Inca Trail 2D/1N Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco
Short Inca Trail Trek with Guide & Tickets
Price
$525.00
per traveler
Inca Trail 2D/1N Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu from Cusco (KM104) is Peru’s most popular short Inca Trail hike, combining original Inca stone paths, cloud forest scenery, and a fully guided Machu Picchu experience with official Inca Trail permits included. Begin with hotel pickup in Cusco and a scenic train journey to KM104, where your licensed Inca Trail guide leads you past archaeological sites and lush Andean landscapes toward the spectacular Wiñay Wayna ruins. Enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate – Circuit 1C (Inti Punku) for panoramic views before continuing to the iconic Upper Terraces – Circuit 1B, one of the best locations for classic Machu Picchu photos. After an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, enjoy a guided visit via Circuit 3B (Royalty Route), exploring temples, terraces, and sacred spaces.
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night (KM104) is an official trekking route regulated by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. Unlike longer treks, this short Inca Trail allows travelers to experience authentic Inca paths, archaeological sites, and a guided Machu Picchu visit while maintaining a comfortable pace and structured entry through designated circuits. This tour includes licensed guides, verified Inca Trail permits, and Machu Picchu entrance circuits that comply with conservation regulations — including arrival via Circuit 1C (Sun Gate) and a guided visit via Circuit 3B. Because permits are limited and issued under strict government quotas, early booking is strongly recommended.
Tour Photos
Price
Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night Price – Official Inca Trail Tour from Cusco (KM104) Join the legendary 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with transparent, all-inclusive pricing and official Inca Trail permits included. This Short Inca Trail 2D/1N experience combines scenic hiking, licensed tour guides, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, hotel accommodation, and round-trip transportation from Cusco — making it one of the most complete and professionally organized short Inca Trail tours available. What is included in the Short Inca Trail 2-Day price: No additional Machu Picchu tickets are required. Your Day 2 guided visit via Circuit 3B is fully included, ensuring a seamless and worry-free Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu experience.
What Is Included?
Enjoy a complete and professionally organized Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu (KM104) with pickup and drop-off in Cusco, official Inca Trail permits, licensed tour guides, transportation, meals, and accommodation included. This fully guided Inca Trail experience combines scenic hiking, archaeological exploration, and a structured Machu Picchu visit designed for travelers seeking an authentic yet time-efficient trek. Your adventure begins with a hotel briefing in Cusco the night before departure to ensure proper preparation and altitude acclimatization. Important clarification: Your Day 2 Machu Picchu entrance via Circuit 3B is fully included. Travelers wishing to add Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, Grand Cavern, or Circuit 2 options may purchase those tickets separately, subject to official availability.Day 1 – Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu via Sun Gate
Day 2 – Guided Machu Picchu Visit & Return to Cusco
This circuit explores agricultural terraces, sacred temples, and the lower urban sector of the citadel.
What is not included?
What’s Not Included in the Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu Tour The following services are not part of the standard Short Inca Trail 2D/1N package, allowing travelers flexibility to customize their Machu Picchu experience based on personal preferences, meals, and optional hiking routes beyond the included Circuit 3B guided visit.
Your Day 2 Machu Picchu entrance via Circuit 3B (Royalty Route) is already INCLUDED in the tour price.
The following optional Machu Picchu tickets and mountain hikes are NOT included and must be purchased separately if desired:
Note: Availability for additional Machu Picchu circuits and mountain hikes is extremely limited due to official permit quotas. Advance booking is strongly recommended.
Your adventure begins early with a 4:00 a.m. hotel pickup in Cusco or a 6:00 a.m. departure from Ollantaytambo. Board the morning train through the Sacred Valley, enjoying spectacular Andean scenery before arriving at KM104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail hike starts with a gentle ascent along the Vilcanota River, passing through lush cloud forest landscapes filled with orchids, waterfalls, and native wildlife. Along the way, visit Chachabamba, an important Inca archaeological site where your licensed guide explains the historical and spiritual significance of this ancient pilgrimage route. You will then reach the breathtaking ruins of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most iconic archaeological complexes along the Inca Trail, located at 2,600 meters (8,500 ft). After lunch, continue hiking toward the legendary Sun Gate – Circuit 1C (Inti Punku), the original Inca entrance to Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy your first panoramic view of the citadel from above. From the Sun Gate, explore the famous Upper Terraces – Circuit 1B and Guardhouse viewpoint, ideal for classic Machu Picchu photographs. After this unforgettable arrival experience, take a bus down to Aguas Calientes for a relaxing overnight stay. Accommodations: 3-star hotel (or similar) After breakfast, take a scenic 25-minute bus ride to the entrance of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. As morning mist lifts from the terraces, enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the ancient Inca citadel. Join your expert guide for a 2.5-hour fully guided tour of Machu Picchu via Circuit 3B (Royalty Route – Lower Sector), which is included in your Short Inca Trail 2-Day package. This circuit explores the agricultural terraces, lower urban sector, and key ceremonial areas, providing a deeper understanding of Inca engineering, astronomy, and daily life. Highlights of the guided visit include the Temple of the Sun, Room of the Three Windows, Sacred Plaza, and other significant sectors accessible within Circuit 3B. Your guide will bring the fascinating history and cultural importance of Machu Picchu to life. After completing your guided tour, return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch or souvenir shopping before boarding the return train through the Sacred Valley. Private transportation will transfer you from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco, where you will arrive in the evening. Optional hikes such as Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, or additional Machu Picchu circuits are available with separate tickets and are not part of the standard guided tour. Meals Included: BreakfastDay 1: Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu via Sun Gate (KM104)
Meals Included: Lunch
Day 2: Guided Machu Picchu Tour via Circuit 3B (Royalty Route) & Return to Cusco
Packing wisely is essential for enjoying your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and staying comfortable throughout this scenic Andean hike. The following checklist helps you prepare for changing mountain weather, archaeological exploration, and your guided visit to Machu Picchu. ✅ Pro Tip: Pack light and smart. A well-prepared backpack makes your Short Inca Trail 2-Day adventure more comfortable and enjoyable from KM104 to Machu Picchu.What to Bring for the Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu (KM104)
📄 Essential Documents
🎒 Backpack
💧 Water & Hydration
👕 Clothing & Footwear
🌞 Sun & Insect Protection
🎒 Optional Items
📸 Electronics & Extras
🍫 Trail Snacks
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu is considered a moderate-difficulty hike, suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of adventure. This scenic Andean trek follows original Inca stone paths, includes gradual ascents and uneven terrain, and reaches elevations of up to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). Proper altitude acclimatization is essential to enjoy the hike safely and comfortably while minimizing the risk of altitude sickness.
If you are arriving from sea level, we strongly recommend spending at least two full days in Cusco before starting your Short Inca Trail journey. Acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley allows your body to adjust to the altitude, improving stamina, breathing efficiency, and overall comfort during the trek toward the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (KM104) operates year-round under official government regulations, except during the month of February when the Inca Trail closes for annual maintenance and conservation work. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is typically between April and October, when dry-season conditions provide clearer skies, comfortable temperatures, and ideal trekking weather in the Andes.
June, July, and August represent peak travel season in Peru, and official Inca Trail permits often sell out months in advance. Due to strict daily quotas established by the Ministry of Culture, early booking is strongly recommended to secure your preferred travel dates and guaranteed access to this world-famous trek.
During the wetter months of January and March, sections of the trail may become muddy or slippery due to seasonal rains. Travelers hiking during this period should bring a high-quality waterproof jacket, rain cover for backpacks, and reliable hiking footwear to stay comfortable while exploring the breathtaking landscapes on the way to Machu Picchu.
Frequently Asked Questions – Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night to Machu Picchu (KM104) Does the Short Inca Trail 2-Day tour include Machu Picchu entrance tickets? Where are the best photo spots at Machu Picchu during this tour? Which Machu Picchu circuit is included on Day 2 of the Inca Trail 2D/1N tour? Do I need to purchase an additional Machu Picchu ticket for Day 2? Is the Machu Picchu visit guided during both days? What is the difference between Circuit 3B and Circuit 2 at Machu Picchu? Can I add Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour? Is the Short Inca Trail (KM104) suitable for beginners? How far in advance should I book the Short Inca Trail 2-Day tour?
Yes. The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (KM104) includes Machu Picchu entrance on both days. Day 1 enters via the
Sun Gate – Circuit 1C and continues to the
Upper Terraces – Circuit 1B, while Day 2 includes a fully guided Machu Picchu tour via
Circuit 3B (Royalty Route), already included in the package.
The most iconic postcard-style photos are taken from the Upper Terraces and Guardhouse viewpoint, accessed on Day 1 via
Circuit 1B (Upper Terraces). This elevated section offers panoramic views overlooking the citadel, Huayna Picchu, and the surrounding mountains.
Circuit 3B (Royalty Route – Lower Sector) is included in the tour price. This guided route explores agricultural terraces, ceremonial areas, and important temples, offering a structured and educational Machu Picchu experience.
No. Your Day 2 Circuit 3B entrance ticket is already included in the Short Inca Trail 2-Day itinerary. Optional circuits or mountain hikes require separate tickets if desired.
Yes. The tour includes a licensed Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tour guide throughout the entire experience, including the hike from KM104, Sun Gate arrival, and the full Machu Picchu guided visit.
Circuit 3B focuses on the lower sector of Machu Picchu, including temples and terraces ideal for guided tours. Optional classic panoramic routes include
Circuit 2A and
Circuit 2B, which provide higher viewpoints but are not required to enjoy the experience.
Yes. Optional upgrades include
Circuit 3A – Royalty + Huayna Picchu,
Circuit 3C – Royalty + Grand Cavern,
Circuit 3D – Royalty + Huchuy Picchu, and
Circuit 1A – Machu Picchu Mountain. These require separate tickets and advance booking due to limited availability.
Yes. The Short Inca Trail 2-Day hike is rated as moderate and is suitable for travelers with basic fitness. The trail is shorter than the classic 4-day route and is guided throughout.
Official Inca Trail permits are limited and often sell out weeks or months in advance, especially during peak season. Early booking is strongly recommended to secure your preferred travel dates.
Terms and Conditions – Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night (2D/1N) Tour to Machu Picchu (KM104)
- The Short Inca Trail 2-Day 1-Night tour to Machu Picchu (KM104) is strictly non-transferable and non-changeable. Passenger names, passport numbers, and travel dates cannot be modified once the official Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance tickets have been issued by the authorities.
- All Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets, including the Day 2 Machu Picchu entrance via Circuit 3B (Royalty Route), are governed by Peruvian Ministry of Culture regulations and are non-refundable and non-transferable under all circumstances once confirmed.
- All cancellations for the Inca Trail 2D/1N tour must be submitted in writing by the reservation holder and are subject to the cancellation terms outlined below.
- Cancellations made with 10 or more days’ advance notice are subject to a $300 USD per person cancellation fee, which covers non-refundable permits, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, and administrative processing costs.
- Cancellations made with less than 10 days’ notice incur a 100% cancellation fee of the total Short Inca Trail 2-Day tour price, as all services will have been fully confirmed.
- If a traveler abandons the Inca Trail 2D/1N tour at any stage due to altitude sickness, health concerns, personal decisions, or missed connections, no refunds, reimbursements, or claims will be accepted.
- Travelers are responsible for any additional costs resulting from tour abandonment, including meals, accommodation, return transportation, medical treatment, evacuation services, or personal expenses.
- All participants must carry valid personal travel insurance covering accidents, medical expenses, trip interruption, emergency evacuation, and loss of personal belongings during the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- The itinerary for the Inca Trail 2D/1N tour may be modified, delayed, or interrupted due to weather conditions, natural disasters, civil unrest, strikes, government restrictions, or other force majeure events. In such cases, we will coordinate with local suppliers to obtain refunds when possible; however, refunds are not guaranteed and remain subject to third-party policies.
MACHUPICCHU.CENTER
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