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Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days and 1 Night is a shorter alternative to the traditional 4-day Inca Trail. This is a unique experience that allows us to discover one of the wonders of the world in a traditional way through its network of trails amidst the lush vegetation of the Urubamba Valley. This 2-day and 1-night journey lets us delve into its mysterious and magical path, full of history, flora, and fauna. Without a doubt, this experience is meant for all adventurous people who want to connect with nature and the Andean energy that this trail holds. If you are planning to visit Machu Picchu, you should do so through this traditional hike, which offers the chance to enjoy the short Inca Trail on the first day and fully explore Machu Picchu on the second day.
Overview
SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2D/1N
DURATION: 2 DAYS AND 1 NIGHT.
SCHEDULE:
- DEPARTURE (DAY 1): 07:00 HRS
- RETURN (DAY 2): 20:00 HRS
ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT:
- DAY 1: CUSCO – CHACHABAMBA – WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU
- DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Itinerary
ITINERARY SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYs:
DAY 1: CUSCO – CHACHABAMBA – WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHUPICCHU
We will begin this exciting journey early in the morning. Our team will pick you up directly from your hotel and transfer you to the train station. During this first leg of the trip, we will provide you with a snack, a refreshing drink, and a picnic-style lunch, all carefully prepared to accompany you during the hike. Everything will be packed in a reusable eco-friendly bag, designed to preserve the food and later serve as a waste bag, in line with our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism.
Once aboard the train, we’ll enjoy a scenic ride through Andean valleys, towering mountains, and crystal-clear rivers until we reach Km 104, the starting point of our trek.
From the archaeological site of Chachabamba (2,250 m / 7,382 ft), we begin a moderate ascent of approximately two and a half hours, surrounded by lush vegetation, until we reach the impressive Wiñay Wayna complex (2,650 m / 8,694 ft) — an Incan architectural gem perched on the mountainside. Here we’ll take a break to enjoy our picnic lunch, surrounded by nature and the peaceful atmosphere of the cloud forest.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue walking along the magical trails of the Inca Trail until we reach the legendary Intipunku or “Sun Gate,” from where we’ll get our first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu in all its glory — a moment you’ll never forget.
Afterward, we’ll descend to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you may choose to relax in the local hot springs. We’ll end the day with a special dinner at a carefully selected local restaurant, where you’ll enjoy the best of regional cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere — a perfect way to cap off an unforgettable day. We’ll spend the night at a comfortable three-star hotel.
- Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
- Duration: 7 hours
- Highest Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Sun Gate)
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel
- Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
We’ll wake up early to enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before boarding the first bus to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we’ll witness the magical sunrise over the Incan citadel — a peaceful and spiritually enriching moment.
During the guided tour (approximately 2.5 hours), we will explore the most important areas of this historic sanctuary: the Temple of the Sun, Inti Watana, the Sacred Rock, the Main Square, the Temple of the Condor, and more. Our specialized guide will share the secrets, history, and Andean worldview that surround this magnificent place.
After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own or simply take in the scenery. Later, we’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, with the option to once again enjoy the hot medicinal springs.
In the afternoon, we’ll board the Vistadome panoramic train, which offers an exceptional travel experience with wide windows, onboard service, and spectacular views of the Andean landscape throughout the journey. This comfortable and visually stunning ride will take us back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.
- Tour Duration: 2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
End of an unforgettable experience.
Included
INCLUDES:
- Transportation from the hotel to the train station in Ollantaytambo
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104
- Certified professional guide for adventure travel
- Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Return bus ticket (Day 1)
- Round trip bus ticket (Day 2)
- 1 night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Vistadome train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to the city of Cusco
- Snack and drink (Day 1)
- 1 Box Lunch (Day 1)
- 1 Dinner (Day 1)
- 1 buffet breakfast (Day 2)
- Water after each meal (recommended to bring a reusable water bottle)
- Trekking poles
- Oxygen bottle
- Rain poncho
- Trash bag
- 24/7 personalized service
Not Included
NOT INCLUDED:
- Entrance to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
- Meals not described in the inclusions
- Tips, snacks on Day 2, etc.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain ($50.00 USD optional)
What To Bring
WHAT TO BRING:
- Passport or ID card
- Comfortable shoes or lightweight sneakers
- Rain poncho (long type) during the rainy season
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Long pants
- Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat for sunny days
- Sunglasses
- Camera (photographic or video)
- Small denominations of money in soles or dollars
- Swimwear (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Water purification tablets (recommended: Micropur)
- Flashlight with spare batteries (headlamps are recommended)
- Some additional snacks (chocolates, candies, etc.)
- Personal medications
DEPARTURE DATES:
We have groups for the Inca Trail every day of the year, except in February, when the Inca Trail is closed for the entire month. In February, it is still possible to visit Machu Picchu by train, but the Inca Trail cannot be done.
Prices
COST PER PERSON IN US DOLLARS:
| TYPE OF TOURIST | COST OF THE TOUR WITH 2 STAR HOTEL | COST OF THE TOUR WITH 3 STAR HOTEL |
| ADULT | USD 500.00 | USD 530.00 |
| STUDENT | USD 480.00 | USD 500.00 |
The cost of the tour is for a shared service; you will be part of a group. You can also inquire with the agency about the cost for private services. For more information, you can email us at libertyperutravel@gmail.com.
Map 2 Days Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
Short Inca Trail 2 Days Map Elevation Profile
FAQS Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days
The 2-day Inca Trail typically covers a distance of approximately 12 kilometers on the first day and 6 kilometers on the second. The total trek duration is typically approximately 6 to 7 hours of hiking per day, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions.
The 2-day Inca Trail tour typically begins at kilometer 104 of the Cusco-Machu Picchu railway and ends at the Puente Ruinas, where travelers take a train or hike to Aguas Calientes, the base town for Machu Picchu.
During the two-day trek, tourists typically stay in basic camps or lodges along the way. These accommodations typically offer basic amenities such as tents or shared rooms, beds, meals, and bathrooms.
Yes, it’s important to be in good physical shape for the 2-day Inca Trail tour, as it involves long, steep hikes at high altitudes. Regular exercise and proper altitude acclimatization are recommended before embarking on the trek.
During the two-day tour, tourists visit archaeological sites such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) before arriving at Machu Picchu. They can also enjoy stunning panoramic views of the mountains and lush vegetation along the way.
Trekking to the Ausangate Lagoons can be challenging, as it involves hiking over uneven terrain and at high altitudes. It’s recommended to be in good physical condition and prepared to walk for several hours a day.
You must be prepared to take this hike. You can access the following link to learn more about the route (what is the Inca Trail).
In our detailed tour inclusions and exclusions section, you’ll find all the important details. For example, our tour includes one night’s accommodation in a 3-star hotel, select meals, and private transportation to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the experience.
Code LPT 028
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Gallery de Photos Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days
