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Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N with Camping

By: Alpaca Expeditions

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$590.00

Duration

2 Days / 1 Nights

Group Size

2 People

Physical rating

Moderate

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Tour Map

Tour Overview

Tour Type: Trekking/Hiking, cultural, adventurous
Good For: Those in moderate shape, families.
Difficulty: Moderate. It’s not a technical hike but the altitude may affect some individuals.
Consideration: Permit is required, but this is a separate permit process and generally available with little notice. Closed February.

Highlights

  1. Camp at the Foot of Machu Picchu on this Exclusive Short 2-Day Inca Trail Hike

    Alpaca Expeditions is the ONLY operator that offers a camping 2 Day Inca Trail tour. One very unique difference between Alpaca Expeditions and other tour operators is that we have an exclusive campsite for the Inca Trail 2 day Hike that is at the foot of Machu Picchu. No other company offers this! (We also offer the 2 Day Inca Trail with Hotel.)

    Private Campsite between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes Alpaca Expeditions has private property that we camp at for this Inca Trail 2 Day Camping tour.  Experience an incredible night under the stars in the magnificent Andean mountains. Many hikers tell us that this is their favorite part of their short trek.

    The short Inca Trail Hike, also called the 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike, is a shorter variation of the Classic hike. It starts on Km. 82 located an hour away from Ollantaytambo and takes you on a two-day hiking experience along the trail towards Machu Picchu.

  2. Hike One Day, Explore Machu Picchu the Next.

    Short on Time or Not an Experienced Hiker? 

    This short Inca trail hike includes one fantastic day of hiking with the second day dedicated completely to touring the ruins of Machu Picchu. This hiking package is perfect if you want to experience a day of hiking the Inca but have limited time, or are not as experienced at challenging hikes.

  3. Visit 4 Incan Archeological Parks, in addition to Machu Picchu

    One of the reasons this hike is on many people’s bucket list is because of the sites along the way. You’ll have the once in a lifetime chance to visit archeological parks such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate or Intipunku. The path itself is also brimming with natural beauty. You’ll be surrounded by the amazing flora and fauna the cloud forest of Peru has to offer. All along the way you will find orchids, different types of flowers and many different types of birds. This day of hiking will be a challenging one, but something you will be able to conquer with our team’s help.

    A Full Day of Inca Trail Hiking

    If you pick the short Inca Trail 2 day hike, you’ll start your hike at Km. 104. In order to get to this trailhead, we will need to catch a train very early in the morning from the Ollantaytambo train station. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, or the Sacred Valley, to make our way to the station and start your adventure. Once we arrive at the trail head, you will enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast provided by our amazing trekking chef. While you are partaking in the local cuisine, we will set everything up in preparation to begin your hike towards Machu Picchu.

    Your Private Campsite: Incredible Views, Hot Showers, Skilled Chefs
    Alpaca Expeditions’ campsite is located 10 minutes away from Puente Ruinas and has all the accommodations you will need from already set up tents to hot water showers and a dining room for you to enjoy your freshly prepared dinner with your team. Our campsite is very close to Aguas Calientes and has a breathtaking view of the mountains and the Andean sky. Sleeping under the Peruvian stars is something you won’t soon forget. You’ll want to take this opportunity to camp with us if you are a camping lover.

  4. Expert Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

    Hot, Fresh Peruvian Breakfast, Pack Up Camp and go to Machu Picchu!

    In the morning you’ll awake to the fresh air and hot coffee and tea provided to your Alpaca Expeditions’ team. Then we’ll have our renowned chef hard at work cooking your fresh breakfast while you enjoy your morning at the campsite.

    Once breakfast is over, you’ll hike to Aguas Calientes and the bus station for the bus ride to Machu Picchu. Get ready for an extraordinary, fully guided tour of one of the 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu! A once in a lifetime experience – are you ready?

  5. Itinerary Overview

    Day 1: Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu (Walking Distance: 15 km / 8 miles)

    Day 2: Machu Picchu! (You’ll be back in Cusco around 8:30 PM)

  6. Special Offers

    Add Rainbow Mountain: $150 US

    Along with enjoying the Inca Trail 2 days trek, you can add to your enjoyment a full day hike to the amazing Rainbow mountain at a very special rate. You can do this hike either before or after your Inca Trail adventure. You just need to arrange the details with Alpaca Expeditions’ sales team.

Itinerary

Alpaca Expeditions’ team will pick you up from your hotel at 4 a.m. You’ll head to the train station and leave on the 6:10 a.m. train from Ollantaytambo. This train is one of the most magnificent trains to ride in the world. Be prepared for phenomenal views of the Urubamba River, the soaring snow-capped mountain peaks and cornfield farms. As we descend, you’ll see the micro-climate changes from the mountains and cornfields to green jungle valleys. This includes ferns, bromeliads, and orchids as the temperature starts to get warmer. This train ride is one hour and 45 minutes to Km 104, where we’ll disembark to meet your Alpaca Expeditions trekking chef and porters.

This is where you’ll be served your freshly cooked breakfast before starting your trek. Be sure to bring your original passport since this is the very first checkpoint along the Inca Trail. After breakfast you’ll have some time to prepare before beginning the hike.

Soon after we’ll get to explore the first Inca site, Chachabamba, which is first ancient Incan checkpoint to enter the Inca trail. Your Alpaca Expeditions tour guide will give you some background history on these amazing ruins. Then you’ll have a three-hour hike up to the most famous Inca site along the trail Wiñay Wayna.

You’ll see amazing views of Machu Picchu Valley and the Urubamba River along the trail as well as the flora and fauna that re native to the area. There are also waterfalls and spectacular views of Machu Picchu Mountain. The trail itself has some flat areas as well as some short uphill and downhill hikes. It also has steps arranged in sections that can be narrow in some areas but not dangerous.

Once you arrive at the Wiñay Wayna Inca site you’ll have time for a tour by your Alpaca Expeditions guide. He’ll provide you with time to explore the Inca site, temples, waterfalls, gardens, storehouses, watchtowers and farming terraces.

Then it’s only a short walk to the lunch spot where your Alpaca Expeditions trekking chef and porters will be ready for your arrival. They’ll have cold drinks and delicious fresh food prepared by Alpaca Expeditions’ chef and served buffet-style. After lunch there’ll be time for a short nap.

Then it’ll be a one hour gradual up and downhill hike to get to the Sun Gate. There you’ll have spectacular views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding valleys. The Sun Gate was used by Incas to observe the sunrise from Machu Picchu during the summer solstice. From here it’s another hour hike to the Machu Picchu ruins. Once in Machu Picchu you can explore the watchtower area where you can get charming pictures of Machu Picchu (without crowds). We’ll then take the 20-minute bus ride to the campsite of Puente Ruinas. When you arrive at the campsite your tents will be all set up. You’ll meet your Alpaca Expeditions porters and enjoy a social happy hour with hot drinks and dinner.

Later in the evening we’ll have a small ceremony with your chef and porters for your last night with them. They’ll still be there the next morning to cook breakfast and for a proper goodbye.
* This hiking route is identical to our 2 Day Inca Trail with Hotel.

Highlight: Trekking the Inca Trail, enjoying the views from the Sun Gate, sunset views from Machu Picchu, camping at the foot of Machu Picchu

Walking Distance: 15 km / 8 miles
Meals: Included
Elevations: Trek starting point 2,000 m, the highest point is Sun Gate 2,720 m, the camp is at 1,900 m
Weather: Hot and humid

Your Alpaca Expeditions team will wake you up early with your choice of hot drinks. You’ll then have time to prepare your duffel bags, day packs and to enjoy your freshly made breakfast. We’ll walk 30 minutes to the bus station to be one of the first in line to go up to Machu Picchu (sometimes there is a 20-30 min wait in the line to board the bus).

The first buses will depart at 5:30 a.m. and arrive at 6:00 a.m., into Machu Picchu. Again, you need to have your original passport at this checkpoint. Your Alpaca Expeditions tour guide will take you to the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise over the mountains and gets some amazing pictures (weather permitting). We’ll then have a two hour private walking tour of the Machu Picchu ruins with all of its fascinating history. You’ll also have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. If you have booked a permit to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain you’ll start at 10:00 a.m. However, there are a lot of other things to see around Machu Picchu. There is the Inca Bridge, the Sun Gate, or you can walk around the temple and residential areas of Machu Picchu and mingle with the llamas. You’ll need to catch your bus back down to the town of Aguas Calientes for lunch and train to Ollantaytambo. From there you’ll go by private van back to Cusco where your Alpaca Expeditions team will drop you off at your hotel.

Highlight: Arrive early to Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise
Temperature: Warm and humid
Meals: Breakfast Only
Train: Expedition tourist class

Inclusions

  • Professional Guides: All of Alpaca Expeditions’ guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in the Cusco region, and are committed to teaching others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional and will ensure you are safe and happy.
  • Permits: As soon as we receive your details and deposit, Alpaca Expeditions will purchase your permits (pending availability, check our Inca Trail Availability). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They can’t be changed once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Briefing: The night before your trek you’ll come to Alpaca Expeditions’ office for your briefing. You’ll receive your duffel bag that’ll stay with your porters while you hike. This bag should not exceed 7kg/14 lbs. and does need to include your sleeping bag and air mattress.
    Porters: Alpaca Expeditions’ includes a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag. There is no additional fee for this. You will not have access to your duffel bag until your evening campsite.
  • Transportation: You’ll have transportation included in this trek. You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel around 4 a.m. (unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo) and brought to KM 82 to begin your trek. Also included will be the Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes. You may also upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, a Alpaca Expeditions member will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Additionally, your round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu will be included.
  • Equipment: Alpaca Expeditions has the best equipment. We use Eureka Timberline 4 person tents that are shared by only two people. You’ll also have a spacious dining tent to enjoy your meals in.
  • Food: The Alpaca Expeditions chefs cook delicious meals that many previous trekkers have loved. We honor all food restrictions so be sure to add any that you have on your booking form and let your guide know at your briefing. Food is typically all served family-style.
    You’ll enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day for the trek along with a happy hour of tea and snacks. A snack will be provided each morning for you to enjoy along the hike. Your last meal with your chef will be after breakfast on day four. Lunch on the last day is not included.
  • Water: Beginning from your first lunch until your last breakfast, Alpaca Expeditions will supply all the water needed. This water is boiled, filtered, and then cooled before distributing. You must bring personal water bottles and or a camelback. We recommend carrying about 3L worth. You’ll be able to refill your water at each meal.
  • First Aid: Every Alpaca Expeditions guide has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training sessions every February that every Alpaca tour guide must attend. Your tour guide will always have a first-aid kit for basic medical situations (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. We’ll get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible if needed and ensure you get directly to a clinic for treatment.
    Extras: We believe it’s the attention to small details that separates us from other tour companies. Every Alpaca Expeditions’ trekker receives a small pillow to sleep with, a foam mattress for insulation, a day pack cover to protect their things while hiking, and a rain poncho. We’ll work hard to create your best vacation a reality.
  • Satellite Phones: Alpaca Expeditions’ top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with issues clients may have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have are limited in how far they can reach. Alpaca Expeditions has added Satellite Phones to every trek as well as a Radio. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well. While they’re not cheap to use they’re available just in case you need to check in on the puppy you left at home with grandma.

  • Rentals
    Every trekker needs a sleeping bag when camping. Inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but encouraged. If you don’t want to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent:
    Sleeping Bag: $15
    Inflatable Air Mattress: $10
    Walking Sticks (Pair): $10
  • Huayna Picchu
    Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep if you are scared of heights. You would do this after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance due to popularity. Please understand that the weather is out of our control.

Price

$590 per person

Private Tours are based on Group Size

Two trekkers: $1000
Three trekkers: $900
Four trekkers: $750
Five trekkers: $700
Six trekkers: $650
Seven trekkers: $610
Eight, or more Trekkers: $590

$25 off per person

Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.

Please send all to info@alpacaexpeditions.com.
More Information about STUDENT CARD

Additional Items

Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It’s a 45-minute hike to the top. Even when you do this hike on your own your guide will still show you the trail entrance. This trek is an additional entrance ticket that we can secure for you with advance notice.

Your tickets will be purchased to coincide with when you need to start the trail. Tickets are either for the First Session from 7-8 AM or Second Session from 10-11 AM. We purchase the Second Session for you to enjoy your tour of Machu Picchu before you begin. This window is only your start time and you may take your time up and down so no rush.

The ticket is $75 per person.

Machu Picchu mountain is the other mountain that stands above the Machu Picchu ruins. It offers even more stunning views than Huayna Picchu but takes an hour and a half to reach the top. For this trek it’ll be an additional entrance ticket that we can secure for you.

This ticket is $75 per person.

All Alpaca Expeditions tours include the Expedition Train. This train is usually booked at 4:22 p.m., leaving from Aguas Calientes. The Vistadome Train is an upgraded train that offers slightly larger seats, windows, and even some entertainment. Usually the Vistadome train is booked for 4:43 p.m. and travels to Poroy, a train station closer to Cusco. While this is an upgraded fee, we’ll still include your transportation back to your hotel.

This train is $75 per person.

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