Short Inca Trail 2 days / 1 night | Inca Trail Trek

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The Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night is designed for travelers who want to hike to Machu Picchu and visit its archaeological sites over two days. The journey begins with a train ride to kilometer 104, where the hike starts at Chachabamba.

The trail climbs through the cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna, passing Inca stone paths, agricultural terraces, and archaeological remains. From there, you continue to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, before descending toward Machu Picchu and traveling to Aguas Calientes for the night.

On the second day, you return to Machu Picchu for a guided visit before taking the train back toward Cusco. The Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night combines a day of hiking with an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and a scheduled visit to the archaeological site.

Tour Overview

This two-day itinerary begins at kilometer 104, where you enter the Inca Trail and visit Chachabamba. The route continues uphill through the cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the main archaeological sites along this section of the trail.

After exploring the ruins, you continue to Inti Punku before heading toward Machu Picchu and taking the bus to Aguas Calientes. You spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, with breakfast included the following morning.

On day two, you return by bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the citadel, followed by time to explore according to your entrance arrangements. The return journey to Cusco includes a train ride to Ollantaytambo and ground transportation.

Tour Highlights

Begin the hike at kilometer 104 after traveling by train from the Sacred Valley.
Visit Chachabamba and learn about its role along the Inca route.
Walk through cloud forest vegetation and follow original Inca stone paths.
Explore the terraces, buildings, and water channels at Wiñay Wayna.
Reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, along the trail to Machu Picchu.
Travel to Aguas Calientes and spend one night at a local hotel.
Return to Machu Picchu on the second day for a guided archaeological visit.
Travel back toward Cusco by train and ground transportation.

Short Inca Trail at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Leave Cusco early and travel to Ollantaytambo to board the train to kilometer 104. Visit Chachabamba before hiking uphill through the cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna. Explore the archaeological site, have lunch, and continue to Inti Punku before heading toward Machu Picchu. Take the bus to Aguas Calientes and check in at your hotel.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

After breakfast, take the bus back to Machu Picchu for a guided visit to the archaeological complex. Depending on your ticket and the day's arrangements, you will have time to explore the areas included in your entrance. Later, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, board the train to Ollantaytambo, and continue by ground transportation to Cusco.

Why Book with Manu Jungle Tour

Hike to Machu Picchu via kilometer 104 and visit archaeological sites along the route.
Learn about the history and architecture of Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Machu Picchu with a professional guide.
Stay overnight in Aguas Calientes before returning to Machu Picchu on the second day.
Travel by train, ground transportation, and tourist bus according to the confirmed itinerary.
Get assistance with Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu tickets, train schedules, and hotel arrangements before your trip.
Receive a pre-tour briefing to review the itinerary, departure arrangements, and what to bring for the hike.
Get support from our team before and during your trip if you have questions about your booking or travel arrangements.

Includes:

Detailed explanations by your guide in a briefing 1 or 2 days prior to your tour that included maps related to the trek
Pick-up from your hotel on your departure: touristic private transport from your hotel to the train station
Entrance tickets to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Professional English / Spanish guide for entire tour
Assistant or second guide when there are groups over 8
Meals according to program + snack at beginning of the trek
Water bottle and Box lunch in Wiñayhuayna
Vegetarian meals at no extra charge (also allergy-related menus can be accommodated)
Visit the following Inca archaeological sites (Qanabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Sungate & Machu Picchu).
Bus tickets down to Aguas Calientes town
1 night Hotel in Aguas Calientes town, Breakfast on the second day at Hotel
Bus tickets Aguas Calientes /Machu Picchu / Aguas Calientes
2 hour private guided tour by your English speaking tour guide (plenty of free time to enjoy Machu Picchu on your own)
Tourism class train ticket until km 104 (Chachabamba)
Return ticket in Touristic class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
First Aid kit, including emergency oxygen bottle
Touristic class transport from Train / Hotel
All local taxes

Not Included:

Extra porter (Extra porters available to carry up to 22 Pounds)
Entrance to Waynapicchu Mountain (book in advance if interested due to limited spaces)
Walking stick (we can rent if needed)
Entrance tickets to Hot Springs
Travel insurance.
Extra expenses.
Flights
**Tips for the crew (Porters and guide)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Highlight of the Day: Hiking from Kilometer 104 Through Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna to the Sun Gate

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning, at approximately 5:00 AM, and travel to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you board the train to kilometer 104, where you begin the hike after completing the required checkpoint procedures. Your first archaeological visit is Chachabamba, a site with stone structures that formed part of the Inca route toward Machu Picchu.

The trail then climbs through the cloud forest, following stone steps and paths through changing vegetation. Along the way, your guide will point out plants and explain the archaeological remains encountered on the route. After approximately two to three hours of hiking, you reach Wiñay Wayna, where you can explore its terraces, buildings, and water channels. A box lunch is provided during the day's hike.

After visiting Wiñay Wayna, you continue along the trail toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this point, you can see Machu Picchu when weather conditions allow.

You then continue toward the archaeological complex and take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you check in at your hotel and have dinner according to the confirmed program.

Meals: Box lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Highest Point: Approximately 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Highlight of the Day: Exploring Machu Picchu with a Guide Before Returning to Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, you take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead a visit to the archaeological complex, explaining the main structures and their functions during the Inca period. The visit follows the route assigned to your entrance ticket, so the areas you can access depend on the circuit confirmed for your booking.

During the guided visit, you will learn about the site's architecture, terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas. After the guided portion, any additional time inside the complex depends on the ticket conditions and the schedule permitted for that entrance. Please follow the instructions provided by your guide and the site staff.

Later, you return by bus to Aguas Calientes and make your way to the train station for the return journey to Ollantaytambo. From there, you continue by ground transportation to Cusco, where you will be dropped off according to the confirmed arrangements. Arrival time depends on the train schedule and travel conditions.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Not included on the second night
Transportation: Tourist bus, train and ground transportation

Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2024 through January 2025. All prices quoted are $USD

(Groups consisting of Max. 8; Min. 2 people)*

USD 449.00 Adults
USD 425.00 students **

Discounts:

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

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)

Upgrades:

Hotel Upgrades:

Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (5 star hotel) – US $580 per person per night (double occupancy)
Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (4 star hotel) – US $345 per person per night (double occupancy)
Hotel Santuario (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy)

Train Upgrades:

Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.

Rentals:

Hiking poles – US$10.00

What you should bring:

Original Passport (for check-in to the trail),
A light day pack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek – prepare for a vast range of changes in temperature
Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho. Plastic ponchos can be bought for about $1 in Cusco .
Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended.
Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces, gloves, scarf and beanie/touk. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping.
Camera, films and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
Sun block
After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – although no malaria risk has been reported
Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.
Non-disposable canteen (Nalgene type) and water for the first morning.
We advise you to bring water sterilizing tablets in case you collect water from streams.
Your own medical kit with any special medications that you might require, paracetamol, second skin for blisters etc.
Small towel or sarong
Bathers/swimsuit (if you intend on swimming in hot springs )
Cash – sufficient for snacks, tips and souvenirs.
Walking sticks or poles (we can hire these to you. Please note poles with metal tips cannot be carried into Machu Picchu and should be left at your hotel on the final day).

Travel Information

At Manu Jungle Tour, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips.

Take a moment to read it carefully; it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence.

Briefing Before the Trek

All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, one or two day before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and is an essential part of your preparation.

During this session, our guide will go over the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any final questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

Acclimatization in Cusco

It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before starting any trek. Cusco lies at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air.

We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to prevent altitude sickness and to enjoy your trip without discomfort.

What to Do Before Your Trek

During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some nearby attractions:

Cusco City Tour: Discover the Main Square, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha).
Sacred Valley Tour: Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
Moray & Maras Excursion: Learn about ancient Inca agricultural techniques.
Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Experience the last Inca handwoven bridge still used today.
Rainbow Mountain Tour: Hike to one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, famous for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes.

These short tours are perfect for getting used to the altitude while discovering the region’s rich history.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco).

If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed.

Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies.

You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person; however, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal).
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive a duffel bag or canvas case during the briefing. Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in), Maximum weight: 6 kg / 13 lb, including clothes and personal items.

Our team of porters will carry your bag throughout the trek and hand it back to you at each camp. Remember that this limit includes your sleeping bag and any personal belongings you wish to take.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Circuit 1: Upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces
Circuit 2: Central area of the citadel
Circuit 3: Lower sector and agricultural terraces

For our Inca Trail groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 3, around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit, re-entry is not allowed.

If you wish to explore another route or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket (subject to availability and extra cost).

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Manu Jungle Tour will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property.

Book Your Adventure

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Starting From:

USD 25 per person

Trip details:

Tour Type: Inca Trail
Season: Available all year (closed in February for maintenance)
Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
Group Size: 15 people
Tour Language: English and Spanish
Destinations: Cusco, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu

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The 1 Day Inca Trail Trek is a good choice for travelers who want to reach Machu Picchu on foot but do not have time for the classic multi-day trek. The trip starts in Cusco and continues by train to kilometer 104, where the hike begins. Along the trail, we visit Chachabamba and continue uphill through stone paths and forest vegetation toward Wiñay Wayna. After exploring the archaeological site, we follow the trail to the Sun Gate, known as Inti Punku, where Machu Picchu comes into view. The 1 Day Inca Trail Trek combines a day of hiking with a guided visit to Machu Picchu. It is a suitable option for travelers who want to experience part of the original Inca Trail and learn about its history without spending several days on the route.

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   David D 
 
 
 
 Verified 2day 1night Inca trek
What an amazing experience from start to finish! Our experienced english speaking guide Raul made the whole journey so much more enjoyable from his knowledge, wisdom and his sense of humour! Highly recommend the guys from info Machu Picchu !!
  
 
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   Robin F 
 
 
 
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Absolutely excellent service! Despite a mix-up where we were picked up by the wrong bus and missed our original tour, the travel agency handled everything with great professionalism and flexibility. They took responsibility right away and made rebooking a new tour incredibly easy and stress-free. We really appreciated how understanding and accommodating their team was throughout the process. Thanks to their quick response, we were able to enjoy an equally fantastic tour, and their willingness to resolve the issue left a lasting positive impression.Overall, a great example of excellent customer service. We’ll happily book with them again!
  
 
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   Melania C 
 
 
 
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Wonderful experience in the Manu jungle!! We could observe capuchin monkeys, the cock of rocks, macaws, AMAZING! Super recommended! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
  
 
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   Ian P 
 
 
 
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The Tours Inca trail 2 days very pleasant, they are very available and professional. Manu Jungle I love! and I recommend it!
  
 
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   Cusco Journeys 
 
 
 
 Verified Great Experience on the Short Inca Trail
We had an amazing experience hiking the short Inca trail with Dayan. He provided us with a box lunch which was delicious and had plenty of food to fill us up! Highly recommend Info Machu Picchu! It was a great experience and Dayan made it unforgettable. She was very knowledgeable and kind.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Keyko Victoria P 
 
 
 
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Nice guided experience through the city and surroundings of Cusco... Everything was wonderful. And above all with the security that the agency provided us. Ready to come back...

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