Home » Tours » Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu with Hotel
DURATION
2 days 1 night
MAX ALTITUDE
2720 m 8,920 ft
DIFFICULTY
Moderate
GROUP SIZE
Max. 12 Pax
SEASON
March to January
DISTANCE
12 km / 7.5 Miles
Short Inca Trail 2 Days
Short Inca Trail 2 Days 1 Night
Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu with Hotel
Hike the final stretch of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in one day, then sleep in a hotel instead of a tent. The Short Inca Trail 2 Days starts at KM 104 (Chachabamba). It climbs through cloud forest to the terraces of Wiñay Wayna, and you get your first view of the citadel from the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the route Inca Trail hikers use to arrive.
You’ll cover about 12 km (7.5 miles) on Day 1 and spend the night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. On Day 2 you return to Machu Picchu for a full guided tour. Trains, buses, the Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entry, and hotel pickup from Cusco are all included. It is a good fit if you have limited time, prefer a moderate hike, or want the real Inca Trail without three nights of camping.
Additional Special Services
Hotel to Hotel service
At Ali Perú Treks, we believe that an extraordinary adventure requires impeccable logistics.
Constant Guidance
We ensure you never feel lost or abandoned during your journey. We provide a seamless, high-end experience where every logistical detail is handled by your professional guide.
Culinary Excellence
Experience the 2-day Inca Trail like never before with our exclusive Gourmet Trail Lunch service. At Ali Perú Treks, we believe you should focus on the breathtaking views and capturing the perfect photo—not on carrying a heavy box lunch.
Inca Trail Permits
Check Inca Trail permits for 2027 are expected to be released by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture in early October 2026. A total of 500 daily permits are issued, of which roughly 200 are allocated for trekkers and 300 for guides, porters, and cooks. The trail is completely closed for maintenance every February.
At Ali Perú Treks, we believe that an extraordinary adventure requires impeccable logistics. That is why we have designed a comprehensive, Hotel-to-Hotel transportation system that stays with you from the first light of day one until you are safely back at your destination. We guarantee safety, punctuality, and maximum comfort every mile of the way.
The Beginning: Direct Hotel Pickup
Your adventure starts stress-free. Regardless of where you are staying, our professional team will pick you up directly from your hotel doorstep.
Rigorous Punctuality: We respect your time to ensure the start of your trek is smooth and unhurried.
Luggage Assistance: Our staff handles all loading logistics from the very first moment, allowing you to focus on the excitement of the journey ahead.
On the Road: Safety and Comfort in Transit
The drive to the Inca Trail trailheads is conducted in modern, fully equipped vehicles driven by experts in high-altitude Andean routes.
Modern Fleet: Our vehicles are maintained to the highest safety standards for your peace of mind.
Professional Drivers: Our staff knows every curve of the road, always prioritizing your safety and well-being.
The Return: Total Flexibility and Guaranteed Rest
We know that after the physical intensity and emotion of Machu Picchu, the return journey should be the most relaxing part of your trip. Our return logistics are fully personalized and adapt to your post-tour plans:
Direct Drop-off Service: Upon concluding your expedition, our private transport will be waiting to take you directly to your destination, with no unnecessary waits or transfers.
Destinations of Your Choice: You decide where your journey with us ends. Whether it’s a restful return to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, a direct transfer to the airport for your next flight, or your accommodation in the city, we will get you there efficiently.
Stress-Free Transition: While you relax in our comfortable seating and process the wonders you’ve just experienced, we handle the traffic and navigation, ensuring your final impression of the trip is one of total care and hospitality.
At Ali Perú Treks, we don’t just sell treks; we guarantee a complete mobility experience. We take pride in being the common thread of your adventure, looking after every detail of your transportation from hotel to hotel, so you can focus solely on living the legend.
At Ali Perú Treks, we ensure you never feel lost or abandoned during your journey. We provide a seamless, high-end experience where every logistical detail is handled by your professional guide.
From the Very Beginning: Your peace of mind starts the night before at the briefing session, where your guide coordinates all the details for the following morning.
Guided Boarding: Your guide accompanies you from your hotel to the train station and assists you during the entire boarding process. You won’t have to worry about finding the right platform or carriage; we take care of it all.
The Guide Travels With You: We provide a personalized touch where your guide travels on the train with you. This constant presence ensures you are comfortable and informed throughout the scenic ride.
Expert Assistance at Chachabamba (Km 104): Getting off the train at the specific stop for the Inca Trail can be stressful, but your guide will be right there to assist you. They will ensure you disembark safely at Chachabamba with all your gear, ready to start the trek without a second of confusion.
Total Peace of Mind: From the pre-trek briefing to the train ride and the final return to Cusco, you are always in expert hands. We pride ourselves on offering a service where you are supported every step of the way.
“Experience the 2-day Inca Trail like never before with our exclusive Gourmet Trail Lunch service. At Ali Perú Treks, we believe you should focus on the breathtaking views and capturing the perfect photo—not on carrying a heavy box lunch.
Your journey begins with a gourmet breakfast prepared on-site by our professional chef. Along the trail, you’ll be greeted with a freshly prepared buffet lunch featuring vibrant, locally sourced vegetables and authentic Andean ingredients. By providing instant, chef-prepared meals, we ensure you hike light and eat like royalty, turning a classic trek into an elite culinary adventure.
Overview
Short Inca Trail 2 Days Overview
The Short Inca Trail, also called the 2-Day Inca Trail or the KM 104 route, is the shortest official way to walk into Machu Picchu on an original Inca path. It joins the Classic Inca Trail at Wiñay Wayna, so you walk the same final section and pass through the same Sun Gate as four-day trekkers. You hike only one day, though, and the highest point is lower than Cusco.
This is the hotel version of the Short Inca Trail. Instead of camping, you sleep in a hotel room in Aguas Calientes with a private bathroom and a hot shower. Your overnight bag travels by train and is waiting at the hotel when you arrive.
Tour Highlights
Arrive through the Sun Gate. Instead of walking in from the bus stop, you get your first view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, the pass at the end of the Inca Trail.
Two visits to Machu Picchu. On Day 1 you see the citadel in the late-afternoon light. On Day 2 you return for a full guided tour with an official entrance ticket.
Explore Wiñay Wayna. Your guide shows you the terraces, stairways, and water channels of one of the most impressive Inca sites on the trail.
A freshly cooked trail lunch. Our cook prepares a hot lunch on the trail near Wiñay Wayna, not a boxed lunch.
Hike with a light daypack. Your duffel bag goes by train to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
A hotel bed, not a tent. You spend the night at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, with dinner at a local restaurant included.
Small groups and a guide with you throughout. Your guide travels with you from Cusco, rides the train with you to KM 104, and stays with the group to the end of the hike.
Trip Facts at a Glance
Detail
Short Inca Trail 2 Days with Hotel
Duration
2 days, 1 night
Trailhead
KM 104 (Chachabamba), about 2,100 m (6,890 ft)
Hiking distance
About 12 km (7.5 mi), all on Day 1
Hiking time
6 to 7 hours, including site visits and lunch
Highest point
Inti Punku (Sun Gate), about 2,720 m (8,920 ft)
Elevation gain
About 620 m (2,030 ft) net, mostly before the Wiñay Wayna
Machu Picchu
2,430 m (7,970 ft)
Overnight
3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, 2,040 m (6,690 ft)
Difficulty
Moderate
Group size
Small groups of up to 10 travelers; private departures available
Transportation
Private transfers, the PeruRail Expedition train, and Machu Picchu buses
Meals
1 trail snack, 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
Season
March through January (the Inca Trail closes every February)
Permit
Required and included; tied to your passport
Who This Trek Is For
The Short Inca Trail suits travelers who want to hike into Machu Picchu but have only two days. It also works if you’d rather avoid the high passes and camping of the four-day route. It is a full hiking day with steady climbs and uneven stone steps, so you should be comfortable walking six to seven hours. You don’t need trekking experience.
Families with active older children and first-time hikers and travelers who want a meaningful Inca Trail experience at a moderate pace often choose this route.
Short Inca Trail vs Classic Inca Trail
Short Inca Trail 2 Days
Classic Inca Trail 4 Days
Starting point
KM 104 (Chachabamba)
KM 82 (Piskacucho)
Hiking distance
About 12 km (7.5 mi)
About 43 km (27 mi)
Highest point
About 2,720 m (8,920 ft) at the Sun Gate
4,215 m (13,830 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass
Nights
1 night in a hotel
3 nights camping
Daily trail capacity
250 trail users per day
500 trail users per day
Sun Gate arrival
Afternoon of Day 1
Early morning of Day 4
Machu Picchu
Afternoon views on Day 1 and a guided tour on Day 2
Why Hike the Short Inca Trail with Ali Peru Treks?
Locally owned and licensed. Ali Peru Treks is a Cusco-based operator authorized to run tours on the Inca Trail. Your trip supports local guides, cooks, porters, and drivers.
Your guide stays with you. We pick you up at your hotel, and your guide rides the same train to KM 104, so you are never left to find your own way.
Your booking stays with us. We don’t transfer travelers to other agencies. A confirmed booking for two travelers departs with two travelers.
A real trail lunch. A cook travels with the group and prepares a hot, freshly made lunch on the trail.
Practical logistics. Your duffel goes to your hotel, your luggage stays in free storage in Cusco, and your return train leaves in the mid-afternoon so you get back to Cusco the same evening.
Prepared for emergencies. Guides carry a first aid kit, emergency oxygen, and a satellite phone for sections without mobile coverage.
Fair treatment of our team. We pay guides, porters, cooks, and drivers fairly and on time.
Itinerary
Short Inca Trail Itinerary Day by Day
Day 1: Cusco to KM 104, Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and Aguas Calientes
Early pickup and train to KM 104. We pick you up at your hotel at around 4:00 AM. Pickup is also available in Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, with times adjusted to your location. After a drive of about two hours through the Sacred Valley, you board the 6:10 AM PeruRail Expedition train at Ollantaytambo. The train follows the Urubamba River to the KM 104 stop, where your hike begins.
Checkpoint and Chachabamba. At the KM 104 control point, park staff check your Inca Trail permit against your original passport. After a short snack, you cross the river and visit Chachabamba, an Inca site of fountains and ceremonial structures associated with water and ritual.
The climb to Wiñay Wayna. From Chachabamba, the trail climbs steadily up the mountainside through cloud forest with orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. Views open up over the Urubamba Valley as you go. This is the most demanding part of the day, with about three to four hours of uphill walking on dirt paths and stone steps. You reach Wiñay Wayna, “Forever Young” in Quechua, at about 2,650 m (8,690 ft). Its curved agricultural terraces, stairways, and stone water channels make it one of the most striking sites on the trail. Your guide explains how it was built and used. Learn more about Wiñay Wayna.
Lunch on the trail. Near Wiñay Wayna, our cook serves a hot lunch prepared on site, a welcome break before the final stretch.
The Sun Gate and your first view of Machu Picchu. After lunch, you join the last section of the Classic Inca Trail. The path contours along the mountain through cloud forest, then reaches a short, very steep flight of stone steps just before Inti Punku, about 2,720 m (8,920 ft). From the Sun Gate you see Machu Picchu below, with Huayna Picchu rising behind it. Most groups arrive between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM, depending on pace. From there it is a gentle walk down to the classic viewpoint above the citadel for photos in the afternoon light.
Aguas Calientes. You take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, about 25 to 30 minutes, and check in to your hotel, where your duffel bag is waiting. In the evening, you have dinner with your group at a local restaurant, and your guide goes over the plan for Day 2.
Day 1
Details
Hiking distance
About 12 km (7.5 mi)
Hiking time
6 to 7 hours, including visits and lunch
Trailhead
KM 104, about 2,100 m (6,890 ft)
Highest point
Inti Punku, about 2,720 m (8,920 ft)
Elevation gain
About 620 m (2,030 ft) net
Inca sites
Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, Machu Picchu viewpoint
Overnight
3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, 2,040 m (6,690 ft)
Meals
Snack, lunch, and dinner
Difficulty
Moderate
Day 2: Guided Tour of Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Early bus to the citadel. After breakfast at your hotel, you leave your duffel bag at the hotel and take a daypack with you. We ride one of the early buses up to Machu Picchu (about 25 to 30 minutes) to make the most of the cooler, quieter morning. Your exact entry time depends on the time printed on your Machu Picchu ticket.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu. Yesterday you saw the citadel from above. Today you walk through it. Your guide leads a tour of about two hours along Circuit 3, which covers the religious and royal sectors, including the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Residence (House of the Inca), and the Temple of the Condor. You’ll learn how the Inca built and used the site and why it was abandoned and later rediscovered. After the tour, you can continue at your own pace along the rest of your assigned route. See how the Machu Picchu circuits work.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes. Take the bus back down to town. Plan to be in Aguas Calientes at least two hours before your train. Lunch today is on your own, and the town has restaurants for every budget.
Train and transfer to Cusco. Your guide walks you to the station for your PeruRail Expedition train at 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM. The ride along the Urubamba River to Ollantaytambo takes about one and a half to two hours. Our driver meets you at Ollantaytambo station and takes you back to your hotel in Cusco, usually between about 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM, depending on traffic.
Day 2
Details
Main activity
Guided tour of Machu Picchu (about 2 hours)
Machu Picchu altitude
2,430 m (7,970 ft)
Walking
Easy to moderate, with stone stairs inside the site
Return
PeruRail Expedition train to Ollantaytambo, private transfer to Cusco
Meals
Breakfast
Difficulty
Easy
Included
What’s Included in the Short Inca Trail with Hotel
Before the trek
Pre-trek briefing with your guide at your hotel at 6:00 PM the evening before departure
7 kg (15 lb) duffel bag, transported by train to your hotel in Aguas Calientes
Free, secure storage for your large luggage at our Cusco office
Guides and trail team
Professional, university-trained guide who speaks fluent English
Trail chef and porter service for the Day 1 lunch
oxygen and first aid kit carried by your guide
Transportation
Pickup from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco, Urubamba or Ollantaytambo
Private transport from your hotel to Ollantaytambo station
Expedition train tickets: Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (6:10 AM) and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (2:55 PM or 3:20 PM)
Three Machu Picchu bus tickets: down to Aguas Calientes on Day 1, up and down on Day 2
Private van from Ollantaytambo station back to your hotel
Permits and Machu Picchu entry
Official Short Inca Trail permit
Day 1 Machu Picchu entry through the Sun Gate on Circuit 1, for the classic view from the upper terraces
Day 2 Machu Picchu entry on Circuit 3 for the guided tour of the lower sector
Accommodation and meals
1 night at Hatun Inti Classic or a similar 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, with private bathroom, hot water and Wi-Fi
Welcome snack and hot picnic lunch on Day 1, cooked on site by our chef
Dinner on Day 1 at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes
Breakfast on Day 2 at the hotel
Rain protection
Lightweight rain poncho as backup protection
Waterproof cover for your daypack
Not Included
Breakfast on Day 1 before departure
Lunch on Day 2 in Aguas Calientes
Trekking pole rental (US$10 per pair)
Additional porter (available on request)
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket (US$80 per person, subject to availability)
Check before you book
Your permit is issued in the name and passport number you give us, so send your details exactly as they appear in your passport.
Inca Trail permits cannot be changed, transferred or refunded once issued. This is a government rule, not an agency policy.
Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain tickets sell out early, so request them at the same time as your trek.
The duffel bag has a strict 7 kg (15 lb) limit so it can travel on the train.
Packing List
Packing List for the 2-Day Inca Trail
On this trek, you split your gear into two bags. You carry a daypack on the trail. Your duffel bag (provided by us at the briefing) travels by train to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Your large suitcase stays in free storage in Cusco. For more detail, see ourShort Inca Trail packing guide.
Your Daypack for Day 1
Use a comfortable 20 to 30 L backpack.
Original passport. This is mandatory. You cannot pass the KM 104 checkpoint without the passport used for your permit.
Water. At least 2 liters (about 2 quarts) in a reusable bottle or hydration bladder
Rain jacket or poncho. Showers and mist are common in the cloud forest in any season.
Sun protection. Sunscreen, a sun hat and sunglasses
Insect repellent. Small biting insects are common at lower elevations along the trail.
Personal medication, including any altitude medication your doctor has recommended
Snacks. Energy bars, nuts or chocolate between meals
A light warm layer. A fleece or light jacket for shade, wind or rain
Camera or phone, plus a small power bank
Some cash in soles for drinks, restrooms and tips
Your Duffel Bag (Waiting at Your Hotel)
The weight limit is 5 kg (11 lb), including the bag.
Clean clothes for Day 2
Comfortable shoes or sandals for the evening
Toiletries and any personal items
Phone and camera chargers (Peru uses 220V outlets)
Swimwear, if you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes
Clothing and Footwear
Broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip. Don’t wear brand-new footwear on the trail.
Quick-dry hiking pants or leggings, and a moisture-wicking shirt
A warm layer for the early morning in Cusco and Ollantaytambo
Hiking socks, plus a spare pair in your daypack
Important Packing Rules
Trekking poles must have rubber tips. Park regulations prohibit metal tips without rubber protectors to protect the Inca stonework.
No glass containers are allowed on the Inca Trail.
Avoid single-use plastics. Single-use plastics are restricted in the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Bring a reusable bottle.
Keep valuables in your daypack. Carry your passport, money and electronics with you, never in the duffel bag.
Respect the duffel weight limit. Bags over 5 kg (11 lb) may not be accepted for train transport.
Travel Info
Travel Information Before You Hike
Mandatory Pre-Trek Briefing
Your guide meets you in Cusco the evening before your trek, usually around 5:00 PM. At the briefing, you confirm your pickup time, receive your duffel bag, review the route, weather and safety plan, and tell us about any dietary needs. Attendance is mandatory. Please bring your passport so we can double-check it against your permit details.
How Difficult Is the Short Inca Trail
We rate the Short Inca Trail as moderate. The main effort is the climb of three to four hours from Chachabamba to Wiñay Wayna, followed by a steep flight of stone steps just before the Sun Gate. The path is a mix of dirt trail and original Inca stonework, which can be uneven and slippery when wet.
Most reasonably active travelers complete it comfortably at their own pace. Walking regularly and climbing stairs in the weeks before your trip makes the day more enjoyable. Read our 2-Day Inca Trail difficulty guide for a detailed breakdown.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The trail itself is lower than Cusco. It runs between about 2,100 m (6,890 ft) and 2,720 m (8,920 ft), while Cusco sits at about 3,400 m (11,150 ft). Most travelers start in Cusco, though, so we recommend spending at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek.
This gives your body time to adjust, and you’ll enjoy the hike more. Drink plenty of water, go easy on your first day and talk to your doctor about altitude medication if you are concerned. See our guide to acclimatizing in Cusco
Inca Trail Permits and Passport Rules
Permits are limited. Peru’s Ministry of Culture caps the KM 104 route at 250 trail users per day. Permits are sold only through licensed operators.
Permits are personal. Each permit is issued in your name and passport number for a specific route and date. It cannot be transferred to another person or moved to another date.
Bring your original passport. Photos and copies are not accepted at the checkpoint.
Renewed your passport after booking? Tell us right away and bring both your old and new passports on the trek.
Best Time to Hike and Weather
Dry season (May to September): The most stable weather and clearest views. It is also the busiest time, so permits sell out first. Mornings in Cusco and Ollantaytambo are cold.
Shoulder months (April and October): Fewer crowds, with a mix of sunny days and occasional showers.
Rainy season (November to March): The forest is at its greenest, with frequent afternoon showers and mist. Pack good rain gear.
February closure: The entire Inca Trail network, including the Short Inca Trail, closes every February for maintenance. Machu Picchu itself stays open. Read more about the February closure.
The trail runs through cloud forest, so expect warm, humid conditions while hiking and changeable weather in any month. See our Inca Trail weather guide.
Trains and Transfers
You travel on PeruRail’s Expedition train in both directions: the 6:10 AM departure from Ollantaytambo to KM 104, and the 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Private road transfers connect your hotel with Ollantaytambo station. Train schedules are set by the rail operator and can change.
You’ll spend the night at the Hatun Inti Classic or a similar 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo. Rooms have a private bathroom and a hot shower. Your duffel bag is delivered to the hotel, and the hotel stores it on Day 2 while you visit Machu Picchu. New to the town? Read our Aguas Calientes guide.
Safety and Emergency Support
Your guide is trained in first aid and carries a first aid kit, emergency oxygen and a satellite phone for sections of the trail without mobile signal. The guide sets a pace that works for the whole group and stays with the group throughout the hike. Please tell us about any medical conditions when you book.
Strikes and Unexpected Disruptions
Strikes, landslides or rail disruptions occasionally affect travel to Machu Picchu. If this happens, we’ll contact you with the available alternatives and explain any changes to the itinerary. Some situations may involve extra costs that are outside our control, which is one reason we recommend travel insurance.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but we strongly recommend it. Choose a policy that covers trekking at altitude, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation and travel delays.
Responsible Travel on the Inca Trail
Pack out everything you bring in, and use the restrooms at designated points.
Stay on the trail and don’t climb on Inca walls or remove plants or stones.
Bring a reusable water bottle. Single-use plastics are restricted in the sanctuary.
History and Nature Along the Route
The Short Inca Trail follows part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Inca road network that linked the empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you visit three Inca sites before Machu Picchu itself: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku. Discover more about Inca Trail archaeological sites.
The route crosses the cloud forest of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a transition zone between the high Andes and the Amazon. Hundreds of orchid species have been recorded in the sanctuary. You may also spot hummingbirds and, with luck, the Andean cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird. The spectacled bear lives in the sanctuary, but sightings are rare. See what wildlife you may see on the Inca Trail.
Map
Short Inca Trail Route Map and Elevation Profile
The Short Inca Trail is a one-way hike that starts at the KM 104 stop on the railway, crosses the Urubamba River and visits Chachabamba. It then climbs the mountainside to Wiñay Wayna, where it joins the Classic Inca Trail. From Wiñay Wayna, the trail follows the final stretch of the classic route to Inti Punku, then descends to the viewpoints above Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes, where you spend the night, sits in the valley below and is reached by bus.
Price
Short Inca Trail 2 Days Price
All prices are per person in US dollars and include the services listed under What’s Included.
Group Service
Service
Price per person
Shared group departure (up to 12 travelers)
US$500
Private Service
Group size
Price per person
2 to 3 travelers
US$650
4 to 5 travelers
US$600
6 to 7 travelers
US$550
8 or more travelers
US$500
Discounts and Extras
Student and minor discount: US$25 off per person. A valid student card or passport is required and is checked when you book.
Trekking poles with rubber tips: US$10 per pair
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: available as an add-on, subject to ticket availability. Price on request.
Permits for the Short Inca Trail are limited to 250 trail users per day and often sell out months ahead, especially from May to September. Once your permit is issued, it cannot be changed or transferred. Check availability and contact us to reserve your date.
Faqs
Short Inca Trail FAQs
It is a moderate hike. The hardest part is the climb of three to four hours from Chachabamba to Wiñay Wayna on dirt trail and stone steps, plus a steep set of steps just before the Sun Gate. You don’t need trekking experience, but you should be comfortable walking six to seven hours.
About 12 km (7.5 miles), all on Day 1. Including the site visits and lunch, the hike takes six to seven hours. Day 2 is a guided tour of Machu Picchu with easy to moderate walking.
The highest point is Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), at about 2,720 m (8,920 ft). That is roughly 700 m (2,300 ft) lower than Cusco. The trailhead at KM 104 sits at about 2,100 m (6,890 ft).
We recommend four to five months ahead, and earlier for May through September. The KM 104 route is limited to 250 trail users per day, and permits are issued only for a specific date and passport.
No. The whole Inca Trail network, including the Short Inca Trail, closes every February for maintenance. Machu Picchu remains open, so in February you can visit by train instead.
This is the hotel version. You hike on Day 1 and sleep in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, with a private bathroom and hot shower. You don’t need a tent or sleeping bag.
Yes. On Day 1 you arrive through the Sun Gate and walk down to the classic viewpoint in the late afternoon. On Day 2 you return by bus with a separate entrance ticket for a guided tour of about two hours on Circuit 3.
Usually between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM, depending on the group’s pace. It is an afternoon arrival, not sunrise. Hikers on the four-day Classic Inca Trail reach the Sun Gate early in the morning.
We take an early bus, but your entry time depends on the slot printed on your Machu Picchu ticket, and mornings are often cloudy. We can’t guarantee a sunrise view.
No. You carry only a daypack. We give you a 5 kg (11 lb) duffel bag at the briefing, and it travels by train to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Your large luggage stays in free storage at our office in Cusco.
Yes, subject to ticket availability. These tickets are limited and sell out early, so request them when you book. The add-on is priced separately.
That’s fine. Your guide sets a steady pace, stays with the group, and plans enough time to reach Machu Picchu before it closes for the day. Let us know at the briefing if you have any concerns.
Yes. We can prepare vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other diets on the trail. Tell us when you book and confirm at the briefing.
There is no official age limit. Children and older travelers who walk regularly usually do well. If you are over 65 or have a medical condition, we recommend checking with your doctor before booking.
Your train leaves Aguas Calientes at 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM. With the transfer from Ollantaytambo, you are usually back at your hotel in Cusco between about 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
Yes, as long as they have rubber tips. Metal tips without rubber protectors are not allowed on the Inca Trail. You can rent poles from us for US$10 per pair.
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Exelente servicio
My family and I booked the tour to Humantay Lagoon; the organization was excellent, and the guide assigned to us—Abel—was spectacular. He was very patient, attentive to everything, and showed great passion for his work. I would book with them again without hesitation. Thank you very much, Aliperutreks.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Jabeht M
Verified
Exelente organizacion
Tour bien organizado todo los detalles el almuerzo el desayuno todo bien perfecto.Muchas gracias Aliperutreks
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Dreamer53144922871
Verified
Prachtige tocht via zonnepoort Machu Picchu
Het was echt een geweldige ervaring. We hadden een geweldige gids, Messias. Hij was heel vriendelijk, wist ontzettend veel over geschiedenis Inca en Machu Picchu. De trail van Ollaytambo naar Machu Picchu via de zonnepoort, was fantastisch. 2 keer naar Machu Picchu, deze tour echte aanrader en met een beetje geluk heb je Messias als gids.
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Whitney R
Verified
Must do your for you Machu Picchu trip
What an amazing experience. We would definitely recommend doing the Inca trail hike that leads you to Machu Picchu. The other Inca ruins we saw were worth ever step we took to get there. Our guide Sebastian was amazing. He was so knowledgeable and friendly and definitely made the adventure even more special. Pick up was easy. Spending the night in Aguas Caliente was also worth the experience. Very cute town. Can’t recommend this tour enough.
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I547ZPsimonem
Verified
Memories that will last forever
There were just the two of us on the trip, and we had an unforgettable time. Everything was exceptionally well organized, and we felt completely at ease. Our cook, Valerio, treated us to fabulous, authentic meals; our mule driver, Guillermo, took care of our luggage and the logistics; and Ciprian, known as Puma, guided us through the four days with excellent organization. The highlight was a fabulous view of the glacier-capped mountains and a lunch with Guellermo’s family, where we got a little closer to traditional Andean life. I would book this tour again in a heartbeat. These are moments I’ll never forget.
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Alexa R
Verified
Unforgettable experience
We had an unforgettable time with Ali Treks. The tour was perfectly planned and organized down to the smallest detail. Ali Treks has the best Route for Lares. We had barely seen any, other people and that felt amazing. Three times a day, the head chef Valerio Huaman served us a magnificent feast. It was the best food I had during my entire trip to Peru. We didn’t have to worry about a thing during those four days—we could just enjoy ourselves. The guide Ciprian Torres Puma was very professional and had an amazing knowledge of the mountains, the traditional rituals, and the history of the Incas. I felt safe and well taken care of at all times. He knows the treks inside and out. I learned so much from him. The mule driver Guellermo Aransabel also took incredible care of us and our luggages. We got to meet his family, and one of the highlights was getting to dance with them in traditional clothing—it was a lively and joyful experience. The muleteer, the head chef, and the guide all have years of experience and either grew up in mountain communities or still live there. I’ll cherish the memories and experiences from this trek forever, and I thank Ali Treks and the team from the bottom of my heart for everything. I would definitely book the Lares Trek with Ali again.
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GiuliaC
Verified
An amaing trekking!
The tour was great. We had a sunny day and the view of Machu Picchu from the Sun gate was amazing! Also the hotel and the dinner after the trekking were great. And our guide, Ali Messias, was super helpful and prepared! Just a little suggestion: after your morning visit to Machu Picchu on day 2, book the earliest train possible to Ollantaytambo, since there is nothing to do in Aguas Calientes.
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Rajitha C
Verified
Unforgettable 2-Day Inca Trail – Ask for Mesias!
The 2 day Inca Trail tour was incredible! Our guide Mesias was extremely attentive to our needs and went along the trail at our pace. Mesias was the best! He is passionate and informative about Incan history and culture throughout the hike, Mesias was patient and encouraging during the trail He knows all the best photo spots and is basically a professional photographer! Overall, the experience was wonderful and if you choose to book this tour we highly recommend requesting Mesias.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Escape14862535459
Verified
Incredible journey through the Andes
We had an unforgettable experience. Mesias was an exceptional guide, very attentive and encouraging on the difficult climbs. Valerio was an outstanding cook, and Segundino was a very effective horseman. Thanks to them we will never forget this incredible journey!
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Christian V
Verified
10 out of 10 experience/adventure
An amazing trek. The guide -Carlos Navarro- was a 10/10 -knowledgeable and patient. This trip was a fair price with excellent service. The chef and porters were awesome. Every day of this trek was outstanding -the added short Inca trail day was worth it just to walk through to the sun gate. Amazing company and amazing experience - don’t wait just do it.
Posted on Google
Jabeht Morales mamani
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Primeramente agradecida con esta empresa aliperutreks nos ayudo bastante con nuestra reserva para el famoso tour de camino inca de 4 dias a machupicchu.toda el equipo estaba bien organizada.El guia Teo que era designado para nuestro grupo era bien preparado y bien conocedor de la historia inca gracias a su ayuda de el y porteadores llegamos a machupicchu y muchas gracias a todo el equipo de Aliperutreks.Sin dudarlo reservaria con ellos una ves mas.👍👍👍
Posted on Google
Mathio
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a unique experience with Aliperutreks; we booked the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the organization was spectacular. Our guide, Mesías, was magnificent and knowledgeable about all Inca history; the chef, Valerio, and our porters were also excellent. I am very grateful to the entire team and the organization—thanks again to Aliperutreks. I would use their services again without hesitation. Highly recommended.
Posted on Google
Luz
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had a unique experience with the company Aliperutreks; we booked the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the organization was spectacular. Our guide, Mesias, was magnificent and knew all the Inca history; the chef, Valerio, and our porters were also excellent. I am very grateful to the entire team and the organization thanks again to Aliperutreks. I would book with them again without hesitation. Highly recommended.
Posted on Google
Laura Smith
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The organization was top-notch from start to finish. We were incredibly impressed by how well-coordinated everything was:
The Permits: You can tell they handle the booking details with great care. It was reassuring to know that daily permits are strictly capped at 250 people, which keeps the trail from feeling overcrowded!
Luggage Handling: A massive highlight was that the agency provided us with a 5 kg (11 lbs) duffel bag for our gear. We didn’t have to carry any heavy weight during the hike because the company took care of sending it directly on the train to our hotel in Aguas Calientes. Hiking light made the experience twice as enjoyable!
The Guide: Extremely professional, deeply knowledgeable about Inca history, incredibly patient, and packed with great energy that kept us motivated every step of the way.
Posted on Google
Scoth Mathias Coonor
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Sin duda una empresa que si sabe organizar d los tours pasamos de la mejor manera el camino inca 4 días sin dudarlo recomendaré a mis amigos muchas gracias Aliperutreks
Posted on Google
Eliaquim Huaman Gutierrez
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Experiencia maravillosa por los andes de Perú.
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R. Aranzabal
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Reservamos un tour con aliperutreks. El servicio que brinda es muy espectacular me gustó demacrado muchas gracias
Posted on Google
Mary Aranzabal
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Experiencia inolvidable me gusto mucho el tour que hicimos
Our Blogs
Our Blogs
Blogs that provide information and tips for planning the perfect trip to Peru and Machu Picchu.
Do you have only a few days available in your Cusco travel itinerary, but refuse to miss out on the legendary experience of hiking the ancient paths of the Incas? The short inca trail 2 days itinerary has established itself as the perfect alternative for travelers looking to optimize their time, connect deeply with Andean…
For the 2-day Short Inca Trail with a hotel night, you pack two bags: a 25–30 L daypack that you carry on the 12 km (7.5 mi) hike from Km 104, and a duffel of up to 5 kg (11 lb) that travels by train to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. The daypack holds everything…
Dreaming of walking in the footsteps of the Incas? Reaching the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) is a bucket-list experience for many travelers heading to South America. However, planning the logistics from the United States can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when looking at the different trekking routes. If you are currently weighing the short…
Picking the right dates can make or break your trip to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. If you’re wondering about the best time to visit Machu Picchu, the honest answer depends on what you value most: clear mountain views for photos, smaller crowds at the Sun Gate, or a lower price tag…
If you’re planning the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail, weather is the one variable that shapes almost everything else about your trip — what you pack, how hard the trail feels, whether you see Machu Picchu clearly from the Sun Gate, and even which month you should book. Unlike destinations with four distinct seasons, the Andes…
