You’re traveling in Peru, you only have 2 days in Cusco, and you’re wondering: what can’t I miss?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The former capital of the Inca Empire offers a unique blend of history, culture, architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. While there are thousands of things to do, with good planning you can enjoy unforgettable experiences that will connect you with the essence of this magical land.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or have a couple of free days during your trip and don’t know how to spend them, this blog will help you plan your 2-day stay in Cusco with the must-do tours and itineraries.
2-Day Tours to Machu Picchu
Visiting Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, is the dream of every traveler who comes to Peru. While there are several ways to reach the incredible Inca citadel—including routes like the famous Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek—not all travelers have several days to dedicate to the journey. Fortunately, there are shorter and more flexible options that allow you to get to Machu Picchu without missing the magic of the Andean experience.
Train to Machu Picchu
That’s right, you read it correctly: you can get to Machu Picchu by train! This option allows you to reach the majestic citadel in just a few hours, with plenty of energy to explore every corner. It’s a fast, comfortable mode of transport that offers spectacular views of the Andean landscape through the panoramic windows of the train car.
With this Salkantay Trekking tour, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu by train in 2 days, traveling at a relaxed pace. First, we’ll pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco and take you to the Poroy train station, about 20 minutes by car from the city. The train will take you to Aguas Calientes, the picturesque town located at the foot of Machu Picchu, just a few kilometers from the Inca citadel. You’ll spend the night here, giving you time to stroll through the charming village and rest before the big day.
Relax in the hot springs: The name “Aguas Calientes” is no coincidence. The town has natural thermal baths located in the upper part of the village, which you can easily reach on foot.
The next morning, you’ll take a bus up to Machu Picchu, traveling along a winding road through mist and high jungle. Upon arrival, you’ll explore the citadel with an expert guide who will share the history of this ancient spiritual center, its possible astronomical functions, its advanced architectural techniques, and the mysteries that still surround this wonder.
This short trip is an ideal way to deeply connect with Peru’s ancestral legacy, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
This option allows you to gradually immerse yourself in the history of the Incas, discovering their legacy step by step before reaching their masterpiece: Machu Picchu.
First, you’ll descend into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a region located near the city of Cusco but at a lower altitude. In this area, the Inca Empire saw an ideal place to establish settlements, as the warm climate was perfect for successful harvests.
On this two-day tour, the first day is dedicated to exploring picturesque traditional towns like Pisac, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo, which keep their Andean heritage alive through architecture, markets, and customs. These towns also host incredible Inca archaeological remains, agricultural terraces, and sacred temples built with admirable architectural precision.
From the train station in Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a train to the town of Aguas Calientes. There, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel—perfect for resting and recharging before the exciting visit to Machu Picchu the next day. This option is perfect if you want to delve into the history of the Inca Empire and experience the lifestyle and rich culture of the Andes up close.
Maras, Moray and Machu Picchu
Discover a different side of the Sacred Valley! On this tour through Maras, Moray, and Machu Picchu, you’ll explore spectacular landscapes and historical sites where you’ll learn about Inca agricultural engineering, ancestral Andean traditions, and the cultural importance of each location.
First, you’ll visit Chinchero, a charming Andean village where you’ll have the chance to learn about the ancient art of weaving. Local residents will demonstrate the traditional techniques still used to create colorful and finely crafted handmade textiles, passed down from generation to generation.
Next, in Moray, you’ll discover one of the most fascinating examples of Inca agricultural innovation. This series of circular terraces served as an agricultural laboratory, allowing the Incas to experiment with crops at different microclimates and altitudes. The next stop is Maras, where you’ll be amazed by more than 3,000 salt pools clinging to the mountainside. These salt mines, used since pre-Inca times, continue to produce high-quality natural salt using traditional methods.
Finally, you’ll board the train in Ollantaytambo bound for Machu Picchu, on an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to capture incredible photos of unique Cusco scenery, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and Andean nature.
Short Inca Trail
Reach Machu Picchu in 2 days along the original Inca trail! While the Classic 4-day Inca Trail is the most famous trekking route to the citadel, few people know about its shorter version: the 2-day Short Inca Trail.
This alternative allows you to experience the essence of the legendary Inca Trail in just two days, walking part of the ancient sacred path while enjoying breathtaking landscapes and valuable archaeological sites—with less physical demand and in less time.
The route begins near Ollantaytambo, and on the first day you’ll visit the fascinating archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, where you’ll learn about the history and purpose of this ancient trail. As part of the vast Qhapaq Ñan, this road network once connected the main centers of the Inca Empire, linking cultures, regions, and knowledge throughout the Andes.
To finish the day, you’ll pass through Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the ancient official entrance to Machu Picchu. From this privileged vantage point, you’ll enjoy an impressive panoramic view of the citadel—an unforgettable reward after the hike. It’s the perfect moment to take in the landscape and feel the magic of the Inca legacy before descending to Aguas Calientes.
The next day, after a restful night, the most awaited moment will arrive: your visit to Machu Picchu. All the effort and lessons learned during the trek will make sense when you see this wonder of the world. The impressive architecture, the history that fills every corner, and the energy of the place leave every traveler speechless.
BOOK IN ADVANCE: Due to high demand and strict regulations on the Inca Trail, permits are limited and must be reserved months in advance.
Whichever option you choose, any of these tours will take you to Machu Picchu through a unique and unforgettable experience. Each itinerary offers its own magic, spectacular landscapes, and a special connection with Inca history and culture.
2 Day Treks
If you’re a mountain lover and want to enjoy the best landscapes of Cusco, you can’t miss these 2-day treks.
From the charm of colorful mountains to the serenity of turquoise lagoons, and the mystical energy of ancient Inca settlements, these treks combine adventure and culture at every step. Get ready to walk, discover, and marvel at the greatness of the Andes in just two days.
- Huchuy Qosqo: A 2-day route to an ancient Inca archaeological center located high in the Sacred Valley. It offers spectacular views of mountains, valleys, and surrounding villages. Ideal for those seeking a short, historical, and off-the-beaten-path hike.
- Humantay Lagoon and Salkantay Pass: Ascend to the famous turquoise lagoon of Cusco, surrounded by impressive glaciers. Spend the night at our Sky Camp and sleep under the stars in the heart of the mountains. The next day, challenge the Salkantay Pass and enjoy unforgettable views from the summit.
- Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley: A hike around the Ausangate snowy peak where you will enjoy stunning views of Cusco’s highest mountain and a deep connection with nature. On the second day, you will explore Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, two of Peru’s most iconic landscapes known for their vivid colors.
Be careful with the altitude! These treks require prior acclimatization and minimum hiking experience. If you only have 2 days, we recommend spending a calm day in the city of Cusco to get used to the altitude and climate.
Customized Tours
You can always choose the option that best suits your preferences. If you travel with Salkantay Trekking, our team of experts will be happy to help you plan the perfect itinerary to make the most of your 2 days in Cusco. We ensure that every detail matches your travel style so you can enjoy an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Below, we offer different 1-day tours and hikes that you can combine to create your ideal plan.
Tours in Cusco
We recommend that on your first day you take a city tour in Cusco or explore the surrounding areas to acclimate to the altitude and begin connecting with the local history and culture.
- Machu Picchu by Train: Discover one of the wonders of the world in a comfortable and accessible way. The train ride is pleasant and offers spectacular scenery along the way. Once in Aguas Calientes, you’ll take a bus up to the citadel without needing to exert much physical effort. This option is also ideal for acclimatization, as Machu Picchu is at a lower altitude than Cusco (2,430 m / 7,972 ft).
- Cusco City Tour: A journey through the historical treasures of the capital of the Inca Empire. Explore temples and archaeological sites that tell the story of Cusco from the Inca era to the arrival of the Spanish. You’ll visit Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) in the city center, and Saqsaywamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay on the upper side of the city.
- Walking Tour in Cusco: Immerse yourself in local culture by strolling through the city’s most iconic spots. Be amazed by the cobbled streets of Cusco and visit landmarks such as the Plaza de Armas, San Pedro Market, and the bohemian neighborhood of San Blas. Enjoy colonial architecture, taste traditional flavors, and connect with the daily rhythm of Cusqueñan life.
- Sacred Valley of the Incas: A journey through the living history of the Andes. In just one day, visit traditional Andean towns like Pisac, Chinchero, and Urubamba. These places preserve rich culture, Inca architecture, and traditions that remain alive in the daily lives of their inhabitants. They’re also perfect for sampling local cuisine, with many restaurants and options available.
- Q’eswachaka Bridge: Visit the last Inca suspension bridge made entirely of plant fiber. It is preserved thanks to the efforts of local communities who rebuild the bridge every year in an ancestral ceremony full of tradition and symbolism. This excursion doesn’t involve long hikes, making it an excellent choice for the first day of your trip.
One-Day Hikes
Once you’ve acclimatized, on your second day you can choose to go on one-day hikes. If you’ve already been traveling through other high-altitude areas in Peru, feel free to combine these hikes as you like, picking the one that best suits your pace and interests. The wide variety of options will allow you to explore Cusco your own way!
Here are the most popular ones:
- 1-Day Inca Trail: A short yet powerful experience on one of the world’s most iconic trails. Hike along original Inca paths surrounded by nature and visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. End your adventure with an unforgettable arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), and return to Cusco comfortably by train.
- Humantay Lake: This hike takes you to the stunning Humantay Lake, famous for its turquoise waters that everyone wants to photograph. Located at the base of imposing glaciers, the contrast between the snow-white peaks and the deep blue lake is simply magical. The effort of the ascent is rewarded with a postcard-worthy dreamlike landscape.
- Rainbow Mountains: Cusco is home to three colorful mountains, each offering a unique landscape filled with natural hues. Vinicunca, Palccoyo, and Pallay Punchu feature rock formations that seem hand-painted. They’re perfect for taking breathtaking photos and feeling the immensity of the Andes.
- 7 Ausangate Lakes: An awe-inspiring trek at nearly 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) along the slopes of the majestic Ausangate glacier. Along the way, you’ll discover seven crystal-clear lagoons, each with different colors and surrounded by towering glaciers. Share the trail with llamas and alpacas in an ideal setting for lovers of trekking and remote nature.
- Huchuy Qosqo: The one-day version of the Huchuy Qosqo trek. A lesser-known trail that connects highland landscapes with Inca history. It ends at the stunning archaeological site of Huchuy Qosqo, offering privileged views of the Sacred Valley. Perfect for those seeking peace and culture in a single hike.
- Waqrapukara: An alternative and little-known hike to a mystical Inca sanctuary built among horn-shaped rock formations. The view over the Apurímac canyon from the top is breathtaking, and the energy of the place is unique. A hidden gem that combines history, nature, and adventure.
With all these tour and day hike options, you can create your own personalized two-day itinerary in Cusco. A great idea is to combine relaxing activities on the first day with a more challenging hike on the second day.
You can also choose to focus on history, nature, or local life—depending on your interests. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to experience two intense and memorable days in the heart of the Andes.
Practical Tips for a Two-Day Trip
Although it is possible to visit wonderful places in Cusco and have a fulfilling experience with just 2 days of travel, to ensure everything goes perfectly you should keep several aspects in mind. Here are some recommendations:
- Define your priorities before traveling
Research Cusco and its various attractions to choose in advance the places you definitely want to visit. Don’t try to see everything: it’s better to fully enjoy a few sites than to rush from one to another without time to truly experience them. - Organize your itinerary well
From all the options presented, choose those that best suit your pace and physical condition. If you have no trekking experience or it’s your first time at high altitude, start with a calm activity on the first day. This way you can acclimate without pressure and enjoy the experience to the fullest. - Travel light
Packing only the essentials will make your experience much more comfortable and practical. A small backpack or suitcase is enough for two days, especially if you’ll be moving between different destinations. Avoid excess luggage to gain freedom and agility during your trip. - Prioritize local and authentic activities
All our 2-day tours are designed to show you the best of Andean culture in a short time. Make the most of every moment: visit a market, try typical food, and talk with locals. Even in two days, you can have an authentic and meaningful experience. - Be punctual with transfers
Check the start times of each tour carefully. In such a short trip, missing a bus or arriving late can make you lose valuable hours of the day. Punctuality is key to making the most of your experience. - Rest well the night before
Sleeping well before your adventure will give you the energy needed to enjoy from the first moment. In a short trip, every hour counts and is worth living to the fullest! - Save moments, not just photos
Although you want to capture everything with your camera or phone, don’t forget to enjoy with your own eyes. Two days pass very fast. Breathe, savor, and feel part of the place.
Two days, a thousand adventures! Which one will you choose?
Cusco and its surroundings have so much to offer, even on a short trip. From majestic Andean landscapes to the warmth of its people, every experience leaves a mark. So get ready, choose your route… and let yourself be amazed by the magic of the Andes!
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