Short Inca Trail 2D/1N – Discover the heart of the Inca Empire in just two days
2D/1N
The Short Inca Trail is a shorter version of the classic Inca trek. It’s perfect for those who want to witness the magic of the ancient Qhapaq Ñan without having to hike for days. You’ll walk along original stone paths on this historic route, which is surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery, subtropical rainforest, and hidden archaeological sites nestled in the mountains.
The trek takes you from Km 104 of the Cusco–Machu Picchu railway to the upper entrance of the sacred citadel. Along the way, you’ll pass famous archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. When you get to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), you’ll see Machu Picchu for the first time, right at sunset, in a quiet place with almost no tourists.
The second day is set aside for exploring Machu Picchu with a professional guide. You’ll see its temples, terraces, and mysteries in a way that will stay with you forever.
What sets the 2-day Inca Trail apart?
- Only the original Inca Trail (with limited permits) gives you access.
- Less physical demand, perfect for everyone
- Direct contact with nature and history
- Walk through the Sun Gate to get to Machu Picchu, just like the ancient Incas did.
- Includes a full tour of Machu Picchu the next day
Landscapes and culture all around
The trek goes through highland jungle, clear rivers, cloud forests, and archaeological sites with beautiful buildings. Many people think that the Wiñay Wayna site, which is on a green hillside, is just as beautiful as Machu Picchu, but it has fewer visitors and a more private feel.
Your guide will tell you about the Andean way of life, how the Incas built things, and the stories that still live on in these sacred mountains along the way.
Best for:
- People who don’t have a lot of time to travel
- Couples and families
- People who are interested in Inca history and culture
- People who love nature and want to have a unique spiritual and cultural experience
Take the Inca Trail in the easiest and most surprising way possible.
In just two days, you’ll connect with hundreds of years of history and see one of the Wonders of the World in a way you’ll never forget. Book ahead of time because there isn’t much space each day.
Are you ready to walk through history and nature? Take the Short Inca Trail and see Machu Picchu in a whole new way!
Tour Location
Type of Tour
Duration
Difficulty
Trip Details
In just two days, you can see the magic of the Inca Trail. This short version is great for people who don't have a lot of time but still want to have an authentic experience. You can hike along original parts of the famous Qhapaq Ñan to get to the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu.
- 5:00 AM: Pick up from the hotel and take the train: We leave Cusco early in the morning and go to Ollantaytambo, where we will take the train to Km 104, the start of the trek.
- The trek begins at 8:00 AM (Km 104): We will start our hike here, stopping at the archaeological site of Chachabamba and then climbing through beautiful Andean landscapes until we reach Wiñay Wayna, an Inca treasure with amazing views.
- 1:00 PM—Lunch in a box with a view of the mountains.
- 3:00 PM: Getting to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): At this point, you'll get your first full view of Machu Picchu, which is something you'll never forget.
- 5:00 PM: Get off the bus and go down to Machu Picchu Town.
We take a short trip down by bus to Aguas Calientes to rest.
- Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- (Dinner included at a local restaurant)
- Breakfast at 6:00 AM and a bus ride to Machu Picchu: Go in early to enjoy the citadel before the tourist rush hits.
- A 2-3.hour guided tour: An expert guide will take you through the temples, plazas, and terraces and tell you all the secrets of this Wonder of the World.
- Optional: You can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you want to, but you have to make a reservation first (tickets Not included).
- 1:00 PM—Come back to Aguas Calientes: You have some free time to eat lunch and look around town.
- 4:00 PM: The train goes back to Ollantaytambo, and then you go to Cusco: Arriving around 8:00 PM.
- All transportation (train, bus, transfers)
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide
- Meals: box lunch (day 1), dinner (day 1), breakfast (day 2)
- First aid kit
- Last lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Optional climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Tips
- Book at least two months in advance (limited space)
- Bring original passport
- Comfortable trekking clothing, rain poncho, sunscreen, and insect repellent
Why choose us?
- Small groups and personalized attention
- Guides with expertise in Inca history and culture
- Safe and punctual logistics
- Experience endorsed by hundreds of satisfied travelers