xperience the legendary Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu, a rewarding two-day adventure that combines ancient Inca pathways, archaeological sites, cloud forest landscapes, and the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
This route is ideal for travelers who want to experience the authentic Inca Trail without committing to the longer multi-day trek or camping along the route. The journey begins at Km 104, where you start hiking through the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu toward Chachabamba and the remarkable archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna.
Along the trail, enjoy beautiful views of the Urubamba Valley and the transition from the Andes to the lush cloud forest. After completing the hike, reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu before continuing to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay.
On the second day, return to Machu Picchu for a guided visit to the citadel and discover its temples, terraces, and remarkable Inca architecture. After your visit, return to Cusco by train and private transportation.
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days is an excellent option for travelers looking for a combination of hiking, history, nature, and a more comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Important: Availability on the Inca Trail is regulated, and entry permits are required. The exact train schedule, Machu Picchu entry circuit, and itinerary may vary according to availability and official regulations.
Experience one of the most scenic sections of the Inca Trail as you hike through the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, visit ancient archaeological sites, and reach the famous Sun Gate on foot.
Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes before returning to Machu Picchu the following morning for a guided visit to the citadel.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel to Ollantaytambo train station and board the train toward Km 104, the starting point of your Short Inca Trail adventure.
After reaching the trailhead and completing the necessary entry procedures, begin hiking through the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The trail takes you through beautiful cloud forest landscapes toward Chachabamba, an important Inca archaeological site.
Continue along the original Inca path as you gradually ascend toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the route. Take time to explore the terraces and stone structures while learning about the site’s historical importance from your guide.
After lunch and a short rest, continue through the cloud forest toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate). From here, enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu before continuing toward the upper area of the citadel.
Afterward, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will check in at your hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest for the following day’s Machu Picchu visit.
Start the morning with breakfast at your hotel before taking the bus to Machu Picchu.
Enjoy a guided tour of the citadel and discover its remarkable Inca architecture, ceremonial spaces, terraces, and historical significance. The exact Machu Picchu circuit will depend on the ticket purchased and current regulations.
After the guided visit, return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch or to explore the town before boarding your return train.
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, our team will meet you and provide private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions in the cloud forest and around Machu Picchu. We recommend bringing:
Please note that itineraries, schedules, routes, and activities may be adjusted when necessary due to circumstances beyond our control, including weather conditions, road conditions, strikes, demonstrations, natural events, or other local restrictions. Any changes will be communicated and coordinated with you whenever possible.
No. The Short Inca Trail 2 Days covers a shorter section of the Inca Trail and begins at Km 104. It allows travelers to experience Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate without completing the longer Classic Inca Trail.
The hiking distance is approximately 11 km / 7 miles, with around 5–6 hours of hiking on Day 1.
The trail is generally considered moderate, although it includes uphill sections, stone steps and uneven terrain. Your guide will adjust the pace according to the group.
Yes. Access to the Inca Trail is regulated, and an official permit is required. Availability is limited and depends on the date of travel.
Yes. One of the main highlights of the Short Inca Trail is reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate) on foot before continuing toward Machu Picchu.
You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes in a comfortable hotel or hostel, depending on the accommodation selected.
Yes. Your package includes a Machu Picchu entrance ticket according to the circuit and availability confirmed for your booking.
These hikes require separate tickets and limited availability. They are not automatically included in the standard Short Inca Trail package and must be arranged in advance.
The standard itinerary includes box lunch and dinner on Day 1 and breakfast on Day 2.
Train schedules are operated by the railway company and may vary according to operational conditions. If there are changes, our operations team will coordinate the necessary adjustments to your transportation and itinerary.
