Spider Travel Peru
Book Now

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days

This is the perfect itinerary for those who want to walk part of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but who are short on time, are not able to trek the complete Inca Trail or who prefer hotels to camping. The 2-day Short Inca Trail covers the last one third of the Inca Trail. The highlights of the trail are the stunning Inca ruins such as Wiñay Wayna, primitive lush vegetation and striking water falls. The “Ancient Inca Road” takes you through the Sun Gate directly into Machu Picchu Citadel where you can get your perfect photos of Machu Picchu. Persons hiking the short Inca Trail have the privilege of visiting the famous Machu Picchu Citadel twice: once when they trek through the guards’ gate on day 1, and when they return to Machu Picchu the following the morning for sunrise and a fully guided tour.

Tour features

Duration
2 Days - 1 Nights
Max. Altitude
2730
Travel Style
Adventure, Hike
Difficulty
Easy - Moderate
Type Service
Private or Group
Group Size
Up to 8 People

Trip Details

Itinerary for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days

Our exciting day begins with a hotel pick up at 4:00am in our private van in Cusco or 5:30am in Ollantaytambo.  From Cusco, we drive towards the Ollantaytambo train station to catch the 6:10am Expedition Train.  After an hour and ten minutes, we disembark at KM 104 (elevation 2,100m/6,927ft). This is where our trek begins! From here, we begin a moderate climb for about three hours towards the breathtaking Inca ruins of the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650m/8,747ft).

After being at this impressive Inca ruins and enjoying our gourmet boxed lunch, we continue towards the Sun Gate (2,730m/9,007ft). Following this remote ancient Inca trail, we get our first stunning view of Machu Picchu in all its radiance and majesty after passing through the Sun Gate. As we trek down the hill to the Majestic Inca citadel, you will have many opportunities to take stunning photos as you pass through the Guards Gate. After admiring Machu Picchu from the upper section, we take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you spend the night in your hotel.

  • Meals included: Picnic lunch & restaurant dinner
  • 3* Accommodation: Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Today, you get to enjoy exploring Machu Picchu and experience its magical presence and energy. We take the first bus at 5:30AM to Machu Picchu archeological site to enjoy the early morning sunrise. 

Your guide will escort you through the alluring Inca ruins and its impressive main streets. Then, you will have a little time on your own, wander around the town square of the world’s spiritual center of esoteric wisdom, as well as, climb the intricately carved stone stairways. Stand still and take in the splendor of its presence and enjoy the pure bliss of the moment.

Afterwards, you will return to Aguas Calientes, enjoy a bit of lunch or explore the market. You board the Expedition Train at 2:55pm or 3:20 for your return to Cusco.

Here are a few extra activities that you might wish to indulge on your own: Climb up Huayna Picchu (not included in your tour price and must be booked in advance. Books out fast!) Or in Aguas Calientes include: a visit to the local museum or the hot springs (entrance fees required). These depend on your train time if there is enough time. 

  • Meal included: Breakfast at your hotel
  • Difficulty: Easy

***IMPORTANT:

  • You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
  • Early trains can be organized by requested and it has to be done by booking time.
  • The Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time. $75 USD

What’s included?

What is Included?

  • Hotel pick up
  • Private transport to and from Cusco
  • 3 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
  • English speaking professional guide experienced in trekking
  • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
  • Entrance Tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archeological site
  • One night accommodation in Aguas Calientes (hot shower, bathroom, private room and breakfast included)
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Taxes

Excludes

  • Wayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD
  • First breakfast (served in your hotel), last lunch at Machu Picchu
  • OPTIONAL UPGRADES: hotel or train
  • Vistadome Train: $67 USD per person
  • Hiram Bingham Train: $397 USD per person
  • Tips for your staff (Spider Travel Peru staff receives a fair and decent salary for their amazing work. Tips are optional but appreciated.)

Prices & Availability for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days.

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available on any day that suits your schedule as long as permits are available (Inca Trail closed in February for repairs) – we only need a minimum of two people in order to book.  

Price

  • Pirces from: $497 USD per person

Extras

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person
  • Machu Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person
  • Single supplement for hotel $40 USD per person

Discounts

  • 18 to 25 years old:$30 USD. Information required from the student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date, etc. A copy of the card is required at booking to obtain government approval for the discount.
  • Under 18 years old:$30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old:$40 USD.  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Important Information 

Please read the following information carefully as it will help answer all of your questions about our services and the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days. 

You will be welcomed at the airport in Cusco and taken to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek. Look for our representative holding a board stating: Spider Travel Peru at the arrivals terminal. You must exit the terminal in order to find our representative waiting outside.

Your briefing will take place the night before your trek. It will be held at our office at 6 or 6:30pm, depending on your confirmation email details.  The office is located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

Of course! During the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you.

To avoid the excessive credit card fees in Peru, you can pay in cash at our office (we accept US dollars or Peruvian soles) in Cusco. There are many ATMs within the historical center.  You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address:  info@spidertravelperu.com to complete the payment.

Unfortunately, the answer is No. Once the permits/tickets have been bought, the Peruvian government does not allow any changes. We can’t change any departure date after the permit/ticket has been paid for. Permits/Tickets are also not transferable or refundable.  If you cancel your 2-day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is non-refundable!

Yes! You have to bring your original passport as it is very important, in order, to gain entry onto the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and other sites.  It must be the original passport that you have used to book with us from the start. 

In case, you are renewing your passport or changing your name, send us your old passport information to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport number or updated your name for a fee of $25 USD per person.  We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make this change.

If you do not wish to pay this fee, you will need to bring both your old and new passports with you.  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both old and new passports to be able to enter into Machu Picchu and other sites.  If you do not have both, you will not be allowed to enter into these amazing sites.

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek.  It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry.  Of course, you are free to tip as much as you feel, depending on your perception on the quality of service and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our staff to know, understand and respect the local places and its people.onsible tourism operator that  incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect these places and the local people.

Packing List for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days,

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu DOES NOT INCLUDE an extra porter so you will have to carry all of your things in a daypack. Please try to pack as light as possible, which is the key to enjoying this amazing trek.

  • Original passport (it has to be the same as the one you have used for booking your trek)
  • Good daypack (25 to 30L)
  • Reusable water bottles 2-3L (Camelbaks are encouraged).
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Polar or sweater for early mornings and evenings
  • Jacket- if cold season / rain jacket in rainy season
  • Toilet paper
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Wool hat – if cold season
  • Snacks (chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit)
  • Rain plastic poncho
  • Camera
  • Any medications you need during the day
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

What to leave in your small luggage that will be delivered to Aguas Calientes by train.

  • Clothes for visiting Machu Picchu the second day
  • Personal toiletries
  • Personal medications

What our travelers say

Real reviews from Tripadvisor and Google

Tripadvisor Reviews

Spider Travel Peru

5.0 out of 5
stars

Based on 9 reviews

AA

Amanda A

30 de noviembre de 2023

Miles de pasos y risas

Tour Camino Inca Clásico 4 D / 3 N. ¡Acabo de regresar de nuestro maravilloso viaje hace dos días! Nuestro grupo era un grupo de hermanos adultos con nuestros padres de 64 años. Desde el día 1, Raymer y Christian marcaron la pauta para un ambiente de unión y nos llevaron a apoyarnos y animarnos mutuamente en lo que fue un viaje muy difícil. Se refirieron a nuestro grupo como "equipo" o "familia" en todo momento y facilitaron conversaciones llenas de risas durante las comidas. Al final del viaje, todos teníamos apodos el uno para el otro. La comida es genial y debería ser la menor de tus preocupaciones: teníamos tres restricciones alimentarias diferentes en el grupo y SAM acertó en cada comida. Todo fue fácil y organizado: recogida y devolución en el aeropuerto, boletos de tren de regreso a Cuzco, etc.

M

Maribel

6 de octubre de 2022

Linda caminata

Haber hecho el Camino Inca de 2 días fue la mejor decisión que tomamos, las vistas son increíbles, en especial la vista de la Puerta del Sol. Muy recomendable.

MU

Martha U

8 de setiembre de 2022

Camino Inca 2 días

La mejor experiencia de mi vida en el Camino Inca corto. Lo mejor fue nuestro guía David, experto en historia, flora y fauna. Muchas gracias, Spider.

R

Rechell

24 de julio de 2022

El mejor tour a Machu Picchu

Tuvimos la mejor experiencia con Spider Travel, desde el inicio hasta el final fueron muy profesionales. Nuestro guía Juan fue lo mejor y nos contó toda la historia de los incas al detalle. Muchas gracias a todo el equipo.

EH

Elio Hernán Lazo Coricasa

19 de junio de 2022

Valle Sagrado

Tuvimos un tour de 1 día al Valle Sagrado y fue de lo mejor. Guía muy profesional y dedicado a su trabajo. Muchas gracias.

F

Frederik132

10 de abril de 2022

¡Gran experiencia!

Tuvimos la mejor experiencia con nuestro guía Armando, hablaba muy bien inglés y está muy bien informado. Muy recomendable.

C

CarlaMont

18 de febrero de 2022

Increíble experiencia con Spider Travel Peru

Felicitaciones al equipo de Spider Travel Peru: excelente servicio e increíble la experiencia de tour que tuvimos en Machu Picchu. Totalmente recomendada la agencia; nos recibieron súper y estuvieron atentos a todo lo que necesitábamos.

L

Laexploradora23

3 de febrero de 2022

¡Caminata a Machu Picchu!

Qué gran experiencia tuvimos con Spider Travel, todo estuvo bien organizado por Anjhely y el equipo. Nuestro guía hablaba inglés con fluidez y fue muy informativo sobre la cultura y el Perú. ¿Sulpayki wayki?

J

jorgito22

1 de febrero de 2022

Camino Inca 1 día

Una de mis mejores aventuras, nos encantó de principio a fin: una caminata muy linda con mucha naturaleza y cultura, el guía fue increíble y la comida que nos brindaron estaba muy deliciosa y nutritiva. Spider Travel Peru es una agencia 100% confiable; excelente empresa y excelente servicio.

Google Reviews

Spider Travel Peru

5.0 out of 5
stars

Based on 6 reviews

RW

Rechell Wolker Tonel

Hace 4 años

Tuvimos la mejor experiencia con Spider Travel, desde el inicio hasta el final fueron muy profesionales. Nuestro guía Juan fue lo mejor y nos contó toda la historia de los incas al detalle.

AO

Alex Olave

Hace 4 años

The top tour company for hiking the Rainbow Mountain with a great guide. The food was amazing and we do recommend them to everyone.

MN

María Ninantay

Hace 3 años

La mejor experiencia ha sido con Spider Travel. Hice el city tour en Cusco. :)

FR

Fredy Roca Huarca

Hace 4 años

Spider Travel was the best 1-day Inca Trail operator.

FR

Fredy Rocca Huarca

Hace 4 años

Agencia muy profesional y organizada. Muy recomendable.

MA

Melanie Aline Lovón Peña

Hace 3 años

¡Fantástico viaje con Spider!

Partners & Certifications
Certification Certification Certification Certification Certification Certification
Chat with us!