Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night to Machu Picchu is the perfect choice for travelers who want to hike part of the legendary Inca Trail and reach Machu Picchu in a unique way. Instead of arriving by train like most visitors, you will follow ancient paths and enter through the Sun Gate, just as the Incas once did. You can also explore our Inca Trail tours for more options and availability.
This Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night experience combines a short but rewarding hike with one of the most iconic arrivals in Peru, offering a balance between adventure, history, and comfort in just two days.
If you are looking for a meaningful and time-efficient way to experience Machu Picchu, one of the most important cultural sites recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the most unique ways to reach Machu Picchu.
Overview Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu is one of the best ways to experience the legendary Inca Trail in a shorter time without missing its most iconic highlights. This 2-day hike is ideal for travelers who want a real trekking experience combined with comfort and efficient logistics.
The route follows a preserved section of the original Inca Trail, covering approximately 12 km through cloud forest, ancient stone paths, and remarkable archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna and Chachabamba. Along the way, you will experience diverse landscapes and gain insight into the history of the Inca civilization.
The most unique moment of this experience is arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate Inti Punku, where you will get your first panoramic view of the citadel, just as the Incas once did.
This itinerary also includes two visits to Machu Picchu, allowing you to explore the site in both afternoon and morning light with fewer crowds and better conditions for photos and guided exploration.
Tour HighlightsÂ
- Arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate Inti Punku
Experience one of the most iconic entrances with a breathtaking panoramic view of the citadel. - Enjoy two visits to Machu Picchu afternoon and morning
Explore the site in different lighting conditions with fewer crowds. - Hike a scenic section of the original Inca Trail in just 2 days
Walk ancient paths and enjoy a complete trekking experience in a shorter time. - Visit archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna and Chachabamba
Discover impressive Inca ruins surrounded by lush cloud forest. - Travel comfortably with panoramic train service on the return
Relax and enjoy spectacular views on your journey back to Cusco.
This experience offers the perfect balance between adventure, history, and comfort, making the Short Inca Trail an ideal choice for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu in a unique and efficient way.
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Your journey begins with a scenic train ride to Km 104 (Chachabamba), where your hike along the Short Inca Trail starts. Along the way, you will visit archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna while walking through the cloud forest.
After a picnic lunch, continue hiking to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You will then descend to the citadel for an afternoon visit (Circuit 1) before heading to Aguas Calientes for your overnight stay.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After breakfast, you will return to Machu Picchu for a guided tour (Circuit 3), exploring its most important temples and terraces.
Later, you will have free time or the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation to Cusco.
Includes:
- Briefing 1 or 2 days prior to your Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night that included maps related to the trek.
- Pick-up from your hotel on your departure.
- Entrance tickets to short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Professional English / Spanish guide for entire tour.
- Assistant or second guide when there are groups over 8.
- Meals according to program + snack at beginning of the trek.
- Water bottle and Box lunch in Wiñayhuayna.
- Vegetarian meals at no extra charge.
- Visit the following Inca archaeological sites.
- Bus tickets down the first day to Aguas Calientes town.
- 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes town.
- Bus tickets Aguas Calientes /Machu Picchu/ Aguas Calientes.
- 3 hour private guided tour by your English speaking tour guide.
- Tourism class train ticket until km 104 (Chachabamba).
- Return ticket in Touristic class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
- First Aid kit
- Oxygen bottle.
- All local taxes
Not Included:
- Extra porter (Extra porters available to carry up to 22 Pounds).
- Entrance to Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Moutain $65.
- Walking stick (we can rent if needed).
- Entrance tickets to Hot Springs.
- Travel Insurence.
- **Tips for the crew (Porters and guide).
Short Inca Trail 2 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Your journey begins early with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo. After a short stop for breakfast, you will board the train toward Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
From here, you will enter the trail and begin a gradual hike through the cloud forest. The first archaeological site you will explore is Chachabamba, a hidden Inca site surrounded by lush vegetation. As you continue, the trail ascends along original stone pathways, offering impressive views of the Andes and diverse flora along the route.
One of the highlights of the day is reaching Wiñay Wayna, one of the most spectacular and well-preserved Inca sites on the trail. Here, you will explore the terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas before enjoying a freshly prepared picnic lunch with mountain views.
In the afternoon, you will hike the final stretch toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will experience your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—a truly unforgettable moment and one of the most exclusive ways to arrive at the citadel.
From the Sun Gate, you will descend toward Machu Picchu following Circuit 1 (upper terraces), where you can capture the classic postcard views. After this first visit, you will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival, your guide will assist you with your hotel check-in. You will then have free time to relax, with the option to visit the hot springs, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at your hotel.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The second day begins early with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the bus station. You will take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to enjoy the site in the quiet morning atmosphere.
Once inside, your guide will take you to one of the best panoramic viewpoints before starting a guided exploration of the citadel along Circuit 3 (Royal Route).
During the guided tour, you will visit the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, including the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor, agricultural terraces, and residential areas, while learning about the engineering and history of the Inca civilization.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore on your own or, if you have booked in advance, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
In the afternoon, you will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, Our transportation will take you back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the evening.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
- Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/8,052 ft
Prices and Options Short Inca Trail 2 Days
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night operates daily from March to January and is closed in February for maintenance.
USD 489 per personÂ
A minimum of 2 travelers is required to operate Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This ensures a personalized experience with your professional guide.
Discounts
- Students (18–25 years old): USD 25 discount
A valid student ID is required (must include name, photo, university, and expiration date). A copy must be provided at booking. - Under 18 years old: USD 25 discount
Passport copy required at booking. - Under 11 years old: USD 30 discount
Passport copy required at booking.
Optional Add-Ons (Book in Advance)
- Machu Picchu Mountain: USD 65
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD 65
Hotel Upgrades (Per Person / Per Night)
- Inkaterra Hotel (5★): USD 325(double occupancy)
- El Mapi Hotel (3★+): USD 75 (double occupancy)
- Hotel Santuario (3★): USD 45 (double occupancy)
Train Upgrades
- Vistadome Train: USD 65 (Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo)
- Hiram Bingham Luxury Train: USD 585 (Aguas Calientes → Poroy)
Equipment Rental
- Trekking Poles: USD 10
What to Pack for the Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night
Here is a checklist of essential items for the Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night, helping you stay prepared throughout the trek.
- Original passport (required for entry)
- Lightweight backpack
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hiking boots (comfortable and with good grip)
- Warm clothing
- Hat or cap
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Personal medication
- Camera or phone
- Cash
- Trekking poles (optional)
Before Your Trip Short Inca Trail 2 Days
At Info Machu Picchu, we want you to be fully prepared for your experience. This guide includes essential information to help you get ready for your trek, from acclimatization and logistics to Machu Picchu entry and practical travel tips.
Pre-Trek Briefing
All briefings are held at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 PM, one or two days before your tour. The session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
During the briefing, your guide will explain the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any questions to ensure you are fully prepared.
Acclimatization in Cusco
Proper acclimatization is essential before starting your trek. Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level.
We recommend arriving at least 2 to 3 days in advance to help your body adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
Recommended Activities Before Your Trek
During your acclimatization days, you can enjoy light tours in the region:
- Cusco City Tour: Main Square, Cathedral, and Qoricancha
- Sacred Valley Tour: Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Maras Salt Mines
- Moray and Maras Tour: Inca agricultural terraces
- Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Traditional Inca rope bridge
- Rainbow Mountain Tour: One of Peru’s most unique landscapes
These activities help you adjust to the altitude while exploring the region.
Balance Payment in Cusco
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 1 or 2 days before your tour.
We recommend payment in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. ATMs are available along Avenida Sol.
Credit/debit cards and PayPal are also accepted, with a 5% service fee applied.
Bank checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted.
Duffel Bag Information
You will receive a duffel bag during your briefing.
- Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm
- Weight limit: 6 kg (13 lb), including personal items
Our porters will carry your bag during the trek.
Luggage Storage
You may store your main luggage at your hotel or coordinate storage with us during your briefing.
We recommend keeping valuables in the hotel safe and requesting a receipt if needed for insurance purposes.
Machu Picchu Entry Circuits
Machu Picchu uses timed entry tickets and fixed circuits to preserve the site.
- Circuit 1: Panoramic viewpoints
- Circuit 2: Main citadel route
- Circuit 3: Lower sector and temples
For Inca Trail tours, the visit is usually assigned to Circuit 3 in the morning, depending on availability.
Re-entry is not allowed after exiting the site.
Pick-Up Information
All pick-ups are from your hotel in Cusco. We recommend staying in the historic center.
Pick-up times are confirmed the day before and may vary slightly.
If your hotel is not accessible by vehicle, we will arrange a nearby meeting point.
Return from Machu Picchu
After your visit, you will take the bus to Aguas Calientes (approximately 25 minutes).
You will then take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco.
Please arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure.
Group Tours
Group tours include travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.
Strikes and Demonstrations
Occasionally, local strikes may affect transportation schedules. In such cases, Info Machu Picchu will adjust logistics as needed, always prioritizing your safety.
Personal Belongings
You are responsible for your personal items at all times. Please check your belongings after each stop and avoid leaving items unattended during the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions Short Inca Trail 2 Days
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night is considered a moderate hike. On the first day, you will walk approximately 11–13 km over 6 to 7 hours, including some uphill sections and stone steps. While it does not require technical experience, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. The second day is less physically demanding, as it focuses on exploring Machu Picchu.
Yes, a government-issued permit is mandatory to hike the Short Inca Trail. These permits are limited and regulated by the Peruvian authorities to protect the trail. Availability can sell out quickly, especially during high season, so it is highly recommended to book your tour in advance to secure your spot.
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days covers a shorter section of the route, starting at Km 104, and includes one day of hiking followed by a visit to Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days is a longer and more challenging trek that includes multiple campsites and deeper immersion in the Andean landscape. The short version is ideal for travelers with limited time or those looking for a less demanding hike.
Yes, this itinerary includes two visits to Machu Picchu. On the first day, you will arrive in the afternoon via the Sun Gate and enjoy a brief visit with fewer crowds. On the second day, you will return for a guided tour, allowing you to explore the main sectors of the citadel in more detail.
Your visit to Machu Picchu usually includes Circuit 1 on Day 1, where you access the upper terraces for panoramic views, and Circuit 3 on Day 2, which covers the lower section of the citadel, including temples and important archaeological areas. Circuits are subject to availability and government regulations.
The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer. The trail is closed every February for maintenance. It is still possible to travel during the rainy season, but conditions may be wetter and more unpredictable.
We recommend booking your Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night at least 2 to 3 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel between May and September. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly for popular dates.
You should pack essential items such as your original passport, comfortable hiking shoes, rain protection, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small backpack. It is also recommended to bring snacks, water, and personal medication. A detailed packing list will be provided after booking to help you prepare properly.
Yes, the tour includes meals during the trek, typically a picnic lunch on the first day and breakfast on the second day. Dinner on the first night is usually at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes and may vary depending on the tour package. Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions.
Yes, both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are available as optional hikes. These require a separate entrance ticket and must be booked in advance due to limited availability. These hikes are done independently, but your guide will provide instructions and recommendations before you start.
Starting From: USD 489 per person
Trip details:
Recommended Tour