The 2-day Inca Trail is a shorter alternative for those who do not have enough time or who do not want to hike the full 4-day trail. Below is a possible itinerary for the 2-day Inca Trail:
Table of Contents
Inca Trail 2 days itinerary
Day 1:
- 5:00 am: transfer by bus from Cusco to the start of the Inca Trail at kilometer 104.
- 7:00 am: arrival at the access control and start of the trek.
- 11:00 am: arrival at Wiñay Wayna, an archaeological complex in the mountains with an impressive view of the jungle and mountains.
- 1:00 pm: arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you can see for the first time the impressive citadel of Machu Picchu.
- 2:00 pm: descent to Machu Picchu.
- 3:00 pm: arrival to Machu Picchu and guided tour of the archaeological complex.
- 6:00 pm: transfer by bus to Aguas Calientes.
- 7:00 pm: dinner and overnight in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 2:
- 5:30 am: breakfast at the hotel.
- 6:00 am: ascent by bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
- 7:00 am: second optional guided visit to Machu Picchu.
- 11:00 am: descent to Aguas Calientes.
- 12:30 pm: lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- 2:00 pm: return by train to Ollantaytambo.
- 4:00 pm: transfer by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- 6:00 pm: arrival in Cusco.
Wiñay Wayna
Wiñay Wayna is an archaeological site located on the Inca Trail, about 3 kilometers from Machu Picchu in the region of Cusco, Peru. The name Wiñay Wayna means “always young” in Quechua.
It is considered one of the most impressive sites on the Inca Trail due to its well-preserved architecture and hillside location with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The site features agricultural terraces, plazas, water channels and more than a dozen stone structures, including dwellings, temples and fountains.
Wiñay Wayna is an important stopping site for those making the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and can also be visited on a day trip from Cusco.
Inti Punku
Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site on the Inca Trail located near Machu Picchu in Peru. It is located on top of a hill at an altitude of 2,840 meters and offers a breathtaking view of the citadel of Machu Picchu.
To reach Inti Punku, visitors must walk the Inca Trail from km 82, where the trailhead is located. The trail to Inti Punku is usually taken on the third day of the 4-day Inca Trail trek, and on the second day for those doing the 2-day trek.
The arrival at Inti Punku is an exciting moment for visitors to the Inca Trail, as it is the first point from which the famous citadel of Machu Picchu can be seen. From there, travelers can descend to Machu Picchu via a trail for about 45 minutes to explore the site.
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is an archaeological site located in the Andes Mountains, in the region of Cusco, Peru. It was built by the Inca civilization around the 15th century and is believed to have been used as a residence for the emperor Pachacutec. Machu Picchu is characterized by its impressive architecture, which combines the technique of stone construction with an amazing integration of the surrounding nature.
The site consists of a series of agricultural structures and terraces built on the slopes of a mountain, with panoramic views of the Urubamba River valley. Machu Picchu also has several temples, shrines and plazas, as well as a system of water channels and fountains, suggesting that it was used as an important religious and cultural center.
Machu Picchu is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and attracts millions of tourists each year. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and in 2007 was chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Questions and answers about the 2 day Inca Trail
Is the 2-day Inca Trail suitable for all levels of fitness?
The 2-day Inca Trail is suitable for people in moderate physical condition. The trail involves walking on steep and rocky trails for several hours a day.
Is it necessary to book in advance for the 2-day Inca Trail?
Yes, it is necessary to book in advance for the 2-day Inca Trail. Machu Picchu National Park authorities limit the number of people who can hike the Inca Trail on a daily basis.
What kind of weather can be expected on the 2-day Inca Trail?
The weather on the 2-day Inca Trail can vary depending on the time of year. During the dry season (May to October), the weather is usually sunny and dry during the day, and cold at night. During the rainy season (November to April), the weather is usually more humid and there may be rain during the day.
Are guides needed for the 2-day Inca Trail?
Yes, it is necessary to have a guide for the 2-day Inca Trail. Guides are required by the Machu Picchu National Park authorities and are also helpful in providing information about the local culture and history.
How far do you walk each day on the 2-day Inca Trail?
On the first day of the 2-day Inca Trail, you walk approximately 6 km from the trailhead to the campsite. On the second day, you walk approximately 8 km from the camp to Machu Picchu.
