Is advance booking required?

Yes, the Inca Trail has limited daily permits, so booking several months in advance is strongly recommended, especially during high season.

What is the difficulty level of the Short Inca Trail?

The Short Inca Trail is considered moderate and is suitable for travelers in good physical condition.

Is acclimatization necessary before the trek?

Yes, at least two days of acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley are recommended before starting the hike.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

The recommended minimum age is ten years, provided the child is used to hiking in mountain environments.

Is the trek available all year round?

Yes, the Short Inca Trail is available year round, except in February, when it is closed for maintenance.

Can I hike Huayna Picchu Mountain?

Yes, this hike is available at an additional cost, subject to availability and advance reservation.

Inca Trail 2 Days

No Fixed Departure Available!

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

The Short Inca Trail 2-day trek to Machu Picchu is the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail in a shorter time frame. This route combines Inca history, archaeological sites, and Andean nature, making it one of the most rewarding short treks in Peru.

Following an original section of the Qhapaq Ñan, the trail passes through cloud forests, agricultural terraces, and exclusive archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. The trek culminates with entry to Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), offering a breathtaking first view of the Inca citadel.

With a moderate hike and one overnight stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the Short Inca Trail is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic and regulated Inca Trail experience, led by certified guides.

Highlights

Walk along an original section of the Inca Trail recognized as World Heritage
Exclusive access to Inca archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna
Arrival at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate Inti Punku
Moderate level hike ideal for travelers with limited time
Fully regulated experience with official permits and certified guide

Day 01 :

Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes

The Short Inca Trail 2-day trek to Machu Picchu begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Cusco, followed by a transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, we board a scenic train to Km 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail, where permits are checked.

The hike starts with a visit to the Chachabamba archaeological site, an important Inca ceremonial center located along the Urubamba River. As the trail climbs, it passes through lush cloud forests, offering spectacular views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

We continue to Wiñay Wayna, the most impressive archaeological complex on the Short Inca Trail, surrounded by agricultural terraces and dense vegetation. After the guided visit, we walk toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where hikers enjoy the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

We then descend to the citadel and take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night in a hotel before the guided visit the following day.

Distance: ~12 km
Hiking time: 6–7 hours
Maximum altitude: 2,720 m

7 hours

Lunch + Dinner

Day 02 :

Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

The second day of the Short Inca Trail 2-day trek to Machu Picchu is fully dedicated to exploring one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. After breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes, we take the bus up to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided tour of the Inca citadel, visiting its main sectors, ceremonial temples, sacred plazas, and agricultural terraces. Your guide will explain the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

After the guided visit, you will have free time to take photos or simply enjoy the surroundings. We then descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, private or tourist transportation returns you to Cusco, marking the end of this unforgettable journey.

5 hours

Breakfast

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Highlights

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