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Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu | Small Group Tour
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu covers about 12 km (7.5 miles), starting at Kilometer 104 and following a scenic section of the original Inca Trail. The route passes through cloud forests, ancient stone paths, and notable Inca sites, including Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
This 2-day trek is an excellent alternative to the Classic 4-day route, offering a shorter and more comfortable hiking experience without missing the highlights of the original trail. Travelers hike in small groups with expert local guides and spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of camping.
This tour is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the Inca Trail in less time while still enjoying one of the most beautiful and rewarding routes to Machu Picchu. The adventure ends with a memorable walk through Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate, where you’ll see your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu framed by the Andes Mountains.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Prices
- FAQS
Highlights of the 2-Day Inca Trail Trek
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Hike one of the most iconic sections of the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
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Visit impressive Inca sites along the route, including Wiñay Wayna and Chachabamba.
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Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as the Incas did centuries ago.
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Hike in small groups led by experienced local guides for a more personal and supported experience.
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Enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch by our professional trekking chef along the trail.
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Hike with a light daypack while we deliver your duffle bag directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes for a more comfortable trek.
2-Day Inca Trail Hike, starting at $520 per person
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Small group tours (max 8 travelers) for a more personalized experience
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Daily departures subject to permit availability
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Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour Overview
Discover the Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu, a scenic hike along original Inca pathways through cloud forests, mountain landscapes, and ancient archaeological sites. This guided 2-day adventure starts at KM 104 and follows a beautiful section of the Inca Trail before arriving at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Perfect for travelers who want to experience the original Inca Trail without committing to the Classic 4-day trek, this shorter route combines history, nature, and a comfortable hiking experience with expert local guides, small groups, and a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes rather than camping.
Tour Details & Key Information
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Tour Name: Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu | Small Group Tour
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Duration: 2 days / 1 night
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Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)
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Difficulty Level: Moderate – suitable for travelers with average fitness
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Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m (8,923 ft)
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Starting Point: Km 104 (official checkpoint)
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End Point: Machu Picchu
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Highlights: Wiñay Wayna ruins, cloud forest, and Sun Gate views
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Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
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Group Size: Max 8 travelers
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Availability: Subject to Short Inca Trail permit availability
How Difficult is the 2-Day Inca Trail Trek?
This 2-day Inca Trail trek is considered a moderate hike. The trail begins at KM 104 at about 2,100 m (6,890 ft) and gradually climbs to Wiñay Wayna at around 2,650 m (8,694 ft). Hikers gain about 550 meters in elevation during the first section.
The initial uphill section is the most challenging part of the trek. After reaching Wiñay Wayna, the trail becomes easier and more gradual as hikers continue toward the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.
This route is suitable for travelers with average fitness, first-time hikers, and active families looking for a rewarding hiking experience in the Andes.
Distance & Hiking Time
The 2-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu covers about 12 km (7.5 miles). On the first day, hikers spend 6 to 6.5 hours on the trail at a comfortable tourist pace. They take several breaks to enjoy the scenery, rest, and explore archaeological sites.
The route starts at KM 104 and follows original Inca stone pathways through cloud forest landscapes before reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where hikers enjoy their first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Why Travelers Love This Route
Many travelers want to experience the original Inca Trail but prefer a shorter, less demanding hike than the Classic 4-day trek. Others have limited time in Peru and seek a route that still offers the iconic experience of walking into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
This scenic 2-day hike combines beautiful landscapes, authentic Inca sites, and the unique experience of arriving at Machu Picchu on foot. This is exclusive to Inca Trail hikers.
Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail
The 2-day Short Inca Trail trek is open from March 1 to January 31. The trail closes in February each year for maintenance.
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May to September (Dry Season): These months are the best time for hiking, with clear skies, dry weather, and great mountain views.
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Shoulder Season (April & October): During these months, you’ll find fewer crowds and good hiking conditions, though there may be some rain showers.
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November to April (Rainy Season): The rainy season makes the landscape greener and more vibrant, but rain is common, especially in the afternoons. If you bring good rain gear, you can still have a great experience.
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February: The trail is officially closed for maintenance.
Permits & Availability
Only 250 permits are issued daily for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, including guides and support staff. Permits often sell out quickly, particularly during the dry season. Check Real-Time Availability.
We highly recommend booking your trek 3 to 4 months in advance, especially if you plan to hike between May and September.
At Qoricancha Expeditions, our small-group tours require only two travelers to confirm a departure. Please check your travel dates with our sales team via WhatsApp at +51 981 345 935. If permits are available for your preferred departure date, we will secure them and confirm your trek promptly.
Why Travel with Qoricancha Expeditions?
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We are an officially licensed Inca Trail tour operator based in Cusco.
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We offer small-group tours so you can enjoy a more personal experience.
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Our experienced local trekking guides have extensive knowledge of the route.
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We provide comfortable hotel accommodations in Aguas Calientes.
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All permits, transportation, and logistics are fully organized for you.
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You will receive personalized support before and during your trek.
Our goal is to make your hike to Machu Picchu safe, comfortable, and memorable by offering professional local service and well-organized operations.
Ready to Hike to Machu Picchu?
Join us for one of Peru’s most beautiful and memorable hikes, led by local guides who handle all the details for you.
Permits are limited and can sell out fast, especially in peak season. Get in touch with us to see what’s available and lock in your travel dates.
Day 1: Short Inca Trail Hike to the Sun Gate
Morning Departure: Our trekking tour guide will collect you from your Cusco hotel at 4 a.m., 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 restaurant in town.
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Trek Duration: 6–7 hours
- Highlights: After crossing the Urubamba River, we explore Chachabamba before ascending to the spectacular Wiñay Wayna ruins. This "Forever Young" site features dramatic agricultural terraces and urban sectors hidden in the cloud forest.
- The Magic Hour: We continue to Inti Punku (The Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunset. A view exclusive to Inca Trail hikers.
- Evening: Descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for a celebratory dinner and a restful night at a 3-star boutique hotel.
- Accommodation: Inti Punko Machu Picchu or a comparable 3-star hotel
- Entrance Tickets: All required tickets included
- Meals: Lunch and dinner provided
Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco
The second day is the highlight of your trek, a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your day begins early with a 5:00 a.m. wake-up and breakfast at 5:30 a.m. Afterward, your guide will meet you at the hotel, and you’ll walk together to the bus station for the 30-minute ride to the citadel. Be sure to have your original passport and entry ticket ready at the entrance.
Your visit begins on Circuit 3, the route required for all trekkers arriving from the Inca Trail. If you wish to visit Circuit 2, famous for its classic panoramic views, you may add it for an additional $55 per person. In that case, you’ll complete Circuit 3 first and then re-enter with your Circuit 2 ticket. Please confirm this option with your travel advisor when booking.
Your guided tour lasts about 2 hours, taking you through key temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas. Built in the 15th century under the Inca emperor Pachacutec, Machu Picchu showcases the empire’s masterful stonework and deep connection to astronomy and nature.
If you purchased tickets for Huayna Picchu, you’ll enjoy a rewarding 2-hour round-trip hike with elevated views of the citadel. If not, you’ll conclude your guided visit and have a moment to take in the site before exiting.
Machu Picchu is divided into three circuits, each offering different viewpoints, no single route covers the entire site. This system protects the ruins, so be sure you know which circuit is included in your ticket.
In the afternoon, you’ll board the train for a scenic ride back through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where a driver will meet you for your transfer to Cusco. Expect to arrive around 8:00 p.m.
- Accommodation: Book on your Own.
- Entrance Tickets: All required tickets included
- Meals: Only Breakfast at Hotel.
What Is Included in the 2-Day Inca Trail?
The Tour Includes
- Pre-Trek Briefing: The evening before your trek, your guide will meet you at your hotel to review the itinerary, discuss important details, and answer any questions you have.
- Official Bilingual Guide: An experienced guide will join you for the whole trek, sharing insights about the history, culture, archaeology, and nature along the Inca Trail.
- Expedition Train Tickets: Includes train rides from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, where the Short Inca Trail begins, and back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Inca Trail Entrance Permit: We buy your Short Inca Trail permit as soon as your booking is confirmed with our team.
- 1 Night Accommodation: Stay one night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Meals: Enjoy a snack, a freshly prepared hot lunch by our chef on the trail, dinner at a local restaurant, and breakfast at your hotel on the second day.
- Bus Tickets: Round-trip bus rides between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are included.
- Machu Picchu Entrance: Your ticket covers Circuit 1 and Circuit 3. On Day 1, after arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, you’ll visit Circuit 1 for panoramic views of the citadel. On Day 2, you’ll return for a guided tour of Circuit 3, which explores the lower and central parts of Machu Picchu.
- Safety Equipment: Your guide will have a first-aid kit and an oxygen tank to help in case of any emergency during the trek.
- All Local Taxes and Fees: The tour price includes all local taxes and fees.
- 24/7 Personalized Assistance: Our team is here to help you before, during, and after your trip.
The Tour Does Not Include
- Hotel in Cusco before or after the tour (available upon request).
- Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 2.
- Tips for the guide and support staff (optional).
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Optional Services
- Vistadome Observatory Train: USD 85 per person (return journey only).
- Hiram Bingham Luxury Train: USD 520 per person (return journey only).
- Upgraded Hotel Options:
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- Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Entrance: USD 75 per person, subject to availability and advance reservation.
2-Day Short Inca Trail Packing List
Bringing the right equipment will ensure your 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is comfortable and enjoyable. Since Andean weather changes quickly, dress in layers and pack only essentials.
You don’t have to carry all your luggage on the trail. Our extra porter service gives you a duffel bag for the things you’ll need in Aguas Calientes and for your visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
How Your Luggage Works
You will have three luggage options to make your trek easier:
1. Your Daypack – What You Carry During the Hike
During the hike, carry only a small backpack with essential items for the trail.
We recommend a 20–25 liter daypack with:
- Original passport – the same passport used to book your Inca Trail permit.
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system.
- Personal snacks or energy bars.
- Sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Camera or mobile phone.
- Personal medications.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Toilet paper.
- Rain jacket or rain poncho.
- Light fleece or warm layer.
- Waterproof bag to protect your passport, phone, camera, and other electronics.
Always keep your passport, money, medications, and valuables with you.
2. Your Duffel Bag – Transported to Aguas Calientes
We provide a duffel bag during the pre-trek briefing as part of our extra porter service.
Use the duffel bag to pack clothes and personal items needed for:
- Your overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
- The evening after the hike.
- Your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
- Your return journey to Cusco.
Our team will transport your duffel bag to Aguas Calientes and deliver it to your hotel.
What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag
- Change of clothes for Aguas Calientes.
- Comfortable clothes for your overnight stay.
- Clothes for your Machu Picchu visit the following day.
- Extra underwear and socks.
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for Aguas Calientes.
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items.
- Any other personal items you may need during your overnight stay.
Do not place your passport, money, medications, or valuable electronics in the duffel bag. Keep these items in your daypack at all times.
3. Your Main Luggage – Safely Stored in Cusco
You do not need to bring your main suitcase or large luggage on the trek.
If you are returning to the same hotel in Cusco after your Machu Picchu trip, you can leave your extra luggage at your hotel. Most hotels in Cusco offer complimentary luggage storage for their guests.
Alternatively, you may leave your luggage with Qoricancha Expeditions. We offer secure storage for your belongings while you are away.
If you use our storage service, just hand your luggage to your guide at pick-up. We’ll keep it safe and return it to you when you get back from Machu Picchu, then drop you off at your hotel in Cusco with your luggage.
In summary: Carry essentials in your daypack, pack clothes for Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu in the duffel bag, and store your main luggage safely in Cusco.
Recommended Clothing for the Inca Trail
Weather can change throughout the day, so dressing in layers is recommended.
We suggest packing:
- 2–3 quick-dry T-shirts.
- Trekking pants.
- Trekking shorts (optional).
- Lightweight fleece or warm jacket.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Comfortable underwear.
- 2–3 pairs of trekking socks.
- Sun hat or cap.
- Warm hat or beanie.
- Light gloves (optional, especially during colder months).
Footwear
- Comfortable trekking shoes or hiking boots with good traction.
- Comfortable sandals or shoes for Aguas Calientes.
Important: Break in your hiking shoes before your trip. New shoes on the trail may cause blisters.
Sun & Weather Protection
The Andean sun is strong, even when it feels cool. We recommend packing:
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Sun hat or cap.
- Insect repellent.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Waterproof bags for electronics and important documents.
Optional but Useful Items
These items are optional but can enhance your comfort:
- Trekking poles – especially useful on the downhill sections.
- Portable power bank.
- Small travel towel.
Important Documents
Before leaving Cusco, ensure you have:
- Original passport – required for your Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance.
- Travel insurance information – highly recommended.
- Some cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses, tips, and optional purchases.
What to Expect From the Weather
The weather on the Short Inca Trail can change fast. You might get sunshine, heat, wind, clouds, and rain all in one day.
That’s why we strongly suggest wearing layers and keeping your rain jacket or poncho easy to reach in your daypack.
Our Best Packing Advice
Pack light and keep it simple. You do not need to carry all your luggage on the Short Inca Trail. Our extra porter service lets you leave your main luggage in Cusco while we transport your duffel bag to Aguas Calientes.
This allows you to focus on what matters most: enjoying the trail, the Andean scenery, and your arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
2-Day Inca Trail Price
Small Group Tour: Maximum 8 participants
US$520 per person
A minimum of 2 participants is required to operate the group tour.
Private Tour Option Available
For a personalized experience, you may book the 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu as a private tour. This option offers a flexible itinerary, dedicated guide, and private transportation for your group.
Number of Travelers Price per Person
| 2–3 people |
US$700
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| 4–5 people |
US$650
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| 6 people |
US$600
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| 7+ people |
US$550
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Book With Confidence
When you book the 2-Day Inca Trail with Qoricancha Expeditions, we secure your official Inca Trail permits, subject to availability.
We also arrange your transportation, accommodation, meals, train tickets, and other details so you can have a safe, comfortable, and stress-free trip to Machu Picchu.
As Inca Trail permits are limited and may sell out quickly, we recommend booking early, particularly if you have specific travel dates.
Upgrade your train experience
Would you like to make your return trip even more special?
You can ask to upgrade to the Vistadome Observatory train for your return from Aguas Calientes, if available and for an extra cost.
Check availability for your dates
Planning your 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
If you have questions or wish to check permit availability for your preferred dates, our team is available to assist you throughout the booking process.
WhatsApp: +51 981 345 935
Email: info@qoricanchaexpeditions.com
Reserve your preferred hiking date and begin planning your Machu Picchu adventure with Qoricancha Expeditions.