From Cusco || Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days ||

Travelers seeking a thrilling yet time-efficient adventure to Machu Picchu need look no further. The Short Inca Trail from Cusco offers a 2-day journey that packs a punch. With expert guidance, essential permits, and an affordable price tag, this tour provides an unforgettable taste of the Inca’s legacy. Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking vistas from the Sun Gate and explore the ancient ruins of Wiñayhuayna. But the true wonder lies just ahead, as the enigmatic Machu Picchu awaits your discovery.

Key Points

• This 2-day trekking tour from Cusco allows visitors to explore the iconic Machu Picchu in a shorter duration and at a starting price of $580 per person.
• The tour includes transportation, an expert guide, necessary permits, and basic accommodations, with a full refund available up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
• The itinerary features highlights such as the Sun Gate, Wiñayhuayna ruins, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu, suitable for those with limited time or budget.
• Participants must be at least 8 years old, and those with medical conditions or accessibility concerns may be excluded from the trek.
• The tour involves moderate physical activity over uneven terrain, and participants are advised to consult a doctor before booking if they have any health concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 2-day trekking tour that offers an opportunity to experience the iconic Inca ruins at a more affordable price point.

Priced from $580 per person, this tour includes transportation, an expert guide, necessary permits, and basic accommodations.

Priced from $580 per person, this tour includes transportation, an expert guide, necessary permits, and basic accommodations.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund or reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The itinerary covers highlights like the Sun Gate, Wiñayhuayna ruins, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu.

While moderate in difficulty, this shortened trail is well-suited for those with limited time or budget.

Itinerary: Day 1

On the first day, your adventure begins with an early 5:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll travel to Ollantaytambo Railway Station and board the train to KM 104. From there, you’ll hike to Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, enjoying a picnic lunch along the way. The highlight is reaching Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the iconic Machu Picchu. Afterward, you’ll take a bus to Aguas Calientes, have dinner, and stay overnight.

| Difficulty | Hiking Time | Distance |

| — | — | — |

| Moderate | 6 hours | 12 km |

Itinerary: Day 2

After an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, the group enjoys breakfast before boarding a bus to Machu Picchu.

They embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel, marveling at its stunning architecture and breathtaking vistas.

Afterward, they’re free to explore Machu Picchu at their own pace, seeing the site’s rich history and mystique.

The group then reconvenes for lunch in Aguas Calientes before boarding a train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus to Cusco, arriving by 9:30 PM.

The short Inca Trail adventure concludes, leaving the participants with unforgettable memories.

Inclusions

The tour includes a variety of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Travelers receive hotel pickup, guided tours in English and Spanish, and all necessary transportation – including train tickets, buses to/from Machu Picchu, and oxygen and first aid kits.

Overnight accommodation with breakfast in Aguas Calientes and select meals are provided. Entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are covered.

The package also includes travel insurance, ensuring peace of mind throughout the trip.

This comprehensive offering allows participants to focus on seeing the Inca ruins and stunning landscapes.

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Participant Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for certain participants due to safety and accessibility concerns.

Children under 8 years old, pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, and wheelchair users aren’t permitted on this trek.

This tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, those with back/heart issues, or wheelchair users due to safety and accessibility concerns.

The Inca Trail involves moderate physical activity over uneven terrain, which could be challenging for these groups.

The tour operator prioritizes the wellbeing and comfort of all participants.

Those with medical conditions should consult their doctor before booking.

What to Bring and Prohibited Items

Participants should bring their passport or ID, a change of clothes, a camera, breathable clothing, personal medication, and a pen for this Inca Trail trek. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, there are also some prohibited items:

| Allowed Items | Prohibited Items |

| — | — |

| Passport or ID | Pets |

| Change of clothes | Drones |

| Camera | Plastic bags |

| Breathable clothing | Plastic bottles |

| Personal medication | |

| Pen | |

Adhering to these guidelines will help make the trek more comfortable and comply with regulations.

Additional Information

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is ideal for adventure and nature lovers with moderate physical activity levels.

The small group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. Travelers can enjoy flexible travel plans with the option to reserve their spot without immediate payment. This allows for greater convenience and peace of mind when planning the trip.

Whether it’s the stunning views, the rich cultural heritage, or the sense of accomplishment, the Short Inca Trail delivers an unforgettable journey to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Reservation and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve their spot on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour without any upfront payment. This "reserve now, pay later" policy allows travelers to secure their place on the 2-day tour in advance. Cancellation is also flexible, with a full refund available up to 24 hours before the start date.

| Policy | Details |

| — | — |

| Reservation | Reserve spot without upfront payment |

| Cancellation | Cancel up to 24 hours for full refund |

| Payment | Pay balance before tour start |

| Flexibility | Ideal for spontaneous travel plans |

The Short Inca Trail tour offers a convenient and refundable booking process, making it easy for adventurous travelers to explore Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Passes for the Inca Trail?

Yes, you’ll need a permit to hike the Inca Trail. The tour operator will handle obtaining this permit for you as part of the tour package. Permits are limited, so booking early is recommended.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?

Yes, hikers can bring their own snacks and food on the Inca Trail hike. However, the tour package includes some meals, so it’s best to check with the tour operator about any restrictions or recommendations for personal provisions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Beyond 2 Days?

While the standard tour is 2 days, there’s an option to extend it. Travelers can inquire about longer itineraries that include more hiking, exploration, and acclimatization time in the Andes before reaching Machu Picchu.

Can I Store My Luggage in Cusco During the Tour?

Yes, participants can store their luggage at the tour operator’s office in Cusco during the 2-day Inca Trail hike. This service is included at no additional cost, allowing you to travel light on the trek.

What Is the Minimum and Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a small group size, limited to a maximum of 8 participants. The minimum group size is not specified, allowing for flexibility in accommodating individual travelers or smaller groups.

The Sum Up

The short Inca Trail trek from Cusco is the perfect choice for adventurous travelers with limited time or budget. Hikers can experience the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu in just two days, with expert guidance, transportation, and all necessary permits included. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling but manageable challenge or simply want to explore this iconic Inca ruin, this tour offers an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: