If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the magic of the Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail 2 days route is perfect for you. You’ll begin with an incredible hike through Andean landscapes and less-visited archaeological sites, reaching Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate.
Duration
2 Days
Difficulty
Moderate, Moderate
(2,600 meters)
1B, 1L, 1D
by Bus
All year
The Short Inca Trail 2 days experience offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes, culminating in the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu view. Our Short Inca Trail Tour is specially designed for those seeking the thrill of hiking the Inca Trail without committing to a longer trek.
For two days, you’ll experience breathtaking scenery and traverse ancient paths. You will explore fascinating archaeological sites while savoring the anticipation of arriving at Machu Picchu.
Our journey will begin early from your hotel in Cusco. We will ensure we have ample time to enjoy every step of the trail to Machu Picchu. This scenic route, spanning approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), leads us through lush cloud forests and sacred ruins.
Along the way, our expert tour guide will share stories about the Inca civilization. We will enrich your understanding of these ancient landscapes. We will hike through moderate to challenging terrain, so wearing well-fitted hiking boots is essential. With the right preparation and our detailed packing list, we will make this trek safe and enjoyable.
The trail’s highlight will be passing through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Here we will catch our first view of Machu Picchu, an experience that will be etched in your memory. As we trek deeper into these high-altitude landscapes, ranging from 2,700 to 2,900 meters (8,860 to 9,514 feet) above sea level, we will acclimate to the elevation.
Along the way, we will also learn how to prevent altitude sickness. It’s advisable to book months in advance to secure permits. The Inca Trail tours are limited to preserve this heritage site.
The best time to embark on this adventure is during the dry season (May to September). It is when the weather is favorable for hiking the Inca Trail. After the rewarding trek, we will spend the night at a cozy hotel in Cusco, reminiscing about the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-timer, this 2-day tour to Machu Picchu will immerse you in history, nature, and adventure, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
We highly recommend this shorter, immersive experience for those eager to explore the essence of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu within a limited timeframe. Join us, and together we will walk in the footsteps of the Incas, uncovering the beauty and mystery of this ancient world.
Permits: Just like the classic Inca Trail, a permit is required to trek the Short Inca Trail. It is advisable to book your permit in advance, especially during the peak season (May to September).
Difficulty: While the Short Inca Trail is less physically demanding than the classic route, it still involves uphill climbs and uneven terrain. It is considered a moderate trek, suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness.
Guides and Porters: Hiring a professional guide is mandatory for the Short Inca Trail. They provide valuable insights into the history and culture along the way. You can also choose to hire a porter to carry your backpack, making the trek more comfortable.
Overall, the Short Inca Trail offers a condensed yet rewarding experience, allowing you to witness the beauty of the Andean landscape and explore the magnificent ruins of Machu Picchu in a shorter time frame.
We will begin the first day of our Short Inca Trail Tour early in the morning. We will embark on a scenic drive from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. Here we will board a train.
As the train follows the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley, we will enjoy views of dramatic landscapes and ancient terraces. After approximately two hours, we will arrive at Kilometer 104, the official starting point of our Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
Here, we will meet our guide and start the trek, passing through lush vegetation and ascending ancient stone steps. The hike will take us past archaeological sites, such as Chachabamba, where we will explore the remnants of this important Inca ceremonial center.
Continuing along the trail, we will cross wooden bridges and walk alongside small waterfalls, fully immersed in the natural beauty of the Andean forest.
As we gain altitude, the climb will gradually become more challenging, but the effort will be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding valleys and distant peaks. After about three to four hours, we will reach the majestic site of Wiñay Wayna at 2,700 meters (8,860 feet) above sea level.
We will take time to explore this remarkable complex, known for its agricultural terraces and stone houses, before enjoying a boxed lunch surrounded by nature.
Refreshed, we will continue the final stretch of the trek to Machu Picchu, passing through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, we will get our first view of Machu Picchu in the late afternoon, bathed in soft golden light.
After taking in the breathtaking panorama, we will descend to the entrance of the citadel and take a short bus ride to the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night in a cozy hotel.
Please check availability for the 2 Day Short Inca Trail Before doing Your Reservation if there is not availability on the date you want do do The Inca Trail Please Check our alternatives Treks towards Machupicchu
PRICE 2026 per person
We can leave any day of the week, as long as permits are available. Please remember, permits are only needed for your start date.
PRICE per person US$480
We can leave any day of the week, as long as permits are available. Please remember, permits are only needed for your start date.
To confirm the tour/trek we need you to send us your personal information: Full Names, Passport Numbers, Nationalities, Ages, Gender as well as a deposit to secure the trip/tour.
PAYPAL: is the faster, safer way to send money, make an online payment, receive money or set up a merchant account. You can easily pay us by using your credit card or bank account. For those that wish to pay via Paypal. Please note that a 6% fee applies. That is, you need to increase your payment by 6% to cover the costs that we incur via this kind of payments.
the remaining, you will pay in cash(briefing day) without taxes.
Please, After your deposit, send Us, Transfer Number to: peruamazongardenlodge@gmail.com, After we are going to confirm your deposit and reservation.
Thinking about hiking to Machu Picchu but short on time? The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek that lets you experience the magic of the Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
It’s a shorter and more accessible version of the classic Inca Trail. In just two days, you’ll hike along ancient Inca paths, visit stunning archaeological sites, and reach Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just like the full 4-day trail.
Not as demanding as the classic trail. It’s considered moderately challenging, ideal for people with average fitness. On the first day, you hike around 10–12 km (mostly uphill), while the second day is a relaxed visit to Machu Picchu.
Yes, but you don’t need to be an athlete. If you’re used to walking and have no serious health issues, you’ll be fine. It’s highly recommended to spend a few days in Cusco beforehand to adjust to the altitude.
Most packages include transportation, professional guide, entrance fees (including Machu Picchu), accommodation in Aguas Calientes, meals, and return train. Still, it’s important to check the specifics with your chosen tour operator.
The dry season, from April to October, is ideal. May and June are especially popular for their stable weather and clear skies.
No. Even the short version of the Inca Trail requires going with an authorized agency and a licensed guide. Permits are limited, so early booking is essential.
It’s best to book 2 to 3 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly.
Need help with your reservation or tour? Our team is ready to listen. Please contact us.
