Short Inca Trail 2 days hike to Machu Picchu

Short Inca Trail 2 days hike to Machu Picchu

2 Days Starting in Aguas Calientes and ending in Machu Picchu

Visiting: Aguas Calientes, Peru

Tour operator:

TreXperience

Tour code:

57975

Physical rating:

MODERATE

Age range:

3-80

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

Activities:

Hiking

From: $560 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 31-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

If you're short on time but still want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail, this 2-day trek is perfect for you. Combining the best highlights of the classic 4-day trail, this journey takes you through stunning Inca sites nestled in the cloud forest. As you approach Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Intipunku) in the late afternoon, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views and fewer crowds, giving you a more intimate experience of this wonder.Ideal for solo travelers, couples, groups, and families, this adventure features one full day of trekking, followed by a day dedicated to exploring the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.Tour Highlights:Arrive at Machu Picchu twice during exclusive hoursCapture the best views from the Sun Gate (Intipunku)Return to Cusco on luxurious Panoramic trains (Vistadome or 360°)Enjoy a small-group experience for personalized service

Highlights

  • If you're short on time but still want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail, this 2-day trek is perfect for you

  • Combining the best highlights of the classic 4-day trail, this journey takes you through stunning Inca sites nestled in the cloud forest

  • As you approach Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Intipunku) in the late afternoon, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views and fewer crowds, giving you a more intimate experience of this wonder

  • Ideal for solo travelers, couples, groups, and families, this adventure features one full day of trekking, followed by a day dedicated to exploring the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu

  • Tour Highlights:Arrive at Machu Picchu twice during exclusive hoursCapture the best views from the Sun Gate (Intipunku)Return to Cusco on luxurious Panoramic trains (Vistadome or 360°)Enjoy a small-group experience for personalized service

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Location: Aguas Calientes

Your journey begins bright and early with a 4:00 AM pickup from your hotel (depending on location) as we head to Ollantaytambo. From there, enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour train ride along the Urubamba River, descending from the highlands into the cloud forest at km 104, Chachabamba.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in at the trailhead—make sure you have your passport ready! Our first stop is the fascinating Inca ruins of Chachabamba. After exploring this ancient site, we’ll begin our hike along the historic Short Inca Trail, a path once used by the Incas but abandoned in the 16th century.

The first part of the trail is a steady uphill hike that takes about four hours, leading us to the breathtaking archaeological site of Wiñay Huayna, or “Forever Young.” Here, we’ll take some time to explore the terraces and take in the incredible views of the Andes, while enjoying an organic packed lunch and refreshments.

After a well-earned break, we’ll continue to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll catch your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu—the Lost City of the Incas. This magical moment offers an incredible perspective of the ancient site. From the Sun Gate, it’s an easy one-hour downhill walk to Machu Picchu, with stunning views all along the way.

Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have the rare chance to explore Machu Picchu with fewer crowds, perfect for taking photos in the soft afternoon light. Afterward, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel.

Key Details:

  • Highest Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
  • Distance: 15 km / 8 miles
  • Trek Duration: 8 hours
  • Meals Included: Lunch, snacks, dinner
  • Accommodation: Susanna Inn (or similar)
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

The final day of your Short Inca Trail adventure begins bright and early as we prepare for the highlight of the trek—visiting the legendary Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. After breakfast, we’ll head straight to the line for the first bus, departing at 5:30 AM, to ensure you arrive at Machu Picchu just as the sky begins to brighten. As you walk up to the ancient city, the views are nothing short of breathtaking. On a clear morning, you’ll witness the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu—an unforgettable experience.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you on an in-depth 2 to 3-hour tour of Machu Picchu, sharing the rich history and fascinating stories behind its magnificent architecture. After the guided tour, you’ll have time to explore the site on your own, or if you’ve pre-booked, you can hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for even more stunning views.

Before heading back, your guide will explain how to catch the bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Later, you’ll board the panoramic Vistadome train for a scenic ride back to Ollantaytambo, where the TreXperience team will meet you and safely transfer you by van back to your hotel.

Key Details:

  • Highest Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
  • Tour Duration: 2-3 hours at Machu Picchu
  • Meals Included: Breakfast (at your hotel)

What's Included

  • Pre-tour Safety Briefing: Get all the essential information the evening before your trek.
  • Hotel Pickup & Drop-off: Convenient pickup and drop-off at your hotel.
  • Expert Tour Guide: Led by a knowledgeable, experienced guide.
  • All Transportation: Hassle-free transportation throughout the tour.
  • Train to Km 104: Travel to the trailhead on the comfortable Expedition or Voyager train.
  • Panoramic Train Return: End your adventure in style aboard the luxurious Vistadome or 360° panoramic train.
  • Bus Rides: Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1) and round-trip bus to Machu Picchu (Day 2).
  • Entry Tickets: Entry to both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Meals: Includes 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast.
  • Safety First: Satellite phones, a first-aid kit, and an oxygen supply are provided for your peace of mind.
  • Free Luggage Storage: Safe storage for your belongings while you trek.
  • All Taxes & Fees: No hidden costs

What's Not Included

  • Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 2
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain
  • Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain
  • Travel insurance

Requirements

  • Original Passport: Must be valid—copies won’t be accepted.
  • Hiking Boots: Comfortable, light, and already broken-in.
  • Daypack: Light, small, and comfortable for your essentials.
  • Water Storage: At least 2 liters (camel bag or water bottles).
  • Clothing: 1 moisture-wicking t-shirt, hiking pants, and a change of clothes for Machu Picchu photos.
  • Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
  • Bug Spray: Essential for keeping the insects away.
  • Toiletries & Personal Medication: Pack what you need for the trek.
  • Camera & Extra Batteries: Capture every moment.
  • Snacks: Power bars, chocolate, or your favorite trail treats.
  • Extra Cash: For souvenirs, drinks, tips, or small expenses.
  • Swimsuit: Optional for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.

Please Note

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Infant seats are available upon request if advised at the time of booking.
  • Please inform us of any specific dietary requirements when booking.
  • Vegetarian option available; please let us know at the time of booking if needed.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Transfer in and out in the airport of Cusco is included

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Final schedules and hotel names will be provided 48 hours before departure

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    You will always have a tour guide during our trekkings.

  • What currencies are required for this tour?

    During our tours, we visit local villages where you can buy souvenirs and you need Peruvian Nuevos Soles

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    Guest must have a moderate fitness leve

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    In case you need help with pre and post-tour accommodation, please contact us

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    You can put up to 7 kilos of your personal stuff in the duffel bag, this will be transported by porters

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    Flights are not included in this tour

  • What is the maximum group size?

    8 people

  • Will passengers from another country be participating in the tour?

    During our group tours, you will meet travelers from different countries and ages.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Children must be always with their parents,

  • When is the best time to travel to Cusco?

    The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.

  • When do you have to arrive in Cusco?

    It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.

  • How to prevent altitude sickness?

    Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.

  • Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?

    Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.

  • How many people are allowed in each group?

    The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Nicole H  

Best treks and trips with TreXperience!

07-Jan-2021

An adventurous and cultural trip to Machu Picchu has been on my bucket list for years. We monitored the cases in Peru and felt confident the Peruvian Government, people and tourism providers were exercising all the right safety measures to keep customers and themselves safe. And our expectations were more than exceeded. Everyone in Peru is wearing masks whether indoors or outdoors and when necessary wearing face-shields. The Peruvian people were extraordinary. So hospitable and happy to see some tourists visiting their amazing country. We choose TreXperience four our 4-day trek because they are locally owned and operated, promote sustainable tourism, they empower woman (Tania was one of our porters and she carried ½ her body weight) on top of their exceptional reviews and awards. TreXperience surpassed our expectations from booking to departure. Providing exceptional customer service, doing so much of the little things along with the big stuff, VERY WELL! Little things like...hot water and a cloth to wash our face and hands after a long day, a tarp, extra sleeping pad, and wool blanket to keep us warm and dry, coco leaves to help us with the altitude, shipping us a souvenir gift we left behind, teaching us Quechua (the ancient language of the Inca people) and the big things like… a popup toilet, delicious meals, spectacular treks and moments to explore and learn more about the fauna, flora and Inca history. All done with exceptional hospitality, smiles, and Peruvian Pride. Thank you to the TreX Team; our porters Tomy, Tania and Elvis our chef Celso and our guide Elisban. He was so knowledgeable, interesting, laughed at my jokes, gave us an extra hand and encouragement when we needed it, made great conversation, and much more. There was a moment when I looked out our train to see Elisban waving to us to make sure we got settled okay. I looked at my daughter and said, “I really like Elisban, he is the best guide I have ever done a trip with.” I traveled with my 9-year-old daughter and we are pretty fit. We selected the 4D/3N Alternative Inca Trail trek based on Colonel’s suggestion. The classic Inca 4D trek is not an option for us as it was closed due to a March rockslide. I am glad it wasn’t open as the Alternative trek was perfect. We explored the highlands, trekked above the sacred valley, saw a couple of villages, didn’t get burned out on camping, and got to experience the best part of the Inca trail! While at times it was sobering to see so few tourists and to have Winaywayna, the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu to practically to ourselves. It was a great time to visit allowing us to truly appreciate the beauty, deep, and impressive history of the Cusco region and the remarkable Inca sites. If you are thinking about a trip to Machu Picchu, book it! And book with TreXperience. It will be one of the best treks and trips you’ve taken!

Ishrak H  

BestExperience!! Don't just take our word for it. Read everyone else's review :)

23-Nov-2018

My wife and I planned a short trip to Peru where we had 4 days to spend in Cusco. We knew exactly what we wanted to do during our time there (Tour the Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail / Machu Picchu, and Rainbow Mountain). Selecting tour companies in Cusco can be really overwhelming as there are so many to choose from. After hours of research and reading thousands of reviews we decided to get in touch with TreXperience and a few other companies with regards to a custom tour package. Almost immediately, Tom from TreXperience responded with a custom package and a detailed itinerary of everything we wanted to see (far more detailed than any other company and inclusive of all our needs). We had some follow up questions and they were all answered in a timely and professional manner. We were really impressed with the communication with TreXperinece (and also the reasonable price) therefore decided to book our trip with them. Our experience in Cusco was truly remarkable and we have to thank all TreXperience staff involved for their effort. The service they provided was impeccable. We were promised a door to door service and they delivered. We did not have to worry about any transportation (pickup and drop-off from the airport and all the tours were included). Most of our meals were also covered (some meals were not included but they were clearly identified ahead of time therefore we were well prepared). As mentioned earlier, compared to other tour companies TreXperience‘s prices were also reasonable. They were not the cheapest, but the service they provided was truly exceptional. It was well worth the hassle / worry free experience. We had the pleasure of being accompanied by two extraordinary guides over the 4 days. They were both knowledgeable, friendly and spoke English very well. Elisban was our guide for the Rainbow Mountain tour. The climb up to Rainbow Mountain can be very challenging, especially if you are not used to the altitude. Elisban was very patient with us during the entire climb and even encouraged us to take it easy and go at a comfortable pace. He was well equipped and brought along all the necessary equipment (trekking poles, oxygen tank, etc.). Lastly, we wanted to mention the second biggest highlight of our trip (first being Machu Picchu) CARLOS!! Our guide for the Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail / Machu Picchu tour. Carlos is truly a wonderful person who went above and beyond to make this trip memorable for us. Aside from being knowledgeable and passionate about what he does, Carlos really made us feel welcome and a part of his family. He was more than happy to answer all our questions and share his experience. We informed Carlos about our dietary restrictions when we arrived and he made sure everything was taken care of even when he wasn’t around. He made sure we got on all our busses and trains on time (he even took us to the bus and train stations when he was off duty). Thank you Carlos for making this trip special for us. We cannot recommend TreXperience enough for anyone planning a trip to Peru. Their remarkable staff and dedication to client satisfaction will guarantee that you will have a memorable time. Again, don’t just take our word for it, read everyone else’s review.

Stefan W  

Amazing 2day Inca trail trip with entertaining and experienced guide Mauro

01-Jan-2021

Absolutely cool, once in a lifetime experience - walking the inca trail on the 2 day tour by TreXperience with our person guide: MAURO! He was such a cool guide, explaining us a lot about the nature on the path, history of the Incas and Quechas, their buildings, Latin American and especially Peruvian history - AMAZING. Also driving in the train was superb experience. Seeing Machu Picchu when coming through the Sungate after the whole day walking on the Inca trail: unbelievable cool! Yes, it was relatively expensive, however, it was all organised perfectly and everything was of excellent service, can deeply recommend this as long as Machu Picchu can still be visited!

Natalia14  

2 day Short Inca Trail

08-Jan-2020

We have just completed our 2 day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Trexperience and we feel a mixture of joy, pride and physical exhaustion ! First of all , Carlos went out of his way to meet our needs before the trek, organising free transport and recommending accomodation before the start date. He suggested staying in Ollantaytambo a lovely town before the trail - tip - this also means you get a few extra hours in bed when your guide picks you up early in the morning! (Rather than coming all the way from Cusco). Carlos also arranged free transport for us a day or so after the trek was finished. It sjows this company go above and beyond. Secondly, our guide Jose was incredible. He was fun, friendly, very knowledgable and always happy to answer questions. He created a good dynamic within our team and always made sure we were taken care of. Honestly, there are so many companies who offer packages like this, but Trexperience are great. The trek is organised so you arrive at Machu Picchu through The Sungate late afternoon - this means there are far less people and you really feel the magic and mystery of it all. The second day involves the guided tour around the actual site, but this is with hundreds of other people (naturally) and we were glad to see it virtually empty the evening before. The hotel we were booked into was absolutely lovely - beautiful view onlooking the waterfall. Ultimately, the experience exceeded our expectations and it was worth every penny.

Holden  

Short inca trail

17-Dec-2020

Joyce, was very personable and welcoming. Always patient and helpful answering our questions. Great organization and planning. The tour and visit went very smoothly. I would recommend Joyce highly

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Friday

Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
$560 (USD)

Friday - Saturday

Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 05, 2025
$560 (USD)

Saturday - Sunday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025
$560 (USD)

Sunday - Monday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$560 (USD)

Monday - Tuesday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 08, 2025
$560 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    TreXperience requires a minimum deposit of 140 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 2 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trexperience charges.

    Up to 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 0 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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