Short Inca Trek and Machu Picchu - 2 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female47%
- Male53%
Average age
Start / End
- Cusco
- Cusco
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
4Highlights
- Small group tours for a personalized service
- Enjoy freshly prepared picnic meals crafted by expert chefs
- Arrive at Machu Picchu twice (sunset & sunrise)
- Return to Cusco on the Panoramic Vistadome trains.
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Summary
The Short Inca Trail is ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience the best of the Andes. Hike through beautiful cloud forests, visit ancient Inca sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, and enjoy a delicious picnic meals prepared by our expert chefs. Arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate, where you’ll catch your first breathtaking view of the Lost City of the Incas, with fewer crowds and a magical, peaceful atmosphere.
On day two, dive deeper into the wonders of Machu Picchu with a guided tour of its temples, terraces, and scenic viewpoints. This tour includes all the essentials: a picnic lunch on day one and a comfortable return journey on the Panoramic Vistadome Train. Perfect for adventurers who want to see the highlights, history, and beauty of Machu Picchu in just 2 unforgettable days!
Itinerary
Day 1
Cusco - Aguas Calientes
- 13 km / 8 mi
- 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Sun Gate)
- 7 hours
Your adventure begins with a 4:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel and a drive to Ollantaytambo, where you'll board a scenic 1.5-hour train ride along the Urubamba River to KM 104. Upon arrival, we’ll check in at the trailhead checkpoint (don’t forget your original passport) and enjoy a delicious picnic breakfast prepared by our talented chefs.
After breakfast, explore the beautiful** Chachabamba** Inca ruins before starting a 4-hour uphill hike along the ancient Inca Trail. Along the way, enjoy stunning views and visit Wiñay Wayna (meaning “forever young”), a breathtaking archaeological site where we’ll stop for a** fresh picnic lunch**.
We then continue to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu, arriving in the peaceful afternoon light with fewer crowds. From there, it’s a 1-hour downhill walk with incredible views of the citadel.
Finally, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for a relaxing dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at your hotel.
Day 2
Machu Picchu - Cusco
- To 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- 2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu
On the final day, enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before heading to the line to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. If the weather is clear, you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise over this ancient wonder—an unforgettable experience.
Your guide will take you on a 2 to 3-hour tour of the citadel, exploring its temples, terraces, and stunning viewpoints. After the tour, you’ll have the option to climb** Huayna Picchu** or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked in advance) or spend more time exploring on your own.
Your guide will explain how to take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). From there, board the Panoramic Vistadome Train and bus back to Cusco, where our team will meet you and return you safely to your hotel.
What's Included
Accommodation
3* Hotel
Meals
Breakfasts: 2, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 1
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Aug 25
from £396Sep 25
from £396Oct 25
from £396Nov 25
from £396Dec 25
from £396Jan 26
from £382Mar 26
from £382Apr 26
from £382May 26
from £382Jun 26
from £382Jul 26
from £382Aug 26
from £382Sep 26
from £382Oct 26
from £382Nov 26
from £382Dec 26
from £382
- Save 2%Thu 1 Jan 2026 > Fri 2 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£389Best offer£382Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Fri 2 Jan 2026 > Sat 3 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£389Best offer£382Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Sat 3 Jan 2026 > Sun 4 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£389Best offer£382Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
- Save 2%Sun 4 Jan 2026 > Mon 5 Jan 2026Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 leftPay Monthly£389Best offer£382Book for£200 today, pay the rest later
Customer reviews & ratings
We had a really nice 2 day trip on the short inka trail. The views were awesome, the walk was not too strenuous and our guide was wonderful! Miguel explained a lot and told us so much about the traditions of the Andes, about the Inca and about flora and fauna. It was a unique experience and we can only recommend everyone to do this tour (best with Miguel)! Muchísimas gracias Miguel!
Annina VerifiedExcellent experience, breathtaking views. Jhony was an exceptional tour guide with great insight and always found a way to make the tour amazing. Highly recommend.
Nicholas Jul, 2023 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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