Name: 2 Days Shortest Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
Brand: Andean Path Travel
SKU: 1
Price: 475.00 USD
Availability: InStock

+51 931303626| +51 984107756| andeanpathtravel@gmail.com| San José #100, Santiago – Cusco

100% Peruvian Company Marca Peru

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From$535

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2 DAYS / 1 NIGHT

Availability : Closed in February

CUSCO - AGUAS CALIENTES

MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO

Min Age : 6+

Max People : 2 - 10

Experience the breathtaking beauty and discover the rich history of the Andes with us on our Machu Picchu 2 day hike along the Iconic Inca Trail. It is a perfect adventure for travelers with limited time along the legendary Inca path. Known for a blend of ancient ruins and lush cloud forest, you can witness a dramatic arrival at Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate just like the Incas did centuries ago.

Short Inca Trail for 2 Days with Hotel-Hike to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate

Are you looking for the shortest hike to Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate? Andea Path Travel brings you an ephemeral itinerary crafted with comfort, culture, and unforgettable views along the Inca Trail. Our short Inca trail or Private short inca trail with the Hotel is designed for 2 days. It is the perfect option for travelers who want to walk in the footsteps of the Incas, without camping or committing to a 4-day trek.

This 2 day short Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu offers breathtaking scenery, lush subtropical landscapes. This is your chance to explore the remarkable Inca sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and the awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku.

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Tour Overview

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles), including 6 to 7 hours of hiking to reach Machu Picchu
Max Elevation: ~2,700 meters (8,858 ft)
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes

Difficulty: Moderate (great for families, couples & first-time hikers)

Why choose the short Inca Trail tour?

Hike a Legendary Route with Epic Rewards

This route packs history, culture, and natural beauty into a manageable 6–7 hour hike. Along the way, you’ll:

Visit the lesser-known but fascinating ceremonial site, Chachabamba.
Also marvel at Wiñay Wayna, a stunning archaeological complex built into the mountainside.
Finally, enter the “Lost City of the Incas”, Machu Picchu, through the Sun Gate.

With our trip, you will experience Machu Picchu twice: once in the afternoon on Day 1, and again in the morning on Day 2. This will offer you two unique perspectives of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Ideal for All Travelers

This hike is perfect for:

Families with children
Couples and honeymooners
Seniors or those with limited time
Adventurers looking for a non-camping short Inca Trail

What’s Included in Your 2 days hike to Machu Picchu

Professional licensed English-speaking guide
Hotel pick-up & drop-off (Cusco or Ollantaytambo)
All transportation (train tickets, bus tickets, transfers)
Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
Box lunch with scenic views (vegan & vegetarian options available)
Guided Machu Picchu tour (2–3 hours)
First-aid kit & oxygen

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Highlights

Breathtaking views of Chachabamba and Wiñay Huayna– Impressive for its agricultural terraces and temples, and serves as a prelude and a significant stop before the final approach.
Amazing snow-capped mountain ranges of Urubamba – Holds significant cultural importance for local Andean communities and are considered sacred apus.
Sun Gate or Inti Punku– Significant for solstice observations and ceremonial use, is located 300 metres above Machu Picchu and offers a panoramic view of the entire site.
Lush tropical forest in the valleys of the 2-day Inca trail to Machu Picchu– Offers the perfect excursion if you love activities and thrills.
Andean flora and fauna– Incredibly diverse with species like Orchids and Wax Palm.
Historical and cultural immersion into Incan culture and Machu Picchu– Explore its terraced structures and significant religious, ceremonial, and astronomical centers.
Beautiful streams and waterfalls– Urubamba River, Mandor Falls, and other smaller cascades.
Archaeological site of Machu Picchu – UNESCO World Heritage Site

2 Days Short Inca Trail Hike Pre-Briefing

The 2-day Inca trail to Machu Picchu briefing is usually 1 day or 2 days before your actual departure date. During this briefing, you will meet with your expert tour guide, and you can ask any final questions that you may have before your 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu.

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: 2-Day Tour

2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike – Summary

Trip style: Adventures, History & Cultural Immersion
Length: 2 Days / 1 Night
Frequency: From March to January (February the Inca trail closes every year)
Group: 2 people (min) to 10 people (max)
Physical grading: Moderate, Challenging
Total distance hiked: 14km / 8 miles
Beginning altitude: 2,250m / 7,240 ft
Maximum altitude: 2,700m / 8,540 ft

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Itinerary & Full Tour Details

Explore the Best of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in Just Two Unforgettable Days

This is the perfect alternative for travelers who want to experience the essence of the Classic Inca Trail without the need for camping or extended trekking days. This trek is ideal for adventurers of all ages and fitness levels. You’ll explore lush cloud forests, ancient Inca ruins, and stunning mountain views, culminating in an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike – Itinerary

DAY 1:Cusco – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Your 2 days hike to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 AM. From there, you’ll travel by private vehicle to the Ollantaytambo Train Station, enjoying a scenic 1.5-hour ride through the Sacred Valley.

At 6:10 AM, board the comfortable Expedition Train alongside your guide and head toward KM 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. The 1-hour 20-minute train ride through the Urubamba Valley showcases beautiful Andean scenery and rushing rivers.

Upon arriving at KM 104, you’ll begin the trek with a photo opportunity at the iconic “Welcome to the Inca Trail” sign, followed by check-in at the official Inca Trail control point. Be sure to have your passport ready for entry.

The Hike Begins:

The trail starts with a gradual uphill climb of about 3 hours through the cloud forest, offering spectacular views of the Urubamba River, towering peaks, and lush vegetation.
You’ll soon reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca complexes on the trail, known for its terraced hillsides, sacred temples, and breathtaking vistas. Your guide will explain its significance and Inca history.
After a short rest, enjoy a nutritious box lunch in a peaceful natural setting nearby.

After lunch, continue hiking for approximately 1.5 hours through stunning terrain toward the Sun Gate. This is where you’ll catch your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu, perched majestically in the distance. This iconic moment is what makes the short Inca Trail tour so special, access to Machu Picchu from the same entrance used by the ancient Incas.

After enjoying the views and taking photos, descend for about 45 minutes to reach the famous photo spot inside the Machu Picchu complex.
From there, you’ll take the bus down to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable 3-star hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

Included Meals: Box Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Max Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
Min Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
Total Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Approximate Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

DAY 2:Aguas Calientes – Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Wake up early for breakfast at your hotel before boarding the first bus to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the site with fewer crowds and optimal morning light for photos.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Your expert guide will lead a 2 to 3-hour guided tour through the most important temples, terraces, and ceremonial sites inside Machu Picchu, including:

The Temple of the Sun
The Sacred Plaza
The Intihuatana (Sun Dial)
Agricultural terraces and water fountains

After your tour, return to Aguas Calientes by bus. Enjoy lunch on your own before boarding the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private van will transfer you directly to your hotel in Cusco, arriving in the evening.

What's Included in the 2-Day Inca Trail Package

Licensed English-speaking professional tour guide
Assistant guide for groups of over 9 hikers
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Cusco or Ollantaytambo)
Private transportation to and from train stations
Round-trip Expedition Train tickets
Round-trip bus tickets to/from Machu Picchu
All entrance fees (Short Inca Trail & Machu Picchu)
1 Box Lunch, 1 Dinner, 1 Breakfast
3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes
First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle
Fully guided Machu Picchu tour

Doesn't Include

Entry ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Travel insurance (highly recommended)

What to Bring for the Short Inca Trail?

To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike, please bring the following items:

Original passport (required at checkpoints)
Valid ISIC student card (if applicable)
Comfortable hiking boots (well-broken-in)
Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
Warm layers (jacket, gloves, hat)
Light t-shirts and trekking pants
Sun hat and high SPF sunscreen
Insect repellent
Toiletries and hand sanitizer
Personal medication
Camera with extra batteries
Headlamp or flashlight
Small daypack (max 28L) – large bags are not permitted in Machu Picchu

Short Inca Trail 2 Days – Prices & Discounts

Group & Private Tour Pricing

We offer flexible pricing based on your travel style. Whether you’re joining a small group or looking for a private experience, we’ve got the right option for you:

Group Tour (2+ hikers): From US$535
Private Family Tour: From US$580
Solo Traveler: US$700

Traveling with a larger group? Contact us directly for special group discounts.

Available Discounts

We offer special price reductions for students and younger travelers:

Student Discount: US$20 off (valid ISIC card required)
Under 18 Discount: US$20 off (passport copy required)

Optional upgrade:

Walking Poles: US$5

Optional Upgrades

Optional upgrade (Need to book in advance – subject to availability):

Machu Picchu Mt climbing: US$ 75
Huayna Picchu Mt climbing: US$ 75
Vistadome Train Aguas Calientes-Cusco: US$ 60
Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: Price depends on the type of Hotel desired
Pick up / Drop off from the airport
Rainbow Mountain Hike 1 Day: US$ 125
Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day: US$ 125

Photos

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Why Choose Andean Path Travel?

Choosing the right tour company matters for a comfortable and informative tour. Here’s why Andean Path Travel is trusted by hundreds of happy hikers:

100% Cusqueña-Owned & Authorized Operator

We are not intermediaries but a fully licensed local operator. Proudly owned by Cusqueña, we are committed to preserving our culture and empowering our communities.

Sustainable & Ethical Travel

Through our Footprints Project, we’ve donated over 500 warm jackets to children in the high-altitude schools of Ausangate. Check out the link below: Footprints Project

Delicious, Nutritious Meals

Enjoy a healthy box lunch after four hours of trekking. Prepared with care, our meals feature vegetarian, vegan, and other options. Enjoy the lunch with views of the majestic Vilcanota mountain range.

Small Groups, Personalized Experience

Our groups range from 2 to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and immersive journey, unlike the crowded tours offered elsewhere.

Hotel-to-Hotel Service

We handle it all, from your door in Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu and back. So, you can sit back and enjoy the majestic experience.

Light Backpacking

We include a small daypack/duffel transfer to your hotel in Aguas Calientes, so that you can hike light and stress-free.

Expert Local Guides

All our guides are certified with 5+ years of experience. They undergo regular training in first aid, history, and sustainable practices.

Accompanied Train Ride

Your guide travels with you on the train, offering insights, answering questions, and ensuring you’re supported every step of the way.

Guaranteed Departures – Even for 2 People

No need to worry about minimum group size. If you book, we go. Your experience and our reputation come first.

Fair Wages, Always

We pay our team on time. The porters, cooks, drivers, and guides are paid fairly and promptly, in full compliance with Peruvian labor laws.

Optional: Hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

Reserved a Huayna Picchu permit? No need to worry! You’ll begin this additional hike after your guided tour of Machu Picchu. The short Inca Trail takes 1.5–2 hours round-trip and rewards you with spectacular aerial views of the citadel and surrounding Andes.

Ready to Hike the Short Inca Trail? Get in touch with us

Experience Machu Picchu with comfort, culture, and personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

1What makes Andean Path Travel different from other tour companies?

Andean Path Travel is a locally owned company in Cusco that offers authentic experiences led by friendly local guides. We keep our group sizes small for personalized attention and prioritize fair treatment of our staff, including porters and chefs, ensuring your travel supports the community positively.

2Do I need to book tours in advance?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to hike the Classic Inca Trail, be aware that permits are limited and often sell out months in advance. To secure your spot, especially during peak season (May–September), it’s best to book early.

3Are meals and camping equipment included on treks?

All our trekking packages include tasty meals by professional chefs, quality camping gear like spacious tents and sleeping mats, and personal porters to help carry your belongings.

4Do you accommodate special dietary needs?

Of course! We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice. Our chefs are dedicated to creating tasty and nutritious meals just for you!

5Is acclimatization necessary before starting a 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

We recommend spending 2 to 3 days in Cusco before starting any high-altitude trek. This allows your body to adjust to the altitude, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience. Plus, there’s plenty to explore in Cusco!