Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N

🔍 Overview of  Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N

Walk the legendary Short Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate. This 2-day trek combines history, breathtaking scenery, and a unique cultural experience. Follow the original Inca paths, discover ancient ruins along the way, and enjoy spectacular views before entering Machu Picchu from one of its most famous vantage points.

Why Choose the Short Inca Trail?

• Perfect for travelers seeking a moderate hike with less physical demand than the classic 4-day trek.
• Access Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), avoiding the crowded main entrances.
• Explore archaeological sites, such as Wiñay Wayna, along the route.
• Enjoy a carefully designed itinerary that strikes a balance between adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion.

What to Expect

• A scenic 2-day journey through the Andes and cloud forest.
• Professional English/Spanish-speaking guides passionate about history and nature.
• Delicious meals and comfortable accommodations in Aguas Calientes.
• Small-group or private options to make your experience personal and flexible.

📌 Tip: Permits for the Short Inca Trail are limited and sell out quickly. Book early to secure your spot and enjoy one of the most iconic hikes to Machu Picchu!

📅 Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N Itinerary 

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

• Pick-up: We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:10 a.m. and transfer you to Ollantaytambo station.
• Train ride: Board the tourist train to Km 104, the starting point of our hike.
• Hike & visits: Along the trail, we’ll explore the impressive archaeological sites of:
• Chachabamba (2,150 m / 7,050 ft)
• Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft)
• Lunch: Enjoy a box lunch with beautiful mountain views.
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Hike to the Sun Gate for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
• Machu Picchu entry: Enter via Circuit 1 for a short initial visit (subject to regulations).
• Transfer to Aguas Calientes: Take the bus down to the town and check into your hotel.
• Dinner is included at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

• Early morning entry: Take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu and enter the citadel at 6:00 a.m.
• Guided tour: A 2-hour guided exploration of Machu Picchu via Circuit 2 or 3 (subject to availability).
• Free time: Enjoy time for photos or optional activities (e.g., Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, if booked in advance).
• Return journey: Take the tourist train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, followed by a private transfer to your hotel in Cusco.

Price 2025 – Short Inca Trail 2D/1N

Group Service: USD 519.00 per person (Standard package)

💡 Includes all essential services for the Inca Trail hike and Machu Picchu guided visit.

Private Service:

• Available upon request.
• Tailor-made itineraries for couples, families, or small groups.
• Pricing depends on group size, hotel category, and travel dates.

📩 Contact us for a personalized quote and availability. info@coclatours.com | WhatsApp: +51 984 394 583

⚠️ Important for 2025:

As of June 2025, all Inca Trail tickets include access only to Circuit 1 (Panoramic Route) of Machu Picchu. To visit the main lower areas of the citadel (generally Circuit 2 or Circuit 3), an additional entrance ticket is required.

✅ This extra ticket is already included in our price and is subject to availability

Optional Upgrades (upon request)

• Hotel upgrade in Aguas Calientes – 3★ / 4★ / 5★ available.
• Panoramic Vistadome Train for the return journey.
• Extra personal porter – up to 5 kg of individual items.
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (subject to availability) – USD 55

Payment Options

We make it easy to confirm your booking with multiple secure payment methods:

• Visa payment link (in Peruvian Soles).
• Izipay payment link (in USD).
• WeTravel platform – pay in your local currency or USD.
• Bank transfer (local or international).
• Western Union is available on request.

✅ What’s Included in Our 2D/1N Inca Trail Tour

Our Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu includes everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable experience:

• Pre-briefing: Complete orientation before starting the trek.
• Transfers: Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
• Train tickets: Round-trip tickets from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
• Private transport: From Ollantaytambo or Poroy back to your hotel in Cusco.
• Professional certified guide: Bilingual (English/Spanish), specialized in the Inca Trail.
• Inca Trail entrance ticket.
• Machu Picchu entrance ticket (Circuit 1 panoramic route included).
• Accommodation: 1 night in a standard hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Meals:
  • Box lunch on day 1.
  • Dinner in Aguas Calientes.
  • Breakfast at the hotel (day 2).
• 03 Bus tickets: Round-trip Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu.
• First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
• Personalized assistance during the entire tour.

❌ Not Included

The following items are not included in the Short Inca Trail 2D/1N tour package:

• Trekking poles (recommended; available for rent if needed $20).
• Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional hikes; subject to availability and additional cost of $80).
• Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 2.
• Travel insurance (recommended for any hiking adventure).
• Personal expenses, such as snacks, tips, souvenirs, or drinks not included in the meals.
• Additional costs due to external circumstances beyond our control, such as weather disruptions, political protests, health issues, flight delays, or strikes.
• Hotel upgrades or private room supplements, unless previously requested.

Optional Services (Upgrades)

To customize your experience and make your journey more comfortable, you can request the following optional services for an additional cost:

• Hotel upgrade: Request a 3★ or 4★ hotel for an additional cost.
• Extra tickets: Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Private transfers: From Cusco upon request.
• Vistadome panoramic train upgrade upon request at the moment of booking

🔔 Note: All optional services must be requested in advance and are subject to availability, especially during high season (May–September).

🎒 What to Bring for the Short Inca Trail

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience during your 2-day short Inca Trail hike, we recommend bringing the following essentials:

• Valid Passport – Required for all checkpoints. Make sure it matches your Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets.
• Original Student ID (if applicable) – For discounted student tickets (must be an ISIC or university card).
• Daypack (15–25L) – Comfortable and lightweight to carry your personal items during the hike.
• Comfortable hiking boots – Well broken-in and waterproof, with good grip.
• Trekking clothes – Breathable layers (long-sleeve shirts, T-shirts, trekking pants).
• Warm jacket – It can get cold in the early morning or evening.
• Rain gear – A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is essential, especially in the rainy season.
• Sun protection – Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
• Insect repellent – Especially useful in the cloud forest and around Machu Picchu.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system – At least 1–2 liters.
• Snacks – Nuts, energy bars, or chocolate for quick energy boosts.
• Personal medication – Especially if you have allergies or are prone to altitude sickness.
• Cash in Peruvian soles – For small purchases, tips, or emergencies.
• Camera or smartphone – To capture the breathtaking views!
• 💡 Optional: Trekking poles (recommended for balance on uneven terrain — available for rent if needed).