2 Day Inca Trail Hike – Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu

Daily Tour 2 Days / 1 Night Availability: 2023-03-23
RF7Q+9RX, Aguas Calientes 08680, Perú Trekking Tours

Embarking on the 2 Day Inca Trail is a breathtaking journey into the heart of the Andes. This shortened version of the classic Inca Trail hike offers a unique and more accessible way to experience the magic of the ancient Inca civilization. 

As you traverse the stunning landscapes, you will be immersed in a world of high-altitude beauty and rich cultural history. The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will leave you in awe of both the natural splendor and the remarkable achievements of the Incas.

2 Day Inca Trail Hike

The adventure begins in Ollantaytambo. You’ll take a train to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu route. As you hike through the high-altitude terrain, you’ll encounter a variety of Inca sites, including the captivating Wiñay Wayna ruins. 

The ascent to the Sun Gate provides a spectacular vantage point. Here you will witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the majestic Machu Picchu citadel. Remember to carry a water bottle and wear appropriate clothing, as the climate can be unpredictable in these highlands.

Upon reaching the end of the trail, you’ll descend to the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes. Here, you can rest and recuperate after the day’s hike to Machu Picchu. You can prepare for the final ascent to the famous citadel the following morning. It’s essential to pack a sleeping bag and other necessary gear, as accommodations in Aguas Calientes can vary.

One potential challenge for hikers on the Short Inca Trail is altitude sickness. The trail reaches heights of up to 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level. It is crucial to acclimate to the high altitude before starting the hike. 

It’s recommended to spend a few days in the Sacred Valley or Cusco before embarking on the trail. This will help you minimize the risk of altitude-related illness.

Finally, the visit to Machu Picchu itself is an unforgettable experience. As you explore the ancient city, you’ll marvel at the intricate stonework and ingenious engineering. These have stood the test of time. Surrounded by lush, green mountains, the majestic citadel offers a window into the lives and achievements of the Inca people.

Summary of Hiking the Inca Trail 2 days:

In summary, the 2 Day Short Inca Trail offers an exhilarating and memorable experience for hikers of all levels. As you journey through the breathtaking Andean landscapes, you’ll uncover the remarkable history of the Inca civilization. You will create memories that will last a lifetime.

Do take a moment to check our reviews on TripAdvisor.



2 Day Inca Trail Hike Includes


  • Professional English-speaking tour guide: An experienced guide with extensive knowledge of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
  • Transportation: Comfortable vehicles for ground transportation to and from the trailhead, and round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
  • Train tickets: Round-trip train tickets, usually from Ollantaytambo to km 104 (starting point of the 2-day Inca Trail) and from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo or Cusco
  • Inca Trail permit: A valid permit for the 2-day Inca Trail hike, which is mandatory for all trekkers




  • Entrance fees: Admission tickets to Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites along the trail
  • Meals: Most meals during the trek, typically including one lunch, one dinner, and one breakfast
  • Accommodation: One-night hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
  • Guided tour: Comprehensive guided tour of Machu Picchu, including historical and cultural insights
  • Assistance: Professional support before and during the tour to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience





2 Day Inca Trail Hike Does Not Include


  • Travel insurance: Personal travel insurance is not provided and should be purchased separately.
  • Meals not specified: Any meals not mentioned in the tour package, such as additional snacks and beverages, are not included.
  • Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, porters, drivers, hotel staff, and other service providers are not included and are at the discretion of the traveler.
  • Personal expenses: Costs for additional activities, souvenirs, and other personal items are not covered.
  • Sleeping bags: Personal sleeping bags for the trek may not be provided and should be rented or brought by the traveler.
  • Trekking poles: Trekking poles for the hike are usually not included and may need to be rented or brought separately.
  • Optional excursions: Additional activities or side trips, such as a visit to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, may not be included and require separate tickets.





What you need to bring


  • Comfortable hiking shoes or boots: Sturdy, supportive footwear with good grip for uneven terrain
  • Lightweight clothing: Quick-drying, moisture-wicking layers for varying weather conditions
  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, sun hat or cap, and sunscreen to protect from the strong sun
  • Water bottle or hydration system: To stay hydrated throughout the hike
  • Personal snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or other high-energy foods to maintain energy levels
  • Small backpack: To carry personal items, snacks, and water during the hike
  • Personal first-aid kit: Including band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications
  • Headlamp or flashlight: For early morning starts or navigating in low-light conditions
  • Trekking poles: For added stability and support on steep or uneven terrain (if desired)
  • Passport or ID: Necessary for Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance verification




  • Comfortable trousers
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Water
  • Camera



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a renowned hiking route that leads to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. It offers breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including cloud forests and archaeological sites.

2. How do I book the Inca Trail with Luan Travel Peru?

To book the Inca Trail with Luan Travel Peru, visit our website and navigate to the Inca Trail section. Choose your preferred dates, check availability, and follow the booking instructions. You can also contact our customer support for assistance.

3. What permits are required for the Inca Trail trek?

To trek the Inca Trail, you need a permit issued by the Peruvian government. Luan Travel Peru takes care of securing these permits for our clients as part of the tour package. It is essential to book in advance as permits are limited.

4. How challenging is the Inca Trail hike?

The Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. It involves steep ascents and descents, varying altitudes, and uneven terrain. It is recommended that participants be in good physical condition. We advise acclimatizing to the altitude in Cusco before starting the trek.

5. What should I pack for the Inca Trail trek?

Essential items include comfortable trekking shoes, a daypack, weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and personal hygiene items. Luan Travel Peru provides a detailed packing list upon booking.

6. What is the best time to trek the Inca Trail?

The best time to trek the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from May to September. This period offers more stable weather conditions and clearer views. However, it’s essential to book early, as the Inca Trail permits can sell out quickly.

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km.104 – Callacancha – Wiñay Wayna – Intipunku – Aguas Calientes

We will start our first day with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco at around 0430 AM. We will board a private bus that will take us on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Ollantaytambo. It is located in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Upon arriving in Ollantaytambo around 5:30 AM, we’ll have a quick breakfast. After breakfast, we will board the train at 6:10 AM. This train journey will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. It covers a distance of 43 kilometers (27 miles) to reach Km 104 (2,100 meters or 6,890 feet above sea level).

We’ll disembark the train at Km 104 at around 7:55 AM, where we’ll begin our hike. The first stop on our trail is the archaeological site of Callacancha. We’ll spend about an hour exploring this fascinating site before continuing on our trek.

After leaving Callacancha, we’ll hike for approximately 3 hours. We will be ascending around 600 meters (1,968 feet) to reach the breathtaking Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna. We’ll break for lunch at Wiñay Wayna around 1:00 PM and then spend time exploring the magnificent terraces and structures.

Once we’ve soaked in the beauty of Wiñay Wayna, we’ll resume our hike around 2:30 PM. We will be heading towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which stands at 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level. The hike to the Sun Gate will take about 2 hours. Upon reaching there at around 4:30 PM, we’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

After capturing unforgettable photos of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, we’ll start our descent. We will be leaving around 5:00 PM towards Aguas Calientes. This will take approximately 30 minutes. 

Upon arriving in Aguas Calientes around 6:30 PM, we’ll check into our accommodations. Later in the evening we will enjoy a well-earned dinner. You will then get a good night’s rest in anticipation of visiting Machu Picchu on the following day.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

On the second day of the tour, we’ll rise early to prepare for our visit to the world-famous citadel. We’ll leave our accommodations in Aguas Calientes around 4:00 AM and make our way to the bus station. 

Boarding the first bus to Machu Picchu at 5:30 AM, we’ll embark on a 30-minute drive. We will be ascending 400 meters (1,312 feet) up a winding road to the entrance of the archaeological site.

Upon arriving at Machu Picchu around 6:00 AM, we’ll start our guided tour. We will begin by exploring the incredible Inca ruins for approximately 2 hours. Our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the citadel. You will understand the insights and stories about the history and significance of the site. 

During the tour, you will witness the impressive stonework, terraces, temples, and plazas. You will understand why this is an incredible UNESCO World Heritage site. After the guided tour, you will have some free time to explore on your own. You can even climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape.

Once we’ve completed our time at Machu Picchu, we’ll head back down to Aguas Calientes by bus. You’ll have some time to relax, grab a bite. You can also pick up any souvenirs before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. 

The train ride will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. We will transfer to a private bus for the final leg of our journey. We’ll arrive back in Cusco by 9:00 PM. This will be  bringing our unforgettable Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure to a close.

Total: $450.00 From $450.00 /person

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