The Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu is one of the best options 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 connects beautiful 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 to Machu Picchu, you will visit Chachabamba, hike to Wiñay Wayna, walk through the final section of the classic Inca Trail and spend the night in Aguas Calientes before exploring Machu Picchu with a professional guide. It is a short but rewarding adventure designed for travelers looking for history, nature and a meaningful arrival to the Lost City of the Incas.
Activity | Hiking tour with train and bus transportation |
Difficulty | Moderate |
Maximum Altitude | 2,680 m / 8,792 ft at Wiñay Wayna |
Machu Picchu Altitude | 2,400 m / 7,874 ft approximately |
Accommodation | 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes |
Duration | 2 days / 1 night |
Starting Point | Cusco |
Main Highlights | Km 104, Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku and Machu Picchu |
From USD 510 per person based on the services described above. Final availability and entrance schedules must be confirmed before booking.
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 by private transport to the train station in Ollantaytambo, a journey of about two hours through 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 check-in and begin the hike to Chachabamba, an archaeological site located about 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 enjoy 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 beautiful archaeological sites along the Inca Trail. Its terraces, ceremonial areas and strategic location make it one of the highlights of the route.
After the guided visit, we enjoy a box lunch surrounded by mountains and natural scenery. Once recharged, we continue hiking toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this point, you will have your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic moments of the journey.
Depending on the schedule and entrance regulations, we may visit part of Machu Picchu on the first day and have time for photos before descending to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night in a hotel.
This is the most anticipated day of the tour. 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 control gate, we complete the check-in and begin the guided tour of Machu Picchu. The visiting circuit and entrance time depend on official availability, and all details will be coordinated with your guide one day before the visit.
Inside Machu Picchu, your professional guide will explain the history, architecture and importance of this extraordinary Inca citadel. During the visit, you will enjoy impressive views, learn about the site’s main sectors and have time to take memorable photos.
After approximately two hours of guided exploration, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time to enjoy lunch at the restaurant of your choice before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, our staff will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco, where the Short Inca Trail 2 Days tour ends.
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