2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

5.0 (32 reviews) 2 days Free cancellation

out of 5

32 reviews

5.0

2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the highlights of the famous Inca Trail in just two days. Begin your trek at kilometer 104 and follow the scenic final stretch of this legendary route to the Sun Gate, offering your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. Along the way, discover lesser-known Inca ruins with your expert guide before arriving for a comprehensive guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, relax with an overnight stay in a comfortable Aguas Calientes hotel—combining adventure, culture, and comfort in one unforgettable journey.

Important Note:

We highly recommend booking your tour at least 5 months in advance, as Inca Trail permits are limited and tend to sell out very quickly, especially during high season. Early booking ensures availability for your preferred departure date.

Hiking Tours Overnight Tours Multi-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Rail Tours

At a glance

Duration: 2 days
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 10 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Peru Hikers

Ages: Adults (7–75 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
Included: Lunch and Dinner day 1
Included: Bus ticket from Machu Picchu day 1 and round trip bus ticket day 2
Included: Round trip transportation by train and bus to Cusco
Included: Breakfast day 2
Included: A professional guide
Included: Hotel pick up and drop off/3 star hotel after your hike in Aguas Calientes

Not included

Not included: Lunch and dinner on Day 2
Not included: Travel Insurance, you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the hike.

Itinerary

Day 1 · Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Km 104 - Wiñaywayna - Machu Picchu.

Plaza de Armas

4 hours Admission included

We will come to pick you up and your adventure starts with a scenic early morning train journey from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to the 104 km mark.
Stop 2

30 min Admission included

The commencement point of the short Inca Trail. As the train traverses the valley, it transforms into a striking canyon, entering a cloud forest, offering a change in landscape. After around an hour and ten minutes, the train halts, and you'll proceed with the necessary check-in at the main checkpoint to start your hike.
Stop 3

1 h 30 min Admission included

Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, the first stop is Chachabamba, an ancient archaeological site, where you'll gain insights into its historical significance. The trail then leads you uphill, offering awe-inspiring views.
Winay Wayna

2 hours Admission included

Upon reaching Wiñayhuayna, your guide will share details about this Inca site and the surrounding rich biodiversity. Following this exploration, enjoy a well-deserved box lunch at the Wiñayhuayna checkpoint before continuing your two-hour trek towards Machu Picchu.
Inti Punku Sun Gate

1 h 30 min Admission included

Your arrival at Machu Picchu is through the Sun Gate, presenting a spectacular view, particularly as the sun begins to set, offering your first sight of the majestic citadel. As most day visitors depart, you’ll experience Machu Picchu in a quieter setting, perfect for photographs and exploration.
Aguas Calientes

6 hours

The day ends with a bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where you'll check into your hotel. The evening is free for you to dine at one of Aguas Calientes' fine restaurants and rest up for another exciting day ahead.

Day 2 · The Most Important Day – Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu

4 hours

Get ready for an exhilarating day as we head to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu! To beat the crowds and enjoy the serene morning ambiance, we'll start from our hotel early. Machu Picchu opens from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., and we'll take a bus to this hidden Royal Citadel of the Incas.

Our 2-hour guided tour will unveil the wonders of Machu Picchu, including its majestic temples, terraces, palaces, residences for priests, the sundial, and areas dedicated to industry and agriculture. The extraordinary craftsmanship of the Incas, who built this sustainable and beautiful community without modern tools, steel, or iron, will leave you in awe. Following the tour, you'll have ample time for independent exploration. Seize the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (booking tickets in advance is essential!), or wander over to the Incan Bridge. You'll have over five hours to immerse yourself in the mystique of this ancient city.
Aguas Calientes

1 h 30 min

After exploring, a bus will take us back to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can opt for lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the tour).
Ollantaytambo

Passing by

Post-lunch, you'll board a train to Ollantaytambo at either 2:55 p.m., 3:20 p.m., or 4:22 p.m.
Plaza de Armas

Passing by

Upon arrival, Peru Hikers' private car will be waiting to escort you back to your hotel. Prepare yourself for a day filled with adventure and lasting memories!