Premium Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2-Day Tour)
What your day looks like
Discover the magic of the Inca Trail in just two days—without sacrificing comfort or style. Our Short Inca Trail tour invites you to trek through lush cloud forests and ancient ruins, fueled by freshly prepared picnic breakfasts and picnic lunches served in unforgettable mountain settings. At the end of each day, retreat to exclusive hotels where you can rest in total comfort. After exploring the wonders of Machu Picchu, you’ll return on a panoramic Vistadome train, soaking in the sweeping Andean views in style. Immerse yourself in nature, history, and luxury—all in one incredible journey you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Why travelers choose this experience
- Arrive at Machu Picchu during exclusive hours for fewer crowds
- Enjoy breathtaking views from the Sun Gate (Intipunku)
- Savor freshly prepared picnic meals crafted by our expert chefs
- Return in comfort on a panoramic Vistadome train
- Experience personalized service in a smallgroup setting
Your day, step by step
Urubamba
Hiking at Inca Trail. Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu Begin your adventure with an early morning hotel pickup—around 4:00 a.m. from Cusco, or 5:30 a.m. if you're staying at The Sacred Valley. From Km 104, embark on a scenic hike through the archaeological site of Chachabamba and the lush, terraced ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Reach the Sun Gate in the golden afternoon light for your first magical view of Machu Picchu, then continue into the citadel via Circuit , ideal for capturing breathtaking photos with fewer visitors.
Urubamba
Leisure at Inca Trail. Savor a freshly prepared picnic breakfast and lunch on the trail, plus dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
Urubamba
Transportation at Inca Trail. Enjoy a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to Km 104, take the bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and have all transfers arranged for a smooth journey.
Cusco
Other at Machu Picchu. Spend the night in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Cusco
Archaeological Exploration at Machu Picchu. Take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu for a serene sunrise visit, enjoy a guided exploration of its plazas, temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas through Circuit 3, and opt for an additional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if reserved in advance.
Cusco
Other at Machu Picchu. Enjoy an early breakfast at your hotel before visiting Machu Picchu, and have free time in Aguas Calientes to choose your own spot for lunch.
Cusco
Transportation at Machu Picchu. Ride the bus up and down from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Travel aboard the panoramic Vistadome train for spectacular views on the way back.
Before you go
Included
Safety briefing held the day before departure Entrance tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, on sunrise and sunset. Expert tour guide throughout the Inca Trail and fully guided tour of Machu Picchu Hotel pickup and drop-off service from Cusco, Urubamba or Ollantaytambo Train to Km 104 (Expedition or Voyager) return journey on Vistadome train Consettur bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1 and round-trip bus on Day 2 Satellite phone, first-aid kit and oxygen tank
Not Included
Last day lunch Huayna Picchu or Montaña entrances Trekking poles (available for rent)
What to Bring
Hiking boots (light, comfortable and broken in) A good quality daypack (light, small and comfortable) Water storage for at least 2 liters; either a camel bag or water bottle(s) 1 t-shirt (wicking t-shits work best) and 1 pair of hiking pants/trousers A nice change of clothes for walking around Machu Picchu (and for taking many photographs!) Hat and sunglasses Sun cream, bug spray Toiletries Personal medication Camera, extra batteries Extra snacks, power bars, chocolate Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips Swimsuit for hot springs in Aguas Calientes (optional)
Meeting & Pickup
- We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco’s historic center at approximately 4:00 am. - Hotel pickup from the Sacred Valley (Urubamba and Ollantaytambo) at approximately 5:30 am.
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business