Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days is the perfect alternative for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail in less time. This trek combines adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery, leading you through the most beautiful section of the classic Inca Trail.
Starting at Km 104, the hike passes through impressive archaeological sites like Chachabamba and the stunning ruins of Wiñay Wayna, set among lush cloud forests and waterfalls. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu is an unforgettable highlight.
Highlights
- Hike the best section of the Inca Trail in just two days.
- Explore the impressive Inca site of Chachabamba and the stunning Wiñay Wayna ruins.
- Walk through lush cloud forests, waterfalls, and ancient stone paths.
- Arrive at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
- Spend the night in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces, and plazas.
- Perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a rewarding trekking experience.
Short Inca trail 2 days
Price
$580
/ USD
Per Person
Key Facts About the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
Quick Facts:
- Total distance: approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)
- Hiking time: around 6–7 hours on Day 1
- Highest point: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Sun Gate – Inti Punku)
- Trail type: Original Inca Trail stone paths
- Start point: Km 104 (Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu railway)
- End point: Machu Picchu Citadel
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Permit required: Yes (government regulated)
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Intipunku – Night in Aguas Calientes
The trip begins early in the morning with pickup at your hotel in Cusco. From there, you will be transferred by private van to the Ollantaytambo train station in the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
In the van, there is a mixture of nervousness and excitement. All of us travelers share the same expectation of reaching Machu Picchu on foot, even if we only have two days to do so.
Once at the station, we board the train that takes us to Km 104, the starting point of the short Inca Trail. Here we register at the access control point, show our permit, and, after a brief explanation from the guide, begin the hike.
The first stop is at the archaeological site of Chachabamba, an Inca ceremonial complex where the guide explains its importance in the Inca road network. From there, we begin a hike of approximately three hours, ascending along trails surrounded by subtropical vegetation, until we reach the impressive archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna.
Wiñay Wayna is one of those places that simply takes your breath away. The perfectly preserved agricultural terraces and Inca houses clinging to the hillside are a clear testament to the architectural mastery of the Incas.
After exploring Wiñay Wayna, we take a break to enjoy our box lunch, recharging our batteries before the final stretch.
We continue our hike along an ancient trail that ascends to Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate. The excitement upon arriving here is indescribable: from this point, you get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, an image that will remain etched in your memory forever.
From Intipunku, we descend to the citadel of Machu Picchu, where we have time to take the classic photo with the citadel in the background.
In the afternoon, we take the bus to the town of Aguas Calientes, where a comfortable hotel room awaits us to rest after the day’s exertions.
Day 2: Sunrise at Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
The second day begins early, with breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Then, we board the bus that goes back up to Machu Picchu. At this time of day, the first rays of dawn bathe the citadel, creating a magical and unique atmosphere.
During the guided tour, we visit the main areas of Machu Picchu: temples, plazas, viewpoints, and the iconic agricultural terraces. Our guide shares fascinating stories about the construction, culture, and mysteries of this sacred place.
After the guided tour, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where we have free time to have lunch or buy souvenirs.
In the afternoon, we take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and from there, private transportation takes us back to Cusco, bringing this incredible express adventure to an end.
Inclusions:
- Short Inca Trail permit
- Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Train ticket to Km 104 (start of the trail)
- Guided hike from Chachabamba to Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku
- Box lunch on Day 1 during the hike
- 1-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
- Round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Breakfast at hotel on Day 2
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2-3 hours)
- Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco
- Pre-departure briefing in Cusco the day before the trek
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
FAQs
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days is a guided trek starting at Km 104 that follows original Inca paths and reaches Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
How difficult is the Short Inca Trail 2 Days?
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days is moderately difficult and suitable for travelers with basic fitness and some hiking experience.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail 2 Days?
Yes. A government permit is required and can only be obtained through an authorized tour operator.
What is the highest point on the Short Inca Trail?
The highest point reached during the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days is approximately 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) at the Sun Gate.
Is the Short Inca Trail good for limited time travelers?
Yes, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days is ideal for travelers who want the Inca Trail experience in a shorter time frame.
Altitude and Acclimatization Information
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days reaches a maximum altitude of 2,700 meters (8,858 feet), making it one of the lower-altitude Inca Trail options. While altitude sickness is less common on this route, travelers are strongly advised to acclimatize for at least 1–2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the hike.
Staying hydrated, walking at a steady pace, and avoiding heavy meals before the trek will help ensure a comfortable hiking experience.
How Long Is the Short Inca Trail 2 Days?
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days covers approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) of hiking. Most of the walking is completed on the first day, with gradual ascents, stone staircases, and scenic viewpoints through cloud forest and archaeological sites.
Day 2 focuses on the guided exploration of Machu Picchu rather than hiking.
Archaeological Sites Visited on the Short Inca Trail
During the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days, hikers visit several important Inca sites, including:
- Chachabamba: A ceremonial site located at the trailhead, believed to have been a purification center.
- Wiñay Wayna: One of the most impressive archaeological complexes on the Inca Trail, featuring agricultural terraces and ritual fountains.
- Inti Punku (Sun Gate): The original entrance to Machu Picchu, offering the first panoramic view of the citadel.
These sites provide cultural depth and historical context that make this trek unique.
Who Is the Short Inca Trail 2 Days Best For?
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days is ideal for:
- Travelers with limited time
- Visitors who want to hike the original Inca Trail
- First-time hikers looking for a moderate challenge
- Families with teenagers
- Travelers who prefer a mix of hiking and comfort
This route is a great alternative to the 4-day Inca Trail while still offering an authentic experience.
Packing Tips for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
Recommended packing list:
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks and energy bars
- Passport (required at checkpoint)
- Camera or phone for photos
Packing light helps ensure a more enjoyable hike on the Short Inca Trail.
Important Permit & Booking Information
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days requires a government-issued permit, which is limited and regulated by the Peruvian authorities. Permits often sell out weeks or months in advance, especially during the dry season (May to September).
Booking early is highly recommended to secure availability for your preferred travel dates.