alta (hike to machupichu)
If you’re looking to experience one of the best Machu Picchu hiking tours, the Short Inca Trail is the perfect option. This 2-day Inca Trail trek offers a unique opportunity to explore the Sacred Valley walk the Inca Trai. Unlike the longer, more demanding treks, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is accessible yet incredibly rewarding, making it ideal for both seasoned hikers and those new to trekking.
Are you ready to experience something unique? Discover the magic of the Short Inca Trail 2 days and 1 night and Machu Picchu with a tour designed to make the most of your time. Don’t miss the opportunity to make this adventure unforgettable!
Why Choose the Hike to Machu Picchu?
- Cultural experience in less time: Perfect for those with limited time who still want to immerse themselves in the history of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Fewer crowds: Enjoy a more peaceful and authentic route, away from large crowds.
- Balance of adventure and comfort: A challenging hike with the comfort of a cozy accommodation at the end of the day.
Why we are your best option for the Short Inca Trail “Two Days and One Night” to Machu Picchu!
- One of the best Machu Picchu hiking tours, offering a fully personalized experience.
- Expert-led Inca Trail Guided Tour with guaranteed departures once booked.
- Enjoy Inca Trail accommodation in a 3-star hotel at Aguas Calientes with private rooms and bathrooms.
- Late departures compared to other operators, giving you more time to relax before starting the tour.
- All transfers and transportation included, plus delicious meals (with vegetarian/vegan options).
- Free walking poles for the 7-hour hike.
- Witness the beautiful Machu Picchu Sunset on day one and a magical Machu Picchu Sunrise on the second day.
- Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on the second day.
- The Best Time to Hike the Machu Picchu Inca Trail is during the dry season, ensuring a smoother trekking experience.
- Return with Vistadome or 360 train service for a luxury travel experience.
- Book with us and support a good cause—your reservation helps provide warm jackets for children in the Peruvian Andes!
Briefing
We Will meet you at your hotel or Airbnb a day before your tour departure at 6 pm for your pre information about the tour and you can get recomendations for your hike to Machu Picchu.
Remember
All the Inca Trail tours to Machu Picchu has specific munber of permits as the classic Inca Trail. That means that customers have to book in advance to guarantte your departure via short inca. These permits may be sold out. So, like all of Kenko Adnetures Peru tour package you need to be book in advance to ensure you get the tour and timing you want.
Short Inka Trail 2 Days 1 Night Oberview
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Inca Trail – Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna – SunGate – Machu Picchu. (Walking Distance: 13 km / 7 miles)
Day 2: Aguas Calientes (Puente Ruinas) – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo- Cusco. (You will be back in Cusco around 7:30 PM)
- Height of the Inca Trail: The highest point on this trail is 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Cusco to Machu Picchu Hike: The total Cusco to Machu Picchu hike distance for this short version is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), making it a feasible adventure for most travelers.
Special Offer: Add a private full-day Sacred Valley tour for $99 USD per person (regular price $145 USD).
Experience a magical full-day tour of the Sacred Valley at a very special rate. This can be done before or after your Inca Trail Tour. You just need to arrange it with a member of the Kenko Adventures sales team. This is a unique experience you don’t want to miss!
Itinerary for the Two-Day Inca Trail Tour
Day 1: Embark on Your Walk Inca Trail Adventure
The Inca Trail 2-days Trek to Machu Picchu start in Cusco city. We will pick you up from your hotel at 6:00 am using our private transportation, accompanied by a professional tour guide. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Ollantaytambo train station.
Upon arrival, you will board the Expedition-class train at 7:45 am for a scenic 1 hour and 10-minute ride. During the journey, marvel at the breathtaking Andes Mountains and Glaciers of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. After an hour, the landscape will shift dramatically as we enter tropical forests, reaching km 104, where our short Inca Trail hike begins.
Alt- Leyen (Nevado del Chicón in the Sacred Valley of the Incas)
Before commencing the hike, we will go through the main checkpoint, presenting our pre-arranged personal documentation and tickets. Restrooms are available for use before embarking on the hike.
Alt-Leyen ( KM 104 Chachabamba: Starting Point for the IncaTrail)
The Short inca trail starts with a visit to the archaeological site named Chachabamba, followed by a moderate climb through lush biodiversity, featuring numerous endemic orchids and fern species. After a few hours, we’ll reach a small waterfall for a break and snacks. Subsequently, we’ll visit the second archaeological site, Wiñayhuayna, where our Kenko Adventures tour guide will explain its ancient significance. You’ll have free time to explore the site on your own.
Alt- legend (Chachabamba)
Continuing the hike, we’ll reach the last campsite for 4-day Inca Trail hikers, where we’ll stop for lunch (a box lunch is included for everyone). This trail section is relatively easier, with both uphill and downhill stretches, until we reach Inti Punku (“Inti Punku” Sun Gate). Here, you’ll enjoy the first fantastic view of Machu Picchu Citadel from the Inca Trail.
Alt-Leyen ( “Inti Punku” Sun Gate)
After capturing photos from the Sun Gate, we’ll continue for another 40 minutes downhill to arrive at Machu Picchu for our first day visit. Finally, we’ll reach Machu Picchu, concluding the day’s hike with a sunset view from a postcard-worthy vantage point. We’ll then board a bus to Aguas Calientes town (bus tickets included), where you’ll be accommodated at a 3-star hotel. Our service includes dinner and a glass of Pisco Sour (Peru’s national drink) at a nearby restaurant that night.
alt- Leyend: (From Inca City to Machu Picchu Mountain)
KM 104 Inca Trail Map to Machu Micchu
The trek starts here, a key point that marks the beginning of your journey to Machu Picchu.
alt – Leyend ( km 104 inca trail map to machu piccho)
Difficulty Day
Moderate
Hiking distance
12 kilometers
Maximun Altitude
2700.00 m.a.s.l.
Minimun Altitude
2000 m.a.s.l.
Start End Time
06:00 am ~ 06:00 pm
HikingTime Day
08:00 am
Day 2: Walking Up to Machu Picchu
We recommend starting your day very early for several reasons: to take the first bus up to Machu Picchu then witness the breathtaking sunrise at Machu Picchu, embark on a walking tour with your private guide to explore the site with fewer visitors, and avoid long lines to enter Machu Picchu. Your guide will then lead you through a walking tour of the Machu Picchu Inca city.
alt – leyend (bus up to Machu Picchu )
Upon entering the Inca citadel, our clients will enjoy a private walking tour lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes, exploring the most remarkable places within this wonder. Subsequently, there will be some free time to visit interesting locations such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (we recommend booking these tickets at least 2 months in advance).
alt – legend ( private walking on Machu Pichu)
After completing the tour, our clients will board a bus to Aguas Calientes, where they can enjoy lunch before catching the VISTADOME TRAIN with a 360-degree view, according to the pre-arranged schedule, to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, our private transportation will pick you up and return you to Cusco city directly to your hotel, concluding our services.
Alt – Leyen ( VISTADOME TRAIN to Go Machupicho)
Inca Trail Map to Machu Micchu – Day Two
alt – Leyen ( inca trail map to machu picchu )
Difficulty Day
Easy
Maximun Altitude
3300.00 m.a.s.l.
Minimun Altitude
2000 m.a.s.l.
Start End Time
07:00 am ~ 07:00 pm
HikingTime Day
12:00 am
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the height of the Inca Trail?
The highest point is 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level.
- What is the distance of the Cusco to Machu Picchu hike?
The total distance from KM 104 to Machu Picchu is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles).
- How long does the Machu Picchu trek take?
The Machu Picchu trek time is typically around 6-7 hours for the Short Inca Trail.
- What is the best time to hike the Machu Picchu Inca Trail?
The best time is during the dry season, from April to October.
- Can you do the Inca Trail in 2 days?
Yes, you can do the Inca Trail in 2 days. The Short Inca Trail is designed for those who want to experience the beauty and history of the Inca Trail but have limited time. This 2-day trek covers a portion of the classic Inca Trail and offers the same breathtaking views and historical significance
- How much is a 2 day Inca Trail?
The cost of the 2-day Inca Trail varies depending on the season and the tour operator. Generally, it ranges from $400 to $600 USD per person, which includes transportation, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and a guided tour.
- How many steps is the Inca Trail Day 2?
On Day 2 of the Short Inca Trail, there are approximately 1,600 steps to reach Machu Picchu. These steps are part of the ancient stone stairways built by the Incas and lead to the Sun Gate, offering stunning views along the way.