Inca Trail 2 days: A quick view

What is the Short Inca trail?

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu follows the final section of the 4-day Classic Inca Trail, covering the last two days of the route. The trail is part of the Qhapaq Ñan, a vast network of ancient stone roads that connected the main Inca cities across Tahuantinsuyo, the territory of the Inca Empire. This road system extended for more than 30,000 kilometers, reaching areas that are now part of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Ecuador.

Today, several sections of this network have been restored and prepared for hiking, including the 2-day Inca Trail.

The route is now especially popular with travelers who have limited time in Cusco, prefer a less physically demanding hike, want to avoid the larger crowds found on the Classic Inca Trail, and would like to reach Machu Picchu on foot, just as its builders and residents did more than 500 years ago.

Location

The 2 day inca trail to Machu Picchu is located in the cloud forest region of Cusco, Peru, 104 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco by rail. The hike begins at Km 104, also known as Chachabamba, and leads to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Altitude

The Short Inca Trail hike's altitude. Located in the Andes Mountains at an average altitude of 8,038 feet, many visitors enjoy visiting this scenic route because it provides stunning views of nearby mountains while simultaneously experiencing Inca culture first-hand.

Short Inca Trail Itinerary

There are two ways to experience the Short Inca Trail. One option includes an overnight stay at a hotel, while the other includes camping. Keep in mind that this trek can only be booked through a travel agency authorized by the Peruvian government. Below, we explain both options.

Day 1: Train Journey, Hike, and Arrival at Machu Picchu

The day begins with an early-morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco and a drive to Ollantaytambo, usually at around 4:00 a.m. After approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, you will arrive at the Ollantaytambo train station, where you will meet your group and tour guide before boarding the train toward Aguas Calientes. As the train passes through Andean landscapes and cloud forest, it will stop at Km 104, also known as Chachabamba. Before starting the hike, you will have breakfast with your group. Some travel agencies do not include this meal.

From Chachabamba, you will follow ancient stone paths through the mountains and cloud forest. Along the way, you will see the Choquesuysuy archaeological site in the distance and visit other important places, including Wiñay Wayna, where you will have time to rest and enjoy lunch.

After lunch, you will continue hiking for about an hour until you reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From here, you will get your first view of Machu Picchu. You will then enter the site and explore its panoramic area through Circuit 1. Afterward, you will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for the hotel option or to Puente Ruinas for the camping option.

• Hotel option: In the evening, you will have dinner at a local restaurant, although this is not included by every travel agency, and spend the night at a hotel.
• Camping option: At Puente Ruinas, near the Urubamba River, your tent will be ready for you. You will enjoy dinner and a peaceful night surrounded by nature.

Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour and Return to Cusco

After breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes or at the Puente Ruinas campsite, you will take the bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour along Circuit 3. During the visit, your guide will explain the history and meaning of the citadel's terraces, temples, Inca residences, and ceremonial areas.

After the guided tour, you may choose to add a hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. These tickets are optional, subject to availability and your travel agency's arrangements, and must be booked in advance.

Later, you will return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to have lunch at your own expense. You will then board the train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the station, you will continue to Cusco by road. You are expected to arrive at your hotel at around 7:30 p.m.

Short Inca Trail price

• From US$ 580 / S/ 1,974 per person

Price valid for group tours for hotel or camp service. The total may vary depending on the train type, hotel stars, Machu Picchu circuit, group size, and included services.

Before booking, please request a written breakdown of permits, entrance fees, buses, trains, meals, accommodations, and supplements. Permits are subject to availability and should not be considered guaranteed until the booking has been confirmed.

Inca Sites Along the Inca Trail 2 days

The 2-day Inca Trail is home to several archaeological sites. The best known is Wiñay Wayna, but there are other fascinating places to see along the route. These sites offer a closer look at Inca history and culture. Many are well preserved, giving visitors a glimpse into the past.

• Chachabamba: Located at Km 104 on the railway between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, this is the first Inca archaeological site visited because it sits right at the trailhead. It was a ceremonial site built at 2,170 m above sea level. You will see buildings, channels, fountains, and terraces. The visit usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes.
• Choquesuysuy: This Inca complex is located near Km 106, at about 2,250 m above sea level. It appears at the beginning of an alternative route to the Short Inca Trail. From a distance, you can see buildings, terraces, channels, and fountains surrounded by lush vegetation.
• Wiñay Wayna: This large Inca agricultural and religious complex was built into a mountainside at about 2,650 m above sea level. It is visited later on day 1, before reaching Inti Punku, usually at around 2 p.m. You will see agricultural terraces, buildings, stairways, and fountains. The visit and rest stop usually last 45 to 60 minutes.
• Intipata: These agricultural terraces are about a 30-minute walk from Wiñay Wayna. Most of the terraces are located on the upper part of the hillside, while the ceremonial structure sits below. You will be able to see this site from a distance.
• Inti Punku: Also known as the Sun Gate, this ancient ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu is the highest point on the route, at about 2,720 m above sea level. It appears near the end of the hike. From here, you will see Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. The stop usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes.

Best time to do the Short Inca Trail

The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season, when you are more likely to have clear skies, little rain, and dry, firm trails that are safer to walk on. However, the ideal time depends on your travel preferences and priorities.

Dry season (May to September)

As mentioned above, this is generally the best time for the hike.

• Advantages: Clear skies, sunny days, and very little chance of rain. Trail conditions are usually ideal for hiking.
• Things to consider: This is the busiest tourist season. There are more hikers on the trail, and Short Inca Trail permits must be booked several months in advance due to high demand.

Transition months (April and October) 

These months offer a good balance between the dry and rainy seasons.

• Advantages: Fewer visitors and lush, green scenery thanks to the recent rainfall.
• Things to consider: Although the weather is usually pleasant, occasional rain is still possible.

Rainy season (November to March, except February)

• Advantages: Vibrant green landscapes, a quieter atmosphere, and fewer visitors.
• Things to consider: Frequent rain, slippery trails, and mist that may limit views of the surrounding scenery or Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

Please note

Both the 4-day Classic Inca Trail and the Short Inca Trail close for the entire month of February every year. The Peruvian government closes the trails for maintenance and conservation work, to protect visitors during periods of heavy rain and possible landslides, and to help reduce the environmental impact of tourism in the area.

Short Inca Trail permits

As mentioned earlier, you cannot hike this trail on your own because it is regulated by the Peruvian government. Travelers must book through an authorized tour operator that can arrange permits for the Short Inca Trail.

These tour operators not only arrange the required permits but also provide guiding services, Machu Picchu tickets for the second day, train tickets, and other services as part of a complete package.

The permit gives travelers access to the Short Inca Trail and allows them to enter Machu Picchu through Circuit 1 on the first day. A separate Machu Picchu ticket for Circuit 3 is required for the second day.

Availability

There are 250 permits available each day for the 2-day Inca Trail. This number includes both travelers and the required support staff from tour operators, such as guides and cooks. For this reason, permits and tour spaces often sell out quickly.

We recommend booking your permit and tour at least 3 months in advance.

Would you like to learn more about the Machu Picchu circuits?

Read our guide to Machu Picchu tickets for 2026.

What to bring for the 2 days Inca Trail

How to Prepare for Hiking the 2-Day Inca Trail?

Below are some tips for successfully undertaking this two-day Inca Trail expedition:

Getting fit for the Short Inca Trail

• Before hiking the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it's essential that you are physically prepared. Although only four days long, this trek presents numerous challenges that must be navigated efficiently in order to be completed successfully. You must be capable of walking long distances while carrying heavy backpacks.
• There are various ways you can prepare yourself and get into shape for the Short Inca Trail, such as increasing walking frequency - aim to walk for at least 30 minutes each day if possible! Or consider joining a gym and performing cardio and strength-training exercises there.
• It is wise to initiate specific Inca Trail training before setting off on your hike date. Among other exercises, this may include walking up and down hills while carrying your backpack as well as practicing climbing stairs.

As you increase your physical fitness, you will become better prepared to tackle the challenges of the Short Inca Trail and hike to Machu Picchu more safely and enjoyably. These tips can make the trip safer and more rewarding.

Getting the hiking gear in advance

• It is essential to purchase hiking equipment ahead of time in order to be adequately prepared for a hike. In particular, comfortable boots, a backpack and warm clothing will come in handy as essential pieces.
• To hike the Inca Trail, it is necessary to secure a permit in advance due to its popularity. With this permit you may hike for an allotted number of days along its course.
• Before hiking the Inca Trail, it's essential to train as it can be physically demanding. To prepare yourself, go on some hikes near where you live - this will familiarize you with your environment while building stamina.
• Before beginning a hike, ensure to consume a nutritious breakfast and bring enough water and snacks with you to sustain you for hours on end.
• Once you reach Machu Picchu, take a moment to enjoy and appreciate its stunning scenery. Accomplishing this feat is no small feat and promises an unforgettable experience!

Book the Inca Trail in advance

• Make sure to book the Inca Trail early! In order to hike this popular hike, book it as early as possible - people often reserve spots months in advance! For best results on this incredible adventure, reserve your spot ASAP!
• Choose an Inca Trail hike lasting two to four days for maximum flexibility if time is tight; many opt for two-day excursions when visiting Machu Picchu.
• Since the Inca Trail lies at high altitudes, altitude sickness should be taken seriously. Before setting out on your trek, take time to acclimate yourself with its climate by drinking plenty of water and taking it slow on your first few days of hiking.

Peru's Inca Trail offers breathtaking vistas. On your hike you will see ancient ruins such as Machu Picchu as well as gorgeous landscapes - you won't want to leave!.

Acclimatize before the Short Inca Trail 

Before hiking the Inca Trail, it's important to adjust to its altitude gradually. Since this trail ascends into high altitudes and may present hazards for those not used to the elevation changes, acclimatizing before making the trip is crucial. There are various methods available that can help get acquainted with their environment before the hike begins.

Visit Cusco for several days, which is located at an altitude. Doing this will allow your body to adjust to the increased altitude. Furthermore, hiking in Cusco's surroundings will also help you adjust and become used to living at such high altitudes.

Consume plenty of fluids and carbohydrates-rich food before embarking on any hiking adventures. Hydration will keep your body hydrated while providing energy to power the hike ahead.

Before embarking on an Inca Trail hike, it is crucial that you acclimate properly. Doing this will prevent problems caused by high altitude conditions and could save lives!

During the hike

As part of your four-day hike on the Inca Trail, starting point will be at Kilometer 104 (KM 104 is also the starting point of its four-day version) where hiking takes approximately three hours until reaching Winay Wayna for overnight accommodation and then beginning again early the following morning.

On your second day, you'll hike for approximately five hours until reaching Machu Picchu and experiencing its amazing views. There will then be time for exploration before returning back to Cusco where your adventure will come to an end.

If you don't have much time but still wish to experience one of the world's most iconic locations, the Short Inca Trail hike is an excellent option. Although challenging at times, this rewarding trek promises an exciting journey!

FAQs - Short Inca Trail