Overview 2 Day Inca Trail
Inca Trail 2 Days is one of the most beautiful treks to Machu Picchu for those tight on time but still want the energy of Qhapac Ñan (Inca Trail) and glimpse Machu Picchu from the heights of the sun gate, you can partake in the 2-day Inca Trail Trek.
You’ll hike along 12 kilometers of this alternative Inca trail where you will discover archaeological remains, dense forests, waterfalls, and native flora and fauna all without the usual crowds along the 4 day trek. The 2 Day Short Inca Trail is a generally peaceful trek for those who like tranquility and nature.
We’ll start the trek in the ruins of Cochabamba, hiking uphill for 3 hours to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna and another two hours to Machu Picchu. After taking in our first views of Machu Picchu, we descend to the remote town of Aguas Calientes where we will rest and recharge before our guided visit to Machu Picchu on Day 2. If you are tight on time and are in good physical condition to do so, you may also choose to complete this entire trek in a single day, completing your trek and exploring Machu Picchu on the same day.
Also if you like you can climb HUAYNA PICCHU or MONTAÑA MACHU PICCHU you have to book in advance and check the availability. https://www.machupicchu.gob.pe/disponibilidad/
Highlights 2 Day Short Inca Trail
- Visit Machu Picchu twice, in the afternoon of the first day and in the morning of the second day
- Hike along the original Inca trail to Wiñaywayna
- Enjoy the beautiful views of the Vilcanota Valleys
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate
- Be one of the first to enter Machu Picchu
- Spend an entire day in Machu Picchu
- Enjoy the guiding tour lead by an expert
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Day 1: Cusco - Kilometer 104 - Aguas Calientes
SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS ITINERARY
We will leave Cusco at 04:00 am to start the Inca Trail 2-day hike. We drive for about an hour and a half to Ollantaytambo where we will have our Breakfast which is included, then take our train until kilometer 104 which is the starting point of our trek. Our trek today takes us along the most wonderful stretch of the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days. We’ll visit beautiful Inca sites, see a variety of flora and fauna and get to take in the stunning panoramas of the Andes. Walking 10km of the trail our hike begins in the Sacred Valley and works its way up along a paved Inca trail to the archeological site of Winay Wayna before continuing on to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). After visiting Wiñay Wayna, we will have our box lunch.
After enjoying our meal. we’ll hike through the lush and green cloud forest that covers the mountain and get to see a wide variety of plants, flowers, orchids, and birds along the way. We might see some larger mammals such as Viscachas (rabbit-like Chinchillas) and Spectacled Bears (if we are very lucky).
After a full day of hiking, we’ll get to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the afternoon and get our first views of Machu Picchu spread out on the mountain ridge below. The light in the afternoon is great for photos and with fewer tourists on the site, it’s a perfect time to take wonderful pictures of the site. After passing through the Sun Gate we’ll keep hiking for about 45 minutes until the Guard House where you will take the Classical postcard shot of Machu Picchu then go to the exit and you will catch the bus to Aguas Calientes. We will check in at our hotel then we have dinner.
Meals
Walking Time
Walking Distance
Level of Difficulty
Starting Altitude
Highest Altitude -
Dia 2: Machu Picchu
Day second is the most magical day: Machu Picchu. We will wake up early, to take the first bus up to Machu Picchu. After passing the Machu Picchu checkpoint, your guide will take you to one place. There he/she will give you the introduction to the Citadel, then spend around 2 hours explaining the highlights of Machu Picchu following circuit 3 in a loop. Afterward, you hike Huaynapicchu Mountain if you have booked this option. (This is a separate entrance ticket that costs $65 per person). Finally, you will return to Aguas Calientes where you will have your lunch after you take a train back to Ollantaytambo, and then our van back to Cusco. We will transfer you to your hotel.
Meals
Walking Time
Walking Distance
Level of Difficulty
Starting Altitude
Highest Altitude
Inclusions Inca trail 2 Days
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco
- Transfer from Cusco to the train station of Ollantaytambo
- A professional tour guide prepared in first aid and experienced in the route and history
- Second guide for groups of more than 9 people
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to kilometer 104 which is the trailhead
- Entrance ticket for the Inca trail 2 days
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu for the first and second day
- 1 night in hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on day 1
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies
- 01 breakfast, 01 lunch, 01 dinner
- Return train from Machu Picchu town to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo Station to your hotel in Cusco
Not Included 2 day Hike
- Breakfasts on the first day
- Lunch on the second day
- Extra expenses
- Tips
Prices: Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days
Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2023 through January 2024. All prices quoted are $USD
- Group service is $490 per person
Important: Price includes up to 7 kilos of your belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need for extra Porter hire!).
Discounts: Short IncaTrail with Hotel to Machu Picchu 2 days
- Student Discount 20$ dollars
- Under 15 years will pay as a student: US$20.00
- Under 7 years Discount: US$35.00
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
- Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Short Inca Trail:
What is the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a two-day trek that takes you from the Urubamba River to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. The trail is approximately 10 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and cloud forest.
Is the Short Inca Trail difficult?
While the Short Inca Trail is less challenging than the longer four-day trek, it still involves some steep climbs and descents. It’s important to be in good physical condition and to acclimate to the altitude before starting the trek.
Do I need a permit to hike the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, a permit is required to hike the Short Inca Trail, as it is part of the Inca Trail road. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, so it’s important to book in advance.
What should I pack for the Short Inca Trail?
It’s important to pack appropriate clothing for the varying weather conditions, as well as comfortable hiking shoes, a daypack, and a refillable water bottle. Other items to consider include sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.
