Experience the essence of Machu Picchu in just two days with this short Inca Trail tour starting from Cusco. For travelers pressed for time but eager to see the Inca Trail’s most iconic sights, this trip offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and awe-inspiring views. Starting early from Cusco, you’ll ride the Expedition Train to KM 104, then trek through lush landscapes and ancient ruins, culminating at the legendary Lost City of the Incas. For just $617 per person, this 2-day journey packs in all the best bits, including guided tours, scenic vistas, and the unforgettable energy of Machu Picchu.
What we love most about this experience is the careful planning that balances hiking and comfort — with a manageable 3.5 to 4-hour hike on Day 1, plus a cozy night in Aguas Calientes. Another highlight is the expert guidance of bilingual guides who bring the history and significance of each site alive. That said, one potential drawback is the early morning start (around 5:00 am), which can be a challenge if you’re not naturally a morning person. This tour suits travelers looking for a well-organized, immersive taste of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail without the extensive commitment of longer treks.
Key Points
- Short and manageable: Perfect for travelers with limited time wanting a taste of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and insights.
- Well-planned itinerary: Combines scenic trekking, archaeological exploration, and convenient transport.
- Authentic encounters: Walking along the ancient trail and visiting iconic sites offers genuine Inca civilization immersion.
- Value for money: Includes most major costs like train tickets, entrance fees, and accommodations.
- Early start, early finish: Ideal for those who prefer to maximize sightseeing and still have the evening free.
A Thorough Review of the 2-Day Cusco Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
While in Inca Trail To Machu Picchu, here are other experiences we've covered
Getting Started: What the Tour Includes and How It Fits Your Travel Style
This 2-day adventure from Cusco, offered by Chullos Travel Peru, is tailored for travelers who want to experience Machu Picchu without committing to a multi-day trek. At $617 per person, it’s competitively priced when you consider the included transportation, guided tours, entrance tickets, and a night’s hotel stay in Aguas Calientes.
The tour departs early in the morning — around 5:00 am — to make the most of the day. You’ll start with a train ride from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, then head to KM 104, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. From there, the journey begins along ancient Inca pathways, leading you through lush surroundings, past remarkable ruins, and eventually arriving at Machu Picchu itself. The combination of rail and hiking allows you to experience both comfort and adventure.
Two aspects stand out immediately. First, the guided experience is highly valued; guides are fluent in both English and Spanish, making the history and significance of each site accessible. Second, the scenic train ride to KM 104 offers sweeping views of the Andes and the Urubamba River — a highlight that sets the tone for the trip.
The Itinerary in Detail: From Cusco to Machu Picchu
Day 1: Cusco to Wiñayhuayna and Intipunku
The early morning pickup is smooth, and you’ll be on the train by mid-morning, arriving at the trailhead around noon. The trek kicks off at KM 104, where you’ll show your original passport, Inca Trail ticket, and ISIC card if applicable. The walk to Wiñayhuayna is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through fabulous flora and landscapes that make the hike a visual delight. Travelers have commented on the “beautiful walk”, with lush vegetation and impressive mountain views.
Lunch is served at Wiñayhuayna — a peaceful spot with plenty of shade and a chance to soak in the surroundings. After lunch, the trail continues for about two more hours to Intipunku, the “Gate of the Sun”, which offers a spectacular panoramic view of Machu Picchu — a moment that many describe as truly unforgettable. From here, you descend by bus to Aguas Calientes and check into a hotel, giving you a restful night before the big day.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return
The morning starts with a 5:00 am breakfast and a bus ride to the Machu Picchu entrance, where your guide begins a comprehensive tour between 8:00 and 10:00 am. Expect to visit key sites, ruins, and temples, with plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere. The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making the history of Machu Picchu come alive.
Post-tour, you’ll have free time to explore further or take photos before returning to Aguas Calientes for the return train. The late afternoon train leaves at about 6:30 pm, arriving in Ollantaytambo after a scenic two-hour ride. A bus then whisks you back to Cusco, arriving around 10:30 pm — a long but rewarding day.
Transportation and Logistics: How They Enhance Your Experience
The train journey on the Expedition service is a key part of the adventure. It’s comfortable and offers incredible views, making the journey part of the experience rather than just transportation. The small group size (limited to 15 participants) means you’ll likely get more personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.
The bus transfers between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes are efficient and included, ensuring seamless movement. The tour also provides luggage storage in Cusco offices, which is incredibly convenient if you’re traveling with extra bags.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value of Guided Tours: Knowledgeable Guides Make a Difference
One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ expertise. Reviews note that guides are fluent in both English and Spanish and are passionate about sharing their knowledge. They help clarify the significance of each ruin and site, transforming a sightseeing trip into a meaningful learning experience.
For example, travelers mention that guides are “engaging,” “friendly,” and “know their stuff,” which makes the history of Machu Picchu much more accessible. The guided tour in Machu Picchu itself is scheduled to maximize your time and understanding, so you leave with more than just photos — you leave with stories.
Accommodations and Meals: Comfort and Convenience
Your stay in Aguas Calientes is in a tourist hotel included in the package, chosen for convenience and comfort. The meals included are two breakfasts, one lunch, and one dinner, with vegetarian options available at no extra charge. These are simple but nourishing, allowing you to focus on the sights rather than meals.
Optional activities like thermal baths are not included but can be added for a small fee if you want to soak after your hike. The tour’s food provisions are adequate, and the early breakfasts ensure you’re ready for the day’s early start.
Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know
The early start time means you should be prepared for a very early wake-up. The train schedule is generally reliable but can change, so flexible planning is wise. The group size (limited to 15) helps keep the experience intimate, but it also means booking well in advance.
The cost includes most essentials — entrance fees, train tickets, transportation, and guide services. Extras like thermal baths or additional personal items are not included but are optional.
What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights
Many reviews highlight the expert guides as a standout feature. One traveler wrote, “The guide made everything so interesting — I never felt lost or bored.” Others appreciated the stunning scenery, describing the walk to Wiñayhuayna as “beautiful” and the view from Intipunku as “breathtaking.”
Some travelers also mention the early start as a challenge but overall worth it for the experience. The hotel in Aguas Calientes was described as “comfortable,” providing a good base for the next day’s exploration.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This short Inca Trail tour is an excellent choice for fit travelers who want a snapshot of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail without dedicating multiple days. It suits those who appreciate guided experiences and value an authentic walk along the historic trail. If you’re eager to beat the crowds or enjoy a scenic train ride, this tour offers a well-curated balance of adventure and comfort. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a small group setting and appreciate knowledgeable guides to deepen their understanding.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a compact yet immersive way to visit Machu Picchu, this 2-day tour offers a worth-the-effort itinerary. The combination of guided storytelling, scenic hiking, and seamless logistics makes it a standout option for those short on time but eager for an authentic experience. You’ll walk along the ancient trail, experience the excitement of the Gate of the Sun, and stand in awe at Machu Picchu — a trip that leaves lasting memories.
Just remember: early mornings, limited days, and the need to book ahead are part of the package. But for genuine history, stunning vistas, and expert guidance packed into two days, this tour is hard to beat.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation (train and bus), entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, guided tours, meals (2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner), accommodations in Aguas Calientes, and luggage storage.
How long is the trek each day?
On Day 1, the walk from KM 104 to Wiñayhuayna takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, with a total walking time of roughly 5-6 hours including breaks and the descent to Machu Picchu.
Can vegetarian meals be arranged?
Yes, vegetarian and other dietary needs can be accommodated at no extra charge.
What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins early around 5:00 am with pickup and train departure and concludes around 10:30 pm after returning to Cusco.
Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, the Expedition Train is comfortable, offering scenic views of the landscape during the journey from Cusco to KM 104 and back.
Is this tour suitable for older travelers?
While the hike involves some walking and elevation, it’s designed to be manageable for most fit travelers. However, individual health considerations should be taken into account.
What if I want to stay in Cusco longer?
You can often modify train schedules or add extra nights in Aguas Calientes or Cusco, but this would need to be arranged separately.
Are there any activities not included?
Thermal baths in Aguas Calientes are optional and cost around $4. They are not included in the package.
How far in advance should I book?
Given the limited group size and popular nature of this tour, booking several weeks ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.
This 2-day Cusco Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu balances adventure, convenience, and cultural richness — an ideal choice for eager explorers short on time but craving a genuine Incan experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: