Overview
Walk the same trail as the Incas once traveled more than 500 years ago on this unforgettable 2-day hike!
This shorter version of the Inca Trail is ideal for families or travelers with limited time or hiking experience. It still offers the chance to experience one of the world’s most iconic routes and arrive at Machu Picchu through the the legendary Sun Gate.
Itinerary
- Transfer to Ollantaytambo train station, enjoy the scenic train journey to the hike’s trailhead at Km 104
- Passports and Inca trail permits have to be shown at check points.
- Start your hike with a gradual ascent of approximately three hours to Wiñaywayna, one of the most impressive Inca ruins along the Inca Trail. Explore the terraces and learn about Inca history and engineering.
- Continue hiking for about two more hours toward the Sun Gate (Intipunku), where you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—a truly memorable moment.
- After taking in the views, descend by bus (25 minutes) to Aguas Calientes.
- Overnight in your selected hotel – Elevation: 2,000 m / 6,600 ft
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours (including a lunch break).
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
- Distance: 13.5 km / 8.5 miles.
- Board the early shuttle bus for a 25-minute ride up to the main entrance of Machu Picchu.
- We will take an introductory two-hour guided tour of the Inca site, learning about Machu Picchu as we explore its most important areas.
- For those seeking additional adventure, you can climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (known locally as Montaña), both offering breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding valleys. (ADVANCED BOOKING REQUIRED – Check availability).
- Board the train back to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy, then continue by bus to your hotel.
Inclusions
- Pre-departure tour briefing.
- Transfers to the hike’s trailhead at KM 104 & to your hotel on the final day.
- Round trip train tickets.
- Inca trail permits and entrance fees.
- Machu Picchu admission ticket.
- Bus tickets: one ride up to Machu Picchu and two rides down to Aguas Calientes.
- Professional English-speaking tour guide (An additional guide is provided for groups of 9+).
- Support staff (Porters), if requested only.
- Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 box lunch and 1 dinner If you have dietary preferences or restrictions (such as vegetarian or gluten-free), just let us know — we are happy to accommodate you.
- Emergency First-Aid kit and oxygen bottle.
BRIEFING: Before the hike, you will meet your guide and the other members of your group. Your guide will go over the route, daily schedule, and what to expect on the trail, as well as provide important recommendations to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
×Not Included:
- Backpacks.
- Hiking poles: You may bring your own or rent them locally in Cusco.
- Breakfast on Day 1, lunch and dinner on Day 2.
- The entrance fee to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain known locally as “Montaña” (ADVANCED BOOKING REQUIRED – Check availability).
- Tips for guides, drivers and porters.
- Travel insurance (we strongly recommend obtaining coverage for the duration of your trip)
NOTE: The itinerary above is a sample. Hiking times and lunch locations may vary based on the guide’s judgment, weather conditions, group pace, availability, and any safety regulations issued by the Peruvian government.
Ξ Packing List:
- Original Passport.
- Valid ISIC card (if you are a student and would like to apply for a discount).
- An overnight backpack.
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho.
- Hiking boots.
- T-shirts
- Comfortable trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun cream (SPF 35 or higher)
- Insect repellant
- Small spare coins (useful for restrooms and snacks).
- Personal medication
- Camera and chargers
⇒ Considerations:
- Average temperature: 21C° / 70F° – warm and humid.
- Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain known locally as “Montaña” is a terrific add-on experience since they both offer outstanding views of the Inca citadel, but the entrance fees are limited (400 people a day) and at scheduled times. If you are considering climbing either of them YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR A SPOT IN ADVANCE.
- To secure the Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets, government regulations require full and CURRENT PASSPORT INFORMATION for all hikers.
- Inca Trail permits are non-transferable and often sell out months in advance. We recommend booking as early as possible (at least 3 months in advance)
- This hike is suitable for families, honeymooners, and travelers with little hiking experience. It is less physically demanding than the classic 4-day Inca Trail.
- There are no pack animals on this hike, so please ensure you have enough space in your backpack for your box lunch and personal clothing. Porter support is available only upon request.

BUSINESS SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:
Peru Machu Picchu Tours S.A. is committed to responsible travel that respects local people, their culture, local economies, and the environment. With your support, we can help conserve the areas we visit and bring positive benefits to the communities that welcome us.
How to Travel Responsibly: What You Should Know…
- Protecting the natural environment is essential. If you need to go to the bathroom, please do so away from water sources and bury the waste. Pack out or bury used toilet paper, and remember that tampons and sanitary pads must always be carried out. Avoid using soap or shampoo in rivers or lakes. Your guide will advise when washing with soap is not suitable for the environment.
- Many travelers choose to bring a small extra bag to collect any litter they find along the trail—and to carry out their own. This simple action helps keep the landscape clean. Remember that you may need to carry your rubbish until reaching the next town where proper disposal is available.
- Help us reduce plastic waste by avoiding single-use water bottles. Instead, bring a reusable canteen, a CamelBak hydration system, or a water filter to refill safely along the route.
¶ Types of Services:
You can choose between two service options for your trekking experience:
Group Service: This is a high-quality shared service with a maximum of twelve travelers per group. Groups of up to eight hikers are led by one guide, and groups of 9+ are accompanied by two guides. This is a great option for those who enjoy meeting new people and sharing the trekking experience. Our GROUP SERVICE operates on set departure dates.
Private Service: This service is organized exclusively for you and your group, allowing you to choose the departure date, group size, and trek duration. It offers the flexibility to adjust the hiking pace to your comfort level and typically provides a quieter experience on the trail, with fewer travelers along the route.
| Hike duration | 2 Days / 1 Night |
| Hike level | Easy – Moderate |
| Hike style | Active |
| Type of hike | Archaeological, Cultural and Adventure |
| Distance | 13.5 km / 8.5 miles |
| Hiking time | 6 – 7 hours |
| Elevation | Lowest point 2o00m (6600 feet) – highest point 2750m (9075 feet) |
| Accommodation | Hotel 1 night |
| Group size | Group service up to 12 hikers maximum / Private service (as requested) |












