Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We will travel by tourist bus to the train station, where you will board the train bound for Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

After arriving at Km 104, you will begin the hike after passing through the official checkpoint. Your guide will provide important information about the route, safety recommendations, and the history of the sites you will visit.

The first archaeological site on the route is Chachabamba, an ancient Inca site located near the Urubamba River. Here, your guide will explain the significance of this place and how it was connected to the Inca Trail network.

From Chachabamba, the trail continues uphill through beautiful cloud forest landscapes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy waterfalls, lush vegetation, mountain views, and peaceful surroundings.

The highlight of the hike is Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. This incredible complex features agricultural terraces, temples, water channels, and perfectly preserved stone structures built into the mountainside.

After exploring Wiñay Wayna, we’ll continue walking toward the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, surrounded by mountains and clouds.

After taking photos and enjoying this special moment, we’ll continue toward the checkpoint and then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night at your hotel.

• Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi

• Duration: 7 hours

• Highest Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Sun Gate)

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner

• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

• Difficulty: Moderate

After breakfast at your hotel, you will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Your guide will assist you with the entry process according to the schedule and route assigned to your ticket. Inside the citadel, you will enjoy a guided tour along the official Machu Picchu route included in your reservation.

During the visit, your guide will explain the history, architecture, temples, terraces, and mysteries of this incredible Inca sanctuary. You will learn how Machu Picchu was built, its importance within the Inca Empire, and the connection between the citadel and the surrounding mountains.

The specific sites visited depend on the assigned route. Some routes focus more on panoramic views, while others include important temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas.

After the guided tour, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time depending on your train schedule. You can enjoy lunch, explore the town, or relax before boarding your return train.

At the scheduled time, you will take the train back to Cusco. Upon arrival at the train station, our transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

The tour ends with a drop-off near your hotel or at a central location in Cusco.

• Tour Duration: 2–3 hours exploring Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft

• Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate