2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package

From $

OVERVIEW

This fantastic Short Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package covers the last section of the Classic Inca Trail and takes you into Machu Picchu by walking through the Sun Gate, followed by the amazing trail to the world renowned Rainbow Mountain!

Two amazing trails that take you to the two most spectacular places in the world, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain respectively. Follow the “Ancient Inca Road” through lush subtropical vegetation, cloud forest. expansive mountain vistas and extraordinary ecological varieties. Enter through the Sun Gate for the most jaw dropping views of Machu Picchu.

On your penultimate day, hike to an amazing and eye-catching freak of nature that is Rainbow Mountain. Join the millions that have followed the path to this stunning piece of nature. Both hikes offer added hikes for even further discovery. From Machu Picchu hike to the top of Huayna Picchu Mountain for panoramic view of the citadel and its landscape. Also, venture to Red Valley from Rainbow Mountain to discover Mars right here on earth.

More information Less information

Service Level: Standard-Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers.

Travel Style: Aventure, Hiking, trekking

Group Size: Small group experience; Max 8, Avg 5.

short inca trail 2 days - Orange Nation Peru

ITINERARY

We welcome you to the Imperial City of Cusco that sits at 3 400m / 11 155ft above see level. Cusco will take your break away in more than one way. So, it´s good idea to spend the day relaxing and acclimating to the high elevation. Also, explore the architectural wonder that is its historical center. Spending time in its picturesque Plaza De Armas or bohemian neighborhood of San Blas. Try out some alpaca apparel, local Andean Cuisine or just a cup of coffee made from the original bean of Cusco.

3* Accommodation: Maytaq Wasin or Waman Hotels
4* Accommodation: Costa del Sol Ramada, Casa Andina Private Collection or Novotel Hotels

Get ready for early 4am pick up for a scenic drive to the train station in Ollantaytambo. We arrive in time for a quick takeaway cup of coffee and breakfast (not included) before catching the 6:10am train to KM104. Upon arrival at the trail head, we stopover to prepare for the hike ahead, apply sunscreen, insect repellent and pack away our box lunches.

You get off the train at the famous Km104, where your trek begins! (2,000m/6,560 ft. above sea level). After crossing the Urubamba River on a picturesque foot bridge, you will show your passport at the checkpoint and visit your first Inca site nearby. The first hour and a half are a gentle upward climb. Along the way, you will stop at several outlooks where you have an expansive view of the Urubamba River. You also pass through several microclimates, including cloud forest, so be ready for damp or even rain at any season of the year. The next hour and a half are a slightly steeper uphill with a beautiful waterfall as your reward at the end of the hike!

Once you cross over the bridge, we start a steep incline to the spectacular Wiñay Wayna! (2,600m/8,500ft above sea level). From here the views of the valley are stunning. Also, explore this well preserved site that was only rediscovered in 1942. We stop at a covered shelter at the Wiñay Wayna campground for our delectable box lunch. This is the point were the Short Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail intersect. Take the opportunity to use the restroom, the sinks and enjoy the incredible flora and fauna of this subtropical microclimate that’s close to the jungle. Let us know of any food allergies or dietary restrictions at booking.

After lunch, you have an hour long walk that gently rolls up and down. Just before reaching the Sun Gate, you climb a steep set of steps known as the Gringo Killer steps. Goin through the Sun Gate you have your first jaw dropping view of the UNESCO world heritage site, the great Machu Picchu. So, take some time to savor the moment and take photos. The last 60 minutes down from the Sun Gate provide many opportunities to take more photos of Machu Picchu from this unique vantage point. There are also a couple more important Inca sites between the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu, so make sure to go slowly, enjoy your time walking in the footsteps of the Inca on the Inca Trail and ask your guide questions about these historical places on the last bit of your hike to Machu Picchu.

Once you reach Machu Picchu, you will have time to take more photos from the viewing platform above the site (Guard House), where you can take the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. You will arrive in the afternoon, as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists, which gives you the opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light with fewer people in your shots. Take your time to enjoy this magical experience before you take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to check into your hotel. You will have a delicious dinner, followed by some time to walk around this picturesque little town, visit the hot springs or just go to your hotel to rest after such an exciting day.

Meals included: Box lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes
Accommodation: 3* Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu
Difficulty: Moderate.

You will leave an overnight bag at the Ollantaytambo train station to be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes.

This is the day you’ve been waiting for! After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu so that you can be there to witness the sunrise. It is a truly extraordinary site and not something you’ll want to miss! Your guide will give you a guided tour of Machu Picchu, which takes about two hours. You will see many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel.

After your tour, those who have booked in advance for an extra hike up Huayna Picchu will have time to enjoy those views on their own. When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs.

The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. You can also see Wiñay Wayna from the train, if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back in Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm.

Meals included: Breakfast at your hotel
Hotel: 3* Maytaq Wasin or Waman Hotel

***IMPORTANT:

On the 2 day Inca Trail, we will be doing the circuit #3 and there is no way to do another circuit unless you buy an additional entrance to Machu Picchu.
You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
Early trains can be organized by requested and it has to be done by booking time.
The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.

We will pick you up from your hotel at 4am, and begin with our amazing Rainbow Mountain Trek Adventure. We set out on our drive for 3 hours through the South Valley; ending up at the trailhead at Llacto (4,638m / 15,216 ft). Along the way, there are amazing views of farming Inca terraces, traditional villages, valleys and high Andean peaks.

The herds of alpacas and llamas near your breakfast place will entertain you in the early morning. As you start your hike, you will have views of the Ausangate Mountain and other glaciers. You can interact with the local people, who are still keeping traditional Quechua culture alive. Learn about their traditional clothes and the significance of the different hats worn by the men. Ask your guide to teach you a few phrases in Quechua!

After a total hike of 1.5 hours, we finally reach our destination: the Rainbow Mountain (5,020m /16,466ft). After admiring the unique beauty, you will have time to explore the area. You can take pictures or just soak up the view. Afterwards, there is an optional hike across to the top of the Red Valley. This walk takes about 45 minutes longer to get back to the trailhead.

At this point, we hike back down the way we came. The hike takes 1 hour, then we enjoy our lunch which will prepare by our cook.

We will embark on the 3-hour drive back to Cusco and drop you off at your Cusco hotel, arriving around 6:00pm.

Meals included: hot breakfast & lunch
Difficulty: moderate to challenging

At any time, we will drive you back to airport for you flight back home or next destination. Coordinate your departure times with the office.

End of our service.

Prices

***The 2 Day Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package is available on any date that its best for you (except February when it is closed for maintenance). Join in with our group and get the best deals.

PRICES:

$??USD	per person without hotels
$?? USD	per person with 2 nights 3* hotels
$?? USD	per person with 2 nights 4* hotels

***Private service is available for $150 USD more per person.

***All entrance fees are included and we operate our tours in small groups averaging 5 people with a maximum of 12!

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE

Transfer from the airport to hotel: (Cusco hotel only)
SMALL GROUPS: up to 8 hikers
EARLY TRAIN: for the return to Cusco from Aguas Caliente

DISCOUNTS

18 to 25 years old: $30 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval of discount.
Under 18 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

EXTRAS

Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person
Vistadome: $57 USD per person
Hotel single supplement: $35 USD

**Huayna Picchu Mountain is a optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.

Inclusions

What is included for the Short Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package?

Briefing at our office with your guide.
All Transfers
Professional guide for three days.
Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Inca Trail permits
Entrance to Machu Picchu
4 nights hotel accommodation with private room, bathroom, wifi and breakfast (This applies if you are paying the price which include hotels)
Meals a indicated on the itinerary
Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu -Aguas Calientes.
Personal assistance
Rainbow mountain trek with all entrances and meals included

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED for the Short Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package?

Hotel – optional upgrades to 4* or 5* hotels
Huayna Picchu Tickets: $75 USD per person
Upgrade to Vistadome: $57 USD per person (Return only Aguas Calientes to Poroy/Cusco)
Tips for your guide

What you have to take with you for the Short Inca Trail & Rainbow Mountain Trek Package?

In your daypack for the Short Inca Trail, you should have:

Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
Water storage: 2-3 litre Camelbaks are encouraged.
Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
Toilet paper
Jacket if cold season
Waterproof gloves – rainy season
Sun hat
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Wool hat if cold season
Rain gear – rainy season
Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
Rain poncho
Camera
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
Valuables

In your duffel that will be sent by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes:

A change of clothes for visiting Machu Picchu the next day
Personal toiletries
Personal medications
Battery chargers

Why travel with Orange Nation Peru?

We have become the leaders in small group adventure travel over the past three decades by consistently listening to our travelers and delivering what they desire: adaptable itineraries, the freedom to explore, smaller group sizes, safety and peace of mind, and knowledgeable local guides who provide unique insights into the destination that would be missed through any other means of travel.

Learn more

EXPERT GUIDES : Our expedition staff are experienced, enthusiastic and among the best in the industry - they are our secret to success

SMALL GROUPS: Travelling with us will always feel like going with friends and not with a group of strangers in an organized tour.

OUR EXPERIENCE: With fifteen years’ experience and over 25 Packages to Machu Picchu alone, our team knows how to deliver a successful expedition.

ENVIRONMENTAL: ENVIRONMENTAL: Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.

Travelers' Choice Awards 2022

Excellent based on 280 reviews based on 280 reviews

Triadvisor

Letty C

Excellent worker

Jun. 2023

Joaquín excellent 👍 Very Caballero helped me with my 🎒 offered me oxygen does very well His work ⁇ in singing to Subme to the 🐎 And what a beautiful mountain it cost me to Climb but with the Joaquín's help I did!

Mariana D

A great adventure!

May. 2023

We made 4D / 3N of the Inka Trail. The experience was challenging, but it was worth it. Chef Fortunato's meals and explanations of Jony and David's places were very complete. Tmb the patience to make sure we all get there on time.

malala08

Fast and friendly service

Dec. 2022

We did not get to specify the service due to the political situation in the country, however the company quickly and carefully proceeded with the return. Very good service and when the situation calms down we will resume service with them.

SEE MORE REVIEWS