Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days

Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu Overview

The Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience part of the original Inca Trail but have limited time in Peru. This scenic route begins at Km 104 and combines archaeological sites, cloud forest landscapes, mountain views and the unforgettable first view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.

During this 2-day Inca Trail experience, you will visit Chachabamba, hike toward Wiñay Wayna, continue along the final section of the classic Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through Inti Punku. You will then spend the night in Aguas Calientes before returning to Machu Picchu for a guided visit on the second day.

Tour Highlights

• Hike the original Inca Trail from Km 104.
• Visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
• Reach Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.
• Enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the historic trail.
• Spend one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Return to Machu Picchu for a guided visit on the second day.

Why Choose the Short Inca Trail 2 Days?

• Ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to walk part of the original Inca Trail.
• Combines hiking, archaeology, nature, train travel and a guided visit to Machu Picchu.
• Offers a memorable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
• The route is considered moderate and suitable for travelers with basic physical preparation.

Important Travel Notes

• The Short Inca Trail requires an official permit, so advance booking is strongly recommended.
• Machu Picchu entrance times and visiting circuits are assigned according to official availability.
• Bring a valid passport, comfortable hiking shoes, rain protection, sun protection and water.

What's Included in the Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour?

Included Services

• Pre-tour briefing one day before the hike.
• Transfers to the train station.
• Round-trip train tickets.
• Entrance ticket to the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• 1 box lunch.
• 1 dinner.
• Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Professional guide for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu visit.
• 1 night of hotel accommodation with breakfast.

Not Included

• Lunch on the second day.
• Dinner on the second day.
• Entrance to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
• Additional entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, subject to availability and an additional fee.
• Personal expenses and tips.

Short Inca Trail 2-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

   Your Short Inca Trail adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:30 a.m. From there, we travel toward the train station in Ollantaytambo, crossing the Sacred Valley.

   Upon arrival, we board the train toward Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. After getting off the train, we complete the official entry control and begin the hike toward Chachabamba, an archaeological site located approximately 30 minutes from Km 104.

   After exploring Chachabamba with your guide, we continue the ascent toward Wiñay Wayna. This section covers approximately 6 km and usually takes around four hours, depending on the pace of the group.

   Along the trail, you will experience mountain scenery, cloud forest vegetation and impressive views of the surrounding valleys.

   Wiñay Wayna, located at approximately 2,680 meters above sea level, is one of the most important archaeological sites along this section of the Inca Trail.

   After the guided visit, we enjoy a box lunch before continuing toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this point, you will have your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

   Depending on the assigned entrance schedule and current regulations, we may visit part of Machu Picchu on the first day before descending to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel.

2. Day 2: Guided Visit to Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

   After breakfast at the hotel, we take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.

   At the entrance control, we complete the required check-in and begin the guided visit. The assigned visiting circuit and entrance time depend on official availability.

   Inside Machu Picchu, your professional guide will explain the history, architecture and importance of the Inca citadel while you explore the areas included in your assigned circuit.

   After approximately two hours of guided exploration, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time for lunch before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo.

   Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo train station, our staff will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco, where the Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour ends.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Short Inca Trail 2 Days