▷ Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu with Hotel 2 Days
Overview-Short Inca Trail 2 days
Hike the most relaxing Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu—a picturesque trek through Cuzco’s stunning landscapes. This route is ideal for families, children, senior travelers, and especially those short on time for the longer Classic Inca Trail (4 Days). As you begin your journey, follow in the footsteps of ancient Inca pilgrims to the majestic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Along the way, discover archaeological sites nestled above the lush cloud forest while also soaking in the fresh Andean air.
On Day 1, enjoy a rewarding full-day hike along the Inca Trail. During the trek, marvel at scenic vistas and ancient ruins. By the end of the day, you’ll reach Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate—an unforgettable moment enhanced by an expert guide who brings the trail’s rich history to life.
Then, on Day 2, leave the hiking behind and instead take a comfortable bus up to Machu Picchu. Once at the citadel, enjoy a guided walking tour of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As a result, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible site and the civilization that built it.
Whether you’re seeking a gentle adventure or a Tour Machu Picchu – cultural experience, this unforgettable journey offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. In short, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Don’t just visit Peru—live the magic of the Incas!
About the trek: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Trip Type: Hiking, adventure, history, culture and nature
Trip Length: 2 Days/ 1 Night
Group Size: 2-10 Hikers
Difficulty Level: Easy-Moderate hike.
Weather: Hot and humid
Hiking Distance: 12 km
Short Inca Trail-Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Cuzco – Km 104- Wiñayhuayna- Sun Gate-Machu Picchu
Early in the morning, our team will pick you up from your hotel or accommodation in Cusco at 4:00 am or 5:30 am. After that, we will transfer you to the train station in Ollantaytambo. Next, you will enjoy a scenic 1-hour and 20-minute ride aboard the Expedition Train to the trailhead at KM 104 (2,050m/6,927ft), where your hiking adventure begins. At this point, you’ll present your passport at the first checkpoint before starting your gradual uphill trek along the Classic Inca Trail.
The journey continues as the hike to the stunning archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650m/8747ft) takes approximately 3.5 hours. Once there, you’ll pause to enjoy a box lunch nearby. Meanwhile, along the way, explore impressive Inca ruins, soak in breathtaking Andean landscapes, and admire the dramatic drop to the Urubamba River far below. After lunch, continue your journey toward the mystical Sun Gate (2,730m/9,007ft), a hike that takes about 1.5 more hours.
Upon arrival at the Sun Gate, you’ll witness your first spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu. As you continue, and approach the iconic Inca citadel, take in the awe-inspiring sight of its ancient ruins glowing in the afternoon light. Finally, board a short bus ride down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll relax and spend the night at your hotel.
Additional Tour Details – Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Meals included: Box lunch (Wiñayhuayna) and dinner (Restaurant)
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Machu Picchu town
Hiking Distance: 12 Km /7.4 miles (6 to 7 hours)
Note: If your accommodation is located in Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo or Urubamba town, we will come to your hotel to pick you up around 5:30 AM/6:30 A.M.
Day 2: Private Machu Picchu Tour. Return to Cuzco.
On Day 2, prepare yourself for one of the most remarkable and activity-filled days of your journey. Since you’ll be visiting one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it’s essential to start your day early. Following breakfast, join your guide and board the bus that will take you to the entrance of the Machu Picchu sanctuary. Upon reaching the site, begin an unforgettable walking tour through the awe-inspiring “Lost City of the Incas.” As you wander through the ruins, allow yourself to be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds this iconic destination.
Once the guided tour concludes, spend approximately 3 hours delving deeper into the citadel’s history and mysteries with your knowledgeable English-speaking guide. Then, take your final photos to capture the moment before heading back down to Aguas Calientes, where your return journey to Cusco begins.
Please keep in mind: The Expedition Train departs at either 14:55 or 15:20 toward Ollantaytambo. When you arrive, our private van will be waiting to transport you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco. As a result, you can expect to arrive around 7:00 pm, bringing this unforgettable adventure to a close.
Additional Tour Details – Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Meals included: Only breakfast at hotel
Hiking Distance: Walking tour in MP for 2.5 hours
Upgrade options: Climb Huayna Picchu for views over the ruins or add an extra day in Machu Picchu.
Inclusions for the Short Inca Trail 2 Days
Services Included
- Pre-departure briefing in our office or your hotel. Time to be determined by the Company.
- Private Hotel: 1 night of accommodation in a three-star hotel. Upgrading to a 4/5-star hotel is possible.
- Permits: Once we receive your booking details and deposit, your permits are immediately purchased. These permits are issued for a specific date and in your name; therefore, they cannot be changed once confirmed. However, only your passport number is allowed to be updated, if necessary.
- Three (3) Bus tickets: Between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Round train ticket: (Expedition service) from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and vice versa.
- Transportation service: (Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel) from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Professional Guides: English-speaking, professional, university educated guides.
- Food: Inca Vision Tours will make sure you enjoy delicious, well-balanced, and energetic food on the way to Machu Picchu. To start, a box lunch will be provided at the Wiñay Wayna ruins. Later in the evening, a scrumptious dinner will be served at one of the best restaurants in the town of Aguas Calientes. The next morning, enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Moreover, you may request vegetarian or vegan options to suit your dietary preferences.
- Water & snack: We will provide water and a snack for your morning hike. In addition, we suggest bringing your camel bag as well as extra energy drinks and bars for this trek, since being well hydrated is the key to feeling great in the mountains.
- First-aid kit: Our guides have received training in first aid from Physicians. Our guides will bring emergency oxygen bottle and OTC medicines as well.
- Rain Poncho.
- Luggage storage service.
Not Included
- Last Day: Lunch in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village).
- Tips for your Guide (optional).
- Travel insurance.
Aditional Upgrades
- Rentals: Walking Sticks (pair): $ 5
- Porters (optional): Because this is just a one-day hike without camping, there will not be porters. Therefore, your day pack should include everything you need throughout the hike and for the next day at Machu Picchu. It is important to note that it is your responsibility to carry it yourself. However, if you prefer to have a porter, we can arrange it for an extra fee ($45 USD). Keep in mind that you must arrange this at the time of your booking, as the porter will also need a permit.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (2-hour round-trip climb).
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (3-hour round-trip climb).
- Vistadome Train (one way): $40 USD per person.
Departure Dates for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Piccchu 2Days
The Inca Trail 2 Days tour is available almost year-round. However, the tour closes only in February every year due to the heavy rainy season and frequent landslides during this month. Meanwhile, throughout the year, Peru celebrates numerous annual festivities, special events, and activities, such as the Feast of the Sun, Easter Sunday procession, Folkloric Parade, Carnival, Christmas Day, Bullfighting, and more. In addition, occasionally, unforeseen events like solar and lunar eclipses provide a surprising and unique experience for travelers.
As a result, Inca Vision Agency customizes your tour and guarantees your departure dates. Therefore, don’t wait—book now! Ultimately, all we need is your confirmation.
Check Here for Availability & Event Dates!
Book Your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2025! 🌿🏔️
Availability is limited—secure your spot today!
Due to high demand, permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2025 are selling fast! Therefore, secure your preferred date now and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Machu Picchu. In fact, with limited availability and growing interest, spots are filling up quickly — so reserve yours before it’s too late!
2025 Permit Availability:
✅ January 2025: SOLD OUT ❌
⚠️ February 2025: Closed for maintenance
✅ March 2025: 30% sold out – Plenty of spots, but filling fast!
✅ April 2025: 25% sold out – Plan ahead and save your place!
✅ May 2025: 70% sold out – Hurry before it’s gone!
✅ June 2025: 55% sold out – Book while you can!
✅ July 2025: 30% sold out – Plenty of spots, but filling fast!
✅ August – December 2025: 15% sold out – Plan ahead and save your place!
This information was updated on May – 2025. 📅 Book now! Only your confirmation is needed: Inca Trail 2025 ✨
Availability Dates: All year around, except (February)
January 1st.
February or March (Variable Sunday)
March or April 1st to 8th.
June 24th
July 28th and 29th.
October 31st.
November 1ST and 2nd.
December 24th and 25th.
Price and Payment-Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
To begin with, to book the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you need to make an initial payment of $200 USD per person. After that, you can pay the remaining balance either online or in person at our office in Cusco. Moreover, you can make the deposit via We Travel, Western Union, or MoneyGram. In addition, if you rent camping and hiking gear, upgrade tours, or receive a discount on the total price, our sales team will email you the updated remaining balance, which, in turn, you will pay at our Cusco office.
For Group Tour (Shared Service)
- $ 500 USD per person (2 people minimum)
Prices based on group size:
- 1 Person: $ 750 USD per person
- 2 People: $ 500 USD per person
- 3 People: $ 490 USD per person
- 4 People: $ 480 USD per person
- 5 People: $ 470 USD per person
- 6 People: $ 460 USD per person
- 7+ People, please contact us for a special price
Note.
- If you book this tour for more than 2 people, ask for it and get a discount for this tour. “This condition applies only if you are part of a single group (For 3 + people booking at the same time) and does not apply to groups organized by the travel agency.”
- Children 17 years old or less, the discount is $30 USD (To receive the child discount you must send us a copy of the child’s passport).
- For a private tour, please request a quote by emailing incavisiontours@gmail.com or info@incavisiontours.com.
Student Discount:
To qualify for the student discount, one must be 25 years old or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu and you must submit a valid university ID with your booking. The ID must include your name, photo, and expiration date. Cards without an expiration date will not be accepted. Please bring the original student ID with you on the tour to pass the checkpoint.
Payment method
Pay via We Travel
Please note that We Travel charges a fee ranging from 1.5% to 3.9 % (depending on the type of currency used) for online deposits. For payment made via bank transfer a 2% fee will be applied which the client is responsible for. The fee is for the use of We travel’s secure payment gateway. Please, notify incavisiontours@gmail.com or info@incavisiontours.com after payment has made through, We Travel.
Pay via Western Union
Please note that Western Union charges a variable fee for online deposits, depending on your nationality and location. Western union payments should be addressed to the following receiver:
- Full Name: Jaime Cusi Huaman
- Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú
Pay via MoneyGram
Please note that MoneyGram charges a variable fee for online deposits, depending on your nationality and location. MoneyGram payments should be addressed to the following receiver:
- Full Name: Jaime Cusi Huaman
- Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú
Please remember to send us the tracking code (MTCN) in order to pick up the deposit and confirm your booking. Once your payment is made via Western Union or MoneyGram, please notify ours sales team.
In the event you need to cancel your trip, cancellation fees will be assessed as outlined in our cancellation policy. If canceling, you may not transfer your deposit to another person’s trek/tour. See Inca Vision Tours ‘Terms and Cancellation Policy
Optional Upgrades (Need to book in Advance):
There are several optional upgrades you can include in this trip. Below is a quick list of prices.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (2-hour round-trip climb).
Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (3-hour round-trip climb).
Note: You can only hike one of these mountains, and it must be done after the guided tour of Machu Picchu due to time limitations.
Vistadome Train (one way): $40 USD per person.
Walking Stick: One pair for $5 USD.
Extra Porter: $45 USD
Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain
Huayna Picchu, the mountain overlooking Machu Picchu, is a 45-minute hike to the top, located next to the Machu Picchu Inca city. The descent can be steep, so it may not be suitable for those afraid of heights. This hike can be done after your Machu Picchu tour.
Machu Picchu Mountain requires a 3-hour round-trip hike. Due to its popularity, reservations should be made at least one month in advance. Please note that weather conditions are beyond our control.
Hotel: If you are doing overnight tours or treks that lead to Machu Picchu, you will be provided accommodation in a 3 star ★★★ hotel (Intipunku hotel or similar) in Aguas Calientes. For upgrades or cancellation, please enter your request in the special request box above. If you are booking a Peru Package Tour for 5 or more days, please contact our sales team.
Room Types: Matrimonial (1 bed for 2 people); Double (2 single beds), Single (1 bed for 1 person). If you wish to add extra beds, please specify in the special request box above.
Train: On our two-day Inca Trail journey to Machu Picchu, a round-trip ticket on the Expeditions Train is included, offering comfort and scenic views. For an enhanced experience, you can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the return trip, which features larger windows, comfortable seating, a glass roof, and onboard entertainment, including shows and a complimentary snack.
What to bring for the Short Inca Trail Hike 2Days
Gear List for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Important reminder: This 2-Day Inca Trail Hike does not include porters. Therefore, you will be responsible for carrying all your personal belongings throughout the hike. Consequently, packing as lightly as possible is essential, and for this reason, a lightweight backpack is highly recommended.
- Passport (Very important).
- Valid student card (if you booked as a student).
- Good daypack (25Lt): The smaller, the more confortable.
- 2L Camelbaks or reusable water bottles
- Extra Snacks (Energy bars, energy drinks, fruits, electrolytes, etc.).
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles).
- 2 Wicking/Hiking Breathable Shirts (short or long-sleeve), Hiking Pants, & 2 pair of Socks
- Nice T-shirt and pants for Machu Picchu day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love.
- Waterproof rain jacket/rain poncho.
- Hiking poles with rubber tips (you can rent them from Inca Vision Tours).
- Bathing suits for the hot springs (Optional on your own in Aguas Calientes).
- Sun protection cream, sun hat and sunglasses.
- Insect Repellent.
- Hand Sanitizer & Toilet Paper
- Extra personal first aid kit.
- Camera/ Cellphone.
- Extra Money in Cash & Cards for souvenirs, drinks, meals, tips, and emergency situations (can be in Soles or USD).
Trip Highlights-Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days
Highlights-Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Discover the Short Inca Trail through the Eyes of the Incas with Us. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!
- We are fully licensed by the government to operate Short Inca Trail hikes.
- Small groups and customized service, from 2 to 10 people maximum.
- Enjoy hotel-to-hotel service, including pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
- After your hike, you’ll enjoy comfortable 3-star hotel stays. As a result, you can relax and recharge with modern amenities, which ensures a restful experience between trekking adventures.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Machu Picchu 2 Day Trek from the Sun Gate.
- As you journey along the Short Inca Trail, you’ll get to experience the beauty of the mountains, Incan ruins, fresh air, and diverse flora and fauna, including vibrant orchids that add a splash of color to the landscape.
- A private guided tour of the key sites of Machu Picchu, with free time to explore at your leisure.
- Additionally, a qualified local tour guide—dedicated to your safety and equipped with extensive experience, knowledge, and professionalism—will accompany you throughout the Inca Trail.
- Discover the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu, twice—once on Day 1 in the afternoon and again on Day 2 in the morning.
- Enjoy delicious, well-balanced, and energizing meals on your way to Machu Picchu. Moreover, we offer seasonal organic fruits and furthermore, cater to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, pescatarian, and vegan options.
- Create your unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu with us, traveling via PeruRail or Inca Rail.
Why choose Inca Vision Tours?
Inca Vision Tours was founded by an experienced mountain tour guide who has worked as an official hiking guide for over 8 years with different companies, as evidenced by countless positive reviews on TripAdvisor from satisfied customers in Cuzco. Moreover, Jaime graduated with a degree in Tourism from Cusco University and is an active member of the Association/School of Graduates in Tourism of Peru. Additionally, he has extensive knowledge of all tourist circuits in the region. As a mountain man, he is a proactive professional with initiative, strong interpersonal skills, solid moral principles, and a high degree of responsibility. Jaime, our manager, has gained enough experience to operate tours around Cuzco on behalf of Inca Vision Tours. However, as a team, we have even more reasons why you should pick Inca Vision Tours for your memorable treks or tours.
– Legal and sustainable company
We have legal license permits from our government to operate our day tours and multi-day treks. Furthermore, we are a 100% local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism. In particular, we focus on protecting the environment and benefiting local communities by respecting their culture and religion.
– Cuzco, the land of the Inca Civilization
We own our operational base in Cuzco, and therefore, you will experience with INCA VISION TOURS what the Incas had envisioned back in their days — namely, the gateway to the historical sites leading into Machu Picchu.
–Expert office and field team to assist you every day
Our professionals and local expert office staff handle all the logistic and operational hard work, including optimizing your time and investment while reducing unnecessary costs. As a result, you get the most out of your vacation. Moreover, our qualified local tour guides, with extensive experience, know all the secrets to take you to the most breathtaking places. Therefore, they ensure your vacation is unforgettable and take great care of your safety.
– Fair salary and care for local people
INCA VISION TOURS employs locals as porters, horsemen, chefs, guides, and office staff. Therefore, you can rest assured that all the money you invest in your tours or treks will go directly to the workers who accompany you on day tours or hikes. Furthermore, at Inca Vision Tours, we distribute profits equally amongst our members, ensuring fair treatment and support for our entire team.
– Personalized Itineraries and customized service
Inca Vision Tours has handpicked the top local specialists, so you will have peace of mind and enjoy an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements. Moreover, you can also request to learn Quechua languages, as well as participate in our social projects during special campaigns. In addition, you have the opportunity to attend special events on important occasions such as the Feast of the Sun, Holy Week, the Day of the Dead and the Living, and many more.
– Our Peruvian Cuisine/Gastronomy
During your participation in our tours and treks, our organic meals from the Andes, coast, and jungle of Peru will be carefully prepared by our professional chefs. Furthermore, we cater to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, pescatarian, and vegan options to ensure everyone enjoys a delicious and nourishing experience.
– Guaranteed departures tours
At Inca Vision Tours, all our tours are guaranteed to depart regardless of whether they have small or large group sizes. In fact, we have successfully organized tours with as few as 2 people. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about your tour being cancelled at the last minute—unless, of course, you choose to cancel it yourself.
– Support the local economy
Moreover, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies. In particular, our company is especially committed to social projects in remote villages, where unfortunately there is extreme poverty.
– Our best hiking gear, equipment and contingency plan
Additionally, we have comfortable gear and equipment to do our treks and day tours, such as: 4-person tents, cooking gear, kitchen tents, toilet tents, trekking poles, air mattresses, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and everything else needed to ensure a great adventure.
OUR PROMISE TO YOU
- A qualified local tour guide who cares for your safety with extensive experience, knowledge and professionalism.
- Trip support and emergency assistance from English speaking staff.
- Private experience with all tours, unless otherwise noted.
- Highly Personalized and customizable trip, in any way you want.