Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Days / 1 Night

Short Inca Trail – Tour Overview

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is designed for travelers who want to experience the history, scenery, and adventure of the original Inca Trail in just two days.

All trekking times and transportation schedules are approximate and may vary depending on trail conditions, train schedules and official access arrangements.

Why Choose the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Short Inca Trail offers an exceptional combination of adventure, culture, and comfort. It is a great alternative for travelers who want to walk an authentic section of the historic Inca Trail without committing to a longer expedition.

Experience the Legendary Inca Trail

Walk along original stone pathways built by the Incas and discover the fascinating history of the ancient road network that connected important settlements throughout the Andes.

Visit the Wiñay Wayna Archaeological Site

Explore one of the most impressive archaeological complexes along the Inca Trail, famous for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and beautiful mountain setting.

Enter Machu Picchu Through the Sun Gate

Reach Inti Punku, the legendary Sun Gate, and enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu after completing the hike.

Enjoy a Comfortable Hotel Stay

Instead of camping, spend one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to rest before your guided visit to Machu Picchu.

Discover Machu Picchu With a Local Guide

Explore the ancient citadel with a professional English-speaking guide who will introduce you to its history, architecture, and cultural significance.

Ideal for Travelers With Limited Time

Experience the highlights of the Inca Trail in two days, making this adventure an excellent option for travelers with a limited schedule in Peru.

Tour Highlights

• Hike the Short Inca Trail starting at Km 104.
• Discover the Chachabamba archaeological site.
• Explore the magnificent Wiñay Wayna Inca ruins.
• Walk through beautiful Andean cloud forests.
• Reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for your first view of Machu Picchu.
• Spend one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Enjoy a guided exploration of Machu Picchu.
• Travel through the Sacred Valley by scenic train.
• Choose between group and private tour services.

Short Inca Trail Itinerary – 2 Days

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes

Travel by train to Km 104 and begin your hike along the original Inca Trail. Explore the spectacular Wiñay Wayna ruins, walk through the cloud forest, and reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Continue to Aguas Calientes for an overnight hotel stay.

Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco

Take the bus to Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided visit to the ancient Inca citadel. Discover its fascinating history, admire the impressive stone architecture, and take memorable photographs before returning by train and private transportation to Cusco.

Detailed Itinerary – Short Inca Trail 2 Days

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes

Hiking distance: Approximately 11 km / 6.8 miles
Hiking time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Maximum elevation: Approximately 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Meals: Box lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

Early Morning Departure From Cusco

Your Short Inca Trail adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board a scenic train toward Km 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

During the train journey, admire the spectacular Andean scenery, traditional villages, and the beautiful landscapes surrounding the Urubamba River.

Upon arrival at Km 104, meet your guide and complete the necessary entrance procedures before beginning your hike.

Explore Chachabamba – An Ancient Inca Ceremonial Site

Your first archaeological stop is Chachabamba, an important Inca site surrounded by lush vegetation and impressive mountain scenery.

Your guide will explain the historical and cultural significance of this ceremonial complex while introducing you to the ancient engineering and architectural techniques of the Inca civilization.

From here, begin your gradual ascent through the cloud forest, following original stone pathways surrounded by native plants, orchids, and beautiful natural landscapes.

Discover Wiñay Wayna – The Remarkable Inca Ruins

Continue hiking toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites along the Short Inca Trail.

The name Wiñay Wayna means “Forever Young” in Quechua. This remarkable complex is famous for its impressive agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas, stone structures, and sophisticated water channels.

Take time to explore the archaeological site and learn about its importance within the ancient Inca road network.

After your visit, enjoy your included box lunch surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the cloud forest.

Reach Inti Punku – The Legendary Sun Gate

After lunch, continue along the historic Inca Trail toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate.

This is one of the most memorable moments of the entire journey. As you approach the entrance, the magnificent landscape opens up to reveal your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

Take time to appreciate the scenery, capture photographs, and enjoy the satisfaction of reaching this historic viewpoint on foot.

The Sun Gate was an important entrance to Machu Picchu and remains one of the most iconic viewpoints in the region.

Descend Toward Machu Picchu and Continue to Aguas Calientes

After enjoying the views from Inti Punku, continue along the authorized visitor route toward the Machu Picchu area.

From the designated access point, take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will check into your hotel.

In the evening, enjoy dinner and relax after a rewarding day of hiking through one of Peru’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Get a good night’s rest before your guided exploration of Machu Picchu the following morning.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Not included after the tour

Morning Visit to Machu Picchu

After breakfast at your hotel, walk to the bus station and take the shuttle bus up the winding mountain road to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, enter the archaeological sanctuary using the entrance ticket and visitor circuit confirmed for your reservation.

Enjoy a guided tour with your professional local guide, discovering the fascinating history, architecture, and cultural importance of this extraordinary Inca city.

Guided Exploration of the Lost City of the Incas

During your visit, learn about the impressive stone constructions, agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, and architectural achievements that make Machu Picchu one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological destinations.

Your guide will explain the history of the Inca civilization and the theories surrounding the purpose and construction of this extraordinary sanctuary.

After the guided visit, enjoy the remaining time permitted by your entrance ticket to appreciate the scenery and take photographs.

Optional Huayna Picchu Mountain

For travelers looking for an additional adventure, Huayna Picchu Mountain offers a spectacular hiking experience with panoramic views overlooking Machu Picchu and the surrounding valleys.

This optional activity requires a separate entrance reservation and is subject to availability. It must be arranged in advance.

Return to Cusco

After completing your Machu Picchu visit, take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes.

Enjoy lunch independently before boarding your scheduled return train to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival, meet your transportation for the return journey to Cusco. You will be dropped off at your hotel, bringing your unforgettable 2-day Short Inca Trail adventure to an end.

What Is Included in the Short Inca Trail Tour?

Our Short Inca Trail package includes the essential services needed to organize your two-day journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

Pre-Trek Services

• Pre-departure briefing and tour information.
• Hotel pick-up in Cusco.
• Private transportation to Ollantaytambo train station.
• Assistance with tour arrangements.

Permits and Entrance Tickets

• Official Short Inca Trail permit for Km 104.
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket included in the package.
• Access arrangements for the Sun Gate route, according to official regulations.

Transportation

• Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104.
• Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
• Shuttle bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu as specified in the tour arrangements.

Accommodation

• One night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Private room with breakfast.

Professional Guide

• Professional English-speaking local guide.
• Guided visit to Machu Picchu.
• Historical and cultural explanations during the trekking experience.

Meals

• One box lunch during the hike.
• One dinner in Aguas Calientes.
• One breakfast at the hotel.

Safety Equipment

• First-aid kit.
• Emergency oxygen.
• Assistance from your guide during the tour.

What Is Not Included?

The following services and expenses are not included in the standard package:

• Breakfast on Day 1.
• Lunch on Day 2 in Aguas Calientes.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
• Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal trekking equipment.
• Additional snacks and beverages.
• Tips for guides and staff.
• Personal expenses.

Short Inca Trail Prices – Group and Private Tours

Choose the service that best suits your travel style and budget.

Group Service

US$520 per person

An excellent option for solo travelers, couples, and friends who want to enjoy the Short Inca Trail with other travelers.

Private Service

US$585 per person

Ideal for couples, families, and travelers who prefer a more personalized trekking experience.

Private service includes:

• Private guide throughout the tour.
• Personalized attention.
• Flexible hiking pace.
• A more exclusive experience.
• All standard package services.

Optional Upgrades

4-Star Hotel Upgrade

Upgrade your accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

From US$30 per person.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

Add the famous Huayna Picchu hike to your Machu Picchu experience.

US$65 per person.

Vistadome Train Upgrade

Enjoy a panoramic train experience on your return journey.

US$70 per person.

All optional upgrades are subject to availability and must be confirmed when booking.

Important Booking Information – Inca Trail Permits

The Short Inca Trail is regulated by the Peruvian authorities, and access is subject to official permit availability.

Permits are issued in the traveler’s name, so accurate passport information is essential when making your reservation.

We recommend booking several months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the busiest months.

Information Required for Booking

To arrange your Short Inca Trail permit, we require:

• Full name exactly as shown on your passport.
• Passport number.
• Nationality.
• Date of birth.
• Preferred travel date.

Please ensure that your passport information is accurate before confirming your reservation.

February Trail Closure

The Inca Trail network closes every February for annual maintenance and conservation work. Trekking operations normally resume on March 1, subject to official authorization.

Accommodation in Aguas Calientes

After completing your hike along the Short Inca Trail, spend one night in Aguas Calientes, the small town located below Machu Picchu.

Your package includes accommodation in a 3-star hotel, providing a comfortable place to rest before visiting the archaeological sanctuary the following morning.

The hotel stay makes this two-day experience a convenient alternative to longer trekking routes that require camping.

A similar-category hotel may be arranged if the originally planned accommodation is unavailable.

Difficulty and Physical Preparation

The Short Inca Trail is considered a moderate trek and is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of physical fitness.

The route includes uphill sections, uneven stone pathways, steps, and some steep stretches.

The first day involves approximately 11 km (6.8 miles) of hiking and takes around 6–7 hours, including stops to explore archaeological sites and enjoy the scenery.

How to Prepare for the Hike

We recommend:

• Walking regularly before your trip.
• Wearing comfortable and well-broken-in hiking shoes.
• Spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek.
• Drinking sufficient water.
• Maintaining a comfortable hiking pace.
• Informing your travel team about dietary requirements or relevant safety concerns.

The route is not wheelchair accessible.

What to Pack for the Short Inca Trail

For this two-day adventure, we recommend carrying a small daypack with your essential belongings.

Essential Documents

• Original passport.
• Travel insurance details.
• Personal booking information.

Clothing and Hiking Equipment

• Comfortable hiking shoes.
• Lightweight hiking trousers.
• T-shirts and an additional warm layer.
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
• Hat or cap.
• Extra change of clothes.

Personal Items

• Sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Insect repellent.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Camera or smartphone.
• Personal medications.
• Small toiletries.

Pack light so you can walk comfortably along the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions – Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

1. What is the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Short Inca Trail is a two-day trekking experience that begins at Km 104 and follows original Inca pathways through Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate). The tour also includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu.

2. How long is the Short Inca Trail?

The hiking distance is approximately 11 km (6.8 miles), and the first day’s trek takes around 6–7 hours, depending on your pace and the time spent exploring archaeological sites.

3. How difficult is the 2-Day Short Inca Trail?

The trek is considered moderate. It includes uphill sections, stone steps, and uneven terrain. A reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended.

4. Where does the Short Inca Trail start?

The hike begins at Km 104, near the Chachabamba archaeological site. Travelers reach this starting point by train from Ollantaytambo.

5. Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?

Yes. An official Inca Trail permit is required. Access is subject to government regulations and daily availability.

6. How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking several months in advance, particularly during the high travel season. Permits are limited, and your preferred date may sell out.

7. Does the Short Inca Trail include Machu Picchu entrance tickets?

Yes. The standard tour package includes a Machu Picchu entrance ticket. The assigned visitor circuit and entry time depend on official availability at the time of reservation.

8. Will I see Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate?

Yes. Reaching Inti Punku provides a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. This is one of the highlights of the Short Inca Trail.

9. Does the tour include accommodation?

Yes. The package includes one night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

10. Do I need camping equipment?

No. The two-day Short Inca Trail package includes a hotel stay, so camping equipment is not necessary.

11. Can I hike Huayna Picchu during this tour?

Yes, it may be possible to add Huayna Picchu as an optional activity. A separate entrance ticket is required, and availability must be confirmed in advance.

12. What is the difference between the Short Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail?

The Short Inca Trail takes two days and starts at Km 104. It includes approximately 11 km of hiking and one hotel night in Aguas Calientes.

The Classic Inca Trail takes four days and starts at Km 82. It includes several days of hiking, additional archaeological sites, high mountain passes, and overnight camping.

Both routes provide access to the historic Inca Trail network and an unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.

13. Is the Inca Trail open throughout the year?

The Inca Trail is closed every February for annual maintenance and conservation. Operations normally resume in March.

14. What documents do I need?

You must bring your original passport. Your passport information must match the details used to issue your Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket.

15. Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for families?

The tour may be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with several hours of hiking. Suitability depends on each participant’s fitness and ability to manage uneven terrain.

16. Can I book a private Short Inca Trail tour?

Yes. We offer a private service for travelers who prefer a dedicated guide, personalized attention, and a more flexible hiking pace.

17. How much does the Short Inca Trail cost?

The published prices are US$520 per person for group service and US$585 per person for private service. Optional upgrades are available at additional cost.

18. What happens if permits are unavailable?

If permits are unavailable for your requested date, our team can discuss alternative travel dates or other Machu Picchu experiences, subject to availability.