get a taxi or bus to the site, and admission costs a few dollars.

3. Visit the Cusco Cathedral

Located in the Plaza de Armas, the Cusco Cathedral dates back to the 16th century. It is known for its collection of colonial art and impressive architecture. Admission costs around $10.

4. Check out the Incan Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Incas, then the Incan Museum is a must-visit attraction. Located in an old colonial house, the museum has a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that detail the lives of the Incas. Admission costs around $5.

5. Explore the San Pedro Market

The San Pedro Market is a bustling market in Cusco that sells a variety of goods such as fruits, vegetables, clothing, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to try local cuisine and pick up some gifts to take home.

6. Walk around the Historic Centre of Cusco

Cusco’s Historic Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is notable for its well-preserved architecture and colonial-era streets. Walking around the Historic Centre is a great way to get a sense of the city’s past and present.

7. Visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a beautiful valley with many Incan ruins and is located just outside of Cusco. It’s a great place to visit if you want to see more of the region. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to explore the area.

8. Attend a Traditional Peruvian Dance Show

Cusco is known for its traditional dance performances that feature colorful costumes and traditional music. You can catch a show at one of the many theaters in the city.

9. Try the Local Cuisine

Peruvian cuisine is known for its diverse flavors and spices. Be sure to try local favorites such as ceviche, guinea pig, and chicha morada. There are many restaurants in Cusco that offer traditional Peruvian cuisine.

10. Go Shopping for Souvenirs

Cusco is filled with markets and stores that sell a variety of souvenirs such as textiles, pottery, and jewelry. Make sure to haggle and compare prices before making a purchase.

Book Your Tour Now

Cusco is a city that offers plenty of options for sightseeing and activities. From exploring Incan ruins to trying the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone. By using this guide, you’ll be able to plan a memorable trip to Cusco that will be full of adventure and discovery.