Short Inca Trail To Machupicchu With Hotel 2D/1N
Your Short Inca Trail with Hotel Comfort
Discover the power of a short escape to Machu Picchu. Not every great adventure requires weeks of planning or intense physical effort. This Short Inca Trail with Hotel package offers an unforgettable two day journey. It expertly blends history, nature, and 4 star comfort. This is the ideal tour for travelers who crave the authenticity of the ancient path, choosing comfort and hotel over the Short Inca Trail with Camping option .
What makes this tour truly special isn’t just arriving at the Inca Citadel. It’s everything you experience along the way. You will trek through vibrant cloud forests. You will discover hidden archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna. This allows you to gain a profound emotional connection with the history and nature of the Andes. This short, intensive route strikes the perfect balance between adventure and tranquility. Choosing our premium Short Inca Trail with Hotel package secures more than the experience. It guarantees the comfort and expert guidance needed to fully absorb the magic at a peaceful, luxurious pace. The convenience of this journey is unmatched. It is fully accessible, authentic, and perfect for short vacations. This option does not require the exhaustive preparation of longer treks. It is perfectly suited for travelers with limited time. It is also great for those who prefer a moderate pace and guaranteed comfort. This is more than a simple trek. It is a reminder that sometimes all that is needed is the decision to begin and the courage to walk ancient paths with fresh eyes. Plus, before booking, we recommend checking the official permit situation and booking windows to ensure your spot.Price
Trip Details
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificult
- Housing
Hotel
- Language
- Distance
12 km / 7 Miles
The Essential Journey: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N
Experience the essence of the Inca Trail in a strategic 2-Day, 1-Night expedition. This route is perfect for travelers who wish to connect with history without the commitment of mountain camping, covering the final 7.5 miles of the original Inca path through lush, vibrant cloud forests.
Tour Highlights
- Exclusive Entrance via the Sun Gate: Arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Inti Punku at sunset—a breathtaking panoramic view reserved strictly for Inca Trail hikers.
- Immersive Wiñay Wayna Exploration: Enjoy an in-depth tour of the most spectacular archaeological site on the trail, led by our expert historical guides.
- Freshly Prepared Trail Cuisine: Experience superior dining with a gourmet lunch prepared on-site using fresh, local ingredients, far exceeding the standard «box lunch.»
- Seamless Luggage Logistics (5kg Duffle Bag): Hike light and worry-free. We provide a 5kg (11 lbs) duffle bag for your personal gear, which we transport directly to your hotel.
- Premium Hotel Comfort: Recharge after your trek with a hot shower and a comfortable night’s rest at a hand-picked hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Machu Picchu at Sunrise: Be among the first to enter the Citadel on Day 2 for a professional guided tour, ensuring perfect photos and fewer crowds.
- Personalized Small Groups: We focus on quality over quantity, providing an intimate, safe, and high-end operational experience.
🥾 Short Inca Trail Tour Summary
☀️ DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES
- 📏 Hiking Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km.
- 📉 Trailhead Altitude: 6,889 ft / 2,100 m.
- 📈 Highest Point: 8,956 ft / 2,730 m (Inti Punku).
- 🍽️ Lunch Spot: Wiñay Wayna (Freshly prepared on-site).
- 🏨 Accommodation: Aguas Calientes (6,692 ft / 2,040 m).
- 💪 Difficulty: Moderate.
- 🌿 Weather: Warm / Humid / Cloud forest.
- 🗿 Inca Sites: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna & Intipunku.
🏛️ DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
- 📍 Starting Point: Aguas Calientes.
- 🏰 Machu Picchu Visit: Professional guided tour of the Citadel’s main sectors.
- ⛰️ Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,873 ft / 2,400 m.
- ✅ Difficulty: Easy / Cultural tour.
- 🌤️ Weather: Warm and Humid.
- ⭐ Highlights: In-depth historical interpretation & Scenic Train Return 🚂.
When is the Best Time to Hike?
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The Dry Season (April to October): The premier window for trekking. You will enjoy bright blue skies, crisp mountain air, and radiant sunshine—ideal for photography.
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The Rainy Season (November to March): The Andes transform into a vibrant emerald paradise. Expect fewer crowds and a mystical atmosphere with occasional showers.
Important Note: The entire Inca Trail network is closed every February for maintenance. Permits are strictly limited, so we highly recommend booking several months in advance.
Why Choose Ali Perú Treks for Your 2-Day Inca Trail?
Your adventure to Machu Picchu deserves to be unforgettable. At Ali Perú Treks, we don’t just take you there; we guarantee a superior experience. Discover why we are the best choice:
- Proven Trust and Reputation We are a 100% reliable, punctual, and practical tour operator. Our reputation backs us up: read the excellent reviews from travelers just like you on TripAdvisor!
- Exclusive Picnic Lunch at Wiñaywayna We are the only agency that offers this! While others give you a simple box lunch, we treat you to a full picnic lunch. After a 5 hour hike, you’ll relax under a tent with spectacular views of the Inca landscape.
- Personalized Service (Small Groups) We guarantee an intimate experience with groups of 2 to 10 travelers maximum. This allows us to provide you with detailed attention, far from the massive tours of other companies.
- Fully Escorted (Guide on the Train) Your guide travels with you. We pick you up in Cusco and accompany you on the same train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104. You will never feel alone on your journey.
- Safety as a Priority (Satellite Phones) Your well-being is essential. Our guides are equipped with satellite phones for emergencies, ensuring your safety even outside of mobile coverage.
- Door-to-Door Convenience Forget the logistics. We pick you up from your hotel’s door in Cusco and drop you off at the same place at the end of the tour. We take care of everything.
- Local and Authorized Operator Ali Perú Treks is a 100% locally owned agency and an officially licensed tour operator for the Inca Trail. Your trip directly supports Cusco’s economy and professionals.
- Hike Lighter (Porter Included) Enjoy the trek more. We include porter service to carry your lunch to Wiñaywayna, allowing you to hike lightly and focus on the scenery.
- Expert and Passionate Guides Our team of guides receives constant training and professional development. They are experts in history, flora, and fauna, and are passionate about sharing Inca culture.
- Optimize Your Time (Early Return) We maximize your itinerary. We organize your return train at a convenient time (2:55 PM or 3:20 PM) from Aguas Calientes, allowing you to get back to Cusco early to rest.
- 100% Guaranteed Departures (No Outsourcing) Your reservation is sacred. If you book a tour for 2 people, the tour departs with 2 people! Ali Perú Treks will never pass you on to another agency or share your service.
- Responsible and Ethical Tourism We believe in dignified work. We ensure fair and punctual payment to our entire team (guides, porters, drivers, and cooks) as soon as they finish their job.
Short Inca Trail Maps (2 Days / 1 Night)
Map 2: Our first map details the express route to Machu Picchu, perfect for those looking to experience the Inca Trail in a shorter timeframe.
Map 2: Elevation Profile & Difficulty:
This second map is crucial for understanding the physical challenge of the 2 Day Inca Trail, which is concentrated into a single day of hiking.
Our two-day short Inca Trail tour begins at 4:00 AM with a private and personalized pickup from your hotel (available in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo). After a two-hour scenic drive through the picturesque Sacred Valley, we will arrive at the Ollantaytambo station to board the train. During the 90-minute journey, you will enjoy privileged views of the Andean landscape until we reach Km 104 (Chachabamba), the starting point of this grand adventure.
Upon arrival at Km 104, we will pass through the first checkpoint of the Historic Sanctuary.
Important Note: Please ensure you have the original passport used for your reservation to validate your entry.
After clearing the checkpoint, we will kick off the day with a complimentary energy breakfast specially prepared by the Ali Peru Treks chef, ensuring peak performance from your very first step. Following breakfast, we will visit the Inca site of Chachabamba, a sacred location that historically served as a center for water worship and spiritual ceremonies.
We will begin a gradual ascent through a lush cloud forest ecosystem teeming with biodiversity. The trail leads us to the breathtaking archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna (8,694 ft / 2,650 m). This masterpiece of Inca engineering captivates visitors with its gravity-defying terraces and ritual fountains that still flow with precision. Your expert guide will reveal the secrets of this site, named after the exotic orchids that bloom eternally on its slopes.
Exclusivity defines every service we provide. Upon reaching our rest area, your professional chef will welcome you with a gourmet picnic lunch. Forget about cold «box lunches» in a bag; with us, you will enjoy fresh, nutritious, and elegantly presented dishes overlooking the vastness of the valley.
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Total Comfort: We handle all the logistics of transportation and preparation; your only job is to relax and enjoy high-altitude gastronomy at its finest.
After lunch, we will rejoin the original trail until we reach the legendary Inti Punku (Sun Gate). At this exact spot, history comes to life: you will catch your first panoramic glimpse of Machu Picchu in all its majesty. We will descend gently toward the citadel to capture the classic photos under the golden afternoon light, taking advantage of a quieter time with fewer tourists.
Finally, we will take the shuttle bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. You will stay at a comfortable 3-star hotel, meticulously selected to guarantee your rest. The day will culminate with a celebration dinner at a top-tier local restaurant, where we will share the experiences of a truly unforgettable day.
- 🏔️ Starting Altitude (Km 104): 6,890 ft / 2,100 m
- 🏨 Accommodation (Aguas Calientes): Hotel de 3 estrellas (Premium Comfort)
- 📏 Total Distance: Approx. 7.5 miles / 12 km
- ⏱️ Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
- 📈 Elevation Gain: +2,034 ft / +620 m
- 📉 Difficulty Level: Moderate (Discovery & Connection day)
- ✨ Highlights: Chachabamba Inca Site, Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), Sun Gate (Inti Punku), and the first sunset view of Machu Picchu.
- 🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will only need to bring your daypack with your essentials. The hotel will store your main luggage while you explore. To maximize our experience and beat the crowds, our plan is to take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (a 25-minute ride).
Yesterday, you had that unforgettable first view from the Sun Gate. Today, we re-enter Machu Picchu, but this time for a complete, in-depth exploration in the magical morning light.
Your expert Ali Peru Treks guide will lead you on a two-hour guided tour of the most important sites in the citadel. You will learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire while visiting temples, plazas, and the most impressive viewpoints.
After the tour, you will also have free time to explore on your own and immerse yourself in the energy of the site.
We recommend returning to Aguas Calientes at least 2 hours before your train’s departure. You can have lunch (not included) at one of the many restaurants in town.
After lunch, your Ali Peru Treks guide will personally escort you to the train station. You will board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, a scenic journey of approximately 2 hours.
At the Ollantaytambo station, our Ali Peru Treks staff will be waiting for you promptly to transfer you back to Cusco in our private transportation, dropping you off comfortably at your hotel door, bringing your unforgettable adventure to a close.
- 🏔️ Starting Altitude (Aguas Calientes): 6,692 ft / 2,040 m
- ⛰️ Maximum Altitude (Machu Picchu): 7,972 ft / 2,430 m
- 📏 Total Distance: Approx. 2.5 miles / 4 km (Exploración de la Ciudadela)
- ⏱️ Tour Duration: 2 – 3 hours of guided historical tour
- 📉 Difficulty Level: Easy (Cultural Inmersion day)
- ✨ Highlights: Sunrise at Machu Picchu, Complete guided tour of the Citadel, and a scenic train journey back through the Sacred Valley.
- 🍽️ Meals Included: Breakfast (at Hotel).
INCLUDES
Expert Guidance and Preparation:
- Pre-Trek Briefing (Mandatory): Mandatory meeting with your guide at our office the night before (usually at 5:00 p.m.).
- Expert Local Guide: Licensed and expert Local guides, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
- 3-star hotel: We reserve the Hatun Inti Classic hotel or a hotel of similar category (3 stars) in Aguas Calientes.
Transportation and Transfers:
- Pickup and transfer to your hotel: We will pick you up at your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo and take you back to your hotel upon return.
- Private transportation: Private transport in our tour bus from your hotel to Ollantaytambo.
- Expedition Train Tickets (Round Trip) Included: Includes comfortable Expedition train tickets: Outbound (Ollantaytambo to Km 104, 6:10 AM) and Return (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM).
- Private Transport from Ollantaytambo to Your Hotel: Private van waiting in Ollantaytambo to transport you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco.
Access and Permits (Dual Circuit Coverage):
- Inca Trail Permits & Full Access (Circuits 1 & 3): We secure your official, necessary Inca Trail permit.
Day 1 (Classic View – Like Circuit 1): Access via Inti Punku for the iconic postcard photo.
Day 2 (Guided Tour – Circuit 3): Additional entrance ticket for a complete guided tour of the lower citadel section (Temple of the Sun, House of the Inca, etc.).
- 3 Bus Tickets Included:
Day 1: Downhill bus (Machu Picchu ➔ Aguas Calientes).
Day 2: Uphill bus (Aguas Calientes ➔ Machu Picchu).
Day 2: Downhill bus (Machu Picchu ➔ Aguas Calientes).
Food Service (Focus on Quality):
- Breakfast Included (Day 2): Breakfast served at your hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Picnic Lunch: An Exclusive Experience: We provide a complete, fresh, and nutritious picnic lunch served at the Wiñaywayna campsite (not a standard cold box lunch).
- Dinner Included in Aguas Calientes: Dinner included at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
Equipment and Additional Services:
- Rain Poncho (Extra Protection): A lightweight rain poncho is provided as backup protection.
- Waterproof Backpack Cover: We provide a waterproof rain cover for your backpack.
- Hydration: 1 liter of bottled water provided at the start of the trek.
- Free & Secure Luggage Storage: Free and secure storage for your large suitcases/extra items at our Cusco facilities.
NOT INCLUDES
- Rentals: Walking sticks available for rent ($10 USD / pair) and additional porter may be hired upon request.
- Breakfast: Day 1 before starting the tour is not included.
- Lunch: on day 2 after your visit to Machu Picchu is not included.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: Entry is not included. This separate hike costs $70 USD per person (must be booked 5 month in advance). The total round trip hike takes approximately 90 minutes (45 minutes up / 45 minutes down). Weather conditions cannot be guaranteed.
Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime with Ali Perú Treks. We have designed this comprehensive guide to ensure every detail of your two-day journey to Machu Picchu is perfectly coordinated.
The Briefing
The evening before your trek, we hold a mandatory briefing at 6:00 PM at our main office in Cusco.
- Why it matters: You will meet your professional guide and confirm the final details for your private pickup at 4:00 AM.
- Equipment Delivery: During this meeting, we will provide you with a duffel bag to pack your personal belongings for your overnight stay.
Luggage Management & The Duffel Bag
To ensure you hike light and fully enjoy the trail, we have established an efficient logistics system:
- Weight Limit: Your provided duffel bag has a limit of 5 kg (11 lbs) per person.
- Logistics & Transport: Unlike our longer routes, this bag will not be carried by a porter on the trail. Instead, we will send it directly to Aguas Calientes via train.
- Pickup: You will find your luggage waiting for you at your hotel in Aguas Calientes upon arrival at the end of Day 1.
- Extra Storage: You can safely store your main suitcase for free at our Cusco office or your hotel.
How to Book
Since permits for the 2-day Inca Trail are strictly limited by the government, we require the following:
- Details: Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport), gender, passport number, date of birth, and nationality.
- Documents: A clear copy of your passport is mandatory to purchase official government permits.
- Deposit: We require a $200.00 USD deposit per person via WeTravel (a secure system for credit cards or PayPal).
Paying the Balance
The remaining balance must be paid in cash (US Dollars or Peruvian Soles) at our Cusco office at least two days before your departure. If you prefer to pay online via WeTravel or PayPal, a 5.5% service fee applies.
Weather and Acclimatization
Andean weather is highly unpredictable; we recommend dressing in layers (the «onion» method). To prevent altitude sickness (soroche):
- Preparation: We recommend arriving in Cusco 1 or 2 days before your trek begins.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water and coca tea. For your safety, our guides carry medical oxygen at all times.
The Ali Perú Advantage: Gourmet Dining on the Trail
While most agencies only provide a cold «box lunch» (a simple sandwich and fruit), we offer a superior culinary experience that sets us apart:
- Professional On-Site Chef: We include a dedicated chef who prepares a fresh, hot, and nutritious breakfast and lunch on the first day of the trek. Enjoy high-quality local cuisine while surrounded by the breathtaking Andean landscape.
- Exclusive Groups: We keep our groups small with a maximum of 12 participants (averaging 2 to 8), ensuring personalized attention from our staff.
📅 Booking & Discounts: Short Inca Trail (2 Days)
To secure your spot on this ancient path, it is essential to plan ahead due to the daily access limits established by Peruvian authorities.
How far in advance should I book?
«Even though it is a shorter version, the 2-day Inca Trail has its own specific permits, which are limited to 250 people per day (including guides and staff).»
- Peak Season (May – August): We recommend booking 5 to 6 months in advance.
- Off-Peak Season (Other months): Booking 3 to 4 months in advance is recommended.
Special Discounts
At Ali Peru Treks, we offer a $40 USD discount for the following groups:
🎓 University Students
To qualify for the discount, students must meet the mandatory requirements set by the Ministry of Culture:
- Must be under 25 years old at the time of the trek.
- Must provide a valid, original University ID card (physical). It must include a photo, the university’s name, and a clear expiration date.
- Important Note: ISIC cards are not accepted for this discount.
👶 Minors
- Applies to children and teens between 3 and 17 years old.
- Requirement: You only need to provide a legible copy of their passport at the time of booking.
Quick Tip: Keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance and heavy rains. Plan your adventure accordingly!
What is the food like?
At Ali Perú Treks, we believe high-quality nutrition is essential for a great trekking experience.
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Breakfast and Lunch: These meals are freshly prepared on-site by a professional Ali Perú Treks chef. We use local, fresh ingredients to ensure a delicious and high-energy menu right on the trail.
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Dinner: To conclude the first day, we will enjoy dinner at a selected local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, where you can relax and enjoy the town’s atmosphere.
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Special Dietary Requirements: We provide specialized menus for vegetarians, vegans, or those with food allergies at no extra cost. Please let us know your requirements when booking.
What are the bathroom and water facilities?
- Bathrooms: During the first day’s hike, guests will use the official facilities maintained by the Peruvian government. These are located at the start of the trail and at the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site.
- Water: We provide boiled and filtered water during lunch. However, it is mandatory for each hiker to carry at least 2 liters of water in reusable bottles for the initial segment of the trek.
Is there electricity?
There are no power outlets available along the mountain trail. However, you will have full access to electricity to charge your devices once we arrive at the hotel in Aguas Calientes in the afternoon. We still recommend bringing a portable power bank to ensure your camera is ready for Machu Picchu the following morning.
The Short Inca Trail has a limit of 250 permits per day. For peak season (May–August), book 4 to 5 months in advance. For other months, 2 to 3 months is recommended.
Yes! We offer a $40 USD discount.
- Students: Under 25 with a valid University ID (Physical card with photo and expiration date).
- Minors: Children and teens (ages 3–17) with a passport copy.
No. For the 2-day version, you will stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, so no camping gear or sleeping bags are required.
Highly recommended. The trail has many stone steps. You can bring your own or rent professional poles from us in Cusco. Note: They must have rubber tips.
Our guides are first-aid certified and carry a full medical kit and oxygen. Because this route is at a lower altitude than Cusco, most travelers feel very well during the hike.
You will have electricity and Wi-Fi at your hotel in Aguas Calientes on the first night to charge all your devices before visiting Machu Picchu.
To ensure a seamless and light-footed journey to Machu Picchu, we have optimized our logistics. Unlike other operators, we prioritize your comfort so you can focus on the breathtaking views of the Andean Cloud Forest without the weight of a heavy pack.
As a 100% Direct Local Operator, Ali Perú Treks provides you with a 5 kg (11 lbs) Duffel Bag during your briefing.
- Hands-Free Trekking: You don’t need to carry your overnight clothes or toiletries.
- Direct-to-Hotel Delivery: Your duffel bag will be transported directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. You will find it waiting for you when you arrive after the trek.
- Safety & Comfort: By only carrying a light daypack, you reduce physical strain and improve your balance on the trail’s stone steps.
These must stay with you at all times during the hike:
- Original Passport: Required at the trailhead checkpoint.
- Light Daypack: A 20L to 25L pack is more than enough.
- Water Storage: 2 Liters (Reusable bottles/Camelbaks are mandatory).
- Hiking Boots: Well broken-in with good ankle support.
- Rain Gear: A high-quality poncho or jacket (essential in the cloud forest).
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sun hat, and sunglasses.
- Personal Meds: Including insect repellent (high DEET) and altitude pills.
This will be waiting for you at your hotel in Aguas Calientes:
- Change of Clothes: 1 set of clean, lightweight clothes for your second day at Machu Picchu.
- Evening Wear: Comfortable clothes and sandals/sneakers for walking in town and dinner.
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and personal hygiene items.
- Tech: Charging cables and international adapters (Hotel rooms have standard Peruvian outlets).
- Swimwear: (Optional) If you plan to visit the natural hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
- Weight Limit: Please respect the 5 kg limit. This is a logistical standard to ensure all bags arrive at the hotel on time via the train service.
- Valuables: Always keep your passport, money, and expensive camera gear in your daypack, never in the duffel bag.
- Snacks: Bring energy bars or dried fruit for the first 6 hours of hiking. We provide a professional gourmet lunch on the trail.
- Hiking Poles: Very useful for the ascents and descents, protecting your knees. Important: They must have rubber tips (this is a park rule).
- Sandals: To rest your feet at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Extra Clothes for Day 2: A clean shirt for your photos in Machu Picchu.
- Extra Snacks: Although we provide snacks, you can bring your favorite energy bars or chocolates.
- Bathing Suit: Only if you plan to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes (though they are often very crowded).
- Binoculars: If you are a birdwatching enthusiast.
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificultad
- Housing
Hotel
- Language
- Distance