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Discover the magic of the Inca Trail on a two-day adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Incan culture. This tour offers a perfect balance of hiking and comfort, with an overnight stay at a hotel near Aguas Calientes, ensuring you’re well-rested before exploring the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
The 2 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the ideal alternative if you were unable to secure a permit for the Classic Inca Trail trek. Click to read real traveler reviews about a wonderful and memorable experience.
2 Days 1 Night | With Hotel
13 km / 8 miles
Intermediate
8,924 ft (2,720 m)
Trekking in Nature and Culture
02 ppl Min - 08ppl Max
The 2 Day Inca Trail, popularly known as the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, is one of the famous alternative hikes to Machu Picchu. It takes you through some of the iconic Inca sites and gives you a glimpse into Andean traditions and Peruvian history.
Inca Trail permits usually sell out as soon as they go on sale, six months in advance. Often, people who book at the last minute have no choice and seek an alternative route to make their visit to the lost Incas memorable. We highly recommend doing the 2 days Inca Trail to get an overview of Inca history and Andean traditions.
Why Choose the 2-Day 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.
What makes our 2-day Inca Trail hike unique?
2 Day Inca Trail Hike:
This tour is a relatively easier option. You will not have to hike to high altitudes or camp in remote areas. In fact, families with young children often opt for the 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
The 12-kilometer (7.4-mile) trail to the lost Inca city takes you through three notable Inca sites: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Intipunku (Sungate). The route offers amazing views of the snow-capped peaks of the Peruvian Andes. You will walk through the different species of flora and fauna characteristic of the region.
We are a local tourism company. At Quechuas Expeditions, we have a dedicated team of local English-speaking guides for the Inca Trail. They have walked the trail over a hundred times. As locals, they have extensive knowledge about the traditions and history and are also trained in first aid.
Join us as a solo traveler, couple, or small group to follow in the footsteps of the Incas on this short 2 day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.
Please note that although the hike is not as high as the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we strongly recommend that you spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco acclimatizing to avoid altitude sickness.
The best time of year to hike the 2 Days Inca Trail is from March to November, during the dry season.
Summary:
Please Note:
Permits and Inca Trail Entrance Tickets
Machu Picchu Entry Circuits
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-Departure Briefing
Professional and Experienced Tour Guides
Medical & Emergency Preparedness
Accommodation – Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals Included
Transportation Included – Transfers and Bus Tickets
All transfers are carefully coordinated to ensure smooth and reliable logistics throughout your journey.
Optional Add-On Hikes (Not Included)
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Entry Times:
With your 6:00 a.m. Machu Picchu Circuit 2 entrance, you may complete this hike after your guided tour, independently and following your guide’s instructions.
Machu Picchu Mountain
This hike offers wide, less steep trails, making it an excellent option for travelers seeking a moderate yet rewarding climb. The ascent takes approximately 1.5 hours and provides unforgettable panoramic views.
Entry Times:
You may:
Huchuy Picchu Mountain
Huchuy Picchu is a shorter and less demanding alternative to Huayna Picchu. Its gentle trail makes it perfect for travelers seeking a light yet scenic hike with beautiful views of the citadel and surrounding Andes.
Entry Times:
This hike can be completed after your guided Machu Picchu tour.
Important Travel Conditions
Travel Insurance Recommendation
Quechuas Expeditions strongly recommends purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for:
For your safety and peace of mind, please ensure you bring proof of insurance before departure, as proper coverage is essential when traveling in remote mountain regions.
Availability (based on availability): Daily Departures All departures are 100% guaranteed. If you have booked, you are going, we won’t cancel your trip!!!
How to Book?
Send us all your personal information, as well as a first deposit of USD 200.00, and the final balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.
Group Service: Price per person: US$580
You will be joined in a group formed by people coming from different countries/nationalities: From 4 people up to 8 people (maximum)
Private Service: Price per person: US $680
Recommended for honeymooners, families with children, and groups of friends (two people minimum).
If you are a group of 02, we leave (it doesn’t matter if you have paid as a group service). We NEVER pass our people to another operator, as most agencies do here in Cusco.
UPGRADES:
RENTALS:
DISCOUNTS:
(to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com).
UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD
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:
Book now with us
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 Short Inca Trail is a shorter version of the classic route to Machu Picchu. It usually starts at Km 104 and follows an original Inca path through archaeological sites, cloud forest scenery, and the Sun Gate before reaching the famous citadel.
The hike usually takes one full day on the trail, covering around 10 to 12 kilometers depending on the pace of the group. The second day is normally focused on visiting Machu Picchu with your guide.
This route is considered moderate. It does not require several days of camping, but it still includes uphill sections, stone steps, altitude, and several hours of walking.
Yes, this 2-day route can be suitable for beginners who are active and comfortable walking for several hours. It is a good option for travelers who want a scenic hike to Machu Picchu without doing a longer multi-day trek.
No. This protected route must be done with an authorized guide and the proper permits. Travelers cannot enter independently.
The best months are usually from April to October, during the dry season in the Andes. May, June, September, and October are especially popular because the weather is often clearer for hiking and visiting Machu Picchu.
It is best to book several months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season from May to September. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly.
The route usually starts near Km 104 and reaches Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, at around 2,720 meters above sea level before descending toward Machu Picchu.
Spend at least one or two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the hike, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, avoid alcohol before the tour, and walk at a steady pace.
Bring hiking clothes, a rain jacket, sun protection, insect repellent, water, snacks, personal medication, passport, camera or phone, and a small daypack. Layers are important because the weather can change quickly.
Facilities are limited along the hiking route, so it is important to be prepared before starting. Your guide will explain where rest stops are available and what to expect during the day.
You will see original Inca paths, mountain landscapes, cloud forest vegetation, archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, and beautiful views on the way to Machu Picchu. One of the highlights is arriving through Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate.
The guided visit usually takes place on the second day, often in the morning. The exact time depends on your entrance ticket, availability, train schedule, and itinerary.
After visiting the citadel, travelers usually return to Aguas Calientes, take the train back to Ollantaytambo, and continue by transport to Cusco.
Do you need help in choosing your trip or booking? We are at your disposal.
