Machu Picchu Short Inca Trail Tour 2 days

The Short Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu is an excellent 2-day alternative for those who want to experience the magic of the Inca citadel in less time, without missing the beauty and cultural richness that this legendary route offers. During the journey, you will walk along ancient Inca trails surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, native flora and fauna, and visit unique archaeological sites before reaching the majestic Machu Picchu, where history and nature merge into an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

Day 1: Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes

Hotel pickup: Transfer to the train station.
Train to kilometer 104: Start of the hike.
Chachabamba: First archaeological site at 2,250 m.a.s.l.
Hike to Wiñay Wayna: Lunch at the agricultural center.
Inti Punku (Sun Gate): Panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Descent to Aguas Calientes: Dinner and hotel accommodation (optional).

Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco

Breakfast and ascent to Machu Picchu: 2.5-hour guided tour.
Option to climb Huayna Picchu: Ticket not included.
Return to Aguas Calientes: Train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
Transport to Cusco: Arrival at your hotel in Cusco, end of the tour.

🌍 Travel Itinerary

Enjoy an unforgettable adventure with the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a trek of 2 days and 1 night that takes you from kilometer 104, at 2,100 m.a.s.l., to the majestic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

This route is perfect for those who wish to explore the Andean landscapes and the Peruvian jungle, with the opportunity to visit several archaeological sites along the way. In addition, you will enjoy a great variety of flora and fauna, including exotic birds and native orchids.

📅Day 1: Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes (L)(D)

The first day begins early with pick-up from your hotel to head to the train station. From there, you will board a train that will take you to Kilometer 104, where you will meet your guide to begin the hike.

We will arrive at the first archaeological site, Chachabamba, located at 2,250 meters. As you advance along the Inca Trail, you will enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the lush vegetation of the cloud forest.

The hike continues toward the agricultural center of Wiñay Wayna, where we will take a short break for lunch. Then, we continue on the trail toward Machu Picchu, passing through Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, an ideal place to contemplate the sunset over the Inca citadel. After this magical experience, you will descend to Aguas Calientes, where you will have dinner with your guide and group before spending the night in a hotel.

You can choose your own accommodation or opt for one of the hotels recommended by the tour.

📅Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco (B)

On our second day, after breakfast, we ascend to visit Machu Picchu, the wonder of the world located at 2,400 meters above sea level. The visit lasts approximately two and a half hours, during which you will explore the Inca citadel with your guide, visiting the main highlights such as plazas, temples, sacred fountains, and the agricultural sector.

After the guided tour, if you have tickets for Huayna Picchu (entrance not included), you can take the opportunity to climb this mountain and enjoy the panoramic views.

Finally, depending on your train schedule, you will return to Aguas Calientes to take the train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. From there, our transportation will take you back to Cusco, dropping you off at your hotel. With this, your incredible 2-Day Inca Trail experience comes to an end.

Includes

Transfers from hotel/train station/hotel.
Train ticket to kilometer 104.
Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes.
Return ticket to Ollantaytambo/Poroy on tourist train (Expedition service).
Meals according to the itinerary: 1L (boxed lunch), 1D (dinner), 1B (breakfast).
Professional bilingual guide throughout the entire tour.

Not Included

The first breakfast (Day 1).
The last lunch (Day 2).
Entrance to Huayna Picchu (USD 75).
Tips.
Expenses not mentioned in the itinerary.

Recommendations

Bring your original passport to show at the checkpoint before entering Machu Picchu National Park.
Water bottle for the trek.
A backpack with enough clothes for the 2 days of the tour.
Waterproof jacket in case of rain (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco).
Flashlight and batteries.
Camera.
Trekking shoes.
Swimsuit, in case you want to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
Cash, in case you want to buy souvenirs.
Cap, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, toilet paper.
Optional: trekking pole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to have previous trekking experience to do this tour?

It is not indispensable. The tour is of moderate difficulty and is designed for people with basic physical condition, although it is recommended to be used to walking for several hours.

What is the best time of the year to take this tour?

The dry season, from April to October, is ideal for its sunny days and clear skies. However, it can be done all year round.

What is included in the tour price and what additional costs should I consider?

Generally includes transportation, professional guide, entrance fees, indicated meals and lodging in Aguas Calientes. It does not include the ascent to Huayna Picchu or personal expenses.

How much time is spent in Machu Picchu and what is visited inside?

The guided tour lasts about 2 and a half hours, touring the temples, plazas, sacred fountains and agricultural areas. Then you can explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu if you have the ticket.

Live a unique and carefree experience by booking the 2-day Machu Picchu Train Tour, which includes transportation, entrance fees and professional guide.