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Inca Trail Trek 2 Days – Classic

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From$530
Price
From$530
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OverviewInclusions ItineraryPhotosFAQsReviews
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Length

2 days, 1 night
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Group

Min 1, Max 8.
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Trip Style

Cultural, Trekking
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Difficulty

2, 3, of 5.
Overview

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a world class 2-day trekking experience in Cusco, Peru, combining adventure, history, and breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Travelers hike part of the legendary Inca Trail, crossing the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the cloud forest, and ancient archaeological sites such as Wiñaywayna.

The journey leads to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where the first panoramic view of the Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is revealed.

This unforgettable route offers a unique blend of Inca history, culture, and nature, making it one of the most sought after Machu Picchu tours and treks in Peru.

Highlights

  • Exclusive early entry to Machu Picchu Citadel, avoiding crowds and experiencing the site at its best.
  • Short section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes and cloud forest.
  • Iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) viewpoint with the first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.
  • Visit to Wiñaywayna Archaeological Site, a masterpiece of Inca engineering and terraces.
  • Panoramic train return through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
  • Small group experience for a more personal and high quality guided tour in Cusco, Peru.

At a Glance

  • Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
  • Departure & Return: Cusco, Peru
  • Meals included: 1 box lunch, dinner, and breakfast.
  • Tour Type: Adventure, Hiking & Cultural Experience
  • Starting point (Chachabamba): 2,170 m / 7,120 ft
  • Highest point Sun Gate (Inti Punku):  2,720 m / 8,924 ft
  • Difficulty: Moderate 
  • Short Inca Trail Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
  • Travel time: Approximately 3 hours from Cusco by van and train.
  • Accommodation: 1-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
  • Highlights: Short Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna Archaeological Site, Sun Gate (Inti Punku), Machu Picchu Citadel, cloud forest landscapes, panoramic train journey through the Sacred Valley
  • Best time to visit: March to October. Tours operate year-round, except in February.
  • Group Size: Small-group or private tour options available
  • Transportation: Hotel pick-up, Expedition train, and round-trip bus to Machu Picchu.
  • Permits: Official Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket included

Inclusions

  • - Pre-trek briefing in Cusco at 7:00 p.m.
  • Hotel pick-up in Cusco city center
  • Transportation: Private van and train to the trailhead.
  • Professional bilingual guide (English, Spanish & Quechua)
  • Meals: Box lunch and dinner on Day 1; breakfast at the hotel on Day 2.
  • Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
  • Round-trip train tickets: Ollantaytambo–Km 104 and Aguas Calientes–Ollantaytambo (standard class)
  • Round-trip bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
  • 1-night accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Trekking poles

Excludes

  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions.
  • Optional hot springs entrance fee: S/20 (US$6)
  • Tips and gratuities: Optional and appreciated
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Optional; tickets US$70 per person
  • Travel insurance: Recommended

What to Bring

  • Original passport required (valid for at least 6 months and with 2 blank pages). Copies are not accepted
  • Student ID: Required for student discount (under 25); valid university ID with photo and expiry date.
  • Personal medication: Essentials only
  • Insect repellent: 15% DEET or higher recommended
  • Light backpack: Small and comfortable.
  • Waterproof hiking shoes: Ankle support recommended.
  • Water bottle: Bring at least 2L.
  • Emergency cash: Bring S/300 (US$90) in cash.
Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñaywayna – Aguas Calientes

Your Machu Picchu adventure begins before sunrise! At around 4:00 AM, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) and travel through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas on your way to the starting point of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Around 6:30–7:00 AM, you’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo Train Station (2,792 m / 9,160 ft). From here, board the scenic train to the Sacred Valley, enjoying stunning views of the Andes Mountains along the way.

At around 8:00 AM, you’ll arrive at Km 104 (2,100 m / 6,890 ft), the official starting point of your Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. From here, your adventure on the ancient Inca Trail begins!

You’ll cross the Vilcanota River and begin your guided hike to Chachabamba (2,170 m / 7,119 ft), where you’ll discover fascinating Inca site along this ancient and sacred trail.

You’ll continue through the beautiful Andean cloud forest until reaching Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), one of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites along the route. After exploring its ancient terraces and temples, enjoy lunch around 12:00–1:00 PM while surrounded by the spectacular Peruvian Andes.

You’ll continue on the final and most rewarding stretch of the Short Inca Trail, reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) around 2:00–3:00 PM. From here, enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu Citadel (2,430 m / 7,972 ft).

Finally, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft) around 4:00–6:00 PM, where you’ll check into your comfortable hotel, relax, and get ready for your Machu Picchu visit the following morning.

Day 2Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Wake up early in Aguas Calientes and take the first bus to Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft). As the first morning light reaches the citadel, step into the ancient Inca city and enjoy the magic of Machu Picchu before the crowds arrive.

Around 6:00–8:00 AM, enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, discovering its most fascinating Inca sites, including the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana Stone, Temple of the Three Windows, and the impressive agricultural terraces.

As you explore, you’ll discover the Inca architecture, ancient water systems, and sacred ceremonial sites that make Machu Picchu a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After your guided tour, you can enjoy an optional hike to Huayna Picchu (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) or Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082 m / 10,111 ft), available with a pre-booked permit. Both offer breathtaking panoramic views over the Urubamba River Valley.

After your Machu Picchu visit, enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before boarding your selected train service to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, continue by private vehicle to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon or early evening.

What to Pack

1.Packing List

Here’s what you need to pack for the Inca Trail (2 days).

Get ready for your 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! You’ll carry your own things during the hike, so we recommend packing light and bringing a small, comfortable backpack.

Here’s a simple list of the essentials you should bring for your Short Inca Trail adventure.

2.What to Bring for the Short Inca Trail

  • Original passport: Bring your original passport; copies are not accepted. Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months and has 2 blank pages for immigration stamps.
  • Student ID: Required for the student discount (under 25). Bring a valid university ID with a photo and expiration date.
  • Hat & sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong sun at high altitude. Choose sunglasses with UV protection and a comfortable hat.
  • Rain gear: Rain is possible, especially during the wet season. Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry.
  • Warm clothing: Temperatures can change throughout the day. Bring fleece, long-sleeve shirts, a warm jacket, and a waterproof layer.
  • Sunscreen: Bring high-SPF sunscreen and reapply regularly, especially when hiking under the strong Andean sun.
  • Hand sanitizer: Carry a small bottle to keep your hands clean before meals and after using the restroom.
  • Snacks: Bring light, high-energy snacks such as granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit to keep you energized during the hike.
  • Extra money: Bring around S/300 (US$90) for drinks, tips, souvenirs, and bathroom fees along the trail.

Clothing: 

  • Two t-shirts: Long sleeves are better.
  • Hiking pants: Bring 2 pairs, one for the trail and one for your Machu Picchu visit.
  • Underwear & socks: Bring moisture-wicking options to stay dry and comfortable.
  • Change of clothes: Pack light and bring only the essentials.
  • Warm layers: Wear light, easy-to-remove layers for changing temperatures.
  • Swimsuit (optional): Bring one for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.

About toiletries:

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Toilet paper or wet wipes are needed.

Accessories: 

  • A camera and fully charged phones.
  • Extra batteries are needed for Machu Picchu.

Extra Snacks: 

  • Snacks, energy bars and chocolate.

Extra Money: 

  • For souvenirs, drinks and tips on the Short Inca Trail.

First Aid Kit:

  • Pain relievers: Examples include ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
  • Band-Aids: For minor cuts and blisters.
  • Sunscreen: The sun is very strong in the cloud forest.
  • Insect repellent: For preventing insect bites.
  • Aloe vera gel: For treatment of minor burns
  • Hydrocortisone cream: Relieves itching and rashes.
  • Bandage: ideal for treating sprains and strains.
  • Moleskin: Ideal for preventing and treating blisters.

Guidance on what to pack:

  • Pack light: There is no porter assistance, so focus on the essentials.
  • Reusable containers: Make sure that all water storage containers are reusable.
  • Health essentials: Remember to pack your personal medication and first aid items.

Travel Light

Make your Short Inca Trail more comfortable by sending a small bag directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.

  • Up to 5 kg (11 lbs) per bag
  • Pack clothes, toiletries, and items you won’t need during the hike.
  • Keep your hiking essentials in your daypack.
  • No extra bag? We can provide a duffel bag.
  • Please let us know after booking so we can arrange the necessary train authorization.
Photos
Gallery
FAQs

1.What time does the adventure start on Day 1?

The adventure begins with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 AM.

 

2.Where does the train journey start?

The train journey starts in Ollantaytambo and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Km 104, the official trailhead.

 

3.What is the highlight of Wiñaywayna?

Wiñaywayna is an impressive Inca complex showcasing agricultural terraces, houses, and a ceremonial center.

 

4.What is witnessed from the Inti Punku (Sun Gate)?

From the Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, you witness the unforgettable sunrise over Machu Picchu.

 

5.What is the optional activity on Day 2?

The optional activity on Day 2 is the challenging but rewarding hike to either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.