2 Day Inca Trail Hike

Cusco

Overview of this adventure

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Tour Difficulty:

Languages: Spanish & English

Location: Peru

2-Day Short Inca Trail: The Express Trek

Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on this 2-day Short Inca Trail. This is the ideal option for travelers who want the experience of arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate but do not have the time or desire for the full 4-day camping trek.

Operated by TrueAndes, this hike covers the most scenic last section of the trail. You will visit the spectacular ruins of Wiñay Wayna, see the citadel from above, spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, and return for a full tour the next day.

Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Km 104 to Sun Gate

Train to Km 104. Hike uphill to Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. Continue to the Sun Gate for the classic view of Machu Picchu. Bus down to Aguas Calientes. Hotel overnight.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour

Breakfast. Bus up to the citadel. 2-hour guided tour exploring the main temples. Free time (if regulation permits) or return to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Train back to Cusco.

What’s Included in This Tour?

  • Permits: Official Short Inca Trail permit.
  • Transport: Expedition/Voyager train, buses.
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
  • Meals: Box lunch on Day 1, Breakfast on Day 2.
  • Guide: Professional English-speaking guide.
  • Entrances: Machu Picchu admission.

Travel Information & Policies

Passport Mandatory

Checkpoint: You must present your original passport at Km 104 to enter the trail. It must match the permit details exactly.

No Camping

Hotel Stay: Unlike the 4-day trek, this option involves sleeping in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, allowing for a hot shower and rest.

Booking

Permits Sell Out: While easier to get than the 4-day permit, these still sell out weeks or months in advance. Book early.

$550.00

per person

If you have questions about the Tour, please call us to customize your adventure and learn more making your trip a once-in-a-life experience.

Pay a 50% deposit now and the rest when you arrive in Peru.

Select Group Size


Packing list for the 2 Day Inca Trail Hike

Insect repellent

Cash & cards

Medications & first‑aid

Toiletries

Headlamp

Hat & gloves

Snacks

Water bottle

Sun protection

Rain gear

Layered clothing

Comfortable hiking boots

Travel insurance

Passport & ID

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the hike on Day 1?

It is approximately 12km (7.5 miles) and takes about 6-7 hours depending on your pace, including breaks and lunch.

Is it steep?

The first part from Km 104 to Wiñay Wayna is a consistent uphill climb. After that, it is "Andean flat" (undulating) to the Sun Gate.

Can I do this trek if I have vertigo?

There are a few sections with steep drop-offs, but the path is wide and safe. Most people manageable it fine, but let your guide know.

What time do we start?

We pick you up around 4:00 AM or 5:00 AM from Cusco to catch the first trains and maximize your time on the trail.

Is food provided?

We provide a nutritious box lunch for the hike. Dinner on Day 1 and Lunch on Day 2 are usually not included to give you flexibility.

Do I see Machu Picchu on Day 1?

Yes! You arrive at the Sun Gate in the afternoon and get the classic panoramic view, but you don't enter the ruins until Day 2.

Related Tours

Your trusted tour operator in Machu Picchu

We bring a genuine local touch to every adventure. As a 100% Peruvian-owned company, we offer an authentic perspective rooted in respect for our team and a deep connection to the culture and history of the region.

Our Machu Picchu team is fully equipped with satellite phones to provide 24/7 emergency support. Your safety is our highest priority, which is why every trek includes oxygen tanks and first aid kits. Our experienced guides lead each journey with professionalism, care, and expert knowledge.

We provide seamless, worry-free service, including hotel-to-hotel pickups and drop-offs in Cusco. Every detail is thoughtfully arranged to ensure your trek is comfortable and stress-free.

Choosing us means supporting a company with an industry-leading safety record and a strong commitment to excellence. Let our team guide you through the beauty of Machu Picchu while making your journey truly unforgettable.