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We’ve crafted the perfect itinerary for you to experience the magic of the Luxury Inca Trail on an exclusive 2-day journey, where every step combines adventure with comfort. Enjoy world-class amenities and personalized attention as you take on Peru’s most iconic trekking route.
This luxury experience has been carefully designed to offer the perfect balance between adventure and indulgence. Walk along the ancient Inca Trail with your own professional private guide, and then unwind at a handpicked 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready for your private exploration of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
2 Days 1 Night | With Hotel
13 km / 8 miles
Intermediate
8,924 ft (2,720 m)
Trekking in Nature and Culture
Upon Request
While the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail is still the most famous route, it has become harder to access in recent years. To protect its history and natural surroundings, local authorities now limit the trail to 500 permits per day, including travelers, guides, porters, and cooks. With demand so high, these permits are usually sold out months ahead of time, leaving many visitors without the chance to walk this legendary path.
The 2 Days Luxury Inca Trail is the ideal alternative. It preserves the essence of the ancient Inca Trail while offering a more comfortable and exclusive way to experience it. After a rewarding day of hiking past stunning scenery and Inca sites, you’ll spend the night in a carefully selected 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. In the evening, enjoy a fine dinner at one of the town’s top restaurants, then rest well before your private guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Created for travelers who want both adventure and comfort, the Luxury Inca Trail lets you follow in the footsteps of the Incas without giving up the pleasures of a world-class journey. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Machu Picchu, combining culture, nature, and style in just two days.
Why choose the 2-Day Luxury Inca Trail by Quechuas Expeditions?
At Quechuas Expeditions, we are a locally owned and fully licensed Inca Trail tour operator, committed to delivering a reliable, punctual, and personalized travel experience. Whether you’re traveling solo or in a group, you’ll be welcomed with warmth and professionalism — just take a look at our reviews on TripAdvisor.
2 Day Luxury Inca Trail Hike:
This itinerary is considered a relatively easier option compared to the Classic Inca Trail. You won’t need to hike to extreme altitudes or camp in remote areas, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort without missing the essence of the experience. In fact, many families with young children prefer the 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The 12-kilometer (7.4-mile) trail takes you through three remarkable archaeological sites: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Intipunku (the Sun Gate). Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andean peaks and walk through diverse ecosystems rich in native flora and fauna.
As a locally owned company, Quechuas Expeditions offers the expertise of highly trained, English-speaking guides who have each walked the Inca Trail hundreds of times. Beyond their professional qualifications, they bring a deep understanding of Andean traditions, Inca history, and cultural heritage, as well as certification in first aid to ensure your safety.
Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, this short yet meaningful trek invites you to follow in the footsteps of the Incas and arrive at the majestic Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate.
Please note: While the altitude is lower than on the Classic Inca Trail, we strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco beforehand to acclimatize and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
The best season to hike the 2-Day Inca Trail is from March to November, when the dry weather provides optimal conditions for an enjoyable and safe experience.
Summary:
Your 2-Day Luxury Short Inca Trail adventure begins with an early morning transfer from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll drive through the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board a train bound for Aguas Calientes.
The scenic 1.5-hour train ride to Km 104, the official trailhead of the Short Inca Trail, offers breathtaking views as the train winds its way through highland villages, farmlands, and along the sacred Urubamba River. The name “Km 104” refers to the distance from Cusco to this checkpoint. Upon arrival, at around 10:00 a.m., your Inca Trail permit and original passport will be verified by local authorities. From here, your hike officially begins as we cross a small bridge and ascend gently toward our first archaeological site: Chachabamba.
Chachabamba
Located at 2,150 meters (7,053 ft) above sea level, Chachabamba is a fascinating ceremonial site once dedicated to Inti (the Sun God) and the Apus (sacred mountain spirits). Here, the Incas performed rituals of gratitude using coca leaves to honor Pachamama (Mother Earth). Many locals still continue these ancestral practices today. During your visit, our expert guide will provide a cultural demonstration, bringing these ancient traditions to life.
Wiñay Wayna
After exploring Chachabamba, we continue hiking for approximately four hours uphill to reach Wiñay Wayna, which translates from Quechua as “Forever Young”. Considered one of the most beautiful sites along the Inca Trail, Wiñay Wayna stands at 2,650 meters (8,694 ft) and once served as an important administrative and ceremonial center for Machu Picchu. The complex includes more than 20 urban and agricultural structures, terraces, and temples. The highlight is the Temple of the Seven Windows, believed to have been built in honor of the Rainbow.
Here, our guide will lead an in-depth tour of the site, before we pause at the nearby campsite for lunch. The area is well-maintained, offering clean restrooms and facilities where you can refill your water bottle before continuing the trek.
Intipunku (Sun Gate)
From Wiñay Wayna, the trail continues for about one hour through lush tropical forest, leading us to Intipunku (the Sun Gate). This is the moment many travelers dream of: your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, framed majestically between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains. Only those hiking the Classic and Short Inca Trail routes are privileged to enter the citadel through this ancient gateway.
After a short stop to take in the view and capture photos, we exit the citadel and take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where your luxury hotel awaits.
In the evening, you may choose to relax in the town’s famous hot springs, the perfect way to soothe your muscles after a rewarding day of hiking. Alternatively, stroll through Aguas Calientes, browsing local shops and markets for unique souvenirs.
Early in the morning, we will board the tourist bus for the ascent to Machu Picchu. At the entrance, your tickets and original passport will once again be verified. As you step inside, you’ll witness the first golden rays of the sun illuminating the ancient citadel, a magical moment that reveals the grandeur of the Inca masterpiece.
Your guided tour will begin with a fascinating introduction to the Inca civilization, followed by an in-depth exploration of the citadel’s most important sectors, including the Main Square, agricultural terraces, ceremonial temples, and residential areas.
For travelers who have secured tickets to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our expert guide will provide orientation and direct you to the respective entrances for your hike.
After your visit, you’ll use your round-trip bus ticket to descend back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or explore the town at your leisure.
In the afternoon, we will board the luxury train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying a scenic ride through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival, our representative will be waiting to provide a private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco, ensuring a smooth and comfortable conclusion to your journey.
• Short Inca Trail Permits (km 104)
Once we receive your complete personal information and reservation deposit, we’ll manage all the necessary permits for your trek.
Permits are non-transferable, issued under your full name and for a specific date, and cannot be modified under any circumstances.
Passport number changes are only permitted for renewal cases; in that event, both old and new passports must be presented.
• Machu Picchu Entry Tickets
Your Inca Trail permit includes Circuit 1, which takes you to the upper terraces of Machu Picchu—the perfect spot for that iconic postcard photo.
To enhance your experience, we’ll also include access to either Circuit 2 (a full guided tour through the main citadel) or Circuit 3 (a walk through the lower sector), depending on availability at the time of booking.
Your Inca Trail permit includes access to Circuit 1, guiding you to the upper Sector terraces of Machu Picchu—the ideal vantage point for the iconic panoramic photo of the citadel.
To provide a more comprehensive and enriching experience, we also include an additional entry to either Circuit 2 (offering a full guided tour through the heart of the archaeological site) or Circuit 3 (exploring the scenic lower sector), depending on availability at the time of reservation.
• Pre-Departure Briefing
Meet your guide the day before your trek at 5:00 PM at our main office in Cusco.
This session will cover final trip details, allow you to meet your group, and you’ll receive your duffle bag for the hike.
Can’t attend? Let us know in advance—we can reschedule or provide a personalized video briefing via WhatsApp.
• Expert Tour Guides
Our certified guides are fluent in English and Spanish, and are carefully selected for their experience, responsibility, and passion for sharing Peru’s cultural heritage.
They’re committed to your comfort and safety throughout the journey.
• First Aid & Medical Support
All guides receive annual first aid training and carry a comprehensive medical kit, including oxygen.
In case of an emergency, we will arrange for immediate evacuation and ensure professional medical care.
Accommodation
One-night stay in Aguas Calientes at a comfortable hotel with private bathroom, hot water, WiFi, and breakfast included.
Luggage storage is available during your Machu Picchu visit.
Meals Included
Snacks & Water: Provided on Day 1.
Transportation
Availability (based on availability): Daily Departures All departures are 100% guaranteed. If you have booked, you are going, we won’t cancel your trip!!!
O preço da Trilha Laguna Humantay 1 Dia é de US$ 1200 por pessoa e inclui transporte, guia profissional, café da manhã, almoço e ingresso.
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but due to the higher altitude of the Andes, the temperature can be quite cold, especially at night. We recommend using a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good-sized backpack between 20 and 30 liters is also essential.
List of things you must bring:
Still haven’t decided on the best 2-day Inca Trail tour? We’re sharing frequently asked questions from our satisfied customers who have already visited the trail to Machu Picchu.
The tour is a 2-day trek that takes you through a portion of the famous Inca Trail, allowing you to reach Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
The trek covers about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), usually completed in one full day of hiking, and the second day is spent exploring Machu Picchu.
Is moderate in difficulty, with some uphill and downhill sections but less demanding than the full 4-day trek.
Yes, this trail is suitable for people with a moderate level of fitness and those with basic hiking experience.
No, just like the classic Inca Trail, this tour also requires a licensed guide due to regulations governing the national park.
The best time to hike the trail is during the dry season, from April to October. The rainy season (November to March) can make the trail slippery and challenging.
You should book the trek 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak seasons (June to September), as permits are limited.
While the 2 day Short trail is easier than the full 4-day trek, there’s still an age limit of 12-70 years, though exceptions may apply depending on fitness levels.
Groups usually consist of 8-16 people, though it can vary based on the tour operator.
If you’re in good health and relatively fit, you can hike the Short Inca Trail, but prior hiking experience will make the trek easier.
Some operators offer discounts for children or students, but this depends on the tour provider. Be sure to inquire when booking.
Cancellation policies vary by tour operator, but most have strict policies due to the high demand for permits. You may lose part of your deposit or full payment if you cancel last-minute.
Acclimatize in Cusco for 2-3 days before your trek, drink plenty of water, and consider taking altitude sickness medication.
The highest point of the trail is at 2,730 meters (8,957 feet) at the Sun Gate.
Symptoms include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. If you feel unwell, tell your guide immediately, and they will help you descend to a lower altitude.
Most tour operators provide purified water and ensure that meals are prepared hygienically. Carry water purification tablets just in case.
If you become seriously ill or injured, your guide will arrange for evacuation to Aguas Calientes, where you can take a train back to Cusco.
Essential items include comfortable hiking boots, warm clothing (layers), rain gear, sunscreen, a small daypack, a camera, and personal medications.
No, the 2 days Inca trail typically doesn’t involve camping, so you’ll stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes on the second night.
A good pair of hiking boots with ankle support is recommended, as the trail has some uneven and rocky terrain.
Yes, you can bring both, but remember that battery life may be limited due to the cold temperatures at higher altitudes.
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or jacket, a waterproof jacket for rain, and a hat or sun protection gear.
It’s best to bring your own water and consider carrying water purification tablets or a filter, especially if you’re uncertain about the availability along the trail.
Day 1: Take the train from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104, hike to Wiñay Wayna, and camp or continue to Aguas Calientes.
Day 2: Visit Machu Picchu early in the morning for a guided tour and enjoy some free time before returning to Cusco.
The group usually arrives in the morning, around 7:00-8:00 AM, after an early train ride from Aguas Calientes.
Highlights include ancient Inca ruins like Wiñay Wayna, cloud forests, panoramic views of the Andes, and, of course, Machu Picchu itself.
There are toilets at checkpoints and at Machu Picchu, but they can be basic and limited in number.
If you’re interested in climbing either of these peaks, you must purchase a separate permit, as it is not included in the tour.
After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a train back to Ollantaytambo or Aguas Calientes, and then transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
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Posted on Sara DVerified 10/10 Experience - Would Recommend! We had an amazing time on the Salkantay 5 Day Trek. Before the trip started, Quechuas had great communication and was very accommodating to our travel schedule, including adjusting our briefing time with our guide.The skydome accomodations were great (all fairly spacious, with exception of night 2, which was fine as we didn’t spend much time there), the food was delicious (a great variety and always more than enough to go around) and the trek itself was beautiful. Our guide Steven, as well as second guide Jorge, were very patient, knowledgeable and kind to us and the others in our group - not only did we get to see incredible scenery but we also learned a lot about the local landscape and culture.We rented sleeping bags, which we would highly recommend. We brought our own hiking poles but would recommend renting if you don’t bring your own.Overall, an amazing experience and we would highly recommend this company.Posted on Matthew WVerified Seamless and Supportive Inca Trail Experience – Highly Recommend We recently completed the 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek with Quechuas Expeditions in June 2025, and overall had a fantastic experience that struck the perfect balance between physical challenge and logistical ease.Our guide, Fernando (“Nando”), was outstanding—passionate, deeply knowledgeable about the trail’s rich history, and highly supportive throughout. He kept our group motivated and informed, and managed different paces and needs with professionalism and care. His English was great, and he always made time to answer questions or share interesting stories along the way.The porter and chef team were phenomenal. Every meal was different, delicious, and plentiful—we were never hungry, and dietary needs (including vegan and vegetarian) were handled without issue. They even baked a custom cake on the trail for a couple’s anniversary, which speaks volumes about their care and capability. The porters themselves were friendly, warm, and constantly going above and beyond to support us.Quechuas provided tents, sleeping bags, a toilet tent, and hot water for face washing each morning, plus coca tea as a wake-up touch. The duffel service was useful, though we did find the weight limits a bit tighter than expected once you factor in the sleeping bag. In the end, we paid for an extra porter—which was easy to arrange but worth noting for those planning their packing. One thing we didn’t know in advance: the porter bags aren’t waterproof, so future trekkers may want to use dry bags or line the inside with plastic.Another small consideration: due to how campsites are assigned (by the government, not the tour company), some days ended up being longer than the traditional day-by-day breakdown you might read online. While not Quechuas’ fault, for myself, as much heads-up as possible would’ve helped with my own mental preparation.All said, Quechuas Expeditions delivered where it mattered most. The logistics were smooth, the staff was superb, and their support allowed us to focus on enjoying the trail and the breathtaking views without worrying about the rest. This is a company that knows what it’s doing.Would I recommend them? Absolutely—whether you’re a first-time trekker or experienced hiker, they make an unforgettable journey that much more seamless and enjoyable. If I ever do this again, I would book with them without question, and if possible, request the exact same team. Thank you Fernando and team for a trip of a lifetime and memories that will stay with me forever 🙏Posted on Arianna OVerified Amazing trip on the Inca Trail with Quechuas Expeditions I never imagined that the Inca Trail could be so transformative. My partner and I decided to do the classic 4-day trek with Quechuas Expeditions and, honestly, it exceeded all our expectations. From the very first moment we felt very welcome. The service was impeccable, they were always attentive to our needs, solving all our doubts before and during the trek.The hike was not easy, but the views, the fresh mountain air and the energy of the group kept us going without thinking about how tiring it was. The meals at the campsites surprised us pleasantly, we really did not expect so much variety and flavor in the middle of the mountain. And the end, reaching Machu Picchu through the sun gate (Inti Punku) was simply magical, there are no words to describe that moment. It is definitely a unique experience that connects you with the history, culture and nature of Peru. Thank you Quechuas Expeditions for making this trip so special!Posted on naomiammarVerified Hardest challenge of my life but worth it One of the hardest things I have ever done (definitely underestimate the difficulty level), and I don’t know if I would have made it if it wasn’t for our awesome guide Frenando and all the amazing staff we had. What a fantastic group of people. The porters are so hard working, it’s so humbling. The chef Taco was fantastic! I am vegan and he made me the most amazing food the entire time. I couldn’t believe it. And then our guide Fernando topped it all. Knowledgeable, professional yet fun, very personable, very patient (we were slow!) and very encouraging. If you are considering taking on this challenge, I highly recommend Quechua’s Expeditions and if you can request Fernando. E sure to do so. He’s been doing this for 19yrs!Posted on cade cVerified Awesome trek We really enjoyed our trip. It was challenging and also rewarding. Beautiful views and even better food. I can’t rave enough about our cook Santiago! Food was unbelievable. Jose did a fantastic job leading us along the way. He did a good job of explaining what we are seeing! Looking for a physical challenge with beautiful views this is the trek for you.Posted on Lola UVerified Demanding, enriching and unforgettable thanks to the human team I will always be grateful to the rich food and attentions of Santiago, the cook, the professionalism and good advice of José, the guide, the kindness of the helpers, who have made it possible to improve the experience.Posted on Julia C.Verified Amazing trek, amazing guide and staff The Salkantay Trek was absolutely stunning, domes and the views were great with hot water available. What the trek made very special was our guide Nildo. Also, the chef Julian, horseman and second guide were incredible too. Nildo was knowledgeable, caring and passionate about everything he shared. I cannot imagine a better guide :-) Everything was very well organized.Posted on Emelie AVerified Hike of a lifetime! We had the most amazing time! The different sceneries along the trek are just unbelievable and although being two fairly unfit persons we could enjoy it all the way. Fernando and Steven are terrific guides making sure we were all comfortable and happy at all times. The food and accommodations along the way were also a lot more luxurious than what we’d expected. Would 100% recommend this to anyone who’s up for a hike!!
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