Inca Trail 2 Days | Short Inca Trail Hike
PRICE FROM
$540.00 USD
price per person in group service
Cusco | Ollantaytambo | Km 104 | Wiñay Wayna | Sun Gate | Machu Picchu | Cusco
Duration of the trip:
2 Days
Physical Level:
Intermediate
Altitude:
2720 m.a.s.l
Group Size:
6 people
Type of Tour:
Classic
| Overview – Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu
The Best Short Inca Trail Tour 2026 is the ultimate way to experience the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in just two days. Designed for travelers who want the magic of the Classic Inca Trail without the 4-day commitment, this unforgettable journey follows the most scenic and historic section of the original Inca route.
Starting from Km 104, this 2-day Inca Trail hike takes you along authentic Inca stone pathways through lush cloud forest, spectacular mountain landscapes, waterfalls, and ancient archaeological sites. Along the way, you will explore Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca complexes on the entire trail, before continuing toward the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Reaching the Sun Gate is the highlight of the trek — from here, you will enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, entering the citadel exactly as the Incas once did. This dramatic arrival makes the Short Inca Trail one of the most rewarding hikes in Peru.
On the second day, you will discover the secrets of Machu Picchu with a professional guided tour, exploring temples, terraces, ceremonial plazas, and sacred structures that have fascinated travelers for centuries.
This Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night is perfect for active travelers seeking adventure, history, culture, and one of the most iconic trekking experiences in the world — all within a compact timeframe.
Detailed Itinerary – INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer you by tourist vehicle to Ollantaytambo train station, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. During the drive, you will enjoy beautiful views of the Sacred Valley, traditional farmlands, and majestic snow-capped mountains.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we will board the train for about 1 hour until Km 104 (2,200 m / 7,217 ft), the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. This is where your hiking adventure begins. After crossing the bridge over the Urubamba River — known in Quechua as Willkamayuc, meaning “Sacred River” — we will reach the checkpoint, where you must present your original passport or identification document.
A short 15-minute walk brings us to the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, hidden within the lush semi-tropical cloud forest. After exploring these fascinating Inca remains, we will begin a gradual ascent along original stone steps of the Inca Trail. As we hike, you will enjoy spectacular views of the Sacred Valley, waterfalls, and a rich variety of orchids and native flora typical of the Andean cloud forest ecosystem.
After approximately 4 hours of hiking, we arrive at Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), one of the most impressive archaeological sites along the Inca Trail. This complex features beautifully constructed agricultural terraces built into the mountainside, demonstrating the advanced farming techniques of the Incas. The name Wiñay Wayna means “Forever Young” in Quechua, inspired by the native orchid that grows abundantly in the area.
Here, you will explore more than 20 Inca structures, including temples, houses, and ceremonial spaces. One of the most important buildings is often referred to as the Temple of Fertility. The guided visit lasts approximately one hour. Afterwards, you will enjoy a box lunch surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery before continuing the hike.
In the second section of the trail, we walk for about 2 more hours along an undulating Andean path with stone staircases and ancient tambos (resting places) until reaching Inti Punku (2,720 m / 8,923 ft), the Sun Gate. During Inca times, this served as the main entrance to Machu Picchu.
From the Sun Gate, you will enjoy your first panoramic and unforgettable view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley — one of the most iconic moments of the entire journey.
We then descend for approximately 30 to 45 minutes to reach Machu Picchu (2,490 m / 8,169 ft). After taking photos from the upper viewpoints, we board the bus for a 25-minute ride down to Aguas Calientes (2,160 m / 7,086 ft), also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Tonight, you will stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes.
If you still have energy, you may visit the local hot springs located about 5 minutes from town (entrance fee approximately 10 soles). The town also offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafés for those who wish to relax, enjoy a drink, or explore the lively atmosphere. There is also an ATM available in case you need to withdraw cash.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
After breakfast, you will take one of the first buses up to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the early morning.
Your professional guide will lead a 2 to 3 hour guided tour, visiting the most important areas of the citadel.
After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore and take photos of this incredible Wonder of the World.
If you have reserved the hike to Huayna Picchu, your guide will indicate where the entrance to the trail is located. The hike to Huayna Picchu is self-guided, and travelers will complete this experience on their own according to the time indicated on their ticket.
Later, you will return to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco.
What Is Included?
✔ Pre-trek briefing the night before departure
✔ Hotel pick-up in Cusco
✔ Short Inca Trail permits (KM 104)
✔ Train tickets (Expedition or Voyager service)
✔ Expert English / Spanish-speaking tour guide
✔ Entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Sanctuary
✔ Bus up and down between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (Day 2)
✔ 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
✔ Meals during the trek (1 box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast at the hotel)
✔ First aid kit and oxygen tank for safety during the trek
What Is Not Included?
✘ Daypack 20–30 liters – USD $20 for the whole trip
✘ Trekking poles rental (USD $15)
✘ Breakfast on Day 1
✘ Lunch and dinner on Day 2
✘ Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1 – USD $12)
✘ Permit to hike Huayna Picchu (USD $75, subject to availability)
✘ Permit to hike Machu Picchu Mountain (USD $75, subject to availability)
✘ Vistadome Train upgrade
✘ Travel insurance
✘ Tips for the guide (optional but appreciated)
Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu (Prices 2025–2026)
👥 Group Service
💲 From USD $540 per person
Join a small group of travelers and experience the legendary Inca Trail while hiking through breathtaking landscapes to the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu.
This option allows you to share the adventure with other hikers while enjoying the guidance of experienced professionals.
✅ Includes
✔ Short Inca Trail permits (KM 104)
✔ Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
✔ Professional English / Spanish-speaking trekking guide
✔ Tourist train tickets (Expedition or Voyager service)
✔ 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
✔ Meals during the trek (1 box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast at the hotel)
✔ Bus up and down between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu (Day 2)
✔ Hotel pick-up in Cusco
✔ First aid kit and oxygen tank
⚠ Service is subject to availability.
📅 Due to limited permits for the Inca Trail, advance booking is highly recommended.
⭐ Private Service
💲 From USD $680 per person
Enjoy the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with a fully personalized trekking experience.
🌟 Private Service Benefits
✔ Flexible departure date
✔ 👨🏫 Private professional guide
✔ 🥾 Personalized hiking pace
✔ 👨👩👧 Ideal for couples, families, and small groups
📲 Request your private Inca Trail quote via WhatsApp.
⛰ Optional Upgrades & Extra Costs
The following services are not included in the standard 2 Day Inca Trail package but can be added upon request.
🥾 Trekking Poles Rental
Professional trekking poles to improve stability and reduce knee impact during the hike.
💲 USD $15 per person (pair for the entire trek)
🚆 Train Upgrade – Vistadome Service
Upgrade to the panoramic Vistadome Train for enhanced comfort and incredible scenic views.
💲 USD $70 per person
(subject to availability)
🏔 Huayna Picchu Mountain
Optional hike to Huayna Picchu.
💲 USD $75 per person
⚠ Advance booking required (very limited permits available).
🏔 Machu Picchu Mountain
Optional hike to Machu Picchu Mountain.
💲 USD $75 per person
⚠ Advance booking required.
🚌 Bus Down from Machu Picchu (Day 1)
Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
💲 USD $12 one way
This bus ticket is not included in the base package, but it can be purchased for your convenience to provide a comfortable and efficient descent after visiting Machu Picchu.
💳 Payment Options
To secure your booking, we offer flexible payment options:
✔ 💻 50% deposit online to confirm your reservation
✔ 💵 Remaining balance paid in Cusco (cash recommended)
✔ 💳 Full payment by card available upon request
📩 Once we receive your booking details, we will send you a secure payment link via WhatsApp or email.
💳 Online Card Payment
✔ Online card payment available
A small processing fee of 5% applies to card payments, charged by the international payment gateway.
📋 Required Information for Booking
To confirm your reservation, please send us:
📄 Full name (as in passport)
📘 Passport number
🌎 Nationality
🎂 Date of birth
🏨 Hotel name in Cusco
📱 WhatsApp number (including country code)
This information is required to secure your Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
❗ Cancellation & Refund Policy – 2 Day Inca Trail
Due to the advance purchase of Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets, cancellations are subject to the following conditions:
⚠ Inca Trail permits are non-refundable and non-transferable once issued
⚠ Machu Picchu entrance tickets are non-refundable once purchased
⚠ Train tickets are subject to railway company cancellation policies
📅 Cancellation Policy
✔ More than 7 days before departure
Partial refund available excluding permit and ticket costs.
❌ 7 days or less before departure
No refund. All services are considered confirmed and non-refundable.
⚠ Once your passport details are used to secure your Inca Trail permit, the reservation cannot be modified or refunded.
🛡 We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected cancellations.
Packing List for Inca Trail 2 Days
🧥 Clothing (Layering System Recommended)
✔ 1–2 moisture-wicking t-shirts
✔ 1 trekking pants
✔ Warm fleece or light insulated jacket
✔ Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
✔ Light thermal layer (recommended during cold months)
✔ Sun hat or cap
✔ Light gloves (optional during cold season)
✔ Comfortable underwear & hiking socks
⚠ Weather in the Andes can change quickly, so layered clothing is recommended.
🥾 Footwear
✔ Good quality trekking shoes (preferably water-resistant)
✔ Comfortable shoes or sandals for Aguas Calientes
✔ Extra socks
🎒 Daypack (Small Backpack 20–30L)
You will carry this during the hike on the Inca Trail.
✔ Passport (required for Machu Picchu entry)
✔ Water bottle or hydration pack
✔ Sunscreen (high SPF recommended)
✔ Sunglasses
✔ Snacks or energy bars
✔ Camera or phone
✔ Personal medication
✔ Basic toiletries
✔ Toilet paper & hand sanitizer
✔ Rain cover for backpack
⭐ Optional but Recommended
✔ Trekking poles (can be rented – USD $15)
✔ Power bank
✔ Small towel
✔ Insect repellent
✔ Extra cash (for drinks, tips, or personal expenses)
❌ Not Included (Optional Rentals)
✘ Daypack 20–30 liters (rain cover included) – USD $20 for the whole trip
❌ Do Not Bring
✘ Large suitcases
✘ Heavy unnecessary items
✘ Valuable items you do not need during the trek
Contact us by email to check availability, request detailed information, and receive your secure payment link. Our team will reply within a short time to assist you with your booking.
Booking
Inca Trail 2 Days
Starting from
$ 540.00 USD
per person
Group & private options available
Contact us on WhatsApp to check availability, private options, and confirm your booking.
BRIEF CONDITIONS
• 50% deposit required
• Secure payment link provided
• Balance paid in Cusco
Why Choose the Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu?
🥾 Hike a section of the original Inca Trail used by the Incas
🏔️ Enjoy breathtaking landscapes of the Andes and cloud forest along the trail
🏛 Visit the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna
🌄 Enter Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku) with your first panoramic view of the citadel
🏨 Comfortable hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
🚆 Scenic train journey through the Sacred Valley and Urubamba canyon
👨🏫 Professional guided tour inside Machu Picchu
- 🌎 Perfect for travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in a shorter 2-day adventure
FAQs - Inca Trail 2 Days
Below you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu, including trekking distance, permits, altitude, hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, guided visits to Machu Picchu, train transportation, and important travel tips to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure on the Inca Trail.
How difficult is the Inca Trail 2 Days?
The Inca Trail 2-day trek is considered moderate difficulty. The hike covers around 10–12 km (6–7 miles) and usually takes 6–7 hours on the first day. It includes stone steps and some uphill sections, but it is manageable for most travelers with average fitness.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. The Short Inca Trail requires an official government permit, which is limited and often sells out months in advance. For this reason, we recommend booking 2–4 months before your travel date.
Where does the Short Inca Trail start?
The Short Inca Trail begins at Km 104 of the railway, near the archaeological site of Chachabamba, and follows the original Inca route toward Wiñay Wayna before arriving at Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
How far is the Short Inca Trail hike?
The trek distance is approximately 10–12 km (6–7 miles) on the first day. Even though it is shorter than the classic 4-day Inca Trail, it still offers incredible scenery and archaeological sites along the route.
What is the best time to hike the Short Inca Trail?
The best time is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is usually sunny and the trail conditions are better. The rainy season runs from November to March, and the Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance.
Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least 1–2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the hike to adapt to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but the permits are limited and must be reserved in advance. After your guided tour of Machu Picchu, your guide will indicate the entrance if you have reserved Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. The hike is done independently.
Why choose the Short Inca Trail instead of the Classic Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is perfect for travelers who want to experience the original Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, but with less time and no camping, while still enjoying the most famous archaeological sites of the route.
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