Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days / 1 night

Physical Level:
moderate physical fitness

Max group size:
2 - 12 people

Distances:
10 km / 6 miles

Max. Altitude:
4,200 m / 13,779 ft

Trip Details

Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Difficulty: Moderate physical fitness, Hiking, adventure, history, culture
Departures: Every day
Average Group Size: 12 people
Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Meals: 01 lunch (box lunch) / 01 dinner / 01 breakfast at the hotel
Entrance permits: Short Inka Trail and Machupicchu (Circuit 1 and 3)
Tour Language: English, Spanish
Starts/Ends: Cusco/Cusco (Hotel to hotel)
Walking Distance Until Machu Picchu: 10 km / 6 ml
Walking Time Until Machu Picchu: 5 hours
Starting Elevation: 2,100 m / 6,890 ft
Minimum Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
Machu Picchu Archaeo – Logical Site Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft

Detailed itinerary of the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, 2 days and 1 night, showing the complete route from Cusco to the Inca citadel.

OVERVIEW

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days is the perfect option for those who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail without traveling long distances. In just two days and one night, you’ll enjoy spectacular landscapes, abundant flora and fauna, and fascinating archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, one of the highlights of the ancient Inca Trail.

During the hike, you’ll experience a connection with nature and history, culminating in your arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), from where you’ll get your first unforgettable panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

The second day is dedicated to thoroughly exploring the majestic Inca citadel with your expert guide, who will reveal its secrets and rituals. and architecture of the sacred site.

Ideal for families, couples, or travelers seeking a cultural and natural adventure without the physical demands of the classic Inca Trail, this trek offers comfortable hotel accommodations and an authentic and inspiring experience.

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TRIP ITINERARY

Our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2-Day journey begins with pickup from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. We’ll head to the train station to board the 6:10 a.m. service from Ollantaytambo. The tour follows the beautiful Urubamba River Valley to kilometer 104, the starting point of the hike. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular landscapes with farmlands, snow-capped mountains, and the majestic Urubamba River, one of the main tributaries of the Amazon.

We’ll begin our hike at kilometer 104 (2,000 m above sea level) with a brief stop for a snack and a group photo before visiting the first archaeological site: Chachabamba. This was one of the last refuges of the ancient Inca travelers before reaching Machu Picchu, ideal for receiving the guide’s introduction to the fascinating Inca history.

The hike continues with an approximately three-hour ascent along the ancient steps of the Inca Trail, surrounded by a unique biodiversity with orchids, native trees, waterfalls, and Andean birds. We will visit the impressive archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna, the highlight of the short Inca Trail, known for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial fountains, and temples dedicated to nature.

After a box lunch at a nearby campsite, we will continue to the iconic Inti Punku or Sun Gate, from where you will get your first panoramic view of the majestic Citadel of Machu Picchu. This is one of the most exciting moments of the tour, when you finally see the jewel of the Inca Empire in all its splendor.

Unlike most visitors, arriving in the afternoon will allow you to enjoy the site with fewer tourists, ideal for photographs and a spiritual connection with the surroundings. We will then descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will check into your accommodation and enjoy an included dinner.

We recommend resting early to prepare for the second day of this unforgettable Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2-Day adventure.

Hotel:

in a standard hotel in Machu Picchu Town. Most often, it is the Casa de Luz Hotel.

Tour Type:

Hiking, adventure, history, culture

Meals:

01 lunch (box lunch) / 1 dinner

Highlights:

hiking the ancestral Inka Trail

After a well-deserved night’s rest, we will begin the second day of our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days, getting up before dawn to enjoy the citadel in peace and without crowds. From your hotel, you will walk a short distance to take the bus that will take you for 25 minutes to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. You’ll arrive just at dawn, when the first rays of the sun illuminate the Wonder of the World with a spectacular golden hue.

Your expert guide will accompany you on a tour of approximately two hours through the most emblematic sites of the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu, explaining the mysteries of its architecture, history, and the spiritual importance it held for the Incas. After the tour, you will have the opportunity to ascend Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, with advance reservation and a supplement of 65 USD). These hikes last between 2 and 3 hours and offer unforgettable panoramic views of the valley and the citadel.

When you have fully enjoyed the experience, you will return to Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch at the restaurant of your choice before boarding the return train (approximately departing at 2:55 PM, subject to availability). Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 6:00 PM. It will be the perfect ending to your adventure on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2-Day, an experience that will remain etched in your heart for years to come.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS:

To fully enjoy the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2-Day tour, we suggest you keep the following recommendations in mind:
Light clothing, long pants, hiking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended, as temperatures can range from 8 to 22 degrees depending on the altitude in this hot and humid subtropical area, with heat during the day and coolness at night. It can rain during the day, so bring a rain poncho. If you bring a camera or video camera, remember to bring a plastic bag to protect it from the rain.

📌 Note: You can book this tour even if you’re traveling alone, as services are shared. All prices are in US dollars. If you have questions or would like to customize your experience, please feel free to email us.

Meals:

01 breakfast at hotel

Highlights:

Visit to Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes town

INCLUSIONS

What is included?

Pre-departure Brieﬁng
Before the tour, you will meet with your tour leader and other participants for an orientation.
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance fees included(circuit 1 and 3)
We will purchase your permits as soon as we get your information and a prepayment (subject to availability; please see our Inca Trail Availability page). These permits are valid for a specified date and are issued in your name. They cannot be modified once verified. Only your passport number can be updated. The pass provides admission to Machu Picchu.
Professional Guides
Our guides all attended Cusco National University, where they studied English and tourism. They all grew up in this area and have a genuine desire to educate others about their background. They are both entertaining and professional, and they will make sure you are safe and happy.
Transportation
This journey includes all of your transportation. You will be picked up immediately from your hotel around 4:00 a.m. to begin this journey.
Round trip train tickets Expedition or Voyager Service (both offer high quality service).
Bus down Consettur Bus Ticket from Machu Picchu Inka Site to the town.
Accommodation We include a 2-star hotel in Machu Picchu Town. Depending on availability, Casa de Luz Hotel is the most common choice. This hotel can be upgraded to any other hotel in town for the price difference. This tour can also be booked without a hotel for $20 off the mentioned price (per person). Our prices are based on two people per room. A single room at Casa de Luz costs an additional $30 (prices vary by hotel).
Meals
01 diverse and reliable box lunch / 01 dinner and 01 breakfast in the hotel (vegetarian, vegan, or special menu options are provided at no additional cost).
Water
We will provide you with a bottle of water for your morning hike. We recommend bringing additional water on your own, as staying hydrated is essential for feeling good in the mountains.

What is not included?

Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machupicchu Mountain
Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machupicchu Montaña Sagrada has an additional cost of US$ 75.00.
book in advance, as there are only 400 spots available per day. You can take this additional hike after your guided tour of Machu Picchu to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view.
Walking Poles
The use of walking poles is optional, but highly recommended, especially on the descents of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days.
Cost: US$ 15.00 per pair.
Panoramic Vistadome Train
If you want more comfort and views Exclusive options, you can upgrade your train ticket to the Panoramic Vistadome Observatory service for a supplement of US$75.00 one way. You can also choose to upgrade only one leg of your trip.
Meals not mentioned
Meals outside the itinerary are not included. Here are some recommended options:
- Dinner at Restaurante Indio Feliz: US$ 30.00
- Lunch at El Mapi By Inkaterra Restaurant: US$ 20.00
- Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge Machupicchu Restaurant: US$45.00
Hotel Upgrade
You can request a hotel upgrade by contacting one of our travel advisors. We have several accommodation options depending on your preference and budget.
Personal Luggage
It is recommended to bring a small backpack (max. 25L) with essential items such as snacks, water, a hat, light layered clothing, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
We do not provide backpacks, so you must bring your own.
Tips
Tips are not included and are completely voluntary, although always appreciated. You can give them based on your level of satisfaction with the service received. They are a thoughtful gesture for the staff who will accompany you during the trip.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included, but it is recommended.
Due to the altitude of Cusco, some people may need a day or two to acclimatize. In case of any setbacks or missed excursions, insurance will provide support and peace of mind during your adventure.

What to Pack?

If you plan to tackle the Inka Trail, you will need to pack appropriately. Here are some important items to consider bringing.

CLOTHING:

Comfortable shoes/boots
Quick-drying pants
Long-sleeved shirt
Fleece jacket or sweater
Hat or cap

GEAR:

Sunscreen or sunblock (factor 50 or more)
insect or mosquitoes repellent
Water
Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, etc.)

MISCELLANEOUS:

Passport and necessary documents
Camera or phone with a good camera for capturing memories
Portable charger for electronic devices

FAQ

Before embarking on a hike, it is critical that you have become accustomed to the altitude. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least two or three days before the walk begins to assist you adjust and avoid altitude sickness during the trek. Before coming in Cusco, you might have visited another high-altitude area of Peru. In that case, we still recommend that you spend a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and take in the sights and sounds of the city before embarking on the climb. Here are some ideas for things to do in Cusco before you begin your adventure trek:

City Tour ½ day
Sacred Valley of the Inkas Full Day
Súper Sacred Valley of the Inkas Full Day
ATVs to the Rainbow Mountain Full Day
Rainbow Mountain Full Day – Trek
Salt Mines of Maras and Moray ½ day
ATVs to the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray ½ day

All information meetings and briefings take place in your hotel at 6:00 p.m., the night before the trek/tour begins. These meetings last about 30 to 45 minutes. If you are unable to be there, please schedule another time via email, phone, or Whatsapp.

If you have a pending balance, you must pay it until one day before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be verified. If feasible, we would prefer it if you could pay the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or local currency, at our Cusco office. You may withdraw money from many ATMs along Avenida Sol, which offer both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you can pay with a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please keep in mind that our payment gateway (Izipay) will apply a 5% service charge. We apologize that we are unable to take bank or traveler’s checks as payment for the balance.

During the trip, your primary luggage can be housed in our office (arranged with us on the briefing day or via email) or at your hotel, both of which are free of charge. Any equipment you will not need during the hike can be safely stored at your hotel. Almost every hotel will offer this service. Do not leave valuable items in your suitcases; instead, put them in the hotel safe and receive an itemized receipt. For added security, keep goods like credit cards in a sealed, signed envelope.

There will be a hot breakfast to start the day (porridge, eggs, toast, tea and coffee), a packed lunch on the mountain or at your camp, and a satisfying hot supper in the evening (soup, followed by rice, potato or pasta, sauce, and fruits). There will be enough drinking water because we will be drawing from local water sources. To purify the water, add iodine drops or tablets. The staff will collect water in the morning and evening for drinking and cooking. If you have any specific food requirements or allergies, please notify the walk leader before departure.

Some months are better than others, as you will see below. Peru has both a dry and wet season. Andean Ecotravel recommends hiking during the dry season rather than the rainy season due to harsh weather. The wet season consists largely of rain, snow, and ice, making the trail difficult and views limited.

January: less recommended
February: closed
March: less recommended
April: Recommended
May: Highly recommended
June: Highly recommended
July: Highly recommended
August: Highly recommended
September: Highly recommended
November: Recommended
December: Recommended

Andean Ecotravel may take you up from your accommodation if it is located in Cusco’s Historical Center. Your guide will organize the pickup time during the briefing session, however please bear in mind that the time may change by 30 to 45 minutes owing to traffic. Cusco is a historic city, with many tiny cobblestone alleyways. Some hotels and Airbnbs may be located on car-free streets or on long, steep slopes, making luggage transportation challenging. We strongly recommend that you book accommodations with easy access.

Returning from Machupicchu needs some logistics, so don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour.
You’ll board a bus at Machupicchu and travel 25 minutes to the little city of Aguas Calientes. The busses are boarded based on their arrival.
In Aguas Calientes, you will take a train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will provide you with train tickets that show the boarding time. Make sure you arrive on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
When you arrive at the station, our representative will be waiting to take you to Cusco or directly to your accommodation. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.

There are no bathrooms along the wilderness trail, so make sure to bury all waste. Where local conditions allow, we set up basic long drop toilets in the camps. Mountain streams will be the primary washing facilities! When you arrive at camp at the end of the day’s walking, your camp personnel will bring washing bowls filled with warm water. Take plenty of toilet paper and antiseptic wipes or antibacterial hand gel.

Because group trips include a diverse range of people, physical conditions and ages may differ. By agreeing to join a group trip, you acknowledge that some persons may be quicker or slower than you. As a result, each person can travel at their own pace throughout the path. A group may desire to modify the trip; however, the guide will decide, after speaking with all participants, whether such modifications are possible.

Please, pay attention to where you leave your belongings and remember to take everything when you leave our transportation, tents, or restaurants. Throughout the excursion, you are solely responsible for your objects.

Small Groups

-6 % OFF