Short Inca Trail – 2 Days / 1 Night

Starting From US$ 480 Per Person

Duration

2 Days / 1 Night

Group Size

Min 2 People

Difficulty

Moderate

Max Altitude

2,720 m

Cusco – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

The Ultimate Adventure By Peru Culture Horizons

The Short Inca Trail (2D/1N) is the ideal option for travelers who want the Inca Trail experience but with less time and effort. This route starts at KM 104, includes the stunning ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and finishes at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — just like the Classic Inca Trail.

The Short Inca Trail (2D/1N) is the ideal option for travelers who want the Inca Trail experience but with less time and effort. This route starts at KM 104, includes the stunning ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and finishes at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — just like the Classic Inca Trail.

With Peru Culture Horizons, you’ll enjoy a perfectly organized journey including permits, trains, professional guides, hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and comfort.

  • Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night

  • Difficulty: Moderate (approx. 12 km hike on Day 1)

  • Best For: Families, couples, cultural travelers with limited time

👉 Experience the magic of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in just two days.

Itinerary – Short Inca Trail 2D/1N

  • Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes

    • Early transfer to Ollantaytambo Station and train to KM 104.
    • Begin the 12 km trek (6–7 hours) on original Inca stone pathways.
    • Visit Chachabamba and the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins.
    • Continue through cloud forest trails to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
    • Descend to Aguas Calientes, overnight in hotel.

  • Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

    • Early bus up to Machu Picchu.
    • Guided tour (2–3 hours) of the citadel: temples, terraces, and sacred sites.
    • Free time for exploration or optional hike (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – subject to availability).
    • Afternoon train to Ollantaytambo, private transfer to Cusco.

What is Included?

  • Private transfers Cusco – train station – Cusco

  • Train tickets (Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)

  • Inca Trail permit + Machu Picchu entry ticket

  • Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide

  • 1-night hotel in Aguas Calientes (3★ included, upgrades available)

  • Bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

  • Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner

  • First aid kit & oxygen

What is not Included?

  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits (optional)

  • Travel insurance & personal expenses

  • Tips for guides

Passport (mandatory for checkpoints & Machu Picchu)

Comfortable trekking shoes

Lightweight clothing + warm layers

Rain jacket & poncho

Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

Small backpack (water, snacks, camera)

Walking poles (optional, with rubber tips)

 With Peru Culture Horizons, you can upgrade to Vistadome or Hiram Bingham trains and boutique hotels for a more luxurious experience.

Why Travel With Us

Licensed Inca Trail operator with expert local guides.

Seamless logistics: permits, trains, hotels, and entry tickets included.

Small groups & private departures for personalized attention.

Commitment to authentic, safe, and sustainable tourism.

FAQ – Short Inca Trail 2D/1N

1. What’s the difference between the Short and Classic Inca Trail?

 The Short Inca Trail is 12 km (1 day of hiking) instead of 42 km (4 days). You still enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

2. Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

 Yes, but permits must be requested in advance.

3. Is this tour suitable for beginners?

 Yes, it’s perfect for travelers in average physical condition.

booking

Short Inca Trail 2D/1N
Starting from $480

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Contact Us Easily

Let us arrange everything for you properly. Contact us, and one of our travel specialists will provide you with everything you need to make this an unforgettable experience.

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