Short Inca Trail 2 Days: Ultimate Machu Picchu Trekking Experience

The Short Inca Trail: 2 Days 1 Night to Machu Picchu is ideal for travelers who do not have a lot of time, but want to experience the beauty and history of the Andes. This amazing Short Inca Trail hike takes you along a portion of the original Inca Trail where you will hike through stunning cloud forests and ancient ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and your first amazing view of Machu Picchu will be from the Sun Gate!

Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for me?

If you want to experience the extraordinary beauty and magic of the Inca Trail but do not have four days and do not want to hike for four days, the Short Inca Trail: 2-Day Hike to Machu Picchu is a great alternative. Enjoy equally stunning views, interesting Inca ruins, and the thrill of an active and rewarding experience, without the challenge of the full four-day hike.

If this is your first time trekking or you are a busy traveler with only a couple of days to spend in this extraordinary destination, or you are seeking a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip and the opportunity to feel connected to nature and unique culture while still being comfortable, this is a great option. Hiking to Machu Picchu under the expert direction of your guides and fantastic logistics, it is an extraordinary experience to hike to Machu Picchu and make your entrance through the Sun Gate.

Highlights of the Short Inca Trail

Ancient Inca Ruins: Visit remarkable Inca sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, where you will explore impressive terraces, temples, and historic structures.

Breathtaking Scenery:Experience panoramic views of the Andes Mountains, verdant cloud forests, and the picturesque Urubamba Valley as you approach Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu: Arrive at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate, taking in the historic site exactly as the Incas once did, and explore its temples, plazas, and terraces.

Sunrise Over Machu Picchu: Begin day two early, capturing the magical sunrise as it bathes Machu Picchu in golden light, an unforgettable highlight of the journey.

Short Inca Trail at a Glance

✔️  Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

✔️  Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)

✔️  Difficulty: Moderate – suitable for most fitness levels

✔️  Starting Point: KM 104 (near Ollantaytambo)

✔️  Highlights: Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna, stunning cloud forests, breathtaking views from the Sun Gate

✔️  Overnight: Aguas Calientes (town at the base of Machu Picchu)

✔️  Includes: Guided hike, entrance permits, transportation, overnight accommodation, and Machu Picchu tour

✔️  Best For: Travelers short on time, first-time hikers, and those wanting a less strenuous alternative to the classic Inca Trail

Optimal Time to Hike the Short Inca Trail

The ideal timeframe for hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season from May to September. This dry season tends to have the least weather variability, sunny days, and the most stable weather for enjoying Andean landscapes, the trekking, and views along the Short Inca Trail.

The rainy season (November to March) can produce heavy rainfall and can cause the trails to be slippery. However, the shoulder months of April and October are still good months to attempt it if you expect to hike in rain.

Keep in mind that June, July, and August are the most popular tourist months to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. For travelers planning on hiking the Short Inca Trail I would recommend reserving in advance all permitted tours since it becomes crowded these months.

By planning your hike on the best side of the year, you will instead have, because of weather conditions, a safer hike, more comfortable hiking experience, and ultimately enjoy the Short Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu unforgettable.

Short Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu - AVAILABILITY

Looking for a shorter way to enjoy the magic of the Inca Trail? Our 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a great option. Permits for 2026 are now available, but they go fast, so booking early helps you secure your preferred dates. Join our local guides, take in beautiful scenery, and reach Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate for a memorable adventure.

Inca Trail Availability – 2025 Season

✔️ October: Sold Out

✔️ November: Available (almost sold out – hurry!)

✔️ December: Available

Inca Trail Availability – 2026 Season

✔️ March: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ April: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ May: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ June: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ July: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ August: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️Setember: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ October: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️ November: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

✔️December: Daily Departures – Available Every Day

IMPORTANT: Daily Departures – Available Every Day 

The Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu offers daily departures, with groups confirmed with just two participants, giving you the flexibility to start your journey on any date that suits your travel plans. Our flexible schedule ensures you can enjoy the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu at your own pace, without stress.

By planning ahead, you don't just secure your spot on the Inca Trail 2 days adventure—you also gain peace of mind, better travel dates, and the freedom to fully enjoy your trip. As a local tour operator, we specialize in creating memorable experiences along the Short Inca Trail, combining expert knowledge, safety, and comfort.

Book early to hike the Short Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu with confidence and make your journey truly unforgettable.

Short Inca Trail 2 Days - ITINERARY

Day 1: Hike short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Morning Departure: Our trekking tour guide will collect you from your Cusco hotel at 4am. It is a 2-hour drive to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo, we will take a train to Km 104, where your Inca Trail hike will begin. At Km 104, there is an official checkpoint where National Park rangers check your passport details. You must carry your original passport.

Hike to Wiñay Wayna: The hike begins at the archaeological site of Chachabamba. Then you will continue along the trail through incredible scenery and Inca ruins. Your destination for the day is Wiñay Wayna, another amazing Inca site in the mountains. There will be time for you to explore the ruins and learn about the history, and then you will get lunch.

Hike to Sun Gate (Inti Punku): After visiting Wiñay Wayna, you'll continue your journey along the trail until reaching the Sun Gate, also known as Inti Punku, the location where you will experience your first stunning view of Machu Picchu from above.

Descend to Machu Picchu: From the Sun Gate, you'll then descend into Machu Picchu itself. You'll experience and see the best views to Machu Picchu, the guide will give you a full introduction about the history and significance of this ancient Inca citadel.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes: After your enjoy the best views of Machu Picchu, you'll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, the town situated at the base of Machu Picchu where you'll check into your overnight accommodations. then we will have dinner in one of the nice restaurnt in town.

✔️Acomodation: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu *** or similar

✔️ Tickets: Included

✔️Meals: lunch and dinner

Day 2: Machu Picchu and back to Cusco

Today is the highlight of your trek, a visit to Machu Picchu, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
You will start your day early with a wake-up around 5:00 am. Breakfast will be provided ready for you, beginning at 5:30 am. Shortly after breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel to walk to the bus station together. The bus ride to Machu Picchu, lasts approximately 30 minutes. At the entrance, have your original passport and entry ticket available for inspection.

Your visit will start on Circuit 3, as required by the current regulations, which is the standard route for all trekkers coming from the Inca trail. This is your standard entrance, but if you want to also visit Circuit 2, which offers some of the most iconic panoramic views of Machu Picchu, you can add this on top of your ticket for an additional ticket cost of $55 per person. If you choose this option, you will first complete your guided walk on Circuit 3, and then re-enter with your ticket for Circuit 2. Please confirm with your travel advisor if you are interested in this option, when you book.

Your tour of Machu Picchu will take roughly 2 hours which will include exploring the most notable temples, terraces and ceremonial spaces. If you've purchased the tickets to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain, which you need to book in advance for an additional cost, you'll relish a 2-hour round-trip hike where you'll have phenomenal views of the citadel from above. If you did not hike Huayna Picchu, you'll finish up your guided visit and exit the site with time to admire the site and say goodbye to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is split into three circuit routes which are slightly different, and no one circuit covers the entire citadel. The circuit system was implemented to protect the site, so make sure you are aware of which circuit is included in your ticket before you finalize your reservation.

In the afternoon you'll board the train for a beautiful ride back through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. Once you arrive, a driver will be at the station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco where you are expected to arrive around 8:00 pm.

✔️ Accomodation: No include.

✔️ Tickets: Include.

✔️ Meals: Only breakfast at hotel.

Preparing for Your Trek: The Essential Packing List

Ensure a comfortable and successful hike with these essentials:

✔️ Essential Documents:

• Original Passport
• Inca Trail Permit
• Travel Insurance Information

✔️ Clothing:

• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Lightweight fleece jacket
• Waterproof rain jacket
• Wide-brimmed sun hat
• Warm hat and gloves
• Quick-dry hiking pants
• Shorts and trekking socks

✔️ Footwear:

• Comfortable hiking boots
• Lightweight sandals or camp shoes

✔️ Day Pack:

• Small backpack (20-30 liters)

✔️ Hydration:

• Minimum 2 liters of water
• Water purification tablets

✔️ Snacks:

• Trail mix, energy bars, dried fruits, nut butter packets

✔️ Personal Items:

• Insect repellent
• High SPF sunscreen
• Camera or smartphone
• Personal toiletries (biodegradable)
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer

✔️ Optional Items:

• Notebook and pen
• Binoculars

What’s Included:

✔️ Pre-trek briefing: Your trekking guide will meet you at your hotel at 6:00 PM the night before your hike. You'll review all the details, get answers to your questions, and make sure you're set for the adventure.

✔️ Expert English-speaking guide: Our team of knowledgeable guides is available to provide insightful commentary on Inca history, culture, and nature during your trek.

✔️ Round-trip Expedition train: Your package includes comfortable and scenic train rides between Ollantaytambo - km 104 and Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.

✔️ 3-star accommodation: A stay at our hotel in Aguas Calientes will provide you with a comfortable and clean environment to rest after your hike.

✔️ Meals as per itinerary: Delicious meals provided during the trek according to the planned schedule.( Day 1: snack, lunch and dinner - Day 2. only breakfats at hotel)

✔️ Bus tickets to Machu Picchu: include convenient transportation from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and viceverce. 

✔️ Entry fees and guided tour: Includes Machu Picchu entry ticket for Circuit No. 3, which is the designated route for all Inca Trail hikers according to official regulations. Enjoy a fully guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel along this route.

✔️ Safety equipment: Oxygen tanks and first aid kits are available to ensure your safety throughout the hike.

✔️ Taxes included: All local taxes and fees are covered in the total price, no hidden costs.

Exclusions:

❌ Pre/post-tour accommodations: Hotels in Cusco or other cities before and after your trek are not included but can be arranged on request.
❌ Certain meals: Some meals in Cusco, Aguas Calientes, or during transfers are not included; details are specified in your itinerary.
❌ Gratuities: Tips for guide and cook,  are optional but appreciated as a way to thank them for their hard work.
❌ Travel insurance: Recommended to cover unexpected situations such as delays, medical needs, or trip cancellations.

Available Upgrades:

✔️ Vistadome Observatory Train: $75 one-way

✔️ Luxury Hiram Bingham Train: $520 each way (available only for way back )

✔️ Luxury Hotels: Inkaterra Pueblo ($350 per person), Sumaq ($290 per person)

✔️ Huayna Picchu Ticket: $75 per person (advance booking recommended)

Adults, Group service

Before: $ 550

Now: $ 520 per person (Min. 2 hikers)
 

Can this hike be organized as a private tour? Yes!

This tour can be arranged as a private experience, with prices varying based on group size:

✔️ $700 per person: For 2-3 people

✔️ $650 per person: For 4-5 people

✔️ $600 per person: For 6 people

✔️ $550 per person: For 7 or more people

For a more personalized adventure, choose a private tour that fits your group size!

Frequently Asked Questions