Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days)

Durations

2 Days

Max. Altitude

2700 m.s.n.m

Group Size

02 - 15 person

Difficulty

Moderate

Type Service

Private - Group

Support

24/7

Estimated total

$441.00

Tour Date

Passengers

Subtotal$420.00

Online booking fee (5%)$21.00

Total$441.00

🔒 Secure payment · Flexible cancellation

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Machu Picchu 360’s 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This scenic trek begins in the Sacred Valley and follows a historic path that reveals breathtaking views and fascinating Inca ruins along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or trying the short Inca trail to Machu Picchu for the first time, it’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture.

Day one introduces trekkers to lesser-known archaeological sites. The hike progresses through varied landscapes. By evening, camp near an ancient site. Sleeping under the Andean sky makes it a unique experience.

Day two culminates with a guided tour. Explore Machu Picchu’s grandeur. Learn about the Incas history. Machu Picchu 360 ensures a memorable Inca Trail Tour. Book months in advance to secure the permits.

Itinerary

Machu Picchu 360 starts the Short Inca Trail Tour at dawn. A bus from Cusco reaches the Sacred Valley by 6 AM. Here, the hike to Machu Picchu begins. You’ll hike for about 4 hours to reach Wiñay Wayna.

Explore this Inca site for an hour with a guide. After lunch, the trail leads to the Sun Gate. This takes about 2 hours. Enjoy your first views of Machu Picchu. The day ends in Aguas Calientes by 5 PM. Dinner and overnight stay in a hotel are arranged.

Rise early for breakfast at 4 AM. Catch the first bus to Machu Picchu. The guided tour starts at 6 AM and lasts 2 hours. You’ll visit key locations.

After the tour, you’ll have free time until 10 AM. The Return to Aguas Calientes by bus will be before lunch. From there, the ride back to Cusco.

Included

Professional bilingual guide
Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
Return train tickets
Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
1 night accommodation
Meals (1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner)
First aid kit
Porters (to carry cooking and camping equipment)
Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)

Not Included

Breakfast on the first day
Lunch on the second day
Tips for the guide and porters
Travel insurance
Additional snacks and beverages
Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Return transportation to Cusco

Additional Information

Welcome briefing before the trek
Snack pack for the hike
Water refill stations (bring your own bottle)
Map of the Inca Trail
Luggage storage during the trek

Recommendations

To fully enjoy the 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it is recommended to spend at least one or two days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek. Although this is a shorter version of the classic trail, it still takes place at high altitude in the Andes.

Wear comfortable hiking clothes in layers, since temperatures can change quickly between the morning, afternoon, and evening. A waterproof jacket or rain poncho is highly recommended, especially during the rainy season.

A good pair of hiking boots with proper grip is essential because some sections of the trail include stone steps and uneven terrain. Travelers should also bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the strong Andean sun.

Carry a small backpack with water, snacks, and personal essentials for the hike. Don’t forget your camera to capture the incredible landscapes along the trail and the breathtaking views when arriving at Machu Picchu.

Since permits for the Inca Trail are limited, it is strongly recommended to book several months in advance to secure your spot.

Faq's

The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day hike to Machu Picchu. It covers less distance than the traditional Inca Trail. Hikers start from Km 104 and pass through Inca sites, including Wiñay Wayna, before reaching Machu Picchu.

Yes, you need a permit for the Short Inca Trail. Machu Picchu 360 secures these for you. Book months in advance to ensure availability.

Bring hiking boots, water, snacks, sun protection, a rain jacket, and a camera. Machu Picchu 360 provides camping gear except for sleeping bags.

Yes, beginners can complete this hike. It’s less demanding than the full Inca Trail. Prepare with some physical training.

The trail reaches altitudes up to 2,700 meters. Altitude sickness can occur but is less common on this shorter route. Stay hydrated and acclimatize in Cusco before the hike.

The price includes permits, entrance fees, guide, transportation, meals, accommodation, and camping gear. Personal items and tips are not included.

Groups are usually 16 people or fewer. This ensures a personalized experience. Private tours are available upon request.

The best time is during the dry season, from May to September. The trail is open year-round, except February for maintenance.

Gallery

Estimated total

$441.00

Tour Date

Passengers

Subtotal$420.00

Online booking fee (5%)$21.00

Total$441.00

🔒 Secure payment · Flexible cancellation

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 23 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nelson R 
 
 
 
  Outworldly beauty Long hike but well worth the effort. The experience was very nice and the staff right from the booking till driving me back to my hotel were incredibly nice and helpful. I did fel a bit shirt of breath as we got closer to the lake but the guide was quick to assist me and accompanied me all the way up to the lake ensuring that i did not have any issue. They did have an option of renting a horse but i didn´t feel it quite needful as the hike was through beautiful sites and i did have plenty of stop along the way to click photos. Would highly recommend spending a few days and acclimatizing well before doing the trek.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  OUR ANCESTORS It is important to recognize and respect our ancestors because of them here we are, they have so much to offer and teach us
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  There's something else Your eyes will see what you are prepared to see, prepare you daily to know so many wonderful things, nothing is enough
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  Amazing and revealing. The world offers us a thousand to do, don't miss the opportunity to perform the ones you can, you'll never finish learning
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  Humantay lagoon Don't miss it is really beautiful and in the company of the best you will love it, get there, feel and observe is the most
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Maria L 
 
 
 
  The best choice for an unforgettable travel experience A simply spectacular experience with this agency. Everything was impeccable: organization, personalized attention and a Service that exceeds any expectation. Traveling with them is a guarantee of tranquility and unforgettable moments. Without a doubt, the best choice to live unique adventures and highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   rosalia f 
 
 
 
  An unforgettable trip with the best agency “My experience with the agency was just spectacular. Everything was very well organized, from the beginning to the end of the trip. The guides were very friendly and professional, the Service excellent and every detail was thought for us to enjoy to the fullest. Thanks to you I lived an unforgettable journey full of unique moments. I recommend them with complete confidence!”
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   kalyanihariharan 
 
 
 
  Nice guide and spectacular views We did this Humantay Lake tour with Saul (our guide) and every moment of the trip was crafted exceptionally. We had nice breakfast and lunch during the tour and Saul did a remarkable work in explaining the prominence of the lake and mountains in the Incan mythology.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Daryll 
 
 
 
  An immersive day trip We had a wonderful time visiting the Humantay Lake on a full day trip from Cusco. Everything was well planned especially the guide was very helpful and patient, especially when we found it difficult to hike as we got closer to the lake.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nick 
 
 
 
  The breathtaking Humantay lake Hike with Machu Picchu 360 Experiences An absolutely stunning experience hiking to Lake Humantay with Machu Picchu 360 Experiences! The views were surreal, and the entire tour was well organized, well paced and professionally managed. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and kept the group motivated throughout the trek. Highly recommend this adventure to anyone visiting Cusco!

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Testimonials

What Our Travelers Say

Real stories from guests who explored with us.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 23 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nelson R 
 
 
 
  Outworldly beauty Long hike but well worth the effort. The experience was very nice and the staff right from the booking till driving me back to my hotel were incredibly nice and helpful. I did fel a bit shirt of breath as we got closer to the lake but the guide was quick to assist me and accompanied me all the way up to the lake ensuring that i did not have any issue. They did have an option of renting a horse but i didn´t feel it quite needful as the hike was through beautiful sites and i did have plenty of stop along the way to click photos. Would highly recommend spending a few days and acclimatizing well before doing the trek.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  OUR ANCESTORS It is important to recognize and respect our ancestors because of them here we are, they have so much to offer and teach us
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  There's something else Your eyes will see what you are prepared to see, prepare you daily to know so many wonderful things, nothing is enough
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  Amazing and revealing. The world offers us a thousand to do, don't miss the opportunity to perform the ones you can, you'll never finish learning
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Adriana Lucia C 
 
 
 
  Humantay lagoon Don't miss it is really beautiful and in the company of the best you will love it, get there, feel and observe is the most
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Maria L 
 
 
 
  The best choice for an unforgettable travel experience A simply spectacular experience with this agency. Everything was impeccable: organization, personalized attention and a Service that exceeds any expectation. Traveling with them is a guarantee of tranquility and unforgettable moments. Without a doubt, the best choice to live unique adventures and highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   rosalia f 
 
 
 
  An unforgettable trip with the best agency “My experience with the agency was just spectacular. Everything was very well organized, from the beginning to the end of the trip. The guides were very friendly and professional, the Service excellent and every detail was thought for us to enjoy to the fullest. Thanks to you I lived an unforgettable journey full of unique moments. I recommend them with complete confidence!”
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   kalyanihariharan 
 
 
 
  Nice guide and spectacular views We did this Humantay Lake tour with Saul (our guide) and every moment of the trip was crafted exceptionally. We had nice breakfast and lunch during the tour and Saul did a remarkable work in explaining the prominence of the lake and mountains in the Incan mythology.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Daryll 
 
 
 
  An immersive day trip We had a wonderful time visiting the Humantay Lake on a full day trip from Cusco. Everything was well planned especially the guide was very helpful and patient, especially when we found it difficult to hike as we got closer to the lake.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nick 
 
 
 
  The breathtaking Humantay lake Hike with Machu Picchu 360 Experiences An absolutely stunning experience hiking to Lake Humantay with Machu Picchu 360 Experiences! The views were surreal, and the entire tour was well organized, well paced and professionally managed. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and kept the group motivated throughout the trek. Highly recommend this adventure to anyone visiting Cusco!