Short Inca Trail: The best 2 day hike.

Short Inca Trail: 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu is the perfect adventure for travelers short on time but eager to experience the beauty and history of the Andes. This scenic route takes you along a section of the original Inca Trail, past cloud forests and ancient ruins like Wiñay Wayna, ending with your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.

Is the Short Inca Trail for Me?

If you want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail but have limited time or prefer a less demanding hike, then the Short Inca Trail: 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu is perfect for you. This trail offers stunning views, fascinating Inca ruins, and a rewarding journey without the challenge of the full 4-day trek.

Whether you're a first-time trekker, a busy traveler with only a couple of days to spare, or someone looking for a memorable adventure that balances nature, culture, and comfort, the Short Inca Trail is an excellent choice. With expert guides and well-planned logistics, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable experience reaching Machu Picchu through the iconic 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

Best Time to Hike the Short Inca Trail

The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September. These months offer the most reliable weather with sunny days and clear skies, perfect for trekking through stunning landscapes and enjoying breathtaking views of the Andes.

While the rainy season runs from November to March, bringing heavy showers that can make the trail slippery, the shoulder months of April and October can still be good options if you’re prepared for some rain. Keep in mind that June to August is the peak tourist season, so it’s wise to book your permits and tours well in advance to secure your spot.

Planning your trek during the best months ensures a safer, more comfortable, and unforgettable adventure along the Short Inca Trail.

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: Groups are confirmed with just two participants, allowing you to begin your journey on any date that works for you. Our flexible schedule is designed to accommodate your travel plans and ensure the best possible experience at Machu Picchu.

When you plan ahead, you do more than just secure your place on the Inca Trail. You get peace of mind, better travel dates, and the freedom to enjoy your trip without worry. As a local tour operator, we focus on creating memorable experiences with the care and knowledge you expect. Book early so you can hike with confidence.

Short Inca Trail 2 Days - ITINERARY.

Day 1: Hike short Inca Trail to Machu picchu.

Morning Departure: Our trekking tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4am, then is 2h driving to Ollantaytambo train station, from there we will take a train to Km 104, which is where your hike on the Inca Trail begins. there is an oficial check point where rangers from National park are veriryfing the passport details, you must take your original passport.

Hike to Wiñay Wayna: The hike starts with a visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba. From there, you’ll continue along the trail, passing through beautiful scenery and Inca ruins. Your final destination for the day is Wiñay Wayna, a stunning Inca site nestled in the mountains. You’ll have time to explore the ruins and learn about their history, after that that you will enjoy the lunch.

Hike to Sun Gate (Inti Punku): After visiting Wiñay Wayna, you’ll continue along the trail until you reach the Sun Gate, also known as Inti Punku. This is where you’ll get your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from above.

Descend to Machu Picchu: From the Sun Gate, you’ll descend into Machu Picchu itself. You’ll have the opportunity to see and enjoy the best views to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, the guide will give you a fully introduction about the history and significance of this ancient Inca citadel.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes: After you enjoy the best views to Machu Picchu, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. Here, you’ll check into your accommodation for the night. then we will have dinner in one of the nice restaurnt in the 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 journey: a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
You’ll start the day early, waking up around 5:00 am. Breakfast is ready from 5:30 am. Soon after, your guide will meet you at the hotel to walk to the bus station together. The bus ride to Machu Picchu takes about 30 minutes. At the entrance, have your original passport and entry ticket ready for inspection.

Your visit will begin with Circuit 3, the standard route for all Inca Trail hikers as required by current regulations. If you want to visit Circuit 2, which offers some of the most iconic panoramic views of Machu Picchu, you can add this for an extra $55 per person. In that case, you’ll first complete your guided walk on Circuit 3, then re-enter with your Circuit 2 ticket. Confirm this option with your travel advisor when booking.

The guided tour of Machu Picchu lasts about 2 hours, covering the most remarkable temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces. If you have tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain, which must be booked in advance at an additional cost, you’ll enjoy a memorable 2-hour round-trip hike with incredible views of the citadel from above. If you do not hike Huayna Picchu, you’ll conclude your guided visit with time to take in the beauty of the citadel and bid farewell to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu is divided into three circuits, each slightly different, and none cover the entire citadel. This system was introduced to preserve the site, so make sure you know which circuit is included in your ticket before booking.

In the afternoon, you’ll board the return train to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic ride through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at the station and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 8:00 pm.

✔️ Accomodation: No include.

✔️ Tickets: Include.

✔️ Meals: Only breakfast at hotel.

Packing List for the Short Inca Trail

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: $ 495 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!