2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
5.0 (35 Reviews)
2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu With a Local Private Guide
Explore the wonders of the ancient Short Inca Trail towards the iconic Machu Picchu, a perfect hiking option for those who have limited time and who want to arrive in Machu Picchu via Sungate.
This 2 day Short Inca Trail hike offers an exceptional adventure, allowing you to witness the ancient temples located along the trail and the breathtaking vistas. This 2 day hike also allows you to enjoy the magical and mystical beauty of the famed Machu Picchu by trekking through the Gate of the Sun and see its greatness from the moment the sun comes up, surrounded by majestic Andean mountains.
The 2 day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a hike through the mountains and the highland jungle, tracing in the footsteps of the Incas. Along the trail, you’ll visit Incan archeological sites like Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Sungate, and of course, the impressive Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide from Beyond Andes Travel.
This hike to Machu Picchu may be short but you’ll still have the opportunity to experience a train journey through beautiful Andean scenery, impressive archaeological sites, and above all, the great chance to experience Machu Picchu. The hike ends with a beautiful sunset at Machu Picchu on the first day where you’ll be one of the few travelers to see this magical moment. The following day, you’ll wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over the ancient citadel, taking in the beauty of the citadel and the surrounding Andes landscape with your private guide at your side.
This 2 day Short Inca Trail is designed by our trek experts for those travelers looking for excitement, adventure, and a deeper comprehension of the history and culture of Peru. Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime hike on the final leg of the classic 4 day Inca Trail trek.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS IN BRIEF:
Trip Summary
2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu Summary
- Pre-trip briefing: A day before the tour at 5:00 PM at the client’s hotel
- Tour start point: Cusco – Hotel pick-up at 4:00 AM
- Tour end point: Cusco – Hotel drop-off around 7:00 PM
- Pick-up & Drop-off: Sacred Valley (Urubamba, Ollantaytambo) available at no extra charge (pick-up time may vary).
- Guides: Knowledgeable, Funny, and Friendly (unique character of Beyond Andes Guides).
- Service Type: Private and Semi-private service.
- Departure: Daily departures, available for booking on any date, we require 2 people to open a new departure.
- Group Size: Up to 10 participants
- Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Tickets: Included in the tour cost.
- Dietary Options: Besides the regular lunch box we provide Vegetarian/Vegan food upon request at no extra charge.
- Best time to hike: From May through October.
Itinerary
1Cusco - Ollantaytambo Train Station - Km 104 - Machu Picchu
Venture on a thrilling adventure via the Short Inca Trail and experience the wonders of Machu Picchu on this 2 Day hike with our professional guide.
Your adventure to the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu begins with an early morning (3:45 am) pick-up from your hotel in Cusco city and 2 hours drive to Ollantaytambo train station. From here, you’ll board the Expedition Class Train and travel to KM 104 (trailhead). Along the way, you’ll be enchanted by the beautiful views of ancient Inca ruins, snow-capped peaks, and the roaring Urubamba River.
Upon arrival at Km 104 (trailhead), you’ll cross the Urubamba River by a footbridge and register at the official Inca Trail checkpoint before starting your hike to Machu Picchu. Our experienced guide will provide a brief orientation regarding today’s hike and also provide you with a packed lunch for the hike ahead. You’ll explore the fascinating Chachabamba archaeological site and immerse yourself in the stunning landscape as you continue a gentle uphill hike with several lookout stops along the way.
The highlight of this trek is undoubtedly the awe-inspiring Wiñay Wayna, a beautiful Inca site that boasts religious water fountains, a temple dedicated to nature, homes, and stunning agricultural terraces. Take a moment to unwind and connect with Mother Nature here, surrounded by the soft whisper of the wind and birdsongs. Just close by this site, you’ll enjoy a lunch box (lunch boxes are provided since there are no restaurants along the trail), after enjoying a delicious packed lunch, you’ll continue hiking to the Sun Gate also known as Inti Punku where you’ll be rewarded with the first views of Machu Picchu nestled among the mountains.
The landscape is truly stunning, you’ll feel the mystery and wonders of the Incas as you capture postcard-worthy photos and ponder their amazing engineering feats. From here, you’ll hike a gentle downhill for 45 minutes to the Machu Picchu Citadel where you’ll take in the stunning sunset from the official viewpoint. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos from the official viewing terrace before heading to Aguas Calientes town by bus and then to your hotel.
With Beyond Andes Travel, you’ll trek with an exclusive Inca Trail guide, explore hidden Inca ruins, and immerse yourself in breathtaking Andean landscapes. This short-duration trek is perfect for families and travelers with tight schedules, though we recommend being well-prepared and healthy prior to starting the hike.
Food
Lunch included
Physical Level
Moderate
Walking Distance
7.45 miles
Hiking Time
6 - 7 hours
Starting Altitude
2,150 m / 7,054 ft
Highest Altitude
2,720m / 8,924 ft
Weather
Nov-April Wet season, May-Oct Dry season
2Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Cusco
2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will pick you up from your hotel to embark on a short 25-minute bus drive back to the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu. With your knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll explore the Inca Citadel on foot, gazing out at the stunning scenery and marveling at the incredible constructions that have stood the test of time.
Discover the Main Temples, the Royal Tomb, agricultural Terraces, the Sacred Plaza, the Royal Quarters, Water Fountains, the Temple of the Three Windows, and more, as your private guide shares insights into how these parts of the rugged mountain were used by the Incans. Don’t forget to capture pictures of the incredible views at Machu Picchu.
Your guided tour of this amazing site will be for approximately 3 hours, as our guide will deliver you with history and culture of the people who built and inhabited this unique place. After the tour, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes town where you’ll have free time to explore the town and enjoy a delicious lunch.
When you’re ready, it’s time to board the train back to Ollantaytambo train station where our driver will be waiting for you to transfer back to your hotel in either Sacred Valley or Cusco city. End of the adventure.
Food
Not included
Physical Level
Easiest
Walking Distance
Short walks
Weather
Nov-April Wet season, May-Oct Dry season
Note on Itinerary
Although we strive to strictly follow the itinerary outlined above, please be advised that it is subject to changes due to many factors beyond our control. These factors may include incidents in the operated destination, strikes, political disputes, terrorism attempts, entry or border difficulties, extreme weather conditions, flight cancellations, and other unforeseeable circumstances. Please note that Beyond Andes Travel is not responsible for any changes or amendments resulting from such circumstances.
In the event that we must deviate from the original schedule or itinerary, we will make our best to provide the best alternative options available to ensure a fantastic experience. However, any additional expenses that may be incurred will be the sole responsibility of the client and not of & Beyond Andes Travel.
Included
- Inca Trail permits and entrance tickets to Machu Picchu (the Inca Trail ticket grants you to visit Machu Picchu)
- Round trip private Van or SUV from hotel to train station.
- Round trip train tickets on expedition class.
- 3-ways shuttle bus tickets between Machu Picchu citadel and Aguas Calientes town.
- Professional Beyond Andes Guide
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco city and drop off at the same place.
- Oxygen tank
- Packed lunch comes with an option for vegetarians.
Not Included
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu Town (there are many options for different rates and we can book it for you upon your request).
- Machu Picchu Regular Tickets (this is an additional ticket for Machu Picchu citadel to explore it the whole site since the Inca trail ticket allows you to visit the lower part of the Inca citadel, the extra cost is $65.00 per ticket, if interested in this extra ticket, please let us know at the moment of tour booking).
- Breakfast and dinner (breakfast is provided by hotels in Cusco, make sure to get provided a packed breakfast by the hotel).
- Travel insurance
- PayPal fees
- Gratuities
What to bring
- Original passport
- Comfortable, lightweight trekking clothes or activewear (layers recommended)
- Waterproof, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and traction, especially if traveling in the wet season from November to April.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Small daypack or backpack (approximately 25L)
- Down jacket
- Hat and gloves
- Hand sanitizer
- Sun hat or cap
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Water (at least 1L)
- Personal medication
- Muscle relaxers
- Painkillers or anti-inflammatories
- Band-Aids (especially those made for blisters)
- Toilet paper
- Camera
- Cash (in small denominations of Peruvian Nuevos soles or $)
Recommendations
To make the most of your Short Inca Trail Hike, please consider the following tips or recommendations.
- Please, allow yourself 2 days at least in Cusco or Sacred Valley to get acclimated for this hike.
- This hike to Machu Picchu is regulated by the Peruvian government thus the tickets are limited to 250 a day to protect the historical trail. That is why you should book your spots ASAP. Spaces can be filled up 2 to 3 months in advance. Spaces fill more quickly in the high tourist season, from May to September.
- Must bring the original passport (a copy will not be accepted), passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the date the traveler will enter Peru (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both passports).
- Exercise and train for this hike, you can start by walking short distances and then you can choose a bit harder and longer walk, it’s a good idea to break in your boots as well.
- Bring a backpack whose size is 35L because on this hike you will carry your own personal belongings plus the lunch box we will provide, so you need to have enough room in your backpack.
- If have knees problems, it is recommendable to bring hiking poles, your poles must have rubber tips.
Pricing List
Private Service
Tour Payment Schedule
- At time of reservation: 50% of the total balance.
- 60 days prior to departure: Balance should be paid fully, or once upon your arrival in Cusco the other 50% of final balance must be paid fully.
Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule
- Minimum fee: $70 per person
- 61-90 days prior to departure: 30% of trip cost
- 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
- 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost
| Number of persons | Price per person | |
| 1 Persons | $ USD 950.00 | Inquire Now |
| 2 Persons | $ USD 530.00 | Inquire Now |
| 3 Persons | $ USD 500.00 | Inquire Now |
| 4 Persons | $ USD 450.00 | Inquire Now |
| 5 Persons | $ USD 400.00 | Inquire Now |
Faqs 2 Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
The best time to hike to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, you can expect clear blue skies and pleasant temperatures.
The difficulty level of the hike depends on the route you choose. The Classic 4-day Inca Trail is the most difficult, with steep inclines and high altitudes. The Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek are both considered moderately difficult, while the Short Inca Trail is the easiest.
Yes, it is highly recommended that you need to be in good physical condition before attempting a hike to Machu Picchu. The altitude can be challenging for some hikers, so it is important to get acclimated properly before the hike and take breaks as needed during the trek.
Yes, all hikers are required to have a licensed guide to hike to Machu Picchu by Inca Trail. This is a regulation from the Peruvian Government to ensure the safety of all hikers and to protect the site.
The duration of the hike depends on the route you select. The Classic Inca Trail takes 4 days to complete, while the Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek take 5-7 days. The Short Inca Trail takes 2 days.
It is highly recommendable to bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, a bottle of water, and a backpack. It is also recommended to bring altitude sickness medication and rain gear, as the weather is unpredictable.
Unlike the Inca Trail, other trails can be hiked by yourself, but it is highly recommendable to go with a licensed tour operator that provides a professional guide. This is to protect the trail and ensure the safety of all hikers. If planning to hike the Classic Inca Trail then you must go with a licensed company.
Book Now
Why us
THE BEST TEAM
When you venture into the uncrowded spots of Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, you need a great team around you. And we have the greatest. You’ll join professional licensed guides who surpass every standard imaginable for safety and preparedness in the Cusco and other regions of Peru...
WE ARE FLEXIBLE
At our company, we understand that plans can be subject to change. Whether you need to add more travelers to your party or wish to extend your trip during your stay, we are well-equipped to accommodate a wide range of requests, from the expected to the unexpected. Our experienced team has...
TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCES
Unlike many travel companies that offer standardized packages and experiences, we pride ourselves on providing a unique, customized travel experience for each and every one of our clients. Our website serves as a starting point, offering inspiration and ideas, but we believe that each trip should...
BEST VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY
We acknowledge that your leisure time is valuable and must be utilized to its fullest potential. Entrusting us with the responsibility of planning your trip to Machu Picchu Peru is a significant display of confidence in our services. Therefore, we assure you that we will provide personalized...
TripAdvisor Reviews
Beyond Andes Travel
Related Tours
We have a great selection of day tours and multi-day tours in Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu, which were crafted by our expert team, if you did not find what you are looking for, please explore our similar tours below or email us to get further assistance.
