Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Days / 1 Night

5.0 (179 reviews) Cusco, Peru
Duration2 days
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 10 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

Short on time? This express 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu covers the key sites but in a less strenuous hike. Explore the sites of Chachabamba, see the terraces of Wiñay Wayna, and be the few ones to cross the Sun Gate. You will kick off the next day with a full guided tour of Machu Picchu Citadel as you learn about the history of the Incas. All along with a striking Andean backdrop and the luscious upper rainforest.

• Join a small-group tour with a high-rated Guide
• Spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Access Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate or Inti Punku
• Take the scenic round trip train ride to Km 104 and Ollantaytambo

Options

With Huchuy Picchu Mountain

Huchuy Picchu Mountain Tickets
Pickup included

Regular Trail

Pickup included

With Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu Mountain Tickets
Pickup included

With Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu Mountain Tickets
Pickup included

What's included

  • Small-group tour for up to 10 people
  • Lunch
  • Train ride to KM 104
  • Dinner
  • Breakfast
  • Private transfer from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco
  • Permits and ticket for the inca trail
  • Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (Day 2).
  • Panoramic train ride back to Ollantaytambo
  • Entry to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1C and 3B)
  • Personal duffel bag (up to 5 kg / 11 lb) for your gear
  • Licensed Tour Guide
  • Briefing session the day before the tour
  • Water and snacks (Day 1)
  • Medical Kit, Walkie-talkies, oxygen, and a first-aid kit available at all times
  • 1 night in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Breakfast on day 1, Lunch and Dinner on day 2
  • Optional return bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes (paid directly to the bus operator, on site)
  • Tips (Optional)
  • Travel Insurance (recommended)
  • Additional costs or delays beyond our control
  • Others no mentioned

What to expect

Day 1: Cusco - KM 104 - Chachabamba - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate (Inti Punku) - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
  1. Cusco
    2h
    Your adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 a.m.
  2. Ollantaytambo
    30m
    You’ll travel to Ollantaytambo to board the train that takes you to KM 104, the starting point of your hike.
  3. 1h · Admission ticket included
    After a brief orientation and receiving your box lunch, you’ll begin the trek with a visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, an ancient Inca checkpoint
  4. Winay Wayna
    2h
    You’ll then ascend along a trail surrounded by lush vegetation until you reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful complexes on the Inca Trail.
  5. 2h
    After a well-deserved lunch and short rest, you’ll continue toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
  6. Machupicchu
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Take in the breathtaking sunset scenery in a serene and magical atmosphere before boarding the bus to Aguas Calientes
  7. Aguas Calientes
    10h
    In Aguas Calientes, a comforting dinner and a comfortable night's rest at your hotel await you.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo - Cusco
  1. Aguas Calientes
    2h
    Today you will experience the highlight of your trip: visiting the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Early in the morning, you’ll take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the sanctuary, arriving just in time to watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the ancient ruins with a golden glow.
  2. Machupicchu
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour through the main temples, terraces, and viewpoints while your guide reveals the secrets of this Wonder of the World. If you wish, you may hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (with prior reservation) for unbeatable panoramic views of the citadel and the surrounding landscape.
  3. Ollantaytambo
    2h
    After exploring, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some time to relax before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo.
  4. Cusco
    Pass by
    From there, a private vehicle will drive you back to your hotel in Cusco, closing your unforgettable Inca Trail adventure on a perfect note.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco.
We pick up all travelers from their hotels between 04:00 and 04:30 am.

Additional information

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
  • The Inca Trail is highly demanded, specially in high season (May to September). Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure a spot.
  • Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
  • Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
  • Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
  • Solo travelers are welcome and can join shared groups. No minimum participants required. Most departures are guaranteed.
  • Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
  • Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

Cancellation policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Reviews

5.0 (179)
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$755.00 per person
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