The short Inca Trail 2 days is a fantastic option for those who don’t have the time or desire to hike the full length of the Inca Trail. With beautiful scenery, a wide variety of flora and fauna on display and a visit to the Inca Trail’s most beautiful site (Wiñay Wayna), you get to enjoy the all the best bits of the Inca Trail condensed in to a one day walk. Covering a distance of just 10km / 6.3 miles the Inca Trail 2 days is not too challenging which makes it perfect for families with children and those on a tight schedule.
The Short 2-day Inca Trail hike offers a unique opportunity to experience the highlights of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in a shorter time. On day one, you’ll hike through the cloud forest, visit beautiful Inca sites, and arrive at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate, avoiding large crowds. On day two, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu. This trek includes freshly prepared meals, small groups, and a luxurious return on the Vistadome train. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families, it combines stunning scenery, rich history, and unforgettable experiences.
Day 1: Cusco - Km 104 - Machu Picchu
The journey begins early with a pick-up from your hotel at 4:00 am in Cusco or Ollantaytambo at 5:40 am, followed by a train ride along the Urubamba River to Km 104 (Chachabamba). After passing the checkpoint, you'll enjoy a breakfast prepared by a trekking chef and begin your 7-hour hike on the Short Inca Trail. The hike includes stops at the Inca site of Chachabamba and the stunning Wiñaywayna site. A gourmet picnic lunch will be provided along the way. Continue to the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu, arriving in the afternoon with fewer crowds. After taking in the views, you’ll head to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay in a 3-star hotel.
Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco
On the second day, you'll visit Machu Picchu early in the morning for a 2-3 hour guided tour, exploring its temples, terraces, and history. After the tour, you can opt for additional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking required). Afterward, enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes and explore the town before boarding the Panoramic Vistadome train back to Cusco with Quinoa Expeditions Team, arriving around 7:30 p.m.
Meals: Breakfast (hotel), lunch in Aguas Calientes
Difficulty: Moderate to easy
- Included:
- Safety briefing the day before the tour
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Professional tour guide
- All transportation throughout the tour
- Train ride to Km 104 (Expedition or Voyager)
- Return on the Panoramic Vistadome Train or 360°
- Bus ride from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
- Round-trip bus to Machu Picchu (Day 2)
- Entry tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- 1-night accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Picnic breakfast & lunch on Day 1
- 1 dinner at a local restaurant on Day 1
- 1 breakfast at the hotel on Day 2
- Satellite phones, first-aid kit, and oxygen supply
- Complimentary luggage storage - Not Included:
- Lunch on Day 2
- Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain
- Travel insurance - Optional hikes after Machu Picchu tour:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $70 per person (2-hour round trip)
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $70 per person (3-hour round trip)
You can only hike one of these mountains, which takes place after your guided tour of Machu Picchu. Advanced booking is required for both hikes.
Ultimate Packing List for the 2-Day Inca Trail
For the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, pack light, as porters won’t carry your belongings. A small, comfortable daypack is essential, no larger than 25 liters. If needed, you can request a personal porter for an extra fee or send some items directly to the hotel by train at no cost (with prior notice).
Essentials:
- Daypack: Lightweight, comfortable, and under 25 liters.
- Passport: Must be original and valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- Valid Student Card: If booked as a student, must be original and valid.
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in shoes for the trail.
- Water Storage: At least 2 liters of water in reusable containers (no plastic bottles allowed at Machu Picchu).
- Trekking Poles: Recommended for day 1 of the trail (not allowed at Machu Picchu).
- Rain Gear: Always bring a rain jacket or poncho due to unpredictable weather.
- Buff/Bandana: For sun protection.
- Hat/Cap: Lightweight, easy to pack.
- Sunglasses: UV protection for hiking.
Clothing:
- 2 T-shirts (long-sleeved preferred).
- 2 Hiking Pants/Trousers.
- Underwear and moisture-wicking socks.
- Extra clothes for 2 days.
- Warm layers for cold mornings.
- Swimsuit (optional for hot springs).
Toiletries:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Toilet paper or wet wipes.
Accessories & Food:
- Camera, fully charged phone, and extra batteries.
- Snacks, power bars, chocolates.
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
First Aid Kit:
- Pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
- Band-aids for cuts/blisters.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Aloe Vera gel and hydrocortisone cream.
- Bandage and moleskin for blisters.
Packing Tips:
- Pack Light: Focus on essentials as no porter assistance is available.
- Reusable Containers: Bring reusable water bottles.
- Health Essentials: Personal medication and first aid items.
Sending a Carry-on to the Hotel:
You can send a small carry-on (max. 5 kg) to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. It should contain clothes and toiletries for the next day. Ensure you advise in advance to arrange the transfer by train. Carry all essentials for the hike in your daypack.
Price for the Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour
Price per person:
Group Service:
- Adults: From US$ 490
- Children and Students: From US$ 460 .
Private Service:
- 2 trekkers: $790
- 3 trekkers: $690
- 4 trekkers to 7 trekkers: $590
- 8 or more trekkers: $490
Private tours are priced based on group size, ensuring a more personalized experience for each group.
- Booking: To reserve your spot, an initial payment of US$ 200 per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at the office in Cusco.
Student Discount:
- US$ 30 off per person
- Travelers under 17 or students under 25 can qualify for the discount with a valid student ID. For the discount code, email Info@quinoaexpeditionsperu.com.
Valid Student ID Requirements:
- Must be 25 years or younger at the time of visiting Machu Picchu.
- ID must include the university name, student name, and a photo.
- The ID must have an expiration date.
Invalid Student IDs:
- IDs for travelers over 25 years old.
- Expired IDs.
- IDs without an expiration date.
- ISIC cards are not valid for the discount.
Overview.
- The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day adventure:
- Day 1: 6–7-hour hike on the Inca Trail.
- Day 2: Visit and explore Machu Picchu.
- Ideal for travelers wanting to experience the Inca Trail without the full 4-day trek.
Location.
- Starts at Km 104 (Chachabamba Control Point), 70 km from Cusco.
- Passes through Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, Intipata, Sun Gate (Inti Punku), ending at Machu Picchu.
Trail Details.
- Distance: 13 km (8 miles)
- Duration: Approx. 7 hours
- Terrain: Moderately challenging with steep stairs and narrow paths.
Inca Sites Along the Trail.
1. Chachabamba – ceremonial center
2. Wiñaywayna – large terraces and buildings
3. Intipata – visible terraces from the trail
4. Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – first view of Machu Picchu
5. Machu Picchu – iconic Inca citadel
Flora & Fauna.
- Plants: Aguaymanto, Alstroemeria, Bromeliads, Cattleya Orchids, Hibiscus
- Animals: Spectacled Bear, Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Vizcacha, Andean Agouti, Dwarf Brocket Deer, butterflies, snakes, llamas, and more.
Weather & Best Time to Hike.
- Best Season:April to October (dry season)
- Rainy Season: November to March (lush landscapes, fewer crowds, but wet)
Regulation.
- Limited to 250 people per day
- Must be booked with an authorized tour operator
- Permits are nonrefundable/nontransferable
- Trail closed in February
- Plastic bottles and pets are prohibited
- Only guide dogs are allowed
Prohibited Items.
- Alcohol, drugs, weapons, large backpacks, professional gear (without a permit), pets
-Leave no trace: Carry out all waste, follow marked paths
Safety & Tour Info.
- Expert guides, small group sizes (1 guide per 8 hikers)
- Equipment includes First Aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phones
- Briefing before the hike for safety and preparation
- Acclimatization recommended (2 days in Cusco before hike)
Tour Operators.
- Must be government-authorized (e.g., Quinoa Expeditions)
- Tours typically include entry tickets, panoramic train, meals, and hotel.
Why Book with Quinoa Expeditions?
Choosing Quinoa Expeditions for your Short Inca Trail adventure means choosing a truly authentic and high-quality experience. Here's why Quinoa Expeditions stands out from the rest:
Local Experts You Can Trust
Quinoa Expeditions is a 100% locally owned Peruvian company, committed to providing the most authentic, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible tours. Booking with us means you're supporting the local economy while getting the best service at the best price, with no middlemen involved.
Professional and Passionate Tour Guides.
Our tour guides are highly trained professionals, fluent in English and full of knowledge about the history, archaeology, and natural environment of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. They’re also trained in First Aid and Mountain Rescue, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey. More than guides, they are storytellers and caretakers of Inca heritage.
Top-Rated Exclusive Hotel Accommodations
We partner with top-rated 3-star hotels in Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) to guarantee you a comfortable and relaxing stay after your hike. These accommodations offer modern amenities, excellent service, and easy access to Machu Picchu.
Panoramic Train Experience.
Quinoa Expeditions is the only tour company that includes Panoramic trains (either the Vistadome or the 360° train) as part of the standard package. These trains feature large glass windows and dome ceilings, allowing you to soak in the stunning views of the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu Canyon, and the Urubamba River—turning your journey into a scenic experience in itself.
Quinoa Expeditions combines local expertise, exceptional service, comfort, and a deep respect for nature and culture, offering you an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu. Whether you prefer a cozy hotel. Quinoa Expeditions ensures every detail is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying the adventure of a lifetime.
