SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
02 DAYS / 01 NIGHT
Group Size:
Up to 10 people
Difficulty:
Moderate
Type Service:
Group / Private
Departures:
Daily
Transport:
Van, Train, Bus
Max Altitude:
2,720 m (8,924 ft)
Experience one of the most rewarding hikes in Peru by following a section of the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This scenic trek combines remarkable archaeological sites, breathtaking Andean landscapes, and the rich biodiversity of the cloud forest before leading you to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where your first panoramic view of the Lost City of the Incas awaits.
Along the trail, you’ll discover well-preserved Inca ruins, walk through diverse ecosystems filled with native flora and fauna, and enjoy spectacular mountain scenery inside the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. Every step offers a unique glimpse into the engineering and natural beauty that make this route one of the world’s most celebrated hiking experiences.
A major advantage of the Short Inca Trail is arriving at Machu Picchu in the afternoon of your first day, allowing you to appreciate the citadel when it is typically less crowded. The following morning, you’ll return for a guided exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Designed for travelers with limited time, this two-day adventure delivers the unforgettable experience of hiking an authentic section of the Classic Inca Trail without committing to the longer four-day trek. The tour includes an overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, providing a relaxing end to an incredible day on the trail before your guided visit to Machu Picchu.
***Callanga Family Explorers offers exceptional value for travelers seeking an authentic Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu experience.
SHORT INCA TRAIL 2-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – SUN GATE – AGUAS CALIENTES
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco at around 4:00 a.m.. Travel by private vehicle through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo Train Station, where you’ll board the train to KM 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Before beginning the hike, you’ll receive your packed lunch to enjoy later in the day while taking in the beautiful scenery along the train ride.
After crossing the Urubamba River and completing the entrance check, you’ll start hiking through the lush cloud forest, surrounded by spectacular mountain landscapes and impressive views of the Sacred Valley. The first section follows a gentle uphill trail before gradually becoming steeper as you approach one of the most fascinating archaeological sites on the route.
Along the way, you’ll visit Wiñay Wayna (2,600 m / 8,530 ft), an extraordinary Inca complex famous for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial buildings, and breathtaking location overlooking the valley. Your guide will explain the history of this important site while pointing out the rich biodiversity of the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, home to orchids, colorful birds, butterflies, and native wildlife.
After exploring Wiñay Wayna, enjoy your packed lunch in the designated resting area before continuing toward Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) 2,720 m (8,924 ft). The final stretch includes the famous stone steps built by the Incas, leading to one of the most rewarding moments of the trek. As you arrive at the Sun Gate, you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, an unforgettable sight after completing the hike.
Continue descending toward the citadel, passing several excellent viewpoints that offer fantastic opportunities to photograph Machu Picchu from different angles. Arriving in the afternoon provides a quieter experience, with fewer visitors and beautiful natural light for memorable pictures.
After your first visit to the Lost City of the Incas, take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into your hotel. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before spending the evening relaxing, exploring the charming town, or visiting the famous hot springs before your guided tour of Machu Picchu the following morning.
-Meals included: Box Lunch, dinner in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
-Distance: 12 kms/7.5 miles.
-Hiking Time: 6hrs approximately.
-3* Accommodation: Pucará Hotel in Aguas Calientes or similar.
-4* Accommodation: El Mapi or Tierra Viva Machu Picchu upgrade (superior room).
-Difficulty: Moderate.
You may leave your duffel bag with everything you need for your overnight stay in Aguas Calientes at Ollantaytambo Train Station. It will be transported by train directly to Aguas Calientes. The maximum luggage allowance is 5 kg (11 lbs) per person.
DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Itinerary
Start your day with an early breakfast before taking one of the first shuttle buses to Machu Picchu, allowing you to experience the citadel in the peaceful morning atmosphere. Upon arrival, your professional guide will lead a 2-hour guided tour, introducing you to the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and ceremonial areas while sharing the fascinating history and engineering of the Inca civilization.
After the guided visit, you’ll have time to admire the breathtaking scenery and capture unforgettable photographs of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch at your own expense. Depending on your train schedule, you may also have free time to explore the town, browse local handicraft shops, visit the Machu Picchu Museum, or relax in the famous hot springs.
In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the surrounding Andean landscapes during the journey. Upon arrival, our representative will meet you at the station and transfer you by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco, where your unforgettable Short Inca Trail adventure comes to an end.
-Meal included: Breakfast at your hotel.
-Difficulty: Easy.
***The visit to Machu Picchu is first carried out with our professional guide. After the guided tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain independently. This hike is normally completed on your own. If you would like a guide to accompany you during the ascent, just let us know and we can arrange this with our team for an additional fee.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 2-DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
INCLUDED:
- Airport transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup with door-to-door service.
- Private transfer from your hotel to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
- Short Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets
- 3 bus tickets from Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu.
- Professional English-Speaking Guide
- Expedition Train service from Ollantaytambo to KM 104.
- Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- 1 Night in a 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Double Room).
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- All applicable local taxes.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance: US$75 per person (optional).
- Breakfast on Day 1 (usually provided by your hotel).
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes.
- Optional hotel upgrades.
- Vistadome train upgrade: US$65 per person (Return Only).
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for staff (optional).
***The Huayna Picchu Mountain hike is an optional activity within the Machu Picchu Citadel and is not guided. It is usually completed independently after your guided tour of Machu Picchu. If you would like this additional hike to be guided, please let us know in advance. An additional fee applies for this service.
PRICES & AVAILABILITY
*** The 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available throughout most of the year and only closes during February for annual maintenance. This unforgettable hike follows a section of the original Inca Trail, leading you through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) before arriving at Machu Picchu. Along the route, you’ll discover remarkable archaeological sites, including the impressive Wiñay Wayna, while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery and the diverse landscapes of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
GROUP PRICE – 3★ HOTEL (DOUBLE ROOM)
- Only US$525 per person
PRIVATE PRICE – 3★ HOTEL (DOUBLE ROOM)
- 2 People: US$775 per person
- 3-4 People: US$690 per person
- 5-6 People: US$600 per person
- 7+ People: US$525 per person
***Would you prefer a 4- or 5-star hotel? Contact us for the available options and their additional costs.
***USD 30 discount per person for both Group and Private Services when hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes is not required.
***Single Supplement: USD 30 per person for a private room at the 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
DISCOUNTS
-18 to 25 years old: US$30 discount. To qualify, a valid student ID is required. The card must clearly show the name of the university, the student’s full name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the student ID must be submitted at the time of booking for government approval.
-Under 18 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Under 11 years old: US$40 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Because we are a local, family-owned company born in Cusco, with deep roots in the communities of our region. We know and value our land, and we strive to make every travel experience create a positive impact. In addition to offering authentic and responsible travel experiences, we support environmental and social projects that benefit local communities, children, and natural areas. When you travel with Callanga Family Explorers, you are not only discovering Peru-you are also contributing to initiatives that help protect our environment and support local people.
SMALL GROUPS
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that smaller groups create more meaningful travel experiences. To ensure personalized service, greater comfort, and a closer connection with our guides, our shared tour groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers. This allows us to provide a more flexible, enjoyable, and authentic experience, while giving every guest the attention and care they deserve throughout their journey.
OUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES
We are proud of our team of professional tour guides, who are fluent in English and passionate about sharing the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Incas and the Andes. Their knowledge is supported by continuous training and professional development, ensuring that every tour is informative, accurate, and engaging.
Our guides are friendly, approachable, and highly educated. They hold academic degrees in fields such as Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology, allowing them to provide insightful explanations and answer your questions with confidence. Their passion and dedication help create memorable experiences for every traveler.
OUR SERVICE PROJECTS
We believe travel can also make a positive difference. Through our social and environmental initiatives, we support local communities and children, participate in environmental clean-up campaigns, and help protect and restore natural areas in the Cusco region. These efforts reflect our commitment to responsible tourism and creating a positive impact beyond every journey.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please take a few moments to read the following information carefully. It contains helpful details about our services and everything you need to know before starting your 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, one of our representatives will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Please send us your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins so we can coordinate your airport pickup. At the arrivals terminal exit, simply look for our representative holding a sign with your full name.
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Your pre-tour briefing will take place at your hotel at 6:00 p.m. on the evening before your 2-Day Inca Trail begins. During this meeting, your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the itinerary, the hiking route, and how the tour will be carried out. You will also receive your Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train tickets, and any other necessary travel documents for your journey. This is also the perfect opportunity to ask any questions and receive helpful recommendations to ensure you are fully prepared for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE BEFORE THE TREK?
Absolutely! All hotels in Cusco provide luggage storage for their guests before and after the tour. We recommend leaving your main luggage at your hotel and bringing only a small backpack with the essentials you will need during the 2-Day Inca Trail. This way, you can enjoy the hike more comfortably while your luggage remains safe until your return. If you need any assistance, our team will be happy to help.
PAYMENT METHODS
To confirm your reservation, we offer two secure payment methods. A 40% deposit of the total tour cost is required to secure your booking.
Payment Link: We accept credit and debit cards. We will send you a secure personalized payment link through Izipay, allowing you to complete your payment quickly and safely.
PayPal: You can make your payment directly to our PayPal account at info@callangafamilyexplorers.com. If you prefer, we can also send you a secure PayPal payment request by email, allowing you to complete your payment safely and conveniently. Your reservation will be confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
Before confirming your reservation and purchasing your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, we require the following information for each participant in your booking:
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
***Please also send us a clear copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid credit card processing fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars only) during your pre-trek briefing in Cusco. ATMs are widely available throughout Cusco’s Historic Center if you need to withdraw cash. If you prefer, you may also pay the balance online by Visa or PayPal. Please note that a 6% processing fee applies to cover the transaction fees charged by the payment platforms.
CAN I CHANGE MY TRAVEL DATE?
Unfortunately, no. Once your Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased, the Peruvian government does not permit any modifications to the travel date. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
If you need to make any changes, please contact us as soon as possible. If you decide to cancel your 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is non-refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
Yes. You must bring your original passport, and it is essential that it matches the passport number provided at the time of booking your 2-Day Inca Trail, as well as the information registered for your Machu Picchu entrance ticket and train reservations.
If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, you may complete your booking using your current passport details. Once you receive your new passport or updated information, we can update your reservation for a $25 USD per person administrative fee. Copies of both your old and new passports are required to process the change. Before renewing your passport, please make sure to keep a copy of your current passport.
If you prefer not to pay the update fee, you must travel to Peru with both passports. You may enter Peru using your new passport, but you will need to present both your old and new passports when boarding the train and entering Machu Picchu. Without both passports, you will not be permitted to board the train or enter Machu Picchu.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Most travelers adjust well to the elevation when they allow enough time to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting their trek. At 3,400 m (11,155 ft) above sea level, Cusco is already at a significant elevation, so we recommend spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing before beginning this trek, especially if you are not accustomed to high elevations.
Staying well hydrated, drinking coca tea, and using oxygen when necessary may help manage altitude-related symptoms. Our guides are trained to recognize and respond appropriately to altitude sickness throughout the trek.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our staff through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our staff are paid fairly for their professionalism, dedication, and hard work.
If you feel that our team has exceeded your expectations and would like to show your appreciation, tips are always welcome but are never expected or mandatory. Any gratuity is entirely at your discretion and is greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for exceptional service.
PACKING LIST
Please note: The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu does not include a porter service. Your duffel bag will be transported by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, so we recommend carrying only the essentials you will need during the trek. Traveling light will make your hike more comfortable and enjoyable.
SHORT INCA TRAIL PACKING LIST
– Original passport.
– 1-2 liters of water.
– Good daypack (20 to 30L).
– Comfortable hiking shoes or boots.
– Warm layer for cool mornings and evenings.
– Lightweight rain jacket or poncho.
– Sun hat or cap.
– Sunscreen.
– Insect repellent.
– Personal snacks, such as energy bars or dried fruit.
– Camera or smartphone.
– Personal valuables.
– Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, and tips.
– Toilet paper.
– Hand sanitizer.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG
– Clean clothes for your Machu Picchu visit.
– Personal skincare and toiletries.
– Toothbrush and toothpaste.
– Any medications you regularly take.
– Chargers and power banks for your electronic devices.