Description of the Short Inca Trail 2 days:
The 2-Day Inca Trail is a shorter, yet incredibly rewarding version of the classic trek to Machu Picchu. Perfect for those with limited time or seeking a less strenuous option, this hike begins at Km 104 along the railway to Aguas Calientes. The journey winds through lush cloud forests, past ancient Inca ruins like Winay Wayna, offering stunning views of the Andean landscape. Hikers enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, experiencing the first views of Machu Picchu just as the Inca’s once did.
The two-day hike to Machu Picchu, is perfect for solo travelers, couples, groups of friends and families. It is only one day of hiking, and the next day, you will explore Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail includes breathtaking views from the Sun Gate, fewer crowds, and an intimate connection with Inca history and nature. The tour also offers small group sizes for personalized service, professional guides, and panoramic Vistadome trains for your return journey, ensuring comfort and an enriching experience.
2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu at a Glance
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect option for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail in just two unforgettable days. This route combines breathtaking scenery, ancient Inca ruins, and a rewarding arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — the same way the Incas once entered the sacred city.
Unlike the classic 4-day trek, the Short Inca Trail offers a more relaxed adventure suitable for families, couples, and travelers with limited time. The hike begins at Km 104 of the railway to Machu Picchu and leads you through fascinating archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, surrounded by lush cloud forest and vibrant orchids.
After a full day of exploration, you’ll reach Machu Picchu in the afternoon, when it’s less crowded and beautifully illuminated by the soft light of sunset. You’ll then spend the night in Aguas Calientes, resting comfortably before returning to the citadel the next morning for a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
This short version of the legendary trail captures the essence of the Inca civilization — a perfect mix of history, nature, and spiritual connection — in just two days.
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Sun Gate/ Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Early pick up from your Cusco Hotel and travel to Ollantaytambo, then take train to the trailhead at km 104. We hike 6 hours along the ancient Inca Trail to the stone portal of Inti Punku “Sun Gate”, this is our first glimpse of Machu Picchu Citadel, reach the park in the afternoon to later descend to Aguas Calientes where we spend the night.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Discover Machu Picchu “The lost City of The Incas” from the inside, your guide will walk your trhough the various sectors of the park on a 3-hour tour, once we finish we comeback to Cusco, arrive at your hotel by 7:30 pm.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Sun Gate/ Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Your journey begins early in the morning from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. (depending on the hotel location) travel through the wonderful Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo train station. If your hotel is located in the Sacred Valley or near Ollantaytambo, the pick-up will be around 5:30 a.m.
From Cusco, it’s a one-hour, 30-minute bus ride to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we will board the train and travel along the Urubamba River until we arrive at Km 104—Chachabamba (located in the cloud forest).
On arrival at Km 104, we have time to organize our packs and ready ourselves for the start of the hike. We will head straight to the checkpoint at Chachabamba to start our Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu. Please note that you will need the original passports to pass the checkpoint.
Our first stop is the beautiful Inca archaeological site of Chachabamba, where our expert tour guide will introduce you to Inca history and Machu Picchu. After exploring the site, we will hike along an ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for about 6 hours.
The first section of the Short Inca Trail is a gradual uphill hike for 3 hours, passing lush cloud forest, surrounded by orchids and birdlife. Pass a stunning waterfall before arriving at Wiñay Wayna, translated means Forever Young, this is one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the Inca Trail. This ancient Inca site is perched on the Mountainside. Take some time to explore this stunning archaeological site while enjoying spectacular views of the Andes. Partake in a packed lunch and refreshments that will be provided. Once fed and energized, we will continue our hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) to catch our first glimpse of Machu Picchu Citadel – a truly unforgettable sight. We will arrive at Sun Gate around 3 to 4 p.m. when the crowds from Machu Picchu thinned out, allowing us to enjoy Machu Picchu with fewer people.
After we have enjoyed the view and taken many pictures, hike for another one hour downhill from the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu viewpoints, which have breathtaking views. Classic group photos can be taken from this point. Later, we will take the bus to Aguas Calientes, have dinner in a local restaurant, and spend the night in a 3-star hotel.
Dinner will be served in top-rated restaurant in the town, and our hotel is in the center of town. It has a private bathroom, hot showers, WiFi, and beautiful views.
- Highest elevation: 2,720m / 8,924 ft
- Lowest elevation: 2,100m/6,927ft
- Total Walking Distance: 12 km /7.5 miles
- Meals: Box Lunch and dinner.
- Accommodation: Viandina Hotel, Ferre or Santuario.
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Wake up before sunrise and prepare for the highlight of the tour: visiting Machu Picchu—the Lost City of the Incas. Breakfast will be served in the hotel, and we will board the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving in time to witness the citadel emerge through the misty morning light. On a clear day, we can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu.
With your guide take a 2-to-3-hour comprehensive tour of the city, you will explore the highlights of the ancient wonder. With our private tour guide, visit the temples, palaces, farming terraces, and learn about the city’s history. Take photos at the viewpoints, feel the presence of the Ancient Inca as the surrounding mountains wrap you in their magnificence.
Take an extra (optional) hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked well in advance).
After the tour of Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. You will have time to explore the town, choose a restaurant of your preference, and buy souvenirs in the local market. Later in the afternoon, you will board the Expedition Train at 2:55 pm, 3:20 or 4:43 pm and bus back to Cusco. While on the train take the time to reflect on the unforgettable journey along the Inca Trail. A Wayna Trekkers representative will meet you off the train in Ollantaytambo and return you safely to our hotel. Our arrival time to Cusco is around 7:30 p.m or 8:30 pm, depending on your train schedule
- Altitude: 2400 m / 7874 ft
- Duration: 2-3 hours tour in Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
- Difficulty: Easy
***IMPORTANT NOTES:
- You can add circuit 2 for 55 USD per person, it depends on availability,ask at the booking time.
- Earlier trains can be organized at the booking time.
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability, confirm at the booking time.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
IT INCLUDES
- Briefing at Wayna Trekkers office or at your hotel the previous night.
- Hotel Pick-up and drop-off.
- Private shuttle From Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 “Trail Head”
- English-speaking guide (Professional)
- Box Lunch (Day 1), dinner in Aguas Calientes.
- First-aid kit.
- 1 bottle water 625 ml
- Hotel 3* in Aguas Calientes(one night) / There are available upgrades, please ask your travel expert
- Return Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Inca trail permits and Machupicchu entrance ticket.
- Guided tour in Machu Picchu (two hours).
- 3 bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu.
- 18% tax.
NOT INCLUDED
- Wayna Picchu Mountain or Machupicchu Mt: $70 USD. Must be booked and confirmed in advance (at the time of booking), permits sell out quickly.
- Vistadome Train – 60 usd (return train only)
- First Breakfast and last lunch.
- Tips for Wayna Trekkers’ crew
- Travel insurance.
EXTRAS
- Walking sticks – $15 USD
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes at 3* hotel $100 USD (Book in advance)
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes at 4* hotel $215 USD (Book in advance)
- Vistadome Observatory at 1:37 pm or 4:22 pm $100 USD (Book in advance)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
- Machu Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
- Machu Picchu Circuit 2 – $55 USD (Book in advance)
- Single Room Supplement – $40 USD
Short Inca Trail Prices
Group service:
$525 USD Per person.
***For groups of 4+ travelers, $15 USD discount each.
Student Discount
- $30 USD off per person Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (with a barcode, name of university, student name, photo of student and expiration date) at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.
- $40 USD off per person
For kids under 11 years old, this discount will be applied by default. Send passport copy at the booking time.
Please send all information to info@waynatrekkers.com
Add on’s:
- Walking sticks – $15 USD
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes at 3* hotel $100 USD
- Vistadome Observatory at 1:37 pm or 4:22 pm $90 USD
- Huayna Picchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
- Machupicchu Mountain – $70 USD (Book in advance)
- Single Room Supplement – $40 USD at 3* Hotel and $90 USD for 4* Hotel
- Private Service $100 USD
PACKING LIST FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu DOES NOT INCLUDE an extra porter. If you require, we can supply a duffel bag. Your duffel bag will be sent by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas calientes. If you prefer you can carry all your needs in your backpack, please try to pack as light as possible, which is key to enjoying this amazing trek.
In your daypack, or on the first day’s hike you will need:
- Original Passport (the same you have used for booking your trek)
- Good daypack (25 to 30L)
- Water 1 to 2 liters of water
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Polar or sweater for early mornings and evenings
- Rain jacket
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
- Camera
- Valuables
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
In your duffel, you should pack
- A change of clothes for visiting Machu Picchu the next day
- Face cleanser, moisturizers & after sun cream
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
- Battery chargers
READ THE FOLLOWING LINES. HAVING THIS INFORMATION IN MIND WILL HELP YOU HAVING A COOLER EXPERIENCE
HOW TO BOOK THE SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAY WITH WAYNA TREKKERS?
In order to book your Inca Trail 2 day with us, click on the BOOK NOW button, then select the day of your departure, fill out the personal information of each participant and the last step is the payment. You can pay us with your credit card or debit. Send us only the deposit of $200USD.
On the booking platform, you will also find the extras. The Huayna Picchu Mountain, the Vistadome train, Machu Picchu Mountain, and Walking Sticks. You have to book the Huayna Picchu, Vistadome and Machu Picchu together with your 2 day Inca Trail, permits sell out quickly so it is advisable to include these services at the time of booking. However, you can rent walking sticks in Cusco 1 day before your trip.
When we have purchased your Inca trail permits, we will send you a confirmation that everything is 100% organized. All start dates, once confirmed, are guaranteed.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Yes! During the 2 days Inca trail hike, you can store your luggage at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please bring what you will only need during your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
WHAT ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?
The outstanding balance must be finalized in cash one day before your trip in USD or soles, if you prefer PayPal or Card at least 48 Hours prior to your trip (a 5% service fee applies). Also, you can pay us with a Credit card (a 5% service fee applies). Please let us know what you prefer. Cash payment MUST be paid 1 day prior to your trip.
HOW ABOUT THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?
According to Peruvian law, you have to be under 18 years old at the time of your hike to the Inca trail 2 days (if you are 18 or over, you need valid student cards). Below is a sample of a valid student card
All students from 11 to 17 years old have a discount of $30 USD.
All students have to send a copy of their passport and student card at the time of their booking to get the student discount. Send us a copy at info@waynatrekkers.com
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE PERMITS HAVE BEEN PURCHASED?
Unfortunately, this is not possible. The Peruvian government doesn’t allow us to change once the two-day Inca trail permits have been bought. Short Inca Trail permits are not transferable nor refundable. The only information that the government allows us to change is passport numbers.
HOW DOES IT WORK IF I BOOK HUAYNA PICCHU?
For our customers who hike the Inca trail 2-day trek, we will always book the 09 – 10 am Schedule for Huayna Picchu Mountain. You will get to Machu Picchu at 6 a.m. on the second day. So you will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel from 06 until 08:30 am. Then you will enter Huayna Picchu at 10:00 a.m (ideally). This hike takes around 2 hours and a half roughly. Therefore You will finish this hike at 12:00 roughly. Then you will take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes which takes around 30 minutes. So you will be in Aguas Calientes at 12:30 pm. You will have time to eat your lunch before you need to be at the station at 02:50 p.m.
When you hike Huayna Picchu Mountain, we generally book the 2:55 pm 3:20 or 3:48 pm train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Therefore you will get back to Cusco around 19:30.
Note: The 09 am and 10 am Huayna Picchu tickets run out quickly, so it is better to book the Huayna Picchu together with your 2-day Inca trail hike permits in Advance.
HOW DOES IT WORK IF I BOOK MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN?
In case you book the Machu Picchu Mountain, we book the Schedule of 08 – 09 am. So you will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel from 6 to 8 am then you need to exit Machu Picchu, use the toilet, and reenter Machu Picchu then you need to walk for 10 minutes until the Machu Picchu Mountain checkpoint. You will access the Mountain at 8:45 a.m. This hike takes 3 hours roughly so you will be back in Machu Pichu Citadel at 12 pm then you will take the bus to Aguas Calientes which takes 30 minutes. You will be in Aguas Calientes around 12:30, then you will have time to explore the town and have lunch until 14:25 pm.
IS THE MACHU PICCHU TICKET INCLUDED IN INCA TRAIL 2 TREK?
Yes, it is Included Machu Picchu ticket for circuit 3 (based on the Ministry of Culture regulations).
IS THERE ANY SPECIFIC SCHEDULE TO VISIT MACHU PICCHU WHEN I HIKE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
Yes, we have specific schedules to visit Machu Picchu on day 2, and it will be confirmed at the time of your booking, we preffer to visit Machupicchu during the first schedules. 6 – 8 am, depending on ticket availability.
HOW HARD IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
This hike is classified as moderate, however, it’s recommended to be in good physical condition.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS 1 NIGHT TO MACHU PICCHU?
Yes! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it should be the same passport you sent us to reserve your Short Inca Trail 2 days permit. Your passport will be checked at the Short Inca trail checkpoint, Machu Picchu, and when you board the train.
UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS
If you are renewing your passport, go ahead and email us a copy of your old passport to book your Machu Picchu 2 day hike permits. If you no longer have your old passport, any government-issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Once you receive your new passport. Please email us a copy of your new passport ASAP to change the information on your permit.
WHAT IS THE SCHEDULE OF MY TRAIN TICKET?
We usually book the 06:10 am schedule from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104 on day 1 and the return train ticket is at 02:55 pm or close schedules, so you arrive in Cusco at around 06:30 pm and you have enough time to sleep and do any tour the next day, like Rainbow Mountain.
CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
Yes, you can stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. by staying in the Sacred Valley, your pickup will be 1 hour and a half after the Cusco pick up so you will sleep more.
CAN I BOOK MY OWN HOTEL IN AGUAS CALIENTES?
You can book any hotel in Aguas Calientes. It will decrease the price of your hike $25 USD per person. If you decide to book your own hotel, don’t forget to tell us where you plan to stay so our guide will take you there safely.
IS INCA TRAIL 2-DAY PET FRIENDLY?
Unfortunately, you can’t visit Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu with a dog. Only Guide Dogs are allowed. But you need permits to bring them, ask your travel expert at info@waynatrekkers.com
WHAT KINDS OF REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES SHOULD WE BRING TO THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAY HIKE?
Starting on March 01st, 2022, single-use plastic water bottles and other plastic waste are prohibited in Inca Trail 2 days. You must bring your own personal reusable water bottles to fill out the wáter. You can buy a bladder hard shell bottle, or pouch whichever is convenient for you.
IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
There is not any age limit for the Inca Trail 2-day hike. We recommend that the minimum age should be 7 because there is some steep sections that would be difficult for Little legs.
HOW MANY KILOS IS IT ALLOWED TO CARRY ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
There is no weight limit for you, you can carry heavy or lightweight. However, we recommend packing light as we have no porters on the hike, furthermore, we can send a overnight bag with change of clothing and toiletries to Aguas Calientes (up to 7 kg).
WHAT TIME WILL WE GET TO MACHU PICCHU AND DO WE VISIT THE PARK ON DAY 1?
On day 01, our groups reach the Sun Gate at approximately 12 – 1:00 pm roughly, and from Sun Gate to Machu Picchu takes 45 minutes so you will get to Machu Picchu at approximately 2 pm. You will take a postcard shot then you will take a bus to Aguas Calientes, we are not allowed to enter the park yet, unless you purchase an extra permit.
HOW MANY DAYS IN ADVANCE SHOULD I ARRIVE TO HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?
It is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days prior to your departure, especially if you are coming from sea level. However, if you live in places over 2000 m( 6,561 ft), you can arrive 1 day before your departure.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ALTITUDE OF THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
Cusco, where we pick you up. It is located 3,400 m (11,151 ft)
KM 104(Chachabamba), where we start hiking at 2,170 m (7,120 ft).
The highest point of 2 day Inca Trail tour is at 2,708 m (8,884 ft).
Machu Picchu, where the 2 day Inca trail Trek ends, is 2,431m (7,973 ft).
Aguas Calientes village, where we board the train back to Cusco, is 2,042 m (6,693 ft).
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE 2 DAY INCA TRAIL EXPRESS?
The Best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is April to October which is the dry season in the Peruvian Andes. The driest months in Short Inca Trail are May, June, July, and August. But, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu will be very busy in these months.
The wet season begins in November and finishes in March. It is possible to hike the Machu Picchu 2 day trek in the rainy season but you need to bring good rain gear.
WHEN IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL CLOSED?
The Inca Trail in all its versions are closed the whole of February due to the wet season, landslides, heavy rain, and maintenance of the trail.
WHAT ABOUT FOOD ON THE 2-DAY HIKE TO PICCHU?
The first breakfast is included in our tour, which we will provide you in Ollantaytambo town before you board the train.
Lunch is included on the first day. We will provide you Picnic at Wiñaywayna campsite where you will eat.
Dinner is also included, you will eat in the restaurant in Aguas Calientes town.
The second-day breakfast is included too. The hotel will provide you with it. The only meal that is not Included is the last lunch. However, there are many restaurants in Aguas Calientes that you can choose from.
DO YOU INCLUDE PORTERS IN YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL TOUR?
Porters are included in our Short Inca Trail 2 day with the hotel. However, they only carry your box lunch, not your belongings. If you want to hire a personal porter, the Price will be $45 per porter. Note: Porters are not allowed all the way to Machu Picchu. They will only go to Wiñayywayna campsite then they go straight to Aguas Calientes where they will leave your belongings.
CAN I HIKE THE SHORT INCA TREK WITHOUT A TOUR GUIDE?
You can’t hike the 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu without hiring a registered travel Agency. You must be accompanied by a tour guide to hike Machu Picchu two day hike.
WHAT CIRCUIT WILL I FOLLOW IN MACHU PICCHU AFTER HIKING THE INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS?
After having the first glimpse of Machu Picchu at the Sungate, you will hike for 45 minutes straight to Guardhouse where you will take a Classical shot of Machu Picchu on day 01 in the afternoon and the next day you will access Machu Picchu Circuit 02, if available. So this rule is applied to everyone who hikes the Inca Trail 2-day hike.
