Duration: 2 Days From $ USD 500.00
Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu hike
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days is the ideal option for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail without committing to a longer trek. Starting at Km 104, this iconic route follows ancient Inca stone paths through lush cloud forest, impressive mountain scenery, and remarkable archaeological sites, offering a condensed yet powerful trekking experience.
Along the trail, you’ll explore legendary Inca ruins such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, surrounded by orchids, waterfalls, and rich Andean wildlife. The journey reaches its most unforgettable moment at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where Machu Picchu is revealed in a breathtaking panoramic view — a highlight reserved only for Inca Trail hikers.
On the second day, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological wonders. Combining history, nature, and adventure, the Short Inca Trail 2 Days is the perfect trek for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic and unforgettable route to Machu Picchu.
Experience the classic Inca Trail in a condensed 2-day format
Trek ancient stone pathways from Km 104 through the cloud forest
Visit Inca ruins like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna
Arrive at Machu Picchu through Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Panoramic mountain and jungle views along the trail
Guided tour of Machu Picchu’s most iconic sectors
Train ride and transfer logistics included
Perfect for travelers with limited time or shorter itineraries
After breakfast you will have a transfer from the hotel to the Poroy station, where we will board the train to disembark at km 104, point of entry to the park. There we will begin a walk knowing first in the archaeological complex of Chachabamba, on the way you will have a lunch and a short break. After this break we will continue the walk to Intipunku (door of the sun) from where we can appreciate the citadel of Machu Picchu. Arriving we will board a bus to Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo, which is at the foot of the Archaeological Complex of Machu Picchu, where you will spend the night in the chosen hotel.
After breakfast we will embark by bus to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu. There you will have a guided tour for approximately 2 hours, knowing the Inca culture and the secrets of one of the wonders of the world. After the guided tour we will have a free time to learn a little more about this beautiful place. Afterwards we will have a break for lunch (not included). In marked schedule, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Cusco, where you will be received and transferred to the hotel.
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The tour of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is recognized worldwide for having historical relevance dating back more than 500 years ago, because the natural beauty that dazzles on the tour is truly incredible.
The scenic beauty that can be seen during the hike is beautiful, but also depends on the season of weather in which this, because in the region of Cusco is handled only two seasons or seasons of weather unlike other places in Peru, the only seasons that are felt throughout the year are the winter season and spring, but here are known by the name of rainy season and cold season or frost.
Hiking this ancient trail will make you take away one of the most impressive experiences in your life. Due to its beauty, this hike is a favorite among travelers and must be requested 5 to 6 months in advance (a permit is required with limited daily quotas).
The Classic Inca Trail route has a duration of 4 days / 3 nights, therefore it requires to have a level of physical preparation since it demands more physical effort.
The Short Inca Trail route has a duration of 02 days / 1 night, demands little effort and is the only option that allows tourists to see Machu Picchu twice in one tour.
On the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour we will camp at night during the first three days where you will be able to appreciate the night sky by starlight (you must have your sleeping bag), and on the last day at night you will return to the comfort of your hotel.
On the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour, you will spend one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes and on the second day you can take a guided tour of the wonderful citadel of Machu Picchu.
This is one of the biggest differences between these two treks to visit Machu Picchu.
If you are interested in booking the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days / 3 nights tour we suggest that you make your reservation at least four months in advance. Since tickets for this impressive tour to Machu Picchu have a restricted number of people, the entrance tickets sold per day are only 500 (divided into 200 spaces for tourists and 300 for porters).
The Short Inca Trail 2 days / 1 nights route only admits 250 people, the income for this route was increased in 2017 offering all tourists the opportunity to travel and visit at least part of the Classic Inca Trail in one day.
If you are interested in doing the Inca Trail Machu Picchu tour, contact Inka Trail Backpacker, a company that cares about providing the best service to its passengers and makes your stay and visit to different archaeological sites as pleasant and safe as possible.
To check availability, please contact us first via WhatsApp at +51 987 312 403. Our team will confirm available dates and guide you through the booking process.
Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a secure payment request through our available payment methods, including PayPal, credit/debit cards, or bank transfer (payment fees may apply).
After receiving your payment, we will contact you to finalize all trip details and provide you with pre-trek information.
We strongly recommend booking the Short Inca Trail at least 30 days in advance, as permits are limited and subject to availability.
There are two main tourism seasons:
High Season (peak demand)
Low Season (reduced demand)
Availability depends on the number of daily permits issued by the government, so early booking is always advised.
Cancellations made 30 days or less before the travel date will result in a 100% cancellation fee.
Cancellations made 31 days or more before the travel date may have varying cancellation fees depending on the departure date and itinerary.
Please contact one of our travel advisors for detailed and specific cancellation terms.
Yes, we offer a USD $20 discount for eligible students:
University students: Must present a valid and current original university ID card.
School students (ages 8–16): Must present a valid passport or national ID.
Discounts are applied only when valid documentation is presented.
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The best experiences in the Peruvian Andes
Real contact with the people of the Andean region
We believe in respect for the environment and its importance in our travels.
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