Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2-Day Trek with Guide & Permits
$495.00/From
What is the 2-Day Short Inca Trail?
The 2 day Short Inca Trail offers a breathtaking and fulfilling journey, allowing hikers to explore the final segment of the renowned Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in just two days. This trek is ideal for adventurers seeking a blend of history, nature, and excitement without the commitment of the full four-day hike.
Commencing at kilometer 104 of the railway line from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, this 8-mile trail meanders through vibrant cloud forests and past ancient Inca ruins, including the impressive Wiñay Wayna. The path culminates at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas. One of the trek's highlights is entering the sanctuary through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the historic entrance used by the Incas themselves.
Unlike the classic Inca Trail, this shorter version does not involve camping. Instead, trekkers can enjoy a restful night in a cozy hotel in Aguas Calientes. On the second day, they visit Machu Picchu at sunrise, accompanied by a guided tour that enriches the experience with fascinating insights and stories.
This condensed adventure provides an unforgettable experience, combining the thrill of trekking with the comfort of modern amenities, making it a perfect choice for those with limited time but unlimited curiosity.
Quick Itinerary
- Day 1: Cuzco / Km 104/ 2 day Inca Trail/ Aguas Calientes town
- Day 2: Aguas Calientes town/ Machu Picchu/Cusco
What’s Included in the 2-Day Inca Trail Package?
- 2 Day hike the Inca Trail with profesional guide
- Guided tour of Wiñay wayna
- Discover the beatiful landscapes of the Vilcanota river and Machu Picchu
- Enjoy the trip by train to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
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Crew | A Travel Tour Group representative in Cuzco, Machu Picchu and profesional guide in Inca Trail 2 days |
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Accomodation | Hotel (1 Night) |
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Meals | 01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch, 01 Dinner |
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Transportation | Tourist transportation, van, train |
Inca Trail Hike 2 days
- Inca Trail Booking Policies
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- how to book and send the payment 2 day Inca Trail
- Why to travel with Travel Tour Group
Tour Plan
Day 1: Begin Your Short Inca Trail Hike from Km 104
A private van will collect you from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the Ollantaytambo Train Station. From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic 1-hour train ride to Km 104 (Chachabamba) — the official starting point of the 2-day Short Inca Trail.
After checking in at the Chachabamba park ranger station, your hike begins with a gradual ascent through a stunning mix of highland cactus vegetation and lush cloud forest. Over the next 2–3 hours, the trail reveals remarkable Inca sites such as Choquesuysuy, Wiñay Wayna, and Intipata — giving you a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering and beauty of the Inca civilization.
Take a moment to refresh yourself at a nearby waterfall before arriving at the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, known for its impressive terraces, temples, and fountains tucked into the mountain.
Continue your hike along the original Inca Trail later in the afternoon. Gradually climb to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, witness a breathtaking sunset view over Machu Picchu — an unforgettable moment for any traveler. After taking in the scenery, you’ll begin a peaceful descent toward Aguas Calientes, enjoying the serenity of the Andean jungle along the way.
Spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, ready for your sunrise visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Day 2: Sunrise at Machu Picchu – Guided Tour – Return to Cusco
Wake up early and take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to witness the sunrise over the Andes — a magical and unforgettable experience that makes the early start well worth it.
Upon arrival, you'll begin a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring the most iconic parts of the ancient Inca citadel. Your guide will share insights into the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, helping you uncover the mysteries of the Lost City of the Incas.
After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. If you’ve reserved a permit in advance, you may choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional fee applies), offering breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to explore sites like the Temple of the Moon.
Later, return to Aguas Calientes, enjoy a meal or do some shopping before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a tourist bus will take you back to Cusco, completing your unforgettable 2-day Inca Trail journey.
Included & Excluded
Details about services not included and details not included in our packages, if you have any questions please contact us.
- Pre-Trek briefing with your tour guide;
- Transfer by private vehicle to the railway station at Ollantaytambo;
- Accommodation: Hotel (01 night);
- Meals: 01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch, 01 Dinner
- Inca Trail permit and entrance Machu Picchu
- Experienced bilingual Tour guide speaking English
- A train round trip Machu Picchu
- Tourist bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- First breakfast and last lunch
- A shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (U$ 12 one way and U$ 24 round trip)
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountain
- Tips to local staff
- Other extra not mencioned
Single Traveller: Please note that if you have booked the "Single Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.
What to recommend that you bring?
- Passport original
- Original International Student Identity Card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
- Cash in soles no dollars
- A backpack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek
- Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
- Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended
- Sandals or jogging shoes for a higher comfort while at camp
- Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping
- Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
- Camera and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
- Sun block
- After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
- Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – no malaria risk has been reported
- Handkerchiefs
- Toilet paper
- Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Please note that we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal service is very complete and well supplied. This recommendation applies for all clients being used to a specific snack, as it may happen that it is not included in our selection
- Water container and water for the first morning. Important notice: plastic water bottles are no longer allowed into Machu Picchu. Plastic water containers (ie. Nalgene) or metal ones are recommended
- Optionally: water- sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health problem so far
- Small towel
- Swimsuit (if you wish to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Optional: walking sticks or poles (rubber covers required in order not to damage archaeological sites).