The Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu 2Days 1Night offers an adventure-packed exploration of Peru’s iconic Inca ruins. This moderately challenging trek showcases stunning Andean landscapes and provides a seamless experience with meals, accommodations, and expert guidance. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this tour promises to leave you captivated by the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders that await. But what hidden gems might you uncover along this remarkable journey?
Key Points
- The Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu is a 2-day, 1-night tour that costs from $650 per person with group size pricing.
- The tour includes meals, accommodations, transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide, and requires a moderate fitness level.
- Pickup and meeting details, such as hotel pickup in Cusco and original passport requirement, are provided.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems, pregnant individuals, or serious medical conditions, and is not wheelchair accessible.
- The itinerary includes a guided hike to the Sun Gate, exploration of ancient ruins, and a train ride back to Cusco, with four 5-star reviews highlighting excellent organization and stunning scenery.
Tour Overview

The Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu is a 2-day, 1-night tour that brings travelers to the iconic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu is a 2-day, 1-night tour that brings travelers to the iconic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Located in Cusco, Peru, this tour costs from $650 per person with group size pricing.
With a 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, it includes meals, accommodations, transportation, entrance fees, and a professional guide.
Travelers must be moderately fit, have their original passport, and can’t be in wheelchairs or have serious medical conditions.
The packing list covers essential gear for the trek and visit to Machu Picchu.
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Included Amenities
This tour includes a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.
Meals are provided, including breakfast, lunch on the final day, and dinner.
Accommodation is arranged for one night in Aguas Calientes, a 3-star hotel with double rooms.
Transportation is comprehensive, covering hotel pickup in Cusco, round-trip train tickets from Cusco to Ollanta, and round-trip bus tickets between Machu Picchu Town and the Machu Picchu site.
The tour also includes entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, as well as the services of a professional, bilingual tour guide.
Pickup and Meeting Details

Your pickup details will be confirmed via phone the day before the tour.
Select a pickup point of your choice, such as your hotel in Cusco. The tour guides will pick you up from there to start your adventure.
Choose your pickup location, such as your Cusco hotel, and the tour guides will retrieve you there to commence your adventure.
Be ready for the tour as the pickup time is coordinated the day prior. Guests must provide their original passport on the tour.
The guides speak both English and Spanish to ensure a smooth experience.
Physical Requirements and Recommendations
Although the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.
The trek requires a moderate level of physical exertion, so participants should be prepared to hike for several hours each day.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Proper packing, including trekking shoes, rainwear, and sun protection, is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the trail.
Packing List
Trekkers will need to bring a lightweight backpack or suitcase weighing no more than 6-8 kg.
A lightweight backpack or suitcase not exceeding 6-8 kg is essential for trekkers on the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu.
The packing list includes:
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Sturdy trekking shoes
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Rain protection, such as a long poncho for the rainy season
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Insect repellent, sunscreen, sun hat, and sunglasses
Other recommended items are a camera, small denomination bills or coins, and personal necessities like medication.
While a bathing suit for the hot springs is optional, trekkers should ensure they’ve all the essentials for a comfortable and safe journey on the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu.
Itinerary
The 2-day, 1-night itinerary for the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu begins with an early morning pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Cusco.
Travelers are taken to the trailhead, where they begin their guided hike along the iconic Inca Trail. After around 4 hours of moderate trekking, they reach the Sun Gate, offering their first stunning views of Machu Picchu.
Descending to the citadel, travelers explore the ancient ruins with their guide before taking a bus to Aguas Calientes.
The following day, they return to Machu Picchu for further discoveries before taking the train back to Cusco.
Pricing and Group Size
The tour price for the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu starts from $650.00 per person. The price varies based on the group size.
Some key points about pricing and group size:
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The tour is available for a minimum of 2 people per booking.
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Children must be accompanied by an adult.
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Original passports are required for all participants.
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A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, as the trail isn’t wheelchair accessible and not suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.
Customer Reviews
Four 5-star reviews have been left for the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu tour.
Customers praise the excellent organization, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery. One reviewer notes the tour exceeded their expectations, highlighting the comfortable accommodations and delicious meals.
Another highlights the smooth logistics, from pickup to drop-off. Travelers appreciate the perfect balance of challenge and reward on the hike, as well as the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Weather Like During the Trek?
The weather during the trek can vary, with cool mornings and evenings, and warmer temperatures during the day. Hikers should be prepared for potential rain, especially during the rainy season, and dress in layers to adjust to the changing conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Hike?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food on the hike. However, the tour includes meals, so there’s no need to pack extra food unless you have dietary restrictions or preferences. The guides can provide recommendations on what to bring.
Is There an Option to Extend the Trek?
Yes, the tour provider offers an option to extend the trek. Customers can choose to add an extra day to the hike, allowing more time to explore the Inca ruins and surrounding areas at a leisurely pace.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The cancellation and refund policy typically allows full refunds for cancellations made at least 30 days prior to the tour date. Partial refunds may be offered for cancellations within 30 days, subject to the tour operator’s terms and conditions.
Can I Book the Tour for a Different Date?
Yes, travelers can book the tour for a different date, subject to availability. The operator typically allows date changes and provides flexibility in scheduling the tour at a convenient time for the customer.
The Sum Up
The Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu 2 Days 1 Night tour provides an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to explore the stunning landscapes and ancient ruins of Peru. Priced at $650 per person, the tour includes a range of amenities and is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level, making it an ideal choice for history and nature enthusiasts.
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