DOS MANOS PERU Travel & tours in Peru
DOS MANOS PERU Travel & tours in Peru

Short 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu


yes
Meals
small groups or private
Group size
up to 2730 m
Altitude
moderate/challenging
Dificulty

Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N: Why Go

Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N

The Short 2 Day Inca Trail is the perfect option for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail but have limited time. This route allows you to walk the original Inca stone paths, visit impressive archaeological sites, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, all in just two days.

Starting at Km 104, you follow one of the most scenic sections of the classic trail. You visit the spectacular Inca site of Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.

This trek is ideal if you want a meaningful hiking experience combined with comfort, including a hotel night in Aguas Calientes instead of camping.

What to Expect

On the first day, you take the train from the Sacred Valley to Km 104, where your guided hike begins. The trail climbs gradually through cloud forest landscapes with beautiful mountain views. Along the way, your guide explains the history of the Inca Trail and the significance of the archaeological sites.

After visiting Wiñay Wayna, you continue toward the Sun Gate. In the afternoon, you enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu before descending to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay in a hotel.

On day two, you return to Machu Picchu early in the morning for a guided visit of the citadel, followed by free time before taking the train back to Cusco.

Extra Info: Inca Trail Permits

Like the 4 Day Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail requires an official government permit. The number of daily permits is limited and includes hikers, guides, and porters.

Permits often sell out several months in advance, especially during high season from May to September. Early booking is strongly recommended to secure availability. Only local agencies in Cusco can buy the permits.

Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N

Photos

Tour Details

Highlights

Walk a historic section of the original Inca Trail and visit Wiñay Wayna

Arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate before your guided tour

Location:
Inca Trail starting at Km 104
Tour type:
2 day group or private trek
Duration:
2 days and 1 night
Altitude:
Up to 2730 m
Difficulty:
Moderate
Best season:
Dry season from April to October; limited availability year round

Additional Options:

Tour type: Trekking, hotel stay, guided walking tour, train return

  • Upgrade return train to Vistadome
  • Add extra Machu Picchu circuits if available
  • Private departure available
  • Add an additional night in Aguas Calientes
  • Upgrade the hotel in Aguas Calientes

Itinerary

  • 2 Day Inca Trail
  • Early pickup from your hotel in Cusco
  • Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
  • Train ride to Km 104 and start of the hike
  • Guided trekking with visit to Wiñay Wayna
  • Arrival at the Sun Gate in the afternoon
  • Descent to Machu Picchu and transfer to Aguas Calientes
  • Overnight in hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Early morning bus to Machu Picchu on day 2
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Return to Cusco by Expedition train and transfer
  • Day by Day Overview
  • Day 1: Train to Km 104 and start of the Short Inca Trail. Hike through cloud forest and visit Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate. Descend to Aguas Calientes for hotel overnight.
  • Day 2: Early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the citadel. Train trip back to Cusco.

Please note that the times provided in the above itinerary are approximate and subject to change. Last-minute adjustments may occur due to weather conditions, political unrest, or other unforeseen factors. We cannot be held responsible for any changes or delays.

Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N

Good to Know

  • Permits: Government permit required and must be booked months in advance
  • Altitude: Moderate altitude, but we recommend spending at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco beforehand
  • Facilities: Hotel stay in Aguas Calientes; restrooms available along the route
  • What to bring: Hiking shoes, rain jacket, sun protection, water, snacks, passport
  • Fitness level: Moderate to good fitness required; you will walk at least 8 hours on day 1.
  • Meals: Lunch on day 1 and breakfast in hotel included.
  • Huayna Picchu: Requires a separate entrance ticket and advance reservation.
  • In February, the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance
  • If there are no tickets available for the 4 day Inca Trail (and/or entrance 2 tickets for Machu Picchu), the 2 day Inca Trail is a good alternative.
Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N

Price & Inclusions

Price

 Contact us for updated price information

Included

 Pickup from your accommodation in (downtown) Cusco
Train to Km 104
Professional bilingual guide
Government Inca Trail permit
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
unch box for day 1
Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
Breakfast at the hotel
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Cusco
Transfer back to Cusco
First aid kit and emergency oxygen
Assistance before and during the trek

Not Included

 Personal expenses and tips
Bus ticket Machu Picchu round trip
Meals not mentioned in the program
Travel insurance
Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N
Short Inca Trail 2D / 1N

Your booking request is subject to availability and is only confirmed once you receive our written confirmation

Reviews

Leon Sciarone
Peru Classic in 14 Days
It was a marvellous experience!

I recently booked an excursion with Dos Manos to Puno and the Floating Islands on Lake Titicaca. It was a marvelous trip and I really enjoyed it!

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Yves Leclerc
Peru Classic & Amazon in 20 Days
Your team is unbelievable!

When we came to your agency, it was for info on Salkantay trail. My wife and me are bilingual (French & English). We talked to Joseph a guy who speaks Spanish and French.

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Adam Rice
Peru Itinerary Classic & Northern Peru 20 days
We had a great time!

Just wanted to send you a note back from our trip. We had a great time, everything worked out really good,,the service by you and your company was excellent!!!

Read Review
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