Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 14 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
Travel confidently with Alpaca Expeditions, Peru's #1 Tour Operator!
The Short Inca Trail tour is perfect if you are short on time but still want to experience a full day of hiking on the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Hike with expert, indigenous guides through the vibrant rainforest & visit the ancient Inca archeological sites of Wiñay Wayna on your way to the Sun Gate entrance of Machu Picchu. Your adventure starts at KM104 instead of KM82 on the Inca Trail. Then we will take you to your hotel in Machu picchu town at night, at last enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu by an professional expert guide on day two.
What's included
Fully guided tour on the trail and Machu Picchu
Night at a 4-star hotel in Machu picchu town
From March 2027: Expedition on both journeys.
All entry fees for the tour ( Inca Trail and Machu Picchu )
Professional English speaking tour guide
Lunch
All transportation during the tour
Dinner
Breakfast
Through January 2027: Expedition to Machu Picchu + Vistadome on return.
First aid kit and oxygen tank
We cater to all diets.
Breakfast on day 1 and Lunch on day 2
Tips, Travel Insurance (advisable)
Hotel in Cusco before and after the hike
Single room supplement (solo travelers) : USD 50.00 per person.
What to expect
Day 1: Inka Trail short version hike
Cusco
Pass by
Your adventure begins with an early 4 am pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, setting you on the path to catch the train from Ollantaytambo.
Ollantaytambo
Pass by
Hop aboard the scenic train from Ollantaytambo, traveling alongside the stunning Urubamba River, and begin the journey to Km 104.
Arrive at Km 104, where your thrilling trek starts! Begin your hike and explore your first Inca site, immersing yourself in ancient history.
Winay Wayna
Pass by · Admission ticket included
After about three hours of hiking, reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites along the trail. Marvel at its intricate water fountains, temples, and agricultural terraces while enjoying a freshly prepared lunch by Alpaca Expeditions’ chefs.
Inti Punku Sun Gate
Pass by
Continue your journey to the Sun Gate, the iconic spot offering breathtaking, panoramic views of the majestic Machu Picchu below—a sight that will take your breath away.
Machupicchu
30m · Admission ticket included
Descend to the legendary Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Explore its ancient terraces, shrines, and structures, and revel in the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Aguas Calientes
Pass by
Finally, take a bus ride down from Machu Picchu to the charming town of Aguas Calientes, where your unforgettable journey comes to a close.
Day 2: Machu Picchu
Cusco
Pass by
Start your day with an early breakfast to energize for the adventure ahead. This will ensure you're ready to catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu and get ahead of the crowds.
Take an early bus ride up to Machu Picchu, driving through stunning landscapes as you approach one of the New7Wonders of the World.
Machupicchu
4h · Admission ticket included
Upon arrival, dive into the incredible history of Machu Picchu with a 2-hour guided tour. Wander through the ancient terraces, shrines, and breathtaking structures, while learning about the fascinating Incan civilization.
Huayna Picchu
Pass by · Admission ticket not included
(OPTIONAL)
For those who have purchased tickets in advance ($75 each, need to book in advance), take on the extra challenge of hiking Huayna Picchu after your tour. Enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape from the summit—a truly unforgettable experience.
Aguas Calientes
Pass by
After your morning exploration, relax and recharge with a delicious lunch in Aguas Calientes, soaking in the charm of the town.
Ollantaytambo
Pass by
Head to the train station and board your scenic train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the views of the Sacred Valley on the way.
Cusco
Pass by
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, your driver will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel, concluding an amazing day at Machu Picchu.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco or in Sacred Valley ( Urubamba or Ollanatytambo), Let us know the hotel's name once you book it.
Additional information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.