A shorter version of the classic trail — a hike from Km 104 to Machu Picchu past key archaeological sites, ideal if you don’t have four days.
The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from Km 104 — perfect for limited time. Hike to the terraces of Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate, overnight in Aguas Calientes, then a guided tour of the citadel.
Experience the iconic Inca Trail in a shorter, unforgettable 2-day trek with INKANET ADVENTURE — perfect for adventure seekers with limited time. This world-renowned trail winds through stunning Andean mountains and lush cloud forest, revealing ancient Inca ruins like Wiñay Wayna with its intricate terraces and architecture.
Hike historic Inca paths guided by experts sharing the history and spirituality of the Inca civilization. At sunset enter through Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for a breathtaking first view of Machu Picchu, then rest in Aguas Calientes before a full guided tour of the citadel’s temples and plazas the next morning.
Hike the original stone path to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Explore the spectacular hanging terraces and architecture of this cloud-forest Inca site.
Reach Inti Punku for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.
Rest in a comfortable hotel before a fresh, early Machu Picchu tour.
Discover Machu Picchu’s temples and plazas with an expert guide on Day 2.
Walk through lush subtropical forest rich in orchids and birdlife.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu packs the magic of the classic route into two unforgettable days — a scenic train to Km 104, a climb to the terraces of Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and a full guided tour of the citadel. Here is your day-by-day plan.
Early pickup from your Cusco hotel between 3:45 and 4:15 am (or from the Sacred Valley), followed by a scenic 1h 45min drive to the Ollantaytambo train station as the sun rises over the Andes.
Around 6:40 am you board the train to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. After meeting your local guide and checking in at the control point, you begin a steady three-hour climb from 2,000 m to 2,700 m to the beautiful archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna.
After exploring the Wiñay Wayna ruins and enjoying lunch, you continue along a mostly flat trail to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, then descend to Aguas Calientes for the night.
Wake at 4:30 am with breakfast at 5:00 am, then head to the bus station in Aguas Calientes to catch one of the first buses at 5:30 am for the 30-minute ride up to the citadel.
Arriving at Machu Picchu around 6:00 am, you enjoy a complete 2.5-hour guided tour covering all the major sites, followed by free time to explore. Optionally, hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (ticket in advance, one mountain only).
You then take the bus back to Aguas Calientes with free time for lunch, board the train around 2:30 or 2:55 pm to Ollantaytambo, and transfer back to Cusco, arriving in the late afternoon.
Exactly what is covered in your Inca Trail 2D/1N tour — and what to budget separately.
A few essentials we recommend to make your Inca Trail 2D/1N day the most rewarding possible.
The Short Inca Trail needs a permit issued under your passport — book ahead. Acclimatize in Cusco for a day or two, bring broken-in shoes and a light rain jacket. Oxygen and a walking stick are provided.
The hike is rated moderate: 3 hours uphill + 1.5 hours back down. If you can walk steadily for 4–5 hours at home, you'll be fine. Horses are available at the trailhead (~ US $20) if needed.
Dry season: April to October. Skies are clearer, trails firm, colors most vibrant. Avoid the rainy season (Dec–Mar), when colors mute under cloud cover. We run tours year-round but recommend the dry months.
The Andean sun is intense at 5,000 m. Bring sunscreen SPF 50+, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF, and dress in layers. Pre-dawn is below freezing; midday can hit 18°C in the sun.
Free cancellation up to 30 days before the tour. In case of dangerous weather (snowstorms, road closures), we'll offer a free reschedule or full refund. Safety always comes first.
Travel light but smart. Here's exactly what we recommend bringing for a comfortable, safe day at altitude.
Transparent pricing — no hidden fees. The more travelers in your group, the lower the price per person.
| Group Type | Group Size | Price / Person | What's Different |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Group Most popular | 2 – 14 travelers | US $585 / pp | Mixed international group · set departure |
| Private Group ★ Best experience | 2 – 6 travelers | US $1075 / pp | Your group only · personalized pace |
| Family Package | 4+ adults & kids | US $556 / pp | 5% discount for adolescents & children |
| Group of 8+ | 8 or more travelers | From US $526 / pp | Automatic group discount at checkout |
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Full refund for cancellations 30+ days before. 50% refund 15–29 days before. Weather-related cancellations from our side = full refund or free reschedule.
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often. More? See the full FAQ page or reach us on WhatsApp.
Inca Trail 2D/1N guides
