2 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel
Our 2 Day Short Inca Trail is a guided two day, one night journey along the final section of the historic route to Machu Picchu. The service begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and continues to Kilometer 104, the official starting point of the hike. From there, you’ll follow original stone pathways through the cloud forest and approach Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.
This program is recommended for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic hiking experience. It is particularly suitable for couples, families, and active travelers who prefer a comfortable hotel stay over camping. The route requires moderate fitness but avoids the higher mountain passes and multiple trekking days of the classic four-day trail.
Along the way, our local guide provides historical context at Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, explaining the terraces, water channels, and ceremonial spaces found along the route. After spending the night in Aguas Calientes, you’ll return to Machu Picchu for a guided visit on the second day.
The service includes the required trail permit, Machu Picchu admission, transportation, train and bus tickets, hotel accommodation, selected meals, and professional guiding. Our Cusco-based team coordinates these arrangements directly and offers both small-group and private departures, creating a more organized experience with support before and throughout the journey.
Tour Highlights
- Complete the final section of the Inca Trail in two days
- Begin the guided hike at Kilometer 104
- Visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna
- Walk through the Andean cloud forest
- Reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate
- Stay overnight in a hotel instead of camping
- Return to Machu Picchu for a guided visit
- Choose between a small group or private departure
Itinerary
Detailed 2 Day Short Inca Trail Itinerary
Click any day to expand/collapse
Day 1
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Kilometer 104 – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes
Your journey begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board the train toward Machu Picchu. Instead of continuing to Aguas Calientes, you’ll leave the train at Kilometer 104, the starting point of the hike.
After presenting your passport and permit at the checkpoint, you’ll cross the bridge over the Urubamba River and visit Chachabamba. Located at approximately 2,150 meters (7,052 feet), this archaeological site contains stone buildings, ceremonial spaces, and water channels associated with the Inca road system. Your guide will explain its history before the uphill section begins.
The trail climbs through the cloud forest, with views of the river valley, surrounding mountains, and native vegetation. After several hours of hiking, you’ll reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive sites on this section of the trail. Its agricultural terraces, residential structures, and water fountains extend across a steep mountainside. You’ll have time for a guided visit and a boxed lunch before continuing.
The final section follows original stone steps toward Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, at approximately 2,720 meters (8,924 feet). From this historic entrance, you’ll receive your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You’ll then walk downhill toward the upper viewing area before leaving the site and taking the bus to Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival in town, your guide will assist with hotel check-in. The remainder of the evening is available for rest before returning to Machu Picchu the following morning.
| Day 1 Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Hiking distance | Approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles |
| Hiking time | Approximately 6–7 hours |
| Starting elevation | 2,150 m / 7,052 ft |
| Highest elevation | 2,720 m / 8,924 ft |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Meal | Boxed lunch |
| Accommodation | Hotel in Aguas Calientes |
Day 2
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll take the shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Your guide will accompany you through the circuit assigned to your entrance ticket, explaining the history, architecture, and purpose of the principal areas included along the route.
The guided visit usually lasts approximately two hours. The exact locations visited and the amount of time available inside the citadel depend on the assigned circuit and current site regulations. If you have reserved an additional mountain hike, it must be coordinated in advance because separate admission is required.
After leaving Machu Picchu, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Depending on the train schedule, you may have time to eat or walk through town before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo.
Our transportation will be waiting at the station for the final drive to Cusco. You’ll arrive back in the city during the evening, where we will drop you off at your hotel or the designated location.
| Day 2 Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Main activity | Guided Machu Picchu visit |
| Site elevation | 2,430 m / 7,972 ft |
| Guided visit | Approximately 2 hours |
| Meal | Breakfast |
| Transportation | Bus, train, and transfer to Cusco |
| Return | Cusco in the evening |
Inclusions
What Is Included in the 2 Day Short Inca Trail
Services Included in Your Booking
Review the permits, transportation, accommodation, meals, and support provided during your two-day journey.
What Is Included
Permits and Entrance Tickets
Official Inca Trail permit
We arrange the required permit once your reservation details and payment have been confirmed. Permits are issued for a specific traveler and departure date, subject to availability.
Machu Picchu access on Day 1
Your trail permit allows you to approach Machu Picchu through Inti Punku and visit the designated panoramic sector after completing the hike. The authorized route will be confirmed with your travel documents.
Machu Picchu entrance on Day 2
A separate admission ticket is included for your guided visit on the second day. The assigned circuit depends on availability and the regulations in effect when your reservation is processed.
Professional Guide and Safety
Professional English-speaking guide
An experienced local guide accompanies you along the trail, provides historical interpretation at the archaeological sites, and leads your scheduled visit to Machu Picchu.
First-aid kit and emergency oxygen
Your guide carries basic first-aid supplies and emergency oxygen during the hike to provide initial assistance if required.
Hotel Accommodation
One night in Aguas Calientes
The package includes one night at a three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. Breakfast is included the following morning. The hotel name and room arrangement will be confirmed according to availability and your reservation.
Hotel upgrades and private-room supplements can be requested for an additional charge.
Included Meals
- Boxed lunch during the hike on Day 1
- Breakfast at the hotel on Day 2
Please inform us before departure about allergies or dietary restrictions so available alternatives can be reviewed.
Ground Transportation
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo station to your hotel in Cusco after the return journey
Train Tickets
- Day 1 train from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104
- Day 2 return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Train service and departure times are assigned according to availability and will be shown in your final confirmation.
Machu Picchu Bus Tickets
- Day 1 bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Day 2 bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- Day 2 return bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
What Is Not Included
Additional Meals and Drinks
- Breakfast and dinner on Day 1
- Lunch and dinner on Day 2
- Bottled water, personal snacks, and alcoholic beverages
Optional Mountain Tickets
Huayna Picchu
Admission to Huayna Picchu is not included. This optional hike requires a separate ticket and must be requested in advance. Availability and compatibility with the assigned Machu Picchu circuit must be confirmed before purchase.
Machu Picchu Mountain
This additional hike also requires a separate admission ticket. It should be requested when booking because the available entry time must fit the scheduled citadel visit.
Huchuy Picchu
Access is not included and may only be available during specific periods. Our team must confirm whether it can be combined with your assigned circuit and travel schedule.
Personal Equipment and Insurance
- Trekking pole rental at US$8
- Personal hiking clothing and equipment
- Personal travel insurance
- Medical treatment beyond the basic assistance provided on the trail
Personal Expenses and Gratuities
Souvenirs, additional food, beverages, hotel upgrades, and other personal purchases are not included. Tips for guides and drivers are optional and should reflect your satisfaction with the service.
Costs Caused by External Events
Additional expenses resulting from severe weather, trail closures, train interruptions, strikes, medical situations, government restrictions, or other events outside our control are not included. Any necessary itinerary adjustment will prioritize traveler safety and current local regulations.
Packing List
Essential Packing List for the 2 Day Short Inca Trail
Pack only what you need for the first-day hike, one night in Aguas Calientes, and the Machu Picchu visit. Unless luggage transfer has been confirmed, you must carry your overnight belongings during the hike.
Required Documents
- Original passport used to reserve your permit
- Original student ID if you received a student discount
- Travel insurance information
- Cash in Peruvian soles for meals, drinks, rentals, and tips
Your passport information must match the details registered on your trail permit. A photocopy or phone image does not replace the original document.
Backpack and Water
- Compact 15–25-liter daypack
- Waterproof backpack cover or dry bag
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Approximately 1.5–2 liters of water
- Energy bars, nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit
- Small bag for carrying your waste
Bags taken into Machu Picchu must not exceed 40 × 35 × 20 cm (16 × 14 × 8 inches). Food cannot be consumed inside the archaeological site, so follow your guide’s instructions before entering.
Clothing for Both Days
- Lightweight hiking pants
- Quick-drying hiking shirt
- Long-sleeved shirt for sun and insect protection
- Fleece or lightweight warm jacket
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good traction
- Two pairs of hiking socks
- Underwear and a clean shirt for Day 2
- Warm hat or beanie for the early morning
- Lightweight shoes or sandals for Aguas Calientes
Wear several light layers instead of one heavy jacket. Conditions can shift between warm, humid sections, rain, wind, and cooler temperatures.
Sun and Insect Protection
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sun hat or cap
- Insect repellent
- Lip balm with sun protection
Personal Care and Medication
- Prescription and personal medication
- Blister treatment and adhesive bandages
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper or tissues
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Small toiletry kit
Your guide carries a group first-aid kit and emergency oxygen, but you remain responsible for bringing your prescribed medication.
Useful Equipment
- Trekking poles with rubber tips
- Smartphone or camera
- Charging cable and compact power bank
- Waterproof pouch for your passport, money, and electronics
Optional Items
- Swimsuit for an independent visit to the Aguas Calientes hot springs
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Lightweight travel towel
- Extra snacks for dietary preferences
Leave in Cusco
- Large suitcases
- Heavy or unnecessary clothing
- Bulky photography equipment
- Expensive jewelry and unnecessary valuables
- Anything you are not prepared to carry throughout the hike
Your main luggage can usually remain in storage at your Cusco hotel while you complete the two-day program.
Price
Pricing Options
Choose a small group departure or a private service based on the pace, flexibility, and level of personal attention you prefer.
Rates per Person
| Traveler Category | Small-Group Service | Private Service |
|---|---|---|
| 2–3 travelers | US$656 | US$716 |
| 4 or more travelers | US$536 | US$696 |
| Children and eligible students | US$526 | US$676 |
Small Group Service
Travel with other guests on the same departure while sharing transportation and guide services. The itinerary follows a coordinated schedule, with support provided throughout the hike and Machu Picchu visit.
Private Service
Travel exclusively with your party and a dedicated guide. This option provides greater flexibility for walking pace, rest breaks, and assistance during the journey.
Important Pricing Information
- All prices are listed in U.S. dollars and charged per person.
- Rates include the services detailed in the inclusions section.
- Child and student discounts require valid documentation at the time of booking.
- Permits, train tickets, admission tickets, and hotel rooms remain subject to availability.
- Hotel upgrades, single-room supplements, and optional mountain tickets cost extra.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2-Day Short Inca Trail
Planning this hike involves more than choosing a departure date. The following answers explain the permits, costs, physical preparation, accommodation, transportation, and booking options you should consider before reserving.
What is the difference between the Short and Classic Inca Trail?
The shorter route includes one main hiking day of approximately 12 km (7.5 miles), followed by a night in Aguas Calientes and a guided visit to Machu Picchu on Day 2. The classic route normally takes four days, reaches higher elevations, and requires three nights of camping.
Both routes follow original Inca paths, visit archaeological sites, and approach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. The two-day option is better suited to travelers who have limited time or prefer a hotel instead of camping.
What is included in your two day package?
Our service includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, round-trip transportation, train tickets, the required trail permit, Machu Picchu admission, bus tickets, a professional guide, one night in a three-star hotel, a box lunch on Day 1, and breakfast on Day 2. The guide also carries a first-aid kit and an oxygen bottle. Optional mountain tickets, trekking-pole rental, travel insurance, and meals not listed in the itinerary are not included.
How much does the two-day hike cost?
The price depends on whether you choose a small-group or private service, the number of travelers, and any requested hotel or train upgrades. Current rates are displayed in the pricing section of this page. Before booking, review what each rate includes rather than comparing only the starting price. Permits, admission tickets, trains, buses, accommodation, meals, and guide service can represent important differences between tour packages.
Does the tour include Machu Picchu entrance tickets?
Yes. The required admission for the scheduled Machu Picchu visit is included in our package. Your entrance time and assigned circuit will be confirmed according to ticket availability and the regulations in effect at the time of booking. Tickets for Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, and other optional routes are separate. Request them as early as possible because they have limited availability.
Do I need a permit for this route?
Yes. Access is regulated, and every traveler must have a government issued permit registered for a specific date. You cannot enter this section of the trail independently. We process the permit using the personal and passport information provided during the reservation. You must carry the original passport used to book because it may be checked before entering the trail.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. Reserving three to six months ahead is advisable, especially for departures between May and September.
Last-minute availability is not guaranteed because permits, Machu Picchu tickets, train schedules, and hotel rooms are all limited. Booking early also provides more options for private service, room type, and optional upgrades.
How can I book from the United States?
You can complete the reservation before arriving in Peru. Send us your preferred date, full name, passport details, group size, hotel information, and any dietary requirements. After availability is verified, you will receive the booking and payment instructions. Your reservation is confirmed only after the required deposit has been received and your permits and tickets have been secured.
How do I choose a reliable tour company?
Compare the complete service rather than choosing only by price. A dependable operator should clearly explain its permit process, Machu Picchu entrance circuit, train schedules, accommodation, meals, transportation, guide service, safety equipment, and cancellation conditions.
You should also verify the company’s legal business information, local contact details, and recent traveler reviews. Avoid providers that cannot confirm exactly which tickets and services are included.
How difficult is the hike?
The route is considered moderate. The main hiking day includes several hours of walking, a sustained uphill section, original stone steps, and uneven terrain. Most active travelers can complete it at a steady pace, but it should not be treated as an easy walk. Regular walking, stair climbing, and light cardiovascular exercise before your trip can make the hike more comfortable.
Is this hike suitable for beginners?
Yes, it can be suitable for beginners who are active, properly acclimatized, and prepared to walk uphill for several hours. Previous multi-day trekking experience is not required. Beginners should train before traveling, wear shoes with reliable traction, carry only essential items, and follow the guide’s pace. Travelers with mobility limitations or relevant medical conditions should consult a qualified healthcare professional before booking.
Should I choose a small-group or private tour?
A small-group tour is the more economical option and allows you to share the experience with other travelers. It follows the established itinerary and works well for guests who are comfortable hiking with a group. A private tour offers more personal attention and greater control over the walking pace and rest stops. However, train departures, permit dates, entrance times, and assigned Machu Picchu circuits remain subject to official availability.
Can the trip be customized?
Private departures allow us to adjust certain service details, such as accommodation category, train class, pickup arrangements, meals, and guide attention. Tell us what you need before making your reservation so we can confirm what is possible. The protected trail itself cannot be freely changed. Permit dates, checkpoints, train schedules, and Machu Picchu entrance routes must follow official regulations.
What equipment is provided?
Our guide carries group safety equipment, including a first-aid kit and an oxygen bottle. Transportation, hotel accommodation, meals listed in the itinerary, and required tickets are also arranged as part of the service. Personal clothing, hiking shoes, rain gear, and other individual equipment are not provided. Trekking poles are available for an additional fee and should be requested before departure.
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