Short Inca Trail 2 Days
Experience the breathtaking Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in just 2 days. Hike through stunning landscapes, explore ancient ruins, and witness the sunrise over the iconic Machu Picchu. Perfect for travelers seeking a quick yet unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes!”
- 2 Days
- Electronic Tickets
- English / Spanish
- Instant confirmation
- Easy to moderate activity
- cannot be canceled
During our Machu Picchu day trip By Train from Cusco, you’ll dedicate a day to the exploration of Machu Picchu, the famous Inca Citadel. This comprehensive day trip departs from Cusco and offers a chance to uncover the secrets of this iconic mountaintop Inca site with the guidance of a local expert. Gain insights into its construction, historical significance, and the daily routines of its inhabitants. The tour maintains a leisurely and non-taxing pace, making it an excellent choice for newcomers, families, and solo adventurers alike.
- 2 Days
- Electronic Tickets
- English / Spanish
- Instant confirmation
- Easy to moderate activity
- cannot be canceled
This price is applicable for groups of 02 people or more. If you are traveling alone, please consult with our travel consultants.
What’s Included in the Inca Trail 2 Days
- Professional Guide: At Cusco Explore, our guides are highly knowledgeable in the history, geology, and archaeology of the Peruvian region.
- Three-Star Accommodation: We partner with the Tara Machu Picchu Hotel; if it is fully booked, we will arrange lodging at another three-star hotel.
What’s Not Included
- Entrance to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes town(US$5).
- Tips (optional)
- Informational Meeting: The evening prior to your trek (typically at 6:00 PM), you will attend an informational session at our office with your guide and fellow trekkers.
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We will collect you from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco to commence your Inca Trail adventure. After your hike, we will return you to your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.
- Private Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Once we pick you up, our drivers will transport you in our private van to Ollantaytambo.
- Two Breakfasts: Your first breakfast will be at a restaurant in Ollantaytambo, while your second breakfast will be provided by the hotel prior to your visit to Machu Picchu.
- Dinner: A dinner will be provided at a restaurant in the town of Aguas Calientes.
- Inca Trail Permit: The cost of the Inca Trail includes the admission fee for the shorter route, along with access to the various Inca sites encountered during the journey.
- Machu Picchu Ticket: This ticket allows you to visit Machu Picchu with your own private guided tour.
- Three Bus Tickets: On the first day, after completing the hike, you will board a bus to Aguas Calientes. The following day, you will take a bus to Machu Picchu. After your excursion in Machu Picchu, you will return via bus to Aguas Calientes.
- Round-trip Expedition Train Tickets: On the first day, you will take the train departing at 6:10 AM from Ollantaytambo to reach Kilometer 104. The following day, your expedition train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo will be for either the 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM departure.
- Private Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: You will be transported back to your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.
- Oxygen Tank: Our tour guides always carry an oxygen tank in case of emergencies.
- First Aid Kit: Our guides are equipped with first aid kits during the hikes and can provide assistance if necessary.
- Rain Poncho: Although a good rain jacket is essential, the heavy rains in certain months can be overwhelming. We provide a plastic poncho for additional protection against rain.
- Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: You will explore Machu Picchu with our guide, visiting the most important temples and ruins. This includes a visit to the unique Guard House platform.
- Free Storage for Extra Belongings: We offer secure storage for your extra belongings during the hike at our safe storage facility in Cusco.
What’s Not Included
Entrance to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes town(US$5).
Tips (optional)
Additional
- Upgrade to Vistadome Train: 35 USD, per person one way 70 USD round trip
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: 70 USD, per person
- Machu Picchu Mountain: 70 USD, per person
Itinerary – Inca Trail 2 day- tour
Day 1 Cusco – Kilometer 104 – Aguas Calientes
04:00 AM:
We will depart from Cusco to embark on our two-day Inca Trail hike. The journey begins with a scenic drive lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to Ollantaytambo, where we will stop for a delightful breakfast.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will board our train to Kilometer 104, the official trailhead for our adventure Inca trail 2days. This segment of the Inca Trail showcases some of the most spectacular scenery along the Classic Inca Trail. We will explore remarkable Inca sites, observe diverse flora and fauna, and take in breathtaking panoramas of the Andes.
Trek Begins:
Our hike commences in the Sacred Valley, following the ancient paved Inca trail leading us to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. After exploring Wiñay Wayna, we will enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Afternoon:
Post-lunch, we will continue our trek through the lush, green cloud forest that envelops the mountain. Along the way, we will encounter an array of plant species, flowers, orchids, and a variety of birdlife.
Late Afternoon:
After a fulfilling day of hiking, we will reach the Sun Gate, where we will be rewarded with our first glimpses of Machu Picchu nestled on the mountain ridge below. We will continue hiking for approximately 45 minutes until we arrive at the Guard House, the perfect vantage point for capturing the iconic postcard shot of Machu Picchu.
5:00 PM:
From here, we will take a bus to Aguas Calientes, arriving around 5:00 PM. Upon arrival, our guide will assist you with check-in at your hotel. You will then have free time to relax or visit the local hot springs before dinner.
Evening:
After dinner, you will return to your hotel for a restful night.
- Elevation Gain: 695 m / 2,283 ft
- Elevation Loss: 391 m / 1,283 ft
- Highlights: Hike the original Inca Trail, visit Wiñay Wayna ruins
- Walking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
- Trailhead Elevation: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
- Highest Point: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
- Weather: Hot and humid
Day 2 Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Early Morning:
The second day of our Inca trail 2 days is dedicated to the enchanting experience of Machu Picchu. Our guide will meet you at your hotel, and together, we will walk to the bus station to catch the first bus, departing at 5:30 AM. The bus journey will take approximately 30 minutes, transporting us to the majestic Machu Picchu sanctuary.
Upon Arrival:
Once we arrive at Machu Picchu, we will proceed to the checkpoint where you will present your passport and entry ticket. After passing through the checkpoint, our guide will lead you to one of the most picturesque viewpoints for capturing photographs of the citadel.
Guided Tour:
You will then embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, lasting around two hours. During this time, your guide will provide insights into the history, geology, architecture, flora, and fauna of this New Seven Wonders of the World.
Optional Hike:
For those who have pre-booked the option, you will have the opportunity to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain (please note that this requires a separate entrance ticket, priced at $65 per person).
Return to Aguas Calientes:
Following your exploration of Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. After your meal, our guide will accompany you to the train station for your journey back to Ollantaytambo.
Evening:
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our driver will be waiting to transport you back to Cusco. We expect to arrive at your hotel around 7:30 PM.
- Highlights: Visit Machu Picchu early in the morning and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the citadel.
- Temperature: Warm and humid
- Meals: Only breakfast included
- Aguas Calientes Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft (overnight stay in this town)
- Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Meeting and pick-up
Pickup points
Free pickup from hotels, hostels, houses, and apartments near the historic center of Cusco.
Start time
4:00 a.m.
Pickup details
After making your reservation, you can contact us to provide the necessary information for pickup. It is very important that your hotel has vehicle access; otherwise, we will arrange a meeting point.
Short Inca Trail 2 days Price
- From $540 USD – General Price
Cancellation Policy
Cannot be canceled.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Inca Trail 2 Days
What is the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek that offers a condensed version of the Classic Inca Trail. It includes a scenic hike through part of the original Inca Trail, with a visit to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna and an entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
How long is the trail?
The total distance is approximately 10–12 kilometers (6–7.5 miles). It’s a one-day hike followed by an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and a Machu Picchu tour the next morning.
Is a permit required for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. Permits are required and have limited availability, so it’s essential to book several months in advance—especially during the high season (May to September).
How difficult is the hike?
The trail is rated moderate. While it’s not as physically demanding as the Classic Inca Trail, it does involve steep steps and high altitude. Prior hiking experience is helpful but not required.
What altitude does the trail reach?
The highest point is Inti Punku (Sun Gate) at around 2,720 meters (8,924 feet). The starting point, Chachabamba, is lower in elevation.
What will I see on the trail?
You’ll hike past lush cloud forests, ancient stone staircases, and the spectacular ruins of Wiñay Wayna, before entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, with a stunning first glimpse of the citadel from above.
Is accommodation included?
Yes. After the hike on Day 1, you’ll stay overnight in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), before visiting Machu Picchu on Day 2.
Do I need to carry my luggage during the hike?
No. You only need to bring a small daypack with essentials for the hike. Your main luggage stays in your Cusco hotel or is transferred to Aguas Calientes.
What should I pack?
Essentials include:
Daypack
Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
Water bottle
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Rain jacket
Hat and sunglasses
Passport (required for checkpoint entry)
What’s the best time to hike the Short Inca Trail?
The best months are during the dry season (April to October). The trail is open year-round except February, when it closes for maintenance.
Does the tour include a guided visit to Machu Picchu?
Yes. On the second day, you’ll have a guided tour of Machu Picchu, followed by free time to explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional and requires separate tickets).
Ratings and comments
This price is applicable for groups of 02 people or more. If you are traveling alone, please consult with our travel consultants.
- Hello! Click on an agent and we will contact you shortly. We are here to help you, don't miss Machu Picchu!
Related Tours
$540 USD
Per person