Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel – 2 Days
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CHACHABAMBA (KM 104) - WIÑAYWAYNA - INTIPUNKU - AGUAS CALIENTES
- Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours.
- Hiking distance: 12 km (7.5 miles).
- Hiking difficulty: Moderate.
- Weather: Warm and/or humid.
- Hiking altitudes: From 2,100 m above sea level (start of the hike), climbing to 2,719 m (Inti Punku), then descending from 2,719 m to 2,400 m (Machu Picchu). From there, a bus ride down to 2,000 m (town of Aguas Calientes).
- Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel.
An adventure that will stay in your memories: a unique, personalized experience designed for you to enjoy every moment of the trail.
The 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel is an experience for every kind of traveler, whether traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, who wants to complete the legendary Inca Trail route in less time, or for those who couldn’t find availability for the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail.
The tour begins with private transportation pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m., together with your guide, for the transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, where we will board the train to the Chachabamba (km 104) sector, the start of your adventure on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. After passing the checkpoint and showing our Inca Trail permit, a few meters ahead we will reach the first rest stop and visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba. Then we will begin the hike, an ascent of about 3 hours, to the archaeological complex of Wiñaywayna, known as “Forever Young,” a site renowned for its Inca planning in the middle of the high jungle, with beautiful terraces, Inca canals perfectly designed to carry water, religious centers, and an impressive view of the Vilcanota River. It is the meeting point between the 4-day Inca Trail and the 2-day Inca Trail, and the most important section for those coming from the 4-Day Inca Trail. After lunch and a rest, we continue on to Intipunku, or the Sun Gate, where you get the long-awaited first impressive panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Here we will take a few minutes to catch our breath and admire the beautiful Inca constructions in all their splendor. We will then continue for about 30 minutes to the upper terraces, near the Guardhouse, to take the classic photo and enjoy a panoramic view from where each sector of Machu Picchu can be seen more clearly. At the end of the first day’s hike on the Short Inca Trail, we will take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will enjoy dinner and spend the night.
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CUSCO
- Hiking time: 2 hours visiting Machu Picchu with the group + 1 hour exploring on your own.
- Hiking distance: Variable, depending on the areas of Machu Picchu you want to explore.
- Hiking difficulty: Easy.
- Weather: Warm and/or humid.
- Hiking altitudes: From 2,000 m up to 2,400 m above sea level (by bus).
An Experience to Enjoy Without Rushing
After a night of rest in Aguas Calientes, we will start the day with breakfast to recharge before our encounter with one of the most impressive wonders of the world: Machu Picchu.
We will take the bus to the citadel of Machu Picchu, where we will begin a guided tour of about 2 to 3 hours with our professional guide. Traveling in a small group, we can enjoy the tour more calmly, pausing to listen to the explanations, discover the main sectors of Machu Picchu, and take photos without feeling rushed.
Our guide will be with you throughout the visit, sharing the history, architecture, and meaning of this extraordinary place, and helping you discover every corner in a close and personalized way.
After the guided tour, you will have time to enjoy Machu Picchu at your own pace, take in its landscapes, and take photos to capture this special moment.
At the end of the visit, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own before boarding the tourist train to Ollantaytambo. There, our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.
An adventure that will stay in your memories: a unique, personalized experience made for enjoying every moment of the trail.
This experience is ideal for those who want to enjoy the magic of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in a short, comfortable version, especially if there is no availability for the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail. The 2-Day Inca Trail is considered one of the best options, as it offers the essence of the Inca Trail trek in less time.
Includes
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- Small group of 2 to 6 passengers for a more personalized experience.
- Professional bilingual guide licensed for the Inca Trail: Your guide will accompany you from Cusco all the way to Machu Picchu, providing assistance and guidance throughout the tour.
- Personalized assistance the day before: Our team will answer your questions and provide all the information you need before the experience begins.
- 2-Day Inca Trail entry permit.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 3B.
- 1 night of accommodation in Aguas Calientes: Hatun Inti Hotel (3-star) or similar.
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transportation from the Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
- Tourist train Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba (Km 104).
- Tourist train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes after the first day’s visit.
- Bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes for the second day’s visit.
- 1 Andean box lunch with vegetarian and vegan options.
- 1 dinner at Mapacho Restaurant or similar, with vegetarian and vegan options.
- Duffel bag up to 8 kg: Travel light; we will send your luggage to Aguas Calientes. Request up to 2 days before the start of the experience.
- First aid kit.
- Emergency oxygen tank.
Not include
- Day 1: Breakfast.
- Day 2: Lunch and dinner.
- Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that covers unforeseen events such as flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, and loss of tour services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your adventure.
- Tips: Optional.
- Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency’s control: Adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
Additional Services:
- Huayna Picchu entrance – USD 70.00 per person
Add one of the most exclusive hikes in Machu Picchu to your adventure and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the famous Huayna Picchu Mountain. Spaces are very limited, so we recommend booking at least 5 months in advance.
- Private guide for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – USD 75.00 per group
Explore with an expert guide who will enrich your experience with exclusive information and personalized attention.
Upgrade to the Vistadome Train (return) – USD 45.00 per person
Travel on a panoramic train with large side and overhead windows to enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes. Includes an onboard snack and a fashion show of alpaca-fiber garments for an unforgettable experience.
- Upgrade to the Vistadome Observatory Train (return) – USD 66.00 per person
Return from Machu Picchu aboard the most exclusive train, with large panoramic windows, an onboard snack, and an alpaca fashion show. It also offers access to the exclusive open-air observation car and live music to enjoy the spectacular scenery.
- Superior category hotel in Aguas Calientes
Upgrade your stay to a 4- or 5-star hotel and enjoy a more comfortable and exclusive experience.
- Trekking poles – USD 15.00 per pair
Trekking poles are recommended for extra support during the hike, especially on stairways and uneven terrain.
- Enhance your experience with a night in the Sacred Valley
Spending a night in the Sacred Valley will help you acclimatize better before your Inca Trail trip.
Prices Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel – 2 Days
Rates per person
- Adult (minimum 2 people): US$ 579
- University student (18 to 25 years old): US$ 554 (US$ 25 discount)
Traveling solo? The tour is confirmed with a minimum of 2 people. Contact us to check availability for your date.
Student discount requirement
Physical university ID (PVC card), valid during the year of travel and showing full name, photo, university and expiration date. ISIC cards, digital certificates and screenshots are not accepted. Send a copy at the time of booking.
Payment
You can pay in full when booking or, if you prefer, secure your spot with a US$ 200 deposit per person. In that case, the balance must be paid no later than the day before the tour.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Original passport
- Waterproof hiking boots with non-slip soles
- Lightweight, breathable trekking clothes
- Thermal, warm clothing
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Energy snacks
- Personal medication
- Basic personal first aid kit
- Wet wipes or toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Cash in soles, in small bills
- Camera or cell phone
- Portable charger / power bank
- A special outfit for your photos at Machu Picchu
- Trekking poles with rubber tips
Recomendations
- Book in advance: Inca Trail permits are limited and subject to availability. We recommend booking as far in advance as possible.
- Acclimatization in Cusco: We recommend arriving at least 1–2 days before the hike to acclimatize. Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level.
- Check your luggage: Review in advance all the personal items you will need during the hike and make sure to bring only what is necessary.
- Briefing: The day before the hike, you will receive detailed information about the route, recommendations, and important aspects of your experience.
- Luggage storage: You can leave any luggage you won’t need during the excursion at our office free of charge.
- Personal documents: Bring your original, valid passport, as it will be required at the Inca Trail checkpoints and at Machu Picchu.
- Pack light: Bring only what you need. A light backpack will help you enjoy the hike much more.
- Weather: Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes have a warm, humid climate typical of the high jungle.
- Valuables: Always keep your passport, money, electronic devices, and other personal valuables with you.
F.A.Qs
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as soon as possible, because the government strictly limits the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail (daily permits are issued to only 200 hikers plus 300 porters). We therefore recommend making your Inca Trail booking as far in advance as possible, as soon as you know your international flight dates.
How do I know if the Inca Trail tour is right for me?
The 2-Day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu follows one of the original trails preserved from Inca times, and not everyone manages to get a permit. It is designed for any traveler who can walk independently; no intense training is needed, just a strong desire to hike. However, we always recommend spending some time in Cusco to acclimatize to the city’s altitude before starting the Inca Trail.
What is the best time of year for the Inca Trail tour?
The weather in the Andean region has two seasons: the dry season (April to October), which is the best time, and the rainy season (November to March). Keep in mind that even during the rainy season, a single day can bring rain, sunshine, cloudy skies, and even plenty of sun. The Inca Trail opens on March 1 each year and remains open until the end of January. Today, tourists from all over the world visit Machu Picchu 365 days a year. The busiest months are April to September. Machu Picchu is located in the high jungle, so its climate is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 8 °C to 20 °C (46 °F to 68 °F). We recommend bringing clothing for both cold and warm weather.
IS THE INCA TRAIL TOUR CLOSED IN FEBRUARY?
Yes. Because it is the rainy season, the trail is closed for maintenance.
HOW MANY DAYS BEFORE DO I NEED TO BE IN CUSCO TO ACCLIMATIZE?
It is very important to be well adjusted to the altitude before exerting yourself on a hike.
ACCLIMATIZATION We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your Inca Trail tour begins, so you can acclimatize and avoid possible altitude sickness during the hike.
We can help you arrange day hikes and other tours in Cusco for your acclimatization:
Cusco City Tour – Half-day tour / Morning City Tour; Sacred Valley Tour – Full-day tour
If you have already been in another high-altitude area of Peru before arriving in Cusco, we recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city before setting off on the hike.
What is the booking process?
FIRST: To make a booking, send us an email at reservas@sakuraexpedition.com to check availability and receive personalized booking forms. All clients must complete a Passenger Details form when making a booking.
This form requests the following information (FOR EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase any permit or entrance ticket without it:
- Personal information (full name, exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
Once you make your booking, we will reserve your spaces as quickly as possible, since a large number of operators are trying to secure spaces throughout the year.
SECOND: Sakura Expedition will ask you to complete a booking form with all the details, followed by a deposit of USD 200 per person. Once we have all deposits and details, we will book your permits.
When we have the permits, we will send you your confirmation invoice stating that everything is 100% confirmed, so your spaces will be guaranteed.
WILL I RECEIVE TRAVEL INFORMATION BEFORE MY TRIP?
The day before your departure, you will receive a detailed briefing from your guide. This may be in a group or individually at your hotel.
UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS The government will only allow us to change passport numbers if we have a copy of both the new and the old passport. If you no longer have your old passport, any government-issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Also, make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your trip.
HOW DO I GET TO CUSCO?
Most people arrive in Cusco by air. Remember that Cusco airport only handles domestic flights. If you are flying in from abroad via Lima, you must collect your bags in Lima and check them in again for your flight to Cusco. Four airlines fly between Lima and Cusco: LATAM Airlines, JetSMART, Sky Airline, and Avianca. They all offer similar schedules, but we generally recommend LATAM or Avianca, as they tend to be the most reliable when unexpected flight cancellations or delays occur.
CAN I SPEND AN EXTRA NIGHT IN AGUAS CALIENTES?
Of course. If you are fine with taking the same train from Aguas Calientes that is part of your original itinerary (usually at 6:20 p.m.), there is no additional charge to move your return train back by one day. If you need us to book your hotel or another visit to Machu Picchu, there will be an additional cost. If you choose to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes, please inform the Sakura Expeditions office at least one month in advance so your train ticket can be purchased for the correct day.
DO I NEED HIKING BOOTS?
We always recommend hiking boots. Those with ankle support are very helpful, especially for inexperienced hikers. Because you will be going down many steps built by the Incas, which are now uneven and of different heights, the extra support helps protect your ankles.
SHOULD I USE TREKKING POLES?
Poles are always useful for hikers and are recommended for this trek. There are many stairs to go down, all built by the Incas; they vary in height and are not all straight. Using poles can help relieve pressure on your knees on this part of the trail, and they will also help you on the way up. If you bring your own, make sure they have rubber tips, or the park rangers will not allow you to use them. You can buy rubber tips in Cusco if you forget them before leaving.
HOW DO I PAY THE REMAINING BALANCE?
We would greatly appreciate it if you pay in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office here in Cusco. There are many ATMs in the historic center where you can withdraw money.
WHAT SIZE HIKING BACKPACK IS RECOMMENDED?
Generally, a 30- to 60-liter backpack is enough.
CAN I LEAVE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
ARE TIPS EXPECTED?
Tipping is part of the tradition of any hike to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please note that tipping is not mandatory, and you should never feel pressured to do so.
