Overview

Experience the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 days / 1 night)—the perfect option for travelers wanting the beauty of the classic Inca Trail in less time. Starting at KM 104, this guided hike takes you along one of Peru’s most scenic routes, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Andes mountains. Along the way, you’ll explore impressive Inca ruins, walk through diverse Andean flora and fauna, and enjoy a rewarding trek directly to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) overlooking Machu Picchu.

Your first day ends with a short bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll relax in a comfortable hotel booked in advance by our team. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the famous Indio Feliz restaurant as you unwind and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

On day two, you’ll enjoy a fully guided tour of Machu Picchu with one of our expert local guides, known for their deep knowledge of Incan culture, engineering, and history. This ensures a rich, informative, and unforgettable visit to the Lost City of the Incas.

All entrance tickets, permits, and transfers are arranged ahead of time, allowing you to focus entirely on the experience. This tour offers the ideal combination of an authentic Peruvian hiking adventure and a comprehensive visit to Machu Picchu—making it one of the best Short Inca Trail tours in Peru.

Tour Highlights

Expert Local Guides – Travel with our passionate, top-rated guides who bring Incan history and culture to life.
Handpicked Hotel Stay – Enjoy a relaxing night at a carefully selected hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Inca Ruins Along the Trail – Explore remarkable archaeological sites on the Short Inca Trail.
Hike Through the Sun Gate – Arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Intipunku (Sun Gate) for breathtaking first views.
Scenic Train Journey – Enjoy a picturesque train ride through the stunning Cusco Valley.
Dinner at INDIO FELIZ – Savor a gourmet Peruvian meal at one of Aguas Calientes’ most renowned restaurants.
Guided Machu Picchu Tour – Experience a fascinating and deeply informative tour led by a passionate expert guide.

Details

Tour Overview

Tour Type: Historical • Guided • Train Ride • Trekking • Lodge-Based
Distance Covered: 12 km (7.4 miles)
Duration: 2 days / 1 night
(Short Inca Trail 2 Days – one-day hike + one-day Machu Picchu tour)

Elevation

Lowest Elevation: 2,150 m (7,053 ft)
Highest Elevation: 2,670 m (8,759 ft)

Difficulty

Level: 6–7 out of 10
(10 = extremely difficult)

This trek is suitable for active travelers seeking a rewarding but manageable hiking experience.

Small Group Experience

We operate this trek with small groups of 2 to 8 hikers to ensure a personalized and high-quality experience.

Large groups can disturb wildlife and reduce the sense of solitude on the trail. By keeping our groups small, we guarantee a quieter, more flexible, and more meaningful encounter with nature.

Accommodation

One night at Hatun Inti Classic Hotel in Aguas Calientes (double-room occupancy).
Solo travelers may request a single room—just let us know in advance.

Expert Local Guides

Peru by Locals works exclusively with highly trained male and female guides who hold professional degrees and complete annual refresher training.

We invest in our guides because they are the key to delivering exceptional, informative, and safe hiking experiences.

Starting Location

Your trek begins in Cusco City or the Sacred Valley—your choice.
We recommend spending the night before the hike in either location.

No special acclimatization is required, as this trek takes place at a lower altitude, making it accessible year-round.

Guaranteed Departures

This trek is operated 100% by PERU BY LOCALS. When you book with us, you hike with us—we never outsource or rearrange your departure.
Choose any date, and we’ll operate the tour for you.

Itinerary

PRE-TRIP MEETING

At Peru by Locals, we believe it’s essential for our guests to have all their last-minute questions answered before beginning the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu—whether about the itinerary, challenges, packing list, or any other details.

Your guide will give a complete pre-trek briefing at your Cusco hotel at 5:30 pm the day before the hike, ensuring you feel fully prepared and confident for the adventure ahead.

DAY 1: Train Ride to KM 104 & Start of the Short Inca Trail

To make the most of the daylight and ensure a perfect arrival time at Machu Picchu, we will pick you up early from your Cusco hotel (the exact time will be confirmed during your pre-hike briefing). After a scenic 1.5-hour drive to the Ollantaytambo train station, we board the train toward the trailhead.

The train journey, also about 1.5 hours, offers a unique window into the Andean landscape. As we travel along the valley floor, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests, and traditional Andean villages—ideal for photography lovers.

At KM 104, we begin the Short Inca Trail, leaving the bustle behind and stepping into peaceful mountain countryside and fresh Andean air.

The first half of the hike involves a moderate 3-hour ascent to the remarkable ruins of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most stunning archaeological sites on the entire Inca Trail. Your guide will set a comfortable pace, ensuring breaks whenever needed. Here, you’ll learn the fascinating history of the site while taking in the sweeping views. Around noon, we’ll enjoy a delicious boxed lunch.

In the afternoon, we continue along the trail for a couple more hours toward Inti Punku (the Sun Gate). Nothing truly prepares you for your first spectacular view of Machu Picchu from this iconic viewpoint—an unforgettable moment for every traveler.

After plenty of time for photos and enjoying the scenery, we descend for about 40 minutes to the main entrance of Machu Picchu. From here, a 25-minute bus ride takes us to Aguas Calientes, a vibrant town perfect for relaxing and exploring after the day’s hike.

Quick Facts – Day 1

Distance Covered: 12 km / 7.4 miles
Walking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Lowest Elevation: 2,150 m (7,053 ft)
Highest Elevation: 2,670 m (8,759 ft)
Difficulty: Moderate

DAY 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour and Return to Cusco

Day 2 begins early. Your hotel will provide a buffet breakfast at 5:00 am, enabling us to board one of the first buses to Machu Picchu for the 25-minute journey to the entrance.

Upon arrival, you will enjoy a comprehensive, approximately 2-hour guided tour of the citadel. Your guide will present the historical, cultural, and architectural significance of Machu Picchu, bringing its legacy to life. The route will be carefully selected to avoid the largest crowds and ensure access to the most notable viewpoints.

Following the tour, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes to retrieve your luggage from the hotel. At approximately 3:00 pm, we will board the train for a 1.5-hour journey to the Ollantaytambo station, where a representative of our team will meet you and provide private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.

This return journey offers a peaceful opportunity to rest and reflect on the exceptional experiences of the previous two days.

Services

SERVICES INCLUDED

Private mini-van transportation to and from your Cusco hotel and the train station
Boxed lunch on Day 1 provided during the hike
Expedition-class train service from Cusco to Km 104 (starting point of the Short Inca Trail)
Expedition-class train service from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Entrance tickets for the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
All bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
One night accommodation at Hatun Inti Classic Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Professional, certified tour guide, knowledgeable in Inca history, culture, flora and fauna, and trained in Wilderness First Responder protocols
Dinner at Indio Feliz Restaurant in Aguas Calientes
All applicable taxes

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED

Lunch on Day 2
Tips for guides, drivers, or staff (optional but appreciated)
Travel insurance, which is highly recommended for all participants
Additional snacks or beverages not specified in the itinerary
Extra expenses incurred in Aguas Calientes, such as souvenirs, personal purchases, or additional activities
Hotel upgrades or requests for premium room categories (available upon request at an extra cost)
Single-room supplement, applicable only if a solo traveler requests a private room

Packing list

Original passport– Please remember to bring your original passport, which should be the current one; if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring the new passport and at least a copy of the expired passport. The information you provided us at the time of your booking must match your tickets at the time of entering Machu Picchu
Hiking shoes– These should be comfortable and broken in.
Warm jacket or fleece– Early mornings and evenings can be cold, so it is good to have layers of clothing
Waterproof Jacket or waterproof poncho, especially if you are traveling between October to March
T-shirts / Lightweight shirts– Suggested one for the hike and one for the Machu Picchu day.
Socks– Suggest one pair per day
Sun hat / Baseball cap– We often get long, hot, sunny days hiking
Lightweight long pants– We recommend hiking pants that you can zip off at the legs and that dry quickly when wet
Sunscreen– SPF 35+ recommended
Sunglasses
Camera or phone may be enough
Bug repellent– There are mosquitoes all year round so make sure you pack your bug spray.
Extra cash – For your lunch on the second day and gratuities.
Day bag – Recommended 30L where you put extra clothes, water, and other items during the hike. NOTE: If you have a big suitcase, you can leave it in the Cusco hotel (all hotels have storage for free)
Bug repellent– There are mosquitoes all year round so make sure you pack your bug repellent
Water bottle – Machu Picchu national park does not allow bringing plastic bottles. Please make sure you have a Nalgene bottle or camel bag. Before we leave the hotel in Cusco, make sure you have filled up your water bottle for the hike.
Toiletries
Prescription medicines – Please inform your trip leader of any medications you are taking
Food restrictions – If you have any allergies or preferences, make sure you advise us in the booking form.

Important information

OFTEN ASKED QUESTIONS

Where Do I Meet the Team?

The day before your hike begins, your guide will meet you at your selected hotel in Cusco at 5:30 pm for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. During this meeting, you will receive all final details regarding the itinerary, logistics, and any last-minute questions you may have.

For convenience, we recommend booking a hotel in Cusco’s downtown area and informing us once your reservation is confirmed.

What Is the Terrain Like? How Challenging Is It?

The Short Inca Trail features 12 km (7.4 miles) of varied mountain terrain, including uneven rocky surfaces, well-preserved Inca stone pathways, and a combination of steep uphill and downhill sections. The route demands steady effort but is accessible to travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.

On a difficulty scale from 1 to 10, this trek is rated a 6, making it suitable for most hikers who are comfortable with continuous walking at altitude.

How far in advance Should I Book the Short Inca Trail?

We strongly recommend booking your Short Inca Trail permit well in advance, especially if you plan to travel between April and September, which is the high season. During these months, permits sell out quickly. From October to January, availability is generally better, though advanced booking is still advisable.

Access to the Inca Trail is strictly regulated by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, which manages and controls all trail permits. Only 250 permits are issued per day for hikers, making early reservations essential to secure your spot.

What Is the Weather Like on the Inca Trail Throughout the Year?

Weather along the Short Inca Trail is highly variable, so it is essential to pack for a range of conditions. This route passes through the cloud forest, a high-altitude jungle environment. On sunny days, temperatures typically range from 18–25°C (65–77°F).

The Machu Picchu region has a warm, humid climate due to its lower altitude and proximity to the Amazon. Average daytime temperatures range between 23–25°C (73–77°F), with nighttime lows around 18°C (64°F).

In contrast, the Cusco region experiences two clearly defined seasons:

Wet Season (November to March)

Frequent rainfall, typically lasting 3–4 hours per day
Cloudy conditions with occasional sunny days
Trails may be slippery and more challenging

Dry Season (April to October)

Clear skies and minimal rainfall
June and July are the coldest months, especially at night
Daytime temperatures can reach 23°C (73°F), despite cold mornings and evenings

Because the climate can shift quickly, hikers should be prepared for sun, rain, humidity, and cooler temperatures at any time of year.

Should I Tip the Guides? If so, How Much ?

Tipping your guide or driver is entirely optional, and it is never expected. However, if you feel that the service provided was exceptional and you wish to express your appreciation, you may offer a gratuity at the end of the tour in any amount you feel comfortable with.

For those who would like guidance, travelers typically offer a tip of USD 10–20 per person for the guide and USD 5–10 per person for the driver. These amounts are only suggestions, and any contribution—large or small—is appreciated but never required.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Cusco Before the hike to Adjust to the Altitude?

This hike does not require prior altitude acclimatization, as it takes place at a lower elevation than Cusco. Therefore, you may begin the Short Inca Trail on any date that suits your travel plans.

Do I Need to Carry My Own Medicine or First Aid?

Your guide will carry a complete first-aid kit throughout the hike, which includes basic supplies such as pain relievers, bandages, blister-prevention patches, anti-diarrheal tablets, and other essential items. At any point during the trek, please feel free to ask your guide for anything you may need.

However, if you require specialized medication or have a specific medical condition, we strongly recommend consulting your doctor prior to your trip to Peru to ensure you bring any necessary prescriptions or treatments with you.

How Big Will My Group Be?

We specialize in small-group experiences, typically guiding groups of 2 to 8 guests. Keeping our groups small allows us to provide highly personalized service, especially when exploring Inca ruins or observing the region’s remarkable flora. Your guide will have ample time to share in-depth information about local culture, history, and nature, ensuring a richer and more meaningful experience throughout the hike.

Is There Any Age Limit?

There is no official minimum or maximum age for the Short Inca Trail. Anyone who is physically prepared for hiking can participate. Because the trail is considered a moderate hike, children 7 years and older can typically complete it comfortably, provided they are active and accustomed to walking.

As always, we recommend evaluating each traveler’s fitness level and consulting a doctor if you have any concerns.

What Time Do I Get Back to Cusco on the Last Day?

You will typically arrive back in Cusco at approximately 5:00 p.m. on the final day of the tour. If, for any reason, you need to return to Cusco earlier, please inform us at the time of booking—or at least one month before your trek begins—so we can arrange your train ticket for an earlier departure. Train schedules are limited, so advance notice is essential.

Should I Have to Book Wayna Picchu Mountain tickt in Advance?

Yes. We strongly recommend booking your Wayna Picchu Mountain ticket in advance, especially during the high season (April to September). This hike is extremely popular, and permits often sell out quickly.

Peru By Locals can secure these permits on your behalf for an additional cost of USD 80 per ticket.

How Big Should My Day Backpack Be?

A thirty-litre backpack will be big enough to carry your belongings such as water, rain gear, and extra clothes.

Can I Pay the Rest of the Balance on the Credit Card or Does It Have to Be in Cash?

We would aprecciate the austanding payment in cash the day we meet for the pre-hike talk.

Peruvian Currency

The Peruvian sol is the currency of Peru, and usually fluctuates between 3.3 to 3.8 Nuevo sol to 1 US Dollar.

Language

Spanish is the national language of Peru, and also 20% of Peruvians speak Quechua (Inca language). Our guides are fluent in Spanish and English.

Why Choose Peru By Locals

Name: Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu | Cusco, Peru
Brand: Peru by Locals
Price: 540 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (3401 reviews)

Peru By Locals is a trusted, locally owned tour operator in Cusco specializing in small-group adventures, tailor-made treks, and authentic cultural tours in Peru. Our mission is to deliver world-class experiences while supporting local communities and protecting the environment.

Tailor-Made Treks & Personalized Tours

We design custom itineraries based on your interests—whether you love trekking, culture, photography, food, nature, or history. Every tour is adjusted to your pace and preferences, ensuring a truly personalized Peru experience.

World-Class Customer Service

We are committed to delivering exceptional service from start to finish. Our dedicated team ensures that every detail of your journey is seamless, safe, and unforgettable.

Locally Owned & Highly Experienced

Based in Cusco, Peru, our company is 100% local. Our staff brings decades of hands-on experience in the Peruvian tourism industry, offering deep knowledge of the Andes, Inca history, and the cultural richness of Peru.

Professional, Multilingual Guides

All members of our team speak English, Spanish, and Quechua (the language of the Incas).
Our guides are trained in:

Inca and Peruvian history
Andean culture and traditions
Flora and fauna of the region
Wilderness first aid
Trek leadership and tourism management

This ensures every guest enjoys informative, safe, and meaningful adventures.

Responsible & Sustainable Tourism

We are committed to protecting the environment and supporting local Andean communities. Our responsibility initiatives include:

Fair labor practices for all staff
Empowering local workers and families
Honoring Indigenous communities and traditions
Tree-planting and reforestation projects
Donation of schoolbooks and materials to underserved communities

We also operate an Education Fund supporting the children of porters. A portion of every trek or tour directly contributes to their academic opportunities.

Small-Group Specialists

We believe small groups create more authentic and flexible experiences. That’s why our tours typically run with 2 to 8 guests—never with large, impersonal crowds.

Small groups allow:

Personalized attention from your guide
Better connection with local people and nature
Access to off-the-beaten-path locations
Less waiting and more exploring

Why join a tour of 40 people when you can experience Peru in an intimate and meaningful way?

Unique Itineraries from 1 to 15 Days

We offer a wide range of trips, including:

Iconic treks to Machu Picchu
Cultural and historical tours
Food and photography experiences
Adventure tours for families, couples, and solo travelers

Whatever you dream of seeing in Peru, we can design it.

Worry-Free, Seamless Travel

Peru By Locals takes care of all logistics so you can relax and fully enjoy your journey. Your safety, comfort, and experience are our top priorities.

Price

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Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu | Cusco, Peru

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GROUP SERVICE

Our tour groups are very important. We run tours from 2 to 8 people usually per group and we open any tour dates with 2 guests. This service is considered semi-private for personalized experiences so, you can take advantage of your valid time.

Accommodations

Costs are based on double bedroom occupancy and US dollars. For single room occupancy, contact us at info@perubylocals.com or our 24/7 number +51 989585967 (WhatsApp).

To ensure your booking with us, we will require a $200 deposit pre-payment of the total cost, and the outstanding remaining will be paid a week prior to your trip.

Choosing this option

Once a tour date is opened with 2 guests, the travel date probably won’t be changed later.
This is a great option to meet other travelers and hang out during the trip.
If for any reason one of you can’t travel or others from the group can’t continue, the tour will go as planned from the beginning to the end.

PRIVATE SERVICE

Our private service can start from 1 person to any number you desire, and you can choose your travel date. Also, it is flexible.