Compare 2-day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from our trusted local partners and book with Wander Free Peru – fast replies, personal and honest support, and no extra cost. We reserve your Machu Picchu ticket and permit right away to avoid sold-out dates.
KB Adventures
Price including Machu Picchu ticket (adult) and return by train: $430
PREMIUM
TOUR OPERATOR
TreXperience
Price including Machu Picchu ticket (adult) and return by Vistadome train: $498
Why book your 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Wander Free Peru?
When you compare 2-day Inca Trail tours through Wander Free Peru, you’re not just choosing between reliable local operators. You also get expert support, fast and honest answers, and personal service to help you prepare with confidence — even for a short and powerful experience like the 2-day trek.
Booking through Wander Free Peru costs the same as booking directly — but you get extra personal support, reliable advice, and a dedicated team without paying anything extra.
We’re based in Peru, we’ve hiked the 2-day Inca Trail ourselves, and we understand every detail of the route and regulations. You get local insights, smooth coordination, and honest recommendations from a team that knows the experience inside out.
Expect fast, clear, and friendly replies. We’re available to support you in English, Dutch, or Spanish — before, during, and after your trek.
Once your permit is confirmed, we immediately reserve your Machu Picchu entrance ticket. This is essential, as daily permits for the 2-day trek are limited and sell out quickly.
We work with carefully selected local operators who offer excellent 2-day Inca Trail experiences. You choose the trek that fits your style — and we take care of all the details.
What is the short inca trail to Machu Picchu?
The 2-day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 2-day, 1-night trekking experience. It is designed for those who want to follow in the footsteps of the Incas — without committing to the full 4-day adventure. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time, families with children, people with less trekking experience, or anyone looking for an easier alternative to the classic 4-day inca trail.
Where the 2-day Short Inca Trail starts?
The hike begins at KM 104 on the railway between Cusco and Aguas Calientes. From there, you’ll walk through beautiful cloud forest landscapes, encountering original Inca stonework and historical ruins, including Chachabamba and the stunning Wiñay Wayna site.
Entering Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate
The highlight of the first day is reaching Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) in the late afternoon — where you’ll witness your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, often with far fewer tourists than during peak hours. You’ll then descend to Aguas Calientes for dinner and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
A full tour of Machu Picchu on day 2
On the second day, you’ll return early to Machu Picchu for a 2–3 hour guided tour through the ancient citadel. There’s also the option to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required).
Compare 2-day short Inca Trail vs classic 4-day Inca Trail
When you compare 2-day Short Inca Trail experiences with the classic 4-day trek, the key differences are the shorter distance (approx. 10 km), the absence of camping, and a more moderate difficulty level. This version also requires less acclimatization and permits are often easier to obtain — though early booking is still strongly recommended.
Want to know what our classic 4-day Inca Trail options are like? Compare the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu here.
Who is it for?
The Short Inca Trail is perfect for those who want to experience the history, nature, and mystique of Machu Picchu, including the unique thrill of entering through the Sun Gate — all in just two days.
Frequently asked questions about the 2-day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Short Inca Trail is around 10 to 13 kilometers (6 to 8 miles) long. Most of the hike is done on Day 1, taking about 6 to 7 hours, and finishes at the Sun Gate with your first view of Machu Picchu. Day 2 is dedicated to a guided tour of the ruins.
Yes — the 2-day Short Inca Trail is definitely worth it! It lets you experience original Inca Trail stonework, visit the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. If you compare 2-day Short Inca Trail options to the longer 4-day trek, you’ll see it offers the same magical arrival with far less time and effort.
The short version of the Inca Trail is a 2-day trek starting at KM 104, with one full day of hiking and one day visiting Machu Picchu. It includes highlights like Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and entering through the Sun Gate. Many travelers compare 2-day Short Inca Trail tours as an easier and quicker alternative to the classic 4-day hike.
The absolute shortest way to reach Machu Picchu is by train and visiting the site in a single day. But if you want to hike, the shortest trek is the 2-day Short Inca Trail, which still gives you the unique experience of walking into Machu Picchu via the original trail.
No — all Inca Trail routes, including the 2-day version, require you to go with a licensed guide and registered tour company. You cannot hike it independently. When you compare 2-day Short Inca Trail tours, be sure to choose a trusted local operator.
Yes, 4 hours is usually enough to visit the main parts of Machu Picchu. Guided tours typically last around 2 to 3 hours, after which you have extra time to explore or take photos at your own pace.
Overall itinerary for the 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, 1 night
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Morning
- Hotel pickup in Cusco or Sacred Valley: Start your adventure early with a pickup between 3:45 and 4:15 a.m. from Cusco hotels or later from the Sacred Valley.
- Drive to Ollantaytambo: A scenic 1 hour and 45-minute drive brings you to the train station.
- Train journey to Km 104: Enjoy a stunning ride departing around 6:40 a.m., arriving at the starting point of your trek.
Midday
- Start hiking from Km 104: Meet your guide, pass the Inca Trail checkpoint, and begin the 3-hour uphill hike to Wiñaywayna (2,700m/8,858ft).
- Lunch at Wiñaywayna: Explore this incredible archaeological site with your guide and enjoy your packed lunch amidst breathtaking views.
Afternoon
- Hike to Intipunku (Sun Gate): Continue a 2-hour hike along a mostly flat trail to the Sun Gate, where you’ll be rewarded with iconic views of Machu Picchu.
- Descend to Machu Picchu: Hike down for 45 minutes to the upper part of Machu Picchu, capturing classic photos with the stunning backdrop of Waynapicchu mountain.
Evening
- Bus to Aguas Calientes: Take a 30-minute bus ride to the town of Aguas Calientes.
- Hotel check-In & dinner: Relax at a cozy hotel and enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner at a local restaurant while discussing the next day’s plans with your guide.
Key details:
- Hiking distance: 12 km (7 miles)
- Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Weather: Hot and humid
Day 2: Guided Machu Picchu Tour – Return to Cusco
Morning
- Early start: Wake up at 4:30 a.m. and have breakfast at 5:00 a.m.
- Bus to Machu Picchu: Take one of the first buses at 5:30 a.m. for the 30-minute ride to the entrance gate, arriving as it opens at 6:00 a.m.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu: Explore the iconic archaeological site with a 2.5-hour guided tour of the most important areas, including temples, terraces, and plazas.
Midday
- Optional mountain hikes: If pre-booked, hike Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes offer spectacular views and take about 2-2.5 hours.
Afternoon
- Return to Aguas Calientes: After your visit, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for free time to explore the town and enjoy lunch (not included).
- Train to Ollantaytambo: Board a train departing in the afternoon. for a scenic 1.5-hour ride.
Evening
- Transfer to Cusco: Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, a private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, with an estimated arrival around 7:00 p.m.
Key details:
- Duration at Machu Picchu: Up to 3 hours (guided and self-exploration)
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Weather: Cool mornings, warm afternoons
Activities on the 2-day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Trek the iconic 2-day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, blending hiking with cultural immersion.
- Explore Wiñaywayna and Intipunku (Sun Gate), key Inca archaeological sites.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, uncovering its history and mysteries.
- Optionally hike Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views.
- Relax in Aguas Calientes with free time for shopping or enjoying local cuisine.
- Experience scenic train rides and a comfortable journey back to Cusco.
This 2-day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is ideal for adventurers seeking a shorter trek while still experiencing the grandeur of the Inca Trail and the magic of Machu Picchu!