Inca Trail Trek 2 Days classic

You will start early in Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft), taking the first Consettur bus up to the Machu Picchu Citadel (2,430 m / 7,972 ft) to enter the site during the early morning time slot and avoid peak visitor hours.

At approximately 6:00 – 8:00 AM, you will begin a guided 2-hour Machu Picchu archaeological site tour, exploring the main sectors of the Inca citadel, including the Temple of the Sun (Torreón), the Intihuatana stone (ritual solar clock), the Temple of the Three Windows, and the agricultural and urban sectors with advanced Inca terrace engineering (andenes).

During the visit, you will learn about Inca architecture, hydraulic engineering systems, and ceremonial religious functions within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu.

After the guided tour, enjoy optional time for advanced hikes, subject to pre-booked permits, such as Huayna Picchu (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 m / 10,111 ft), both offering high – altitude Offering panoramic viewpoints over the Urubamba River Valley  .

In the afternoon, you will descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft), then board the PeruRail Expedition service from Aguas Calientes Railway Station (Machu Picchu Pueblo Station) to Ollantaytambo Train Station (2,792 m / 9,160 ft). From there, you will continue by private transport back to Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft), arriving in the afternoon or early evening.

• Original passport: you can’t use a copy of your passport; you need to make sure your original passport is valid for at least six months to enter and leave Peru. Also, make sure your passport has two blank pages for the stamps when you come in and out.
• Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense at high altitude and you should protect your eyes from the glare. Wear one that offers UV protection and is comfortable.
• Rain gear: The trail can be wet especially in the rainy season. Have quality gear and clothing with materials such as Gore-tex that will keep your skin dry while you perspire during the hike.
• Warm clothing: During the Inca Trail, where the temperature fluctuates during the day and night, it is mandatory to have good clothing equipment such as: fleeces, long-sleeved shirts, down jackets and a waterproof layer.
• Sunscreen: Choose a good sunscreen (high factor) and apply it before starting the hike and regularly during the day if you are sweating.
• Hand sanitizer: Carry a good hand sanitizer to disinfect hands before eating, drinking and after using the bathroom. We recommend carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer throughout the day.
• Snacks: bring snacks that are rich in energy and easy to digest. This, because chocolate bars or cookies are not ideal, as they can be heavy for the stomach and leave you with an impression of sluggishness, so we recommend taking granola bars or a mixture of nuts which will give enough energy to perform the walk.
• Extra money: take money preferably in soles for drinks, tips and souvenirs: during the excursion you will find facilities or bathrooms where you will have to pay for the use of some of them, especially the first day.

Clothing: 

• Two t-shirts. Long sleeves are better.
• Two pairs of hiking trousers: One for the Inca Trail and another for Machu Picchu the following day.
• Underwear and socks: It is best if they are moisture-wicking.
• Change of clothes: necessary for the two-day tour.
• Warm layers: You need layers that can be removed quickly in the early morning when you are hiking.
• Swimsuit (optional): Bring one for the hot springs in Machu Picchu town or Aguas Calientes.

About toiletries:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Toilet paper or wet wipes are needed.

Accessories: 

• A camera and fully charged phones.
• Extra batteries are needed for Machu Picchu.

Extra Snacks: 

• Snacks, energy bars and chocolate.

Extra Money: 

• For souvenirs, drinks and tips on the Short Inca Trail.

First Aid Kit:

• Pain relievers: Examples include ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
• Band-Aids: For minor cuts and blisters.
• Sunscreen: The sun is very strong in the cloud forest.
• Insect repellent: For preventing insect bites.
• Aloe vera gel: For treatment of minor burns
• Hydrocortisone cream: Relieves itching and rashes.
• Bandage: ideal for treating sprains and strains.
• Moleskin: Ideal for preventing and treating blisters.

Guidance on what to pack:

• Pack light: There is no porter assistance, so focus on the essentials.
• Reusable containers: Make sure that all water storage containers are reusable.
• Health essentials: Remember to pack your personal medication and first aid items.

Sending a carry-on directly to a hotel is simple and convenient:

You can send a small carry-on bag directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo. Each bag must weigh no more than 5 kilos. If you don’t have any additional luggage, we can provide a duffel bag.

Make sure you pack all the essentials for the day in your backpack. In your carry-on bag, put clothes for the next day, toiletries and anything else you won’t need during the the first day of hiking.

If you would like to send a bag as a carry-on, please let us know after booking the Short Inca Trail so that we can obtain the necessary permissions to transfer the bags by train.