Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days with Hotel

Duration

2 Days

Type of tour

Hiking

Difficulty

Easy

Best Time

April - October

The 2-Day Inca Trail Tour is ideal for those seeking a short but unforgettable adventure along the ancient path of the Incas. We will depart towards Ollantaytambo, and from kilometer 104 we will begin a hike surrounded by spectacular Andean landscapes. Following the ancestral Qhapaq Ñan, we will be able to observe wonderful complexes such as Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna, and later we will arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), from where we will enjoy our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

The next day, we will explore the majestic Inca citadel, discovering its temples, terraces, and most emblematic constructions with the guidance of an expert. A unique experience that combines history, nature, and culture in the heart of the Andes.

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñayhuayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

04:00 a.m. Pick-up in Cusco and transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
06:10 a.m. Expedition train ride to Km 104.
07:30 a.m. Start of the Short Inca Trail.
08:30 a.m. Visit to Chachabamba.
11:30 a.m. Arrival at Wiñayhuayna and lunch (Box Lunch).
02:00 p.m. Ascent to Intipunku (Sun Gate) and panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
03:30 p.m. Descent to Machu Picchu.
04:30 p.m. Bus to Aguas Calientes (not included).
07:00 p.m. Dinner in Aguas Calientes and overnight stay at hotel.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

05:30 a.m. Breakfast at the hotel.
06:30 a.m. Bus to Machu Picchu.
07:00 a.m. Guided tour in Machu Picchu (Circuit 3 – 2h 30min).
10:00 a.m. Bus descent to Aguas Calientes.
11:00 a.m. Free time for lunch (not included).
02:30 p.m. Return train to Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Vistadome).
04:30 p.m. Transfer by minivan to Cusco.
07:00 p.m. Arrival in Cusco and end of the tour.

Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñayhuayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
We begin the adventure early with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to the train station in Ollantaytambo. On board the train, we will enjoy a panoramic journey to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

Our hike starts with a visit to Chachabamba, an ancient Inca checkpoint. We continue ascending through impressive landscapes until reaching Wiñayhuayna, a majestic archaeological complex where we will pause for lunch.

We then follow the trail to Intipunku (Sun Gate), where we will enjoy our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—an unforgettable and unique moment. Afterwards, we descend to the citadel and take a bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will have dinner and spend the night at our hotel.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After an early breakfast, we take the bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. We will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, exploring Circuit 3, which includes sites such as the Agricultural Zone, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of the Condor.

After the exploration, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will have free time for lunch and shopping. In the afternoon, we board the train back to Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Vistadome), followed by a minivan transfer to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 p.m.

This concludes an unforgettable experience on the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

¿Qué incluye?

Briefing and Hotel Pick-up: Pre-tour briefing one day before and pick-up from hotels in Cusco’s historic center.
Train and Minivan Transportation: Expedition train (option to upgrade to Vistadome) and minivan transfers Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Included Entrance: Access to the Inca Trail, Wiñayhuayna, and Machu Picchu.
Tour Guide Service: Professional guide in English or Spanish throughout the tour.
Included Meals: Box lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes (Day 1), breakfast at the hotel (Day 2).
Hotel in Aguas Calientes: 2-star accommodation (option to upgrade to 3 or 4 stars).

No incluye

Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
Additional Drinks and Snacks: It is recommended to bring water and personal snacks.
Tips: Optional for guides and service staff.
Personal Expenses: Shopping, souvenirs, and any other expenses not mentioned.

Recomendaciones

Documentation: Carry your original ID or passport, as it is mandatory to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Physical Condition: This tour includes several hours of hiking on uneven terrain and ascents. It is recommended to be in good physical condition and to spend at least one day in Cusco to acclimatize.
Appropriate Clothing: Wear light, breathable clothing for the hike, but also bring a windbreaker or rain jacket, as the weather can change suddenly.
Comfortable Footwear: Trekking shoes with good traction are recommended, as the trail can be slippery in some sections.
Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
Hydration and Snacks: Bring a reusable water bottle and some energy snacks to keep your energy up during the hike.
Small Backpack: Carry only what is necessary in a light backpack, as too much weight can make the hike more difficult.
Cash: It is advisable to bring Peruvian soles for personal expenses, as some places do not accept cards.
Respect the Environment: Do not leave trash on the Inca Trail or in Machu Picchu. Respect the rules of the archaeological park and always follow your guide’s instructions.
Punctuality: Respect hotel pick-up times and the schedule of each visit to ensure the itinerary is followed.

Why does the cost of a tour to Machu Picchu vary?

The cost of the 2-Day Inca Trail Tour mainly depends on the train category and additional services included. Travelers looking for a more affordable option can choose standard trains, while those who want an exclusive journey with luxury and unique cultural experiences can opt for premium or luxury categories. This way, every traveler can find the option that best fits their budget and travel style.

Train Category (the most influential factor):
The train is the most comfortable and fastest way to reach Machu Picchu.

Economy (Expedition / Voyager): Basic but safe and tourist-friendly service. Within this category, price may vary: fixed schedules (assigned) are more affordable, while flexible schedules (chosen by the traveler) cost slightly more, as they allow better optimization of time.
Panoramic (Vistadome / The 360°): Large panoramic windows, onboard snacks, cultural show.
Premium (Vistadome Observatory): Special observatory car with live music and immersive experience.
First Class (The First Class): Includes gourmet menu, cocktail, observatory bar, and personalized service.
Luxury (Hiram Bingham): 5-star service with gourmet menu, open bar, live music, private guide, and exclusive details.

The higher the category, the greater the exclusivity and comfort.

Ground Transportation Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco:

Standard services: shared tourist bus.
Premium categories: private transport, offering more comfort and flexible schedules.

Guide Service:

Standard tours: shared guide with a group.
Higher categories: private guide, allowing a more personalized and in-depth experience.

Overall Experience:
The value lies not only in transportation and entrance tickets but in how you experience the journey. Premium categories offer high-level gastronomy, cultural shows, exclusive spaces, and a worry-free trip—perfect for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

UPDATED PRICES WITH DIFFERENT OPTIONS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY:

Service Category	Includes	Foreign Adult	Peruvian Adult	Student Child
Standard Service	Tourist transport Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco, Peru Rail Expedition or Inca Rail The Voyager train, Consettur bus, Machu Picchu entrance, bilingual guide.	599 USD	559 USD	559 USD
Panoramic Service	Tourist transport, panoramic train with wide windows: Peru Rail Vistadome or Inca Rail The 360°, onboard snack, cultural show (depending on the train), Consettur bus, entrance, bilingual guide.	649 USD	609 USD	609 USD
Premium Panoramic Service	Tourist transport, train with special observation spaces: Peru Rail Vistadome Observatory (observation car with live music and cultural show) or Inca Rail The 360° Plus (if available), onboard snack, Consettur bus, entrance, bilingual guide.	689 USD	649 USD	649 USD
First Class Service	Tourist transport, Inca Rail The First Class train (gourmet menu, observatory bar, welcome cocktail), Consettur bus, entrance, exclusive bilingual guide.	999 USD	959 USD	959 USD
Luxury Service	Private transport, Peru Rail Hiram Bingham train (gourmet menu, exclusive bar, live music, open bar, cultural show), Consettur bus, entrance, private guide.	1299 USD	1259USD	1259 USD

Preguntas frecuentes

Is the Short Inca Trail difficult?
The hike is approximately 11 kilometers with some uphill sections. While it is not extremely difficult, it requires moderate physical fitness and good acclimatization to the altitude.
In what language is the guiding service?
The guiding service is available in Spanish and English. It can also be requested in French or German in advance. For other languages, a private guide can be arranged.
Does the tour include meals?
The service includes 1 Box Lunch, 1 dinner, and 1 breakfast at the hotel. Lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included.
What is the best time to do the Short Inca Trail?
From April to October is the best time, as there is less rain and the weather is more stable. In February, the Inca Trail remains closed for maintenance.
Can I change the tour date after purchase?
Date changes are not allowed after purchase due to policies of the Ministry of Culture of Peru.
Can I cancel the tour and get a refund?
Cancellations and refunds are not allowed once the purchase is made.
Can I camp at Wiñayhuayna?
Camping at Wiñayhuayna is not allowed. The first night is spent at a hotel in Aguas Calientes. Only the 4-day Inca Trail includes camping.
Is it suitable for children and older adults?
The tour is recommended for children over 8 years old with hiking experience. Older adults should be in good health.
How far in advance should I book the tour?
It is recommended to book at least two to three weeks in advance due to high demand and limited availability.
Is travel insurance mandatory?
It is not mandatory, but it is recommended to have insurance that covers accidents or medical emergencies during the hike.
Is the tour canceled due to bad weather?
The tour operates in any weather condition. It is recommended to bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for unexpected rain.

The 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with hotel is one of the most recommended experiences for travelers who want to feel the magic of the legendary Inca Trail but don’t have time for the classic 4-day trek. In just two days, it combines scenic hikes through breathtaking Andean landscapes, visits to unique archaeological sites, and, of course, the thrill of reaching the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

What Will You See on the 2-Day Inca Trail?

Chachabamba: An ancient Inca ceremonial and checkpoint site.
Wiñayhuayna: An impressive archaeological complex with terraces, temples, and dwellings surrounded by lush vegetation.
Intipunku (Sun Gate): The most anticipated arrival point, where travelers enjoy their first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu: The crown jewel of the journey—the sacred Inca citadel with temples, terraces, and mysterious structures.

Advantages of the 2-Day Tour

Time-saving: Perfect for those who cannot do the full 4-day trek.
Spectacular scenery: Enjoy cloud forests, rivers, mountains, and archaeological wonders.
Extra comfort: At the end of the first day, you’ll rest in a hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of camping.
Accessible to more travelers: Requires less physical preparation than the classic Inca Trail.
Complete experience: Combines trekking, history, nature, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu.

Disadvantages to Consider

Less hiking time: Although intense, it doesn’t offer the same full immersion as the 4-day trek.
High demand: Permits are limited and often sell out weeks in advance.
Altitude and effort: Despite being shorter, it involves uphill sections and requires proper acclimatization.
Variable cost: Final price depends on train category and chosen hotel (2–4 stars).

Conclusion

The 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with hotel is perfect for those seeking a unique adventure that combines history, culture, and nature in a shorter time frame, with the comfort of a good night’s rest at the end of the day. It’s an excellent option for families with older children, travelers with limited time, or anyone who wants a balance between trekking and comfort.

From: $550.00 / person

IMPORTANTE

To enjoy the full Machu Picchu experience, it is essential to book in advance, especially for Circuit 2, which is the most recommended. This tour offers the most comprehensive coverage of the citadel, combining breathtaking panoramic views with the most important archaeological sites.