2 Day Hiking Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

2 Day Hiking Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: An Authentic Adventure

Booking this 2-day hiking tour takes you from Cusco through breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and eventually to the iconic Machu Picchu. Priced at $761.91 per person, it’s a well-rounded experience suitable for those with intermediate fitness levels eager to combine hiking with cultural exploration. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour promises a mix of physical challenge and unforgettable sights, all wrapped up in just two days.

What we love about this trip? First, the well-organized itinerary ensures a smooth experience, with a great balance of walking, sightseeing, and free time. Second, the expert guidance—especially about the Inca sites—adds depth and context, transforming a simple hike into a journey through history.

On the flip side, a key consideration is the physical demand — this isn’t for the faint of heart, as it involves some significant walking, often at high altitudes. Travelers should prepare accordingly with suitable gear and moderate fitness.

This tour appeals most to active travelers who want to see Machu Picchu from a different perspective, avoiding the crowds with an early start and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Inca Trail. If you’re looking for an authentic, guided experience with plenty of insider knowledge, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic hiking experience that covers the iconic Inca Trail ending at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate.
• Expert guides provide insightful stories about Inca culture and history.
• Includes transportation and permits, making logistics easier for travelers.
• Comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, preparing you for the early start.
• Stunning scenery, waterfalls, and well-preserved ruins along the trek.
• Good value given the comprehensive inclusions—meals, permits, train, and hotel.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail

Your adventure begins early, with hotel pickup in Cusco around 5:00 am, setting the tone for a well-planned day. The transfer to Ollantaytambo and then the train to KM 104 marks the start of your hike. From this trailhead, you’ll walk approximately 3 hours to the Wiñay Wanya ruins, a site renowned for its remarkable preservation and lush setting. On the way, you’ll pass beautiful waterfalls, a feature that many reviews highlight as a memorable part of the journey.

The highlight of this stretch is the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you get your first sweeping view of Machu Picchu. After reaching the Sun Gate, you’ll descend into Aguas Calientes, a small town that serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu. The day’s total walking time is around 8 hours, with plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery and snap photos.

The inclusion of lunch and dinner (with vegetarian options available) ensures you stay energized, and the well-paced itinerary means not rushing through the incredible ruins. The choice of a professional guide adds richness to the experience, transforming the landscape and ruins into stories you can understand and remember.

Day 2: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

After an early breakfast, you’ll walk about 1.5 hours to the site, arriving early enough to beat some of the crowds. Your guide will spend roughly two hours explaining the significance of Machu Picchu, pointing out key structures and sharing stories that bring the stones to life.

You’ll have leisure time to explore further, with the option to climb Huayna Picchu—a favorite for panoramic views (note, this takes about an hour up and down). This flexibility allows you to tailor the visit to your interests.

Post-visit, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for the train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus transfer to Cusco. The total time spent at Machu Picchu is approximately 4 hours, offering enough time for sightseeing, photos, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Hotel pickup in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
• Professional guide who keeps the story engaging and the logistics smooth
• All permits and tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
• Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and back from Aguas Calientes
• Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, making the early start manageable
• All meals listed: breakfast, lunch, and dinner with vegetarian options at no extra charge

Not included:

• Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 2—these are covered, but it’s good to be aware if you prefer more or different options
• Personal expenses and tips

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is a well-oiled machine, with hotel pickup, train rides, and bus transfers included, simplifying what could otherwise be a logistical puzzle. The group size is limited to 16 travelers, which strikes a good balance between camaraderie and personal space. Many reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Carlos, Fernando, and Johan, emphasizing that small groups enhance the experience.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews rave about the knowledgeable guides, describing them as passionate, friendly, and full of stories. One reviewer said, “Carlos was extremely knowledgeable, passionate, and caring,” which adds a lot of value when exploring sites with complex histories like Wiñay Wanya and Machu Picchu.

The scenery gets high praise, with travelers mentioning “beautiful waterfalls” and the “stunning view from the Sun Gate.” The early start to Machu Picchu is appreciated, as it allows visitors to enjoy the site with fewer crowds and better lighting for photos.

Many highlight the organized nature of the trip—tickets, logistics, meals—making it easier for travelers to focus on the experience rather than worry about details. One reviewer noted that the tour “was organised very well, tickets, transfers, information etc was as good as could be,” emphasizing the value of a professionally managed trip.

The opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu is frequently mentioned as a highlight for those wanting a bit more adventure and a different perspective of Machu Picchu. It’s worth noting that some reviews mention the physical effort involved, especially at higher altitudes, so preparation is key.

Practical Tips for Your Trek

• Gear up well: a good pair of trekking boots, rain gear, and layered clothing are crucial given the unpredictable weather.
• Prepare physically: moderate fitness helps, especially if you want to climb Huayna Picchu or hike with ease.
• Bring essentials: sunblock, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle.
• Keep your camera charged: you’ll want to capture the incredible vistas, waterfalls, and ruins.
• Travel light: the tour advises packing minimally—think small backpack, comfortable clothes, and essentials.
• Respect the environment: stay on trails, and follow guide instructions to preserve the sites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy hiking and want a more personal and authentic experience of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and walk the same paths the Incas once did, this is an ideal choice. It also suits those who value organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and a balanced mix of adventure and culture.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those preferring a more relaxed sightseeing style, as the trek involves significant walking and some strenuous segments. But for anyone ready to challenge themselves a bit and enjoy spectacular scenery, this trip offers great value and authentic charm.

The Sum Up

The 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a memorable blend of physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural storytelling. With expert guides, carefully curated logistics, and a chance to see Machu Picchu from a unique vantage point, it’s well suited for travelers seeking more than just a quick snapshot.

You’ll love the stunning waterfalls, the well-preserved ruins of Wiñay Wanya, and the early morning view from the Sun Gate. The included meals and overnight stay make the experience smooth and enjoyable, while the small group size ensures a personal touch.

While it demands a reasonable level of fitness, the payoff is a richer, more immersive visit to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. If you’re ready for an active adventure that balances challenge with comfort, this tour has everything you need for an unforgettable Machu Picchu experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s recommended for those with moderate physical fitness; the trek involves some sustained walking and altitude. Beginners who are active and prepared can enjoy it, but it’s not for complete novices.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier group management.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast on day one, two lunches, and dinner are included, with vegetarian options at no extra cost.

Do I need special gear?
Yes, good trekking boots, rain gear, layered clothing, and a hat are recommended. The tour suggests packing a windbreaker jacket, fleece, and sun protection.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu?
Yes, there’s an option to climb Huayna Picchu during free time at Machu Picchu, adding a panoramic view to your visit.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 29 days in advance due to high demand, especially in peak seasons.

Is there a refund if I cancel?
No, this tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

What is the departure time?
The tour begins at 5:00 am, enabling early access to Machu Picchu.

Are permits and tickets included?
Yes, all Inca Trail and Machu Picchu permits and tickets are included, so you don’t need to worry about those details.

What’s the main benefit of this tour?
You get a guided, authentic trek along the Inca Trail with stunning scenery and expert commentary, combined with the thrill of reaching Machu Picchu from a less crowded, more adventurous route.