Overview
Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime trekking experience without committing to the full 4-day hike? The 2-Day Short Inca Trail is the perfect alternative for those with limited time who still want to enjoy the magic of hiking part of the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
This carefully designed adventure combines breathtaking landscapes, rich Inca history, and a moderate level of trekking. Along the way, you’ll visit the stunning archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, follow ancient stone pathways, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — just as the Incas once did.
Ideal for active travelers, couples, families, or solo adventurers, this short trek offers the perfect balance between cultural immersion and physical challenge, all within a 2-day, 1-night itinerary. It’s a truly unforgettable way to arrive at the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, to go tothe Ollantaytambo train station, then we will take thetrain to Km. 104 where the beginning of this great hikewill be, at this point we begin the hike forapproximately 3 hours towards the well-preservedremains. from the ruins of Winaywayna (2650 masl =8694 feet.) here you will have the opportunity toappreciate Inca architecture such as; water fountains,terraces, temples, etc. Also along the way we can seebeautiful waterfalls and streams. After lunch, wecontinue walking for about 2 more hours until we reachthe Sun Gate (Inti Punku) from where we will have abeautiful view of the Citadel of Machu Picchu, afterenjoying the spectacular view of Machu Picchu wehave to go down to Aguas Calientes (Machu PicchuTown) we will check in at our Hotel and after settling inat our hotel, we will have dinner at a local restaurant,during this dinner your guide will give you a summaryfor the visit to Machu Picchu the next morning.
CONSIDERATIONS:
- Walking distance: 10 km = 6.2 miles
- Walking hours: 4 to 5 hours
- Initial altitude: Km. 104 = 2100 m.a.s.l. = 6890 feet.
- Highest Point: Inti Punku (Sungate) = 2730 m.a.s.l. = 8957 feet.
- Hotel Altitude: Aguas Calientes = 2050 m.a.s.l. = 6726 feet.
- Place to Visit: Winaywayna, Puerta del Sol, Aguas Calientes Pueblo.
- Physical rating: 3/5
- Climate: Humid and Hot.
This day will be one of the most important and memorable days of your lives, since you will visit one of the largest archaeological discoveries of modern times (Machu Picchu) for which, after breakfast at our hotel, we will take the bus up the which lasts about 25 minutes of travel, once in Machu Picchu, your guide will explain the history and the main places of Machu Picchu for approximately two hours and then it is the end of the guide's work, then you will have free time to have enough time To explore Machu Picchu on your own (you can visit HuaynaPicchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain) these excursions are optional, you must let us know in advance if you want to climb one of these mountains because spaces for these mountains are limited. After enjoying Machu Picchu we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and wait for your train to Ollantaytambo, it takes 2 hours by train to Ollantaytambo where our transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. We drop you off at your hotel or near it. About the train, we will provide you the tourist class train, the train departure time can be between 2:00 p.m. m. and 6:20 p.m. m. It depends on the availability of spaces.
CONSIDERATIONS:
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2400 m.a.s.l. = 7874 feet.
- Place to Visit: Machu Picchu, Huaynapicchu, Mountain Machu Picchu which takes 1h 15 minutes to reach the top (You must notify us in advance if you want to climb one of those mountains, it has an extra cost).
- Physical rating: 2/5
- Climate: Humid and hot.
- Food included: Breakfast at the Hotel.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Bilingual and certified tour guide
- All Entrances and Permits for the Inca Trail
- A briefing on the hike with your guide the day before. Pick up from your accommodation in Cusco
- Private transportation to go to the train station in Ollantaytambo
- bus tickets up and down from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on the second day
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu
- Tourist Train from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104
- Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes Box Lunch the first day of the hike
- Dinner in Aguas Calientes on the first day Breakfast at the hotel on the second day
- Availability of meals of your preference (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, pesquetarian, etc.) for box lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes
- First Aid Kit, with Oxygen cylinder.
- Survivor T-Shirt for each member of the group
Cost Excludes
- First breakfast and last lunch and dinner.
- Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu mountain or MachuPicchu mountain (65 USD PER PERSON)
- Tips for the guide (It is not mandatory but if you wish to do so you will be welcome)
- Hiking poles, 10 USD for a pair
Frequently Asked Questions
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day version of the classic 4-day trek. It includes a scenic hike starting at Km 104, a visit to Wiñay Wayna, and entry to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. It’s perfect for those with limited time who still want to experience a portion of the iconic Inca Trail hike.
The 2-day Inca Trail is considered moderate. It includes 6–7 hours of hiking on the first day, with some uphill sections and stone steps. You don’t need to be an experienced trekker, but a basic fitness level is recommended.
Unlike the classic trail, the Short Inca Trail includes a hotel overnight in the town of Aguas Calientes. This allows for a more comfortable experience before visiting Machu Picchu on the second day.
Yes! You will enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate on the first day (without visiting the site itself yet) and return the next morning for a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel. This way, you enjoy both the dramatic entrance and the full exploration.
Yes, permits are required and must be reserved in advance, just like the classic Inca Trail. They are limited and can sell out quickly, especially in high season (May to September), so early booking is strongly recommended.
- Original passport, or identity document with which you book this trek.
- Small backpack.
- Rain poncho or rain jacket. Trekking pants or trekking clothing Trekking shoes, waterproof
- Water Bottle, Refillable Sunscream
- Sunglasses Cap or Hat
- Mosquito Repellent (30% DEET Recommended) Trekking Poles (Optional)
- Very well loaded camera
- Extra money, especially in soles to buy things along the way.
- POSITIVE MENTALITY
The best months are from April to October, during the dry season. The trail is closed in February due to maintenance and heavy rains. Weather can vary, so be prepared for sun, clouds, or occasional rain.
Yes, it’s a great option for families with active children (10+) and older travelers who prefer a shorter hike without camping. We adapt the pace to the group and provide professional support throughout the experience.
