Classic Inca Trail 4 Days Group Tour
From, per person
US$ 950
Duration2 days / 1 night
DifficultyModerate
Max. altitude2,730 m
Group sizeMax 16
- Tour type
- Adventure and cultural
- Languages
- EN / ES
- Starts in
- Cusco
- Ends in
- Cusco
Overview
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days is the perfect adventure for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail in a shorter and more comfortable format. This unforgettable journey follows one of the most iconic sections of the ancient Inca route and ends at the breathtaking citadel of Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want the authentic feeling of hiking the historic trail. Unlike longer treks, this route offers a more accessible and efficient experience while still including some of the most memorable highlights of the Inca Trail.
Along the way, you will walk through beautiful cloud forest scenery, ancient stone paths, and remarkable archaeological sites that reveal the brilliance of Inca engineering and history. This route is especially attractive for travelers who want more than a train visit to Machu Picchu but prefer not to commit to a multi-day expedition.
One of the greatest advantages of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days is that it combines hiking, history, and comfort in one well-balanced itinerary. After your first day on the trail, you continue the experience with an overnight stay before returning to explore Machu Picchu more fully. This structure makes the tour especially appealing for couples, families, and travelers who want a premium adventure without the physical demands of the classic 4-day trek.
- Train along the Urubamba to Km 104
- Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna
- First view from the Sun Gate
- Night in Aguas Calientes
- Guided Machu Picchu tour
Day-by-day itinerary
-
Day01
ollantaytambo – Chachabamba km 104 – Agua Calienets
4:00 AM – Hotel pick-up in Cusco . Start your journey early with a comfortable private transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.and at 6:10 AM – Scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes Ride alongside the Urubamba River,…
-
Day02
Aguas Calientes – Machupicchu – Return to Cusco
Early morning – Wake up for a once-in-a-lifetime moment at 5.30 am our profesional tour guide pick up in you hotel Starting the day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the bus station for a 25-minu…
What's included
Included
- Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide.
- Transportation from your hotel to the train station.
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to the Inca Trail trailhead.
- Official Inca Trail permit to Machu Picchu.
- Box lunch, energy drinks, and drinking water during the hike.
- Bus ticket down to Aguas Calientes town.
- Basic 3-star hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Dinner at a tourist restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Round-trip bus tickets in Aguas Calientes (up and down).
Not included
- Trekking poles.
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the last day.
- Optional extra hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain (must be booked in advance).
Packing list and tips
- Original passport
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
- Layers of clothing and a warm jacket
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Small backpack and water bottle
- Some Peruvian soles in cash
Recommendations
Arrive in Cusco at least one or two days before the tour to acclimatize properly.
Carry your original passport, as it is required for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance.
Wear comfortable, well-broken-in hiking shoes with good grip.
Dress in layers to adapt to changing mountain weather conditions.
Bring a light rain jacket or poncho at all times.
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
Carry a small backpack for water, snacks, and personal items.
Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the hike.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before hiking days.
Carry some cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses.
Consider booking Huayna Picchu Mountain in advance if you wish to do the extra hike.
Follow your guide’s instructions and respect archaeological sites and local regulations.
Inca Trail permits for this tour
These are the live permit spaces. Click a date to book it. For combined treks we calculate the trek start date for you.
Inca Trail permits
Live availability
Available
Few spaces
Sold out
Spaces are read from the official permit system. Select a date to start your booking.
Important information and precautions
- Inca Trail permits are limited and non-transferable: we need the full name and passport number of every traveler to buy them
- Once issued, permits cannot change name or date. If you renew your passport, tell us and bring both passports
- The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance
- Porters carry up to 6 kg of your gear (sleeping bag and mattress included); carry a daypack with what you need during the day
- Train luggage is limited to one small bag of up to 5 kg per person; leave the rest at your Cusco hotel
- Pre-departure briefing in Cusco the day before at 18:00, where you meet your guide and pay the balance
Route map
- 1Cusco
- 2Ollantaytambo
- 3Km 104 (Chachabamba)
- 4Wiñay Wayna
- 5Intipunku (Sun Gate)
- 6Machu Picchu
- 7Aguas Calientes
Frequently asked questions
Yes, an official Inca Trail permit and a Machu Picchu entrance ticket are required. Both are included in the tour price and are secured on your behalf once you book. Permits are limited and controlled by the Peruvian government, so availability is not guaranteed at the last minute. You must provide correct passport information and carry your original passport during the tour.
This tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness. While it is not a technical hike, it does include walking on uneven terrain, stone steps, and altitude changes. Regular walking, light hiking, or cardio training before the trip will help you enjoy the experience more comfortably. Your guide will set a steady pace and provide assistance when needed.
Yes, the tour includes one night in a basic 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. The hotel offers a private room, private bathroom, and basic comfort to rest after the hike. Dinner at a tourist restaurant is also included. Lunch on the final day is not included, allowing you to choose a restaurant according to your preferences.
The hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain is optional and not included in the standard tour. If you wish to do this extra hike, you must request it in advance, as permits are very limited and sell out quickly. This hike is more challenging and offers spectacular panoramic views of Machu Picchu, making it a great option for adventurous travelers.
You should bring comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small backpack. Trekking poles are optional and not included but can be rented locally. We also recommend carrying some cash, your passport, and personal items you may need during the hike and your stay in Aguas Calientes.
Reviews
No reviews for this tour yet. Be the first to share your experience.
Keep exploring
You may also like
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights
From, per person
US$ 1,050
Salkantay & Classic Inca Trail Trek 7 Days
From, per person
US$ 1,170
