Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - 2 Days
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Andean Path Travel
Experience the breathtaking beauty and discover the rich history of the Andes with us on our Machu Picchu 2-day hike along the Iconic Inca Trail. It is a perfect adventure for travelers with limited time along the legendary Inca path. Known for a blend of ancient ruins and lush cloud forest, you can witness a dramatic arrival at Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate just like the Incas did centuries ago.
Short Inca Trail for 2 Days with Hotel-Hike to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate
Are you looking for the shortest hike to Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate? Andea Path Travel brings you an ephemeral itinerary crafted with comfort, culture, and unforgettable views along the Inca Trail. Our short Inca trail or Private short inca trail with the Hotel is designed for 2 days. It is the perfect option for travelers who want to walk in the footsteps of the Incas, without camping or committing to a 4-day trek.
This 2 day short Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu offers breathtaking scenery, lush subtropical landscapes. This is your chance to explore the remarkable Inca sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and the awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku.
Tour Overview
Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles), including 6 to 7 hours of hiking to reach Machu Picchu
Max Elevation: ~2,700 meters (8,858 ft)
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes
Difficulty: Moderate (great for families, couples & first-time hikers)
Price includes:
Professional licensed English-speaking guide
Hotel pick-up & drop-off (Cusco or Ollantaytambo)
All transportation (train tickets, bus tickets, transfers)
Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
Box lunch with scenic views (vegan & vegetarian options available)
Guided Machu Picchu tour (2–3 hours)
First-aid kit & oxygen
Not included:
Entry ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Suggested Itinerary
Cusco – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Your 2-day hike to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 AM. From there, you’ll travel by private vehicle to the Ollantaytambo Train Station, enjoying a scenic 1.5-hour ride through the Sacred Valley.
At 6:10 AM, board the comfortable Expedition Train alongside your guide and head toward KM 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. The 1-hour 20-minute train ride through the Urubamba Valley showcases beautiful Andean scenery and rushing rivers.
Upon arriving at KM 104, you’ll begin the trek with a photo opportunity at the iconic “Welcome to the Inca Trail” sign, followed by check-in at the official Inca Trail control point. Be sure to have your passport ready for entry.
The Hike Begins:
The trail starts with a gradual uphill climb of about 3 hours through the cloud forest, offering spectacular views of the Urubamba River, towering peaks, and lush vegetation.
You’ll soon reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca complexes on the trail, known for its terraced hillsides, sacred temples, and breathtaking vistas. Your guide will explain its significance and Inca history.
After a short rest, enjoy a nutritious box lunch in a peaceful natural setting nearby.
After lunch, continue hiking for approximately 1.5 hours through stunning terrain toward the Sun Gate. This is where you’ll catch your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu, perched majestically in the distance. This iconic moment is what makes the short Inca Trail tour so special, access to Machu Picchu from the same entrance used by the ancient Incas.
After enjoying the views and taking photos, descend for about 45 minutes to reach the famous photo spot inside the Machu Picchu complex.
From there, you’ll take the bus down to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable 3-star hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
Included Meals: Box Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Max Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
Min Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
Total Distance: 12 km / 7 miles
Approximate Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Moments that define this adventure
