Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2D/1N
Dificulty
Moderate
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Group Size
14 a 19 People
Max Altitude
4,200 msnm
Description
Ideal for travelers with tight itineraries, this journey allows you to experience the essence of the Inca Trail in just two days and one night. You will visit fascinating Inca archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, offering a deep immersion into Inca history and architecture. Learn all about the ancient Inca culture and connect with nature and Mother Earth while admiring breathtaking landscapes.
Entrance through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Entering Machu Picchu through this access provides a unique and panoramic perspective of the citadel, similar to what ancient pilgrims experienced.
Day 1: The journey begins with a bus and train ride from Cusco to kilometer 104. From this point, an uphill hike starts, passing through lush vegetation and diverse microclimates, reaching the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, known for its impressive terraces and Inca architecture. Continuing along the trail, you will arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunset. After taking in the view, you will descend to the town of Aguas Calientes to spend the night at a hotel.
Day 2: Visit to Machu Picchu: Early in the morning, take a bus up to the Machu Picchu citadel for a detailed guided tour, exploring its main sectors and learning about its history and cultural significance. After the visit, you will descend back to Aguas Calientes to board the train returning to Cusco.
Day 1: Cusco | Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Wake up early for the adventure of a lifetime! Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. You can rest or even get some extra sleep in our comfortable private transportation on the way to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, your guide will provide you with a box lunch to add to your backpack. Your train departs from Ollantaytambo at 6:10 a.m., giving you just over an hour to enjoy the stunning scenery and have breakfast (not included). Your hotel may provide a takeaway breakfast, or you can prepare your own.
You will disembark at the famous Km 104, where your trek begins (2,150 m / 7,053 ft). After crossing the Urubamba River via a picturesque footbridge, you will present your passport at the checkpoint and visit your first nearby Inca site. Please note that you must have your original passport to pass through the control point.
Our first stop is the beautiful archaeological site of Chachabamba, where your guide will provide an introduction to Inca history and the Inca Trail. After exploring this incredible site, we will begin our hike along an ancient Inca pathway.
The first section of the trail is a gradual uphill climb for approximately four hours until we reach the stunning archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. This is one of the most beautiful Inca sites along the Inca Trail. Here, we will take time to explore the ruins while enjoying breathtaking views of the Andes. You will also enjoy your delicious box lunch here to recharge your energy.
We will then continue hiking towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will get your first breathtaking glimpse of the Lost City of the Incas, a truly unforgettable view. We will arrive at the Sun Gate around 2:00 p.m., when the crowds at Machu Picchu have started to dissipate, allowing you to enjoy this spectacular moment with fewer people around. There are also a couple of significant Inca sites between the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu, so take your time to appreciate them as you go.
Once you reach Machu Picchu, you will have time to take more photos from the observation terraces above the site (Guardian’s House), where you can capture the famous postcard shots of Machu Picchu. Arriving in the afternoon means the archaeological area is starting to empty of tourists, giving you the chance to take beautiful photos in the golden afternoon light with fewer people in your shots. Take your time to soak in this magical experience before taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes to check into your hotel.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner, then take some time to explore this charming town, visit the hot springs, or simply head to your hotel to rest after such an exciting day.
- Meals: Box lunch, dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel.
- Total Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles.
- Total Hiking Time: 6 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Minimum Altitude: 2,150 m / 7,053 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft.
- Accommodation Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes | Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Today is the day you finally explore Machu Picchu! You’ll wake up before dawn to ensure you beat the crowds and catch the first bus to the entrance gate of Machu Picchu. The 25-minute ride will take you up a winding road to the magnificent Inca citadel.
Once inside, your guide will take you to a strategic viewpoint where you’ll get breathtaking postcard views of Machu Picchu and admire its stunning Inca architecture. From here, you’ll start a 2-hour guided tour, visiting the main sectors of the citadel while learning about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
At the end of the guided tour, you’ll have free time to take more photos and explore additional areas. If you have booked a hike to Huayna Picchu, your guide will direct you to the starting point. The hike takes approximately 2 hours (round trip) and requires an advance reservation ($60 USD per person).
Alternatively, you can hike Machu Picchu Mountain, a more challenging trek that takes at least 3 hours round trip ($60 USD per person). Both options offer breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient city and the surrounding Andes.
Once you’ve fully enjoyed Machu Picchu, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs.
In the afternoon, you’ll board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m. The train ride follows the Urubamba River, offering stunning views of narrow canyons and white-water rapids. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your private driver will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Machu Picchu Guided Visit Duration: 2-3 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Easy.
- Machu Picchu Site Altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft.
- Machu Picchu Mountain Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,842 ft.
Incluye
✓ HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY
- Pre-Departure Briefing:
You will meet with your guide one day before the trek at our office or your hotel for a pre-hike orientation. This meeting will take place at 6:00 p.m.
✓ PERMITS AND ENTRANCE TICKETS
- Inca Trail Entry Permits:
Once we receive your reservation confirmation and deposit, we will immediately request your permit from the Ministry of Culture, the institution that regulates the Inca Trail, to secure your spot.
Additionally, we can book tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu at the same time (optional and with an additional cost). - Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket (Circuit 3):
Your package includes the entrance ticket for Machu Picchu Circuit 3, allowing you to explore the lower part of the archaeological site.
✓ FIELD STAFF
- Professional Guides:
Our expert trekking guides are carefully selected from accredited universities. They are fluent in English and have three to ten years of experience leading treks in the region.
They are highly trained in group management under pressure, first aid, and rescue techniques. Most of them come from Andean communities, bringing a rich cultural heritage to your journey. Alongside the rest of our field team, they will make your experience truly unique.
✓ ACCOMMODATION
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes:
You will spend one night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes. The hotel also offers luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
Room options: double, twin, or triple.
✓ MEALS
- Your package includes:
- 1 breakfast
- 1 box lunch
- 1 dinner
✓ TRANSPORTATION & TRAIN SERVICES
- Day 1:
Pick-up from your hotel in the morning and transfer by private transport to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Day 1:
Consettur bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Day 2:
Round-trip Consettur bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
- Day 2:
Private transport back to Cusco – minibus from Ollantaytambo to your hotel.
- Day 1:
Train ticket to Km 104, the starting point of your trek. Departure times: 6:10 a.m. or 6:40 a.m. for flexibility.
- Day 2:
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Departure times: 2:30 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 3:20 p.m., depending on availability. You will have time to explore Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and relax.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT & REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- Communication & Safety Equipment:
Two-way radios with a 10 km range and eight frequencies for communication between guides, cooks, and porters. These radios can also be used to contact park rangers in case of an emergency.
- Portable Oxygen Tank:
Available throughout the trek.
✓ First Aid Kit:
- Includes disinfectants such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, and germicidal soap. Medical supplies include cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive tape, and surgical gloves. Pain relievers for muscle and stomach pain, as well as fever reducers, are also available.
✓ IMPORTANT:
- Only licensed medical professionals can prescribe medications.
- Our guides cannot prescribe or administer treatments.
- Medications are provided only with your consent and at your own responsibility.
- If you take prescription medications, bring your own supply.
No Incluye
× Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Huayna Picchu is the iconic mountain behind the citadel, often seen as the backdrop in classic Machu Picchu photos.
- Each day, only 400 permits are available, distributed in two time slots:
- 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. (200 spaces)
- 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (200 spaces)
Tickets sell out months in advance, so early booking is essential. The hike to the summit takes approximately 45 minutes, with a round trip lasting around 2 hours. The highlight of this hike is the 360-degree panoramic view of the Inca ruins, the winding Wilkamayu (Urubamba) River, and the lush mountain landscape.
Additional cost: $60 USD
× Machu Picchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu Mountain is located on the opposite side of Huayna Picchu and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the archaeological site, Huayna Picchu, Putucusi Mountain, and the Wilkamayu River.
- The hike is not dangerous but does require physical effort. The time needed to reach the summit depends on your fitness level:
Ascent: 1 to 1.5 hours
Round trip: 2 to 3 hours
Additional cost: $60 USD
× Meals
- Day 1: Breakfast
- Day 2: Lunch in Aguas Calientes and dinner in Cusco
× Personal Gear
- Proper clothing and trekking equipment are essential for a comfortable and safe hike.
× Travel Insurance (Optional)
- While not mandatory, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance in case of flight delays or unexpected health issues.
Important: Check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies may not cover elevations above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
× Additional Costs
- Delays due to uncontrollable factors (weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, etc.).
× Tipping Your Crew
- Tipping is a standard practice in tourism, including excursions to Machu Picchu. Although our staff receives fair wages, an extra contribution is always appreciated, considering the hard work they put into making your experience unforgettable.
× Why is tipping important?
- Recognizes effort: A tip is a way to show gratitude and acknowledge excellent service.
- Encourages outstanding hospitality: Tipping motivates staff to continue providing top-quality service.
- Supports the local economy: Many workers come from nearby communities, and your contribution directly benefits them.
- Appreciation for your guides: Guides work tirelessly to ensure your trek is comfortable and memorable. A tip is a meaningful way to thank them.
∴ IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS:
- Original Passport: If you booked your trip with an old passport and then renewed it, your passport number may have changed. Inform Bestreks agency to update this information at least 10 days before your trip to Peru. Otherwise, last-minute changes may incur additional costs. Also, make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay.
- Student ID: If you booked with a student discount using an ISIC card, you must bring the original and valid card (no copies, no expired documents). This document is required at checkpoint controls along the Inca Trail. Without it, you will not be allowed to enter Machu Picchu.
∴ RECOMMENDED GEAR AND CLOTHING:
- Backpack: Choose a small, ergonomic backpack for comfort. In Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25 liters are not allowed and must be stored outside.
- Trekking Poles: Must have rubber tips to prevent trail damage. They are very useful on uneven terrain and for ascents and descents. You can rent a pair from our company.
- Water Storage: Bring 1.5 to 2 liters of water. A Camelbak or similar hydration system is recommended. A thermal bottle will help keep your water cool.
- Hiking Boots: Lightweight, comfortable, and well-fitted. Make sure they are neither too tight nor too loose to avoid discomfort during the hike.
∴ ESSENTIAL CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES:
- 1 moisture-wicking t-shirt.
- 2 pairs of hiking pants.
- 2 sets of underwear.
- 2 pairs of hiking socks.
- 1 fleece jacket.
- 1 down jacket for cold nights.
- 1 sun hat.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
∴ ADDITIONAL ITEMS:
- Portable charger: For electronic devices.
- Personal hygiene items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, wet wipes.
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer: To protect your skin.
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer: For hygiene and protection.
- Personal medications: If necessary.
- Extra cash in soles: For additional purchases and tips.
Following this complete list will help you enjoy a comfortable and worry-free Inca Trail experience.
✓ Pricing Per Person:
- $500 USD – Adults
- $470 USD – Children & Students
To book the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an initial deposit of $250 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Student Discount:
- All travelers under 17 years old receive a $30 USD discount. If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you can qualify for the discount with a valid student ID. Please email us to receive a discount code.
✓ Valid Student ID for Inca Trail & Machu Picchu:
- To qualify for the student discount, travelers must have a valid student ID that meets the following requirements:
✓ Note About the ISIC Card:
- Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognized in many countries, the Peruvian government does not accept it for student discounts at Machu Picchu. Just as a passport cannot be replaced by another form of ID for international travel, a student card cannot be substituted with an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.
- The Peruvian government has strict regulations regarding student accreditation. To qualify for student-priced tickets, your physical student card must meet the Peruvian government’s requirements. If your ID does not meet these criteria, you may be denied entry to Machu Picchu and will have to pay the full ticket price, subject to availability. Please ensure your student ID is valid before booking your trip as a student.
✓ Upgrades & Add-ons:
Additional services you can include in your trip:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 USD
Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo): $70.00 USD
✓ Additional Equipment:
- Items available for rent:
Trekking Poles (pair): $10.00 USD
✓ Price Guarantee:
- Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not change under any circumstances. Please make sure to read all the important information before booking your tour.
✓ How to Book:
- Booking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is easy. You can reserve your spot online through our website, where our booking platform will guide you step by step. Payment can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your local currency for convenience.
✓ Inca Trail Reservation:
- To secure your spot on the Inca Trail, we require a non-refundable deposit of $250 USD. This deposit guarantees your place and allows us to purchase your Machu Picchu entry and train tickets, which must be booked well in advance.
- Our booking system allows you to pay only the deposit, along with any optional add-ons, or you can pay the full tour amount upfront.
- If you only pay the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before your tour departure.
✓ Remaining Balance Payment:
- If you opt to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid one day before the start of your tour. You can pay in USD or Peruvian soles, in cash or by card (with a 5% fee). You may also pay online through our website, subject to a 5% processing fee.
✓ Cancellation Policy:
Bestreks has the following cancellation policies:
- Due to strict regulations imposed by Machu Picchu National Park, once your booking is made, the permit and space reserved cannot be canceled or transferred to another person. The permit date also cannot be changed.
- If you cancel 30+ days in advance, you will lose your deposit, but you will still be entitled to the entry tickets we have purchased for you.
- If you cancel 2-3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show”, and you must pay 100% of the total cost. However, you will still be entitled to:
- Your Machu Picchu entry ticket
- A guided tour of Machu Picchu on your original itinerary date
- Your train and bus tickets
If you stop the trek for personal reasons, you will lose all included services. Any expenses incurred, such as food, transportation, or accommodation, will be your responsibility. However, you may meet the group at Machu Picchu for the guided tour, using your entry ticket and returning via bus and train.
Uncontrollable events, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or overbooked hotels/flights, may affect the itinerary. In these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available), but any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ Recommendations:
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand our booking and cancellation policies before making your payment. This ensures your investment is protected and guarantees a smooth booking experience for your adventure on the Inca Trail.
✓ Important Information
- Briefing Session
All briefing sessions take place the afternoon before your trip begins at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. and last 30 to 45 minutes. If you cannot attend, you must coordinate an alternative time via email or phone call. - Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
If you have an outstanding balance, you must pay it at least one day before your trek or tour; otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed. Payments in cash (USD or soles) are preferred at our office or during the briefing. You may also pay with credit/debit card or IZIPAY (online or in person), but note that there is a 5% service fee for card payments. - Pickup for Clients
All pickups are conducted within the city of Cusco. We recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a convenient location. Pickup times will be confirmed one day before your tour, but expect possible delays of 30 to 45 minutes due to traffic. Since Cusco has narrow, cobblestone streets, some hotels and Airbnbs may not be accessible by vehicle. We strongly suggest choosing accommodations with easy access.
✓ Health & Weather
- Health
If you have any medical restrictions that may affect your participation, please consult your doctor before your trip to ensure you are fit for the activities. - Weather
Cusco’s weather is unpredictable. The dry season runs from April to October, but it may still rain in June or be sunny in December. It’s essential to bring rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, poncho, and gloves. Since hikes in the Andes cross multiple microclimates, it is best to dress in layers to adjust to temperature changes. - Altitude Sickness (Soroche) & Stomach Issues
If you are arriving from sea level, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before your trek to acclimate.
Altitude Sickness: Symptoms may include headaches and nausea. Drinking coca tea and taking over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Diamox, or Sorojchi Pills can help. In severe cases, oxygen may be necessary, and our team is prepared to assist.
Stomach Issues: Drink 3-4 liters of water per day, avoid heavy or fried foods, and opt for soups, vegetables, and light carbohydrates. Hot drinks, especially coca leaf tea, are highly recommended. Avoid alcohol and smoking.
✓ Medical Restrictions
- If you have any medical conditions, allergies, or special dietary needs, please inform the agency in advance. For severe medical restrictions, consult your doctor before your trip. This information helps us ensure a safe and comfortable journey for you.
✓ Final Considerations
- Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings. Always check your surroundings before leaving the transport, campsites, or restaurants to avoid losing anything.
By following these recommendations, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable experience on the Inca Trail.
We can say that the Inca Trail is 100% worth it. It is one of the best hikes in the world, according to National Geographic and many other sources. On this incredible route, you will:
- Walk along ancient Inca paths that are hundreds of years old.
- Visit many archaeological sites that can only be seen on this route.
- Learn a lot about the fascinating ancient Inca culture.
- Hike through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Andes Mountains.
- Discover unique flora and fauna.
- Sleep in the arms of Mother Nature in the middle of the Andes.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, only possible on this route.
- Explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is the most popular hike in South America, with only 500 permits sold per day. We recommend booking your spot as soon as possible:
- At least 3 months in advance for the low season (November to March).
- At least 6 months in advance for the high season (April to October).
Note: Even if you book before these suggested periods, we cannot guarantee your place on the trail, as it is uncertain exactly when permits will sell out.
This question is often difficult to answer. The Inca Trail will amaze you whether it’s sunny, rainy, windy, or cold. You must have the right gear and always be prepared for any weather conditions. The Inca Trail is located in the cloud forest, known for having the most unpredictable weather in Peru and possibly in the world.
- The best months to hike and visit Machu Picchu are from April to October.
- The driest months are May, June, July, and August. However, these are also the busiest months.
- The rainy season begins in November and lasts until March. However, it is still possible to have weeks without rain.
- The Inca Trail remains closed in February due to heavy rains and trail maintenance.
The most common way to reach Cusco is to fly internationally to Lima (the capital of Peru) and then take a domestic flight to Cusco.
- Take a flight from your home country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru’s main international hub.
- From Lima, take a domestic flight to Cusco, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines operating this route include LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air.
- If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco, which takes 20 to 24 hours. However, flying is recommended for comfort and time-saving.
If you’re coming from neighboring countries like Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you may find direct flights to Cusco from major cities, though these flights are less frequent than those to Lima.
It is very important to acclimate properly before starting the hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before starting the trek.
- If you have already been at high altitudes in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we suggest resting at least 1 day in Cusco before your hike to recover.
While no specific training is required, we recommend physical preparation by:
- Exercising on a treadmill with an incline setting.
- Climbing stairs or using a stair climber.
Keep in mind that you should spend at least 2 days in Cusco before your hike to adjust to the altitude.
We highly recommend wearing lightweight trekking shoes.
- Ankle-support boots are very useful, especially for beginners, as you will be climbing and descending many Inca-built staircases.
- Trekking poles are always useful, especially on this trail.
- The terrain varies in altitude and is not always flat.
- Using trekking poles reduces pressure on your knees and helps with steep climbs.
Our trekking poles are adjustable, so you can shorten them when not in use.
- If you bring your own poles, they must have rubber tips, or the park rangers will not allow them.
- If you forget them, you can buy rubber tips in Cusco.
All luggage not needed for the trek should stay in Cusco.
- Hotels in Cusco are used to storing luggage for travelers.
- If you have no place to store your bags, you can leave them in our office until you return.
- We will keep your luggage safe, so don’t worry!
We offer a variety of local superfoods and traditional Peruvian dishes, including:
- Rice, chicken, beef, salads, potatoes, vegetables, and fresh fruits.
- Delicious vegetarian options and special dietary accommodations.
Our local chef prepares everything fresh, and we ensure proper preparation for all dietary requests.
- The Classic Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance and due to heavy rains.
- The trail may also close unexpectedly due to bad weather or unforeseen circumstances.
- Before planning your hike, check the latest closure updates.
- Only authorized and registered local tour operators can book Inca Trail permits in Cusco.
- You cannot book permits yourself.
- You must hike with a tour guide, chef, and porters.
- No, you cannot enter the Inca Trail without a registered tour company.
- You must hike with a licensed guide, chef, and porters.
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