Discover the 2-day Short Inca Trail with TreXperience to Machu Picchu. Enjoy stunning views, guided hikes, Sun Gate access, and a comfortable stay in Aguas Calientes. Includes return by Vistadome train (upgrade), meals, and entry tickets for an unforgettable experience of history, culture, and nature. Book now!
Moderate
Difficulty
12
Max. group size
03:45-04:15
Pick-up time
Moderate
Difficulty
12
Max. group size
03:45-04:15
Pick-up time
2
Duration in days
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2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with TreXperience trip details
The 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with TreXperience itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Short Inca Trail – Aguas Calientes
Morning:
Pickup in Cusco: Early pickup (3:45–4:15 a.m.) and drive to Ollantaytambo train station.
Train journey: Enjoy scenic views on the 1.5-hour train ride to Km 104, where your hike begins.
Start hiking: Check-in at the Inca Trail control point and start your trek. The first stretch is a 4-hour uphill hike through the stunning cloud forest.
Afternoon:
Visit Wiñaywayna: Explore this incredible Inca site, often called the “Forever Young Place.” Your guide will explain its history while you admire the terraced ruins and breathtaking views.
Lunch break: Enjoy a packed lunch provided by your guide.
Evening:
Sun Gate arrival: Hike for 2 hours to Intipunku (Sun Gate) for your first magical view of Machu Picchu, with fewer crowds in the late afternoon.
Descent to Aguas Calientes: Walk downhill for 45 minutes to the citadel and then take a bus to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Dinner and rest: Check into a cozy 3-star hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, and prepare for your big day at Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Morning:
Early breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Bus to Machu Picchu: Board the first bus at 5:30 a.m. to reach the iconic site by sunrise.
Guided tour: Your guide will lead a 2–3-hour exploration of Machu Picchu, explaining its history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Afternoon:
Free exploration: Enjoy about 30 minutes to explore the site on your own or hike one of the nearby mountains (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Montaña, booked in advance).
Return to Aguas Calientes: Take a bus back to town for lunch and some free time to shop or relax.
Evening:
Train to Ollantaytambo: Board the panoramic train for a scenic ride back to Ollantaytambo.
Transfer to Cusco: A driver will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 p.m.
Included on the 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with TreXperience trip
Safety briefing the day before the tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional tour guide
Train to Km 104 (Expedition or Voyager)
Panoramic return train (Vistadome or 360°)
Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu (Day 2)
Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
1-night stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals: 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
Satellite phones, first-aid kit, oxygen supply
Complimentary luggage storage
Excluded on the 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with TreXperience trip
Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 2
Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain
Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain
Travel insurance
What to bring on 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with TreXperience
Essentials:
Original passport
Comfortable daypack (25L max)
Hiking boots (broken-in)
Reusable water bottles (2 liters capacity)
Rain jacket or poncho
Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Trekking poles (optional)
Clothing:
Quick-dry t-shirts and hiking pants
Warm layers for early mornings
Lightweight gloves and beanie
Spare socks and underwear
Personal items:
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes
Snacks for energy
Camera or phone with extra battery/power bank
Cash for tips and personal expenses
Description of 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with TreXperience
The 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect choice for adventurous travelers short on time. This trek combines breathtaking scenery, ancient Inca ruins, and a magical visit to Machu Picchu. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers, this hike provides an unforgettable experience with fewer crowds, a visit to the Sun Gate, and expert guidance along the way.
Experience the Magic of the Sun Gate (Intipunku)
The highlight of Day 1 is reaching the Sun Gate (Intipunku) in the late afternoon. This entrance was historically reserved for pilgrims arriving at Machu Picchu, offering an awe-inspiring view of the citadel as the light softens. You’ll enjoy this iconic spot with fewer visitors, making it an intimate and serene experience.
Explore Machu Picchu
On Day 2, explore the world-famous Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Your guide will take you through its temples, plazas, and terraces, revealing fascinating stories about its history and mysteries. Witness the genius of Inca engineering, including its advanced water systems and earthquake-resistant architecture.
Comfort and convenience
The tour includes a comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, a delicious dinner, and a panoramic train ride back to Cusco. Everything is carefully planned for a seamless and memorable experience.
Activities on the 2-day Short Inca Trail with TreXperience
Hiking the Inca Trail from Km 104.
Exploring Wiñaywayna archaeological site.
Reaching the Sun Gate for panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring temples, plazas, and terraces.
Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Montaña.
Scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley.
Free time to explore Aguas Calientes.
Why Choose the 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
This tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive experience with less time commitment. With stunning views, rich history, and personalized service, it’s a journey that blends adventure, culture, and nature.
What to expect on your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail is a beautiful hike through mountains, forests, and ancient Inca sites. The trail can be muddy or slippery, especially during the rainy season (Nov–Apr). In some cases, the route or campsite may change for safety reasons.
We follow official Inca Trail rules and work with licensed guides and porters. You carry your own daypack; the team carries the group gear.
We want you to feel informed and well-prepared before starting your trek. If you have any questions, just ask us.
Important: Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets are non-refundable, non-changeable, and non-transferable. If you skip part of the trail or leave the tour early, this is your responsibility. We cannot refund any part of the trek or unused entries. Transport and extra tickets are not included.
Facts about the 2-day Short Inca Trail with TreXperience
Wiñaywayna’s name: The name means “Forever Young” in Quechua, reflecting the beauty and vitality of its terraced landscapes.
Sun Gate: Intipunku was the traditional entrance for those completing the full Inca Trail, symbolizing a spiritual connection to the sacred site.
Machu Picchu’s discovery: American explorer Hiram Bingham rediscovered the citadel in 1911. However, locals always knew about the site!
Cloud forest: Machu Picchu is nestled in a unique ecosystem, blending Andean mountains and tropical forests, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
