2 Days Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Small Group

Experience the 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — Small Group, Big Views

Imagine walking along ancient stone paths through lush forests, crossing sparkling waterfalls, and catching glimpses of wild animals like spectacled bears or viscachas. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, offered for around $580 per person. Starting early from Cusco and traveling in a small, intimate group (max 8 travelers), you’ll enjoy personalized attention from knowledgeable guides like Jimmy, who’s been praised for his passion and depth of knowledge.

What we love about this trip? First, the chance to see archeological sites like Winay Wayna and the iconic Inti Punku (Sun Gate) up close, all while hiking in moderate terrain suitable for most travelers with a decent fitness level. Second, the combination of stunning landscapes and historic ruins makes it a memorable blend of adventure and culture.

One thing to keep in mind: this is a moderately tough hike, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity. If you’re looking for a quick, well-organized trek that still hits all the highlights, this trip fits the bill perfectly. It’s ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences in a manageable timeframe, especially if you want to avoid the longer, more grueling Inca Trail routes.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Expert guides like Jimmy make the history and flora come alive with engaging stories.
• The itinerary includes key archaeological sites and offers stunning panoramic views.
• Moderate physical activity makes this trek accessible to most travelers with decent fitness.
• The tour combines hiking, cultural exploration, and scenic vistas, providing a well-rounded adventure.
• All major tickets and transport are included, simplifying logistics and reducing stress.

A Deep Dive Into the 2-Day Short Inca Trail Experience

The Beginning: Cusco Pickup and Early Start

The adventure kicks off at 4:00 am with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco. This early start is essential because it allows you to beat the crowds and maximize your time on the trail. You’ll be driven directly to Ollantaytambo, where your journey truly begins. The private transportation ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, and the short 2-hour trip to the train station sets the stage for the scenic ride ahead.

The first highlight? Boarding the Expedition train, which whisks you through Andean landscapes along the Vilcanota River. The train ride itself offers spectacular views—think terraced hillsides and local villages—before you pass the control point at Km 104, where your trek officially begins.

Day 1: From Archaeological Sites to Waterfalls

The hike starts along the Vilcanota River, a gentle but scenic path. Your guide, like Jimmy, will point out Chachabamba, an archaeological site believed to be a religious site or watch post. The site itself is a quiet space to ponder the strategic importance of the Inca’s network of defenses and spiritual centers.

As you continue, expect to walk through a lush forest, where the air is filled with the scent of native flora and the sounds of birds. You might spot Viscachas (rabbit-like rodents) or, with luck, Spectacled Bears — a rare treat. The trail descends through this dense greenery, passing waterfalls that cascade over mossy rocks, providing perfect spots for photos and a well-earned water break.

About three hours into the hike, you’ll arrive at Winay Wayna, an impressive set of terraces and ruins perched high above the river. Here, your guide will share stories about the site’s purpose and significance. The site is a favorite for many travelers, thanks to its well-preserved structures and panoramic views. You’ll enjoy a box lunch here, surrounded by the peaceful natural setting.

The Climax: Intipuncu and the First View of Machu Picchu

After more exploration, the highlight of the day arrives—the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). As you reach this vantage point in the late afternoon, you’ll finally see Machu Picchu spread out below, framed by towering peaks. It’s a moment many travelers describe as unforgettable, and the photos taken here often turn out stunning.

From the Sun Gate, it’s a short walk down to the ruins themselves. You’ll have time to soak in the atmosphere, take pictures, and marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca. Before heading to Aguas Calientes, you’ll ride a bus down the mountain, and many choose to visit the local hot springs for some relaxation and reflection.

That night, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, giving you the chance to rest up before the big day.

Day 2: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

The next morning begins early with a short bus ride to Machu Picchu. If you prefer, you can hike up the trail from Aguas Calientes (around 1 hour 20 minutes), but most opt for the bus for convenience. Your guide will help you navigate the site, pointing out key features and sharing stories about its construction and purpose.

You’ll get a 2-hour guided tour, focusing on the main highlights, but you’ll also have extra time to explore independently. If you’ve purchased tickets ahead of time, you might climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain—both offer incredible views, but these require advance booking, so plan accordingly.

After your exploration, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes, either by bus or foot, and then board the train back to Ollantaytambo. The return journey offers more scenic vistas, giving you a chance to reflect on your journey and the stunning sights you’ve experienced.

Finally, you’ll be transported back to Cusco, reaching around 8 pm, tired but full of memories.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The small group size is a big plus, allowing for a more personalized experience and the chance to ask questions and connect with your guide. Many reviews highlight guides like Jimmy, whose deep knowledge and genuine passion make the history come alive. One reviewer praised him for making sure everyone made it through the hike safely and for sharing insights about plants and Inca civilization.

The itinerary’s balance of hiking, archaeology, and scenic vistas ensures you get a comprehensive experience without the exhaustion of longer routes. The inclusion of all major tickets, transportation, and accommodations means fewer logistical worries, so you can focus on enjoying the trek.

The Experience in Practice

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views—from the lush forests to the panoramic vistas at the Sun Gate—and the delicious, satisfying meals provided along the way. One reviewer noted that the hike was “moderately tough but super rewarding,” emphasizing that it’s accessible for most with a moderate fitness level.

The authentic archaeological sites and the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu with a knowledgeable guide make this tour stand out. The flexibility to explore more on your own after the guided tour allows for a personal connection with the site.

The Price and Value

At approximately $580, this tour offers a lot of value: guided hikes, tickets, train rides, hotel accommodations, and meals are all included. For many, this comprehensive package means fewer surprises and a more seamless experience. While it’s a non-refundable booking, the reviews suggest that the quality, organization, and authentic encounters justify the cost.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start and physical activity level. If you’re not used to hiking or have mobility issues, this might be challenging. Also, the tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which is great for intimacy but requires early booking to secure your spot.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized attention, appreciate moderate physical activity, and want a well-organized, authentic experience. It suits those interested in both hiking and cultural exploration, especially if they prefer small groups over large tour buses. If you’re seeking a manageable, yet deeply rewarding journey to Machu Picchu that combines nature, history, and local flavor, this trip is an excellent choice.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, making logistics much easier.

How early does the tour start? The pickup begins at 4:00 am, which is necessary to maximize your time on the trail and avoid crowds.

Are meals included? Yes, you’ll be provided with lunch on Day 1, dinner in Aguas Calientes, and breakfast on Day 2. The last lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

What about tickets? Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are included, but tickets for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain need to be purchased separately in advance.

Can I hike the Inca Trail instead of taking the train? If you prefer, your guide can advise on hiking along the Inca Trail up to Machu Picchu, which takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, replacing the bus ride.

What is the physical demand of this tour? It’s considered moderately tough, suitable for travelers with a decent level of fitness. Expect some uphill walking, uneven paths, and variable terrain.

Is this tour suitable for someone with limited mobility? Due to the nature of hiking and uneven paths, this tour may not be ideal for individuals with mobility restrictions.

How long does the entire trip take? The trip lasts approximately two days, with the return to Cusco around 8 pm on the second day.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, all within a manageable timeframe. The small group size and knowledgeable guides like Jimmy ensure a personal, engaging experience that many travelers cherish. From the early morning start, scenic train ride, and archaeological sites to the breathtaking views at the Sun Gate, every step is designed to make your trip meaningful and memorable.

If you’re someone who enjoys a moderate hike combined with cultural exploration, values authenticity, and prefers a smaller, more intimate group, this tour could very well be your perfect Machu Picchu adventure.

Final Summary

This tour provides a well-organized, authentic way to experience the beauty and history of Machu Picchu via the iconic Inca Trail. The inclusion of guided storytelling, scenic stops like Winay Wayna, and the chance to see Machu Picchu in a relaxed setting makes it stand out. While it requires some physical effort and an early start, the payoff — stunning vistas, archaeological insights, and a sense of achievement — is well worth it. Best suited for travelers looking for a meaningful, small-group adventure that combines nature, history, and comfort in just two days.