Short Inca Trail 2 Days 
Machu Picchu  with Hotel

Short Inca Trail - Visited comfortably and independently - Peru Private Tours

Our Short Inca Trail 2 days is the perfect option if you want to enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, walk through an original section of the Inca Trail, but do not have time (or desire) for the full 4-day camping trek.
Starting at Km 104 of the railway, this 2-day Inca Trail tour includes a full day of hiking, going through Wiñay Wayna and arriving at Machu Picchu in the afternoon, when the citadel is usually less crowded. You then spend the night at a comfortable 3 stars hotel in Aguas Calientes (Included) and return the next morning for a complete guided tour of Machu Picchu before taking the train back to Cusco.
It is a fantastic choice if you want the magic of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu plus the comfort of a hotel instead of a campsite.

Highlights Short Inca Trail 2 Days with Hotel

Km 104 Hike

Hike the Short Inca Trail 2 days from Km 104, including Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate.

Machu Picchu Access

Enjoy two entrances to Machu Picchu: afternoon arrival via the Inca Trail and next-morning guided tour

Hotel Comfort

Sleep in a 3 stars hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of camping.

Inca Stone Paths

Experience original Inca stone paths, cloud forest and panoramic viewpoints

Official Guides

Travel with an official Inca Trail tour operator and expert local guides.

Short Trek

Ideal for travelers with limited time or who prefer shorter hikes and more comfort.

Itinerary Short Inca Trail 2 Days

Cusco – Km 104 Wiñay Wayna Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes

Your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu starts with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (or Sacred Valley, if you are there).You will travel by car to the train station, then board the train to Km 104, the starting point of the 2-day Inca Trail. At Km 104 you will pass the control point using your Inca Trail permit and begin hiking.

From Wiñay Wayna, you continue along the final section of the Inca Trail toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). After one last gentle climb, you arrive at this iconic viewpoint and enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above. In the afternoon light, the citadel is often quieter than in the morning, giving you a more peaceful first impression. You then walk down to the upper terraces and viewpoints, where you can take more photos. Depending on the schedule and regulations of the day, you either:

From Wiñay Wayna, you continue along the final section of the Inca Trail toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). After one last gentle climb, you arrive at this iconic viewpoint and enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above. In the afternoon light, the citadel is often quieter than in the morning, giving you a more peaceful first impression. You then walk down to the upper terraces and viewpoints, where you can take more photos. Depending on the schedule and regulations of the day, you either:

Exit through the main gate and take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, or briefly pass through a specific circuit inside, then exit and go down to town.

You take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes and check in to your hotel. At coordinated time, your guide will meet you to go for dinner to an amazing place in town. Your guide confirms your meeting time and plan for the next morning’s Machu Picchu visit.

Machu Picchu Return to Cusco

After breakfast at your hotel, you meet your guide and take the bus up to Machu Picchu for your second entry. This time you have a guided tour of the citadel, visiting key sectors such as the main plaza, temples, terraces and viewpoints (according to the circuit assigned by your ticket and current regulations).

Your guide explains the history, architecture and mysteries of Machu Picchu and gives you time for photos from classic viewpoints.If you have pre-booked an additional hike (like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – not included, make sure to ask for it at the time of booking, it has an extra cost) this is normally done after the main guided tour, depending on your entry time and regulations.

After your visit, you will take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Have time for lunch (on your own) and a little free time before boarding the train back toward the Sacred Valley or directly toward Cusco (depending on your ticket).

Upon arrival at the station, our staff and driver will meet you and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Short Inca Trail 2 Days with Hotel

What’s Included

  • Pre-departure briefing about the Short Inca Trail 2 days (at coordinated time at your hotel).
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cusco or sacred valley.
  • Tourist transport from Cusco to the train station and back.
  • Train tickets to Km 104 and from Aguas Calientes back (Sacred Valley or Cusco), according to program.
  • Official Inca Trail permit for Km 104 and entry to Machu Picchu.
  • Professional, English speaking trekking guide.
  • Day 1 box lunch or packed lunch on the trail.
  • 1 night in a 3 stars hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Dinner on the 1st day evening
  • Breakfast at the hotel on Day 2.
  • Shuttle bus Aguas Calientes ↔ Machu Picchu.
  • Guided visit of Machu Picchu on Day 2.
  • First-aid kit and basic altitude support (oxygen) carried by the guide.

What’s Not Included

  • 2nd day Lunch in Aguas Calientes
  • Extra hotel nights before or after the 2-day Inca Trail tour.
  • Entrance ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional hikes), unless added to your reservation for an extra cost.
  • Specific circuit acces on your request and according the availability on the time of booking.
  • Walking poles (can be rented for our office)
  • Travel or medical insurance.
  • Tips for guide, driver and local staff (optional, according to your satisfaction).

Short Inca Trail 2 Days

Difficulty & Walking Time

The Short Inca Trail 2 days involves a moderate full day of hiking on Day 1.
Expect around 6–7 hours of walking (with breaks) from Km 104 via Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu area.
Day 2 is mainly sightseeing in Machu Picchu with light walking on defined circuits.

Altitude & Acclimatization

Typical altitudes:

Cusco: 3,400 meters above sea level
Trail from Km 104: 2,100–2,700 meters above sea level
Sun Gate: 2,720 meters above sea level
Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters above sea level

Because this 2-day Inca Trail tour is lower than the classic passes, it is generally easier for acclimatization. Still, we recommend at least 1–2 nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek to let your body adjust.

Best Time of Year to Do the Short Inca Trail

Operates most months of the year (Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance).
Rainy season: November–March (more rain, but lush green scenery and fewer people).
Best overall: April–October (drier conditions, clearer views).

Permits for the Short Inca Trail also have limited availability, so we recommend booking in advance, especially for May–September.

What to Pack

We suggest:

Comfortable hiking shoes or boots with good grip.
Light, breathable clothing plus a warm layer (fleece or jacket).
Waterproof jacket or poncho, especially in rainy season.
Small daypack for water, camera, snacks, and layers.
Change of clothes and basic overnight items for Aguas Calientes (can go in a small bag).
Sun hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
Personal medications and basic personal first aid items.
Passport (required for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entry).

At the time of breafing, we will provide you a duffle bag so you can put there only ssentian items fo 1 night at aguas Calientes, Make sure to bring somethign nice for your Machu Picchu Pictures.

Why Choose This Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour with Peru Private Tours?

Best of both worlds

You hike a real section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but sleep in a comfortable hotel, not in a tent.

Two Machu Picchu entries

 Afternoon arrival via the Sun Gate plus a full guided visit the next morning.

Local expert guides

Experienced trekking guides who know the route, regulations and best photo spots.

Flexible option for busy itineraries

Perfect if you don’t have four days for the classic Inca Trail but still want the “arrival on foot” experience.

Cusco-based support

Our team is in Cusco, ready to help you plan acclimatization, day tours and transfers around your 2-day Inca Trail tour.

FAQs  Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days)

What Travelers Say About Peru Private Tours

We don’t just promise personalized service and unforgettable experiences—our travelers confirm it. Below you’ll find our most recent TripAdvisor reviews that reflects what guests are saying right now. From private Machu Picchu tours to custom Peru itineraries, each review comes directly from real travelers who chose Peru Private Tours for expert planning, local insight, and premium support.

Tripadvisor Peru Private Tours

Other Inca Trail  Hikes You May Also Like

Book Your Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour

Ready to hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and sleep in a comfortable hotel instead of camping?

Share your travel dates, number of travelers and hotel preferences, and our team will send you a personalized 2-day Inca Trail tour proposal.
Your preferred date(s) for the Short Inca Trail 2 days
Number of travelers and approximate ages
Where you are staying before and after the trek (Cusco or Sacred Valley)
Preferred hotel category in Aguas Calientes (comfort – 3 stars / superior – 4stars / luxury – 5 stars)
Any special needs (slower hiking pace, honeymoon, family trip, etc.)

We will reply with availability, a clear itinerary, and the price so you can confidently book your 2-day Short Inca Trail tour with hotel accommodations.

Ready to enjoy the Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco?

Highly qualified staff to design tailor-made excursions for you.

Award Cusco Day Tours for Peru Private Tour

CEO : Edwin Pimentel

Safe Travels Stamp – International safety and quality standards for travel in Peru
Tailor-Made Tour Company of the Year 2024 – Award-winning luxury travel company in Peru
TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence – Trusted luxury tour operator in Peru with outstanding traveler reviews

    Contact Us