Short Inca Trail
Small group experience (max 8)
Moderate
2-day journey
Up to 2,720 m
Ethical porter support
Cultural highlights
The perfect short scape to Machu Picchu

The 2 day Inca Trail is a fantastic option for those who don’t have the time or desire to hike the full length of the Inca Trail. With beautiful scenery, a wide variety of flora and fauna on display and a visit to the Inca Trail’s most beautiful site (Wiñay Wayna), you get to enjoy the all the best bits of the Inca Trail condensed in to a one day walk. Covering a distance of 16 km / 10 miles the 2 day Inca Trail is not too challenging which makes it perfect for families with children and those on a tight schedule.
The 2 day 1 night option allows you to experience some of the secrets of the Incas whithout camping in close proximity to aboultion facilities. There is no way to explain the surpise of that “woow woow” when
after a four hour steep walk upwards, crossing the path of the second most important Inca ruin “Wina Wayna”, (which by the way) is beautiful and well worth the climb you scramble up a steep flight of stairs and
then your breathe is truly taken away at the Sun gate.
Tourists who go into the Machu Picchu sanctuary for a few hours alone really do miss out on this marvelous and mysterious place. A short visit only gives you a stolen glimpse of this impressive empire and does absolutely no justice to this marvelous and mysterious place.
Inca Trail Availability
We offer daily departures on the Inca Trail (excluding February when the trail is closed)
It is strongly recommended to book your Inca Trail at least 4 to 6 months in advance as permits can quickly sell out.
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude – 2100m / 6900ft.
- Highest Altitude – 2730m / 8,792ft.
- Walking Distance – 10km / 6.3 miles
- Accomodation – 3 Star Hotel.
- Overall Difficulty – Easy to Moderate difficult (depends on your level of fitness).
Short Inca Trail Map

Very Important: For this tour we recommend packing as light as possible, it is only a one day hike and you don’t need to carry a lot of things, remember all the things you plan to bring must be carried by you including your box lunch.
Day 1: Cusco - Km104 - Aguas Calientes
Our trek today takes us along the most impressive stretch of the Inca Trail. We'll visit beautiful Inca sites , see a variety of flora and fauna and get to take in the fantastic panoramas of the Andes mountains. Covering 16km of the trail our journey begins in the Sacred Valley and works it's way up along an original Inca Trail to the Inca site of Winay Wayna before continuing on to Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
As we make our way to Machu Picchu we'll pass through the lush and verdant cloud forest that covers the mountain and get to see a variety of plants, flowers and birds along the way. We may also see some larger mammals such as Viscachas (rabbit-like Chinchillas) and Spectacled Bears (if we are very lucky).
After a full days trekking we'll arrive to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the late afternoon and get our first views of Machu Picchu spread out on the mountain below. The light at this time of day is great for photos and with fewer tourists in the site it's a perfect time to take some pictures of the site. After we've passed through the Sun Gate we'll carry on along the trail a little way before taking a side trail that leads us to Aguas Calientes in the valley below where we'll check in to our hotel.
PLEASE NOTE: Boxlunch provided is carried by the tourist themselves the weight is around 2 Kilos
One of the most special benefits of the 2-Day Inca Trail is that you will have the opportunity to see Machu Picchu twice — something that makes this program truly unique. In addition to enjoying stunning and less-crowded mountain landscapes on the first day, the itinerary is perfectly designed to help you experience Machu Picchu in the most complete and rewarding way.
On the first day, you will arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This is the original entrance used by the Incas and the very first viewpoint from where you will admire the Lost City of the Incas.
From this privileged location, you will enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire citadel surrounded by majestic Andean peaks. The sense of accomplishment and the dramatic reveal of Machu Picchu beneath you is truly unforgettable.
After taking in the views, we descend for approximately 1 hour toward the upper platform area, where you will take the classic postcard photo of Machu Picchu — the iconic panoramic shot everyone dreams of.
This visit takes place in the afternoon, when there are generally fewer visitors compared to the following morning when most guided tours occur. This allows you to enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere for your photos.
It is important to clarify that on Day 1 we only pass through Machu Picchu for the panoramic experience. The guided tour inside the archaeological site does not take place on this day due to current Peruvian government regulations. The official guided visit will occur on Day 2.
After taking the classic photo, we must exit Machu Picchu and continue our itinerary toward the town of Aguas Calientes.
Descent Options to Aguas Calientes:
Walking distance: approximately 3 km (1.9 miles)
Walking time: about 2 hour
This scenic descent follows a downhill path toward the town.
If you feel very tired after the hike, you may choose to take the shuttle bus from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes for an additional cost of $12 USD per person.
The decision to continue walking or take the bus can be made directly at Machu Picchu, depending on your energy level and how you feel at the moment.
Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, your guide will accompany you to your hotel, where you can enjoy a refreshing shower and some well-deserved rest. In the evening, you will have dinner together with your guide at a local tourist restaurant (included in the tour price). During dinner, your guide will coordinate the final details and schedule for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
Day 2: Machu Picchu!
Your second day is dedicated to fully exploring the wonder of Machu Picchu — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
After an early wake-up around 5:30 a.m. (exact time confirmed the evening before during dinner with your guide), you will take one of the first shuttle buses up to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the fresh morning atmosphere and witness the citadel as it awakens beneath the soft Andean light — a truly magical moment.
Guided Tour – Circuit 3 (Included)
All travelers on the 2-Day Inca Trail have their entrance included under Circuit Number 3.
Your guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which your professional, English-speaking guide will lead you through the most important temples, ceremonial spaces, and sacred sectors located in the lower part of Machu Picchu.
Your guide will bring the history of the Inca civilization to life, explaining how Machu Picchu functioned, why it was built, and the mysteries that continue to fascinate archaeologists and travelers alike.
This guided visit complements your panoramic experience from Day 1, allowing you to move from emotional first impressions to deep cultural understanding.
Optional Additional Hikes (Permits Required)
After completing your guided tour, you may choose to enhance your adventure by adding one of the following optional mountain hikes:
Huayna Picchu
Machu Picchu Mountain
Please note:
These hikes require advance permits (limited availability).
The ascent is done independently.
Your guide does not accompany you on these climbs.
Entry is scheduled according to assigned time slots.
Both routes are clearly marked and safely maintained within the sanctuary.
- Huayna Picchu
A shorter but steeper climb offering dramatic views directly above the citadel and the iconic perspective seen in classic Machu Picchu photos. Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a thrilling challenge.
- Machu Picchu Mountain
A longer, less steep hike reaching the highest viewpoint in the sanctuary. Perfect for those who prefer a more gradual climb with expansive panoramic views of the Andes and surrounding valleys.
Why the 2-Day Inca Trail Is So Special
This itinerary is uniquely designed to offer you two completely different perspectives of Machu Picchu:
Day 1:
A breathtaking panoramic arrival through the Sun Gate in the afternoon, with fewer crowds and unforgettable classic photos from the upper platform.
Day 2:
A comprehensive guided exploration of the temples and sacred sectors through Circuit 3, allowing you to truly understand the heart of the citadel.
First, you feel the emotion and grandeur from above.
Then, you return to explore its history, architecture, and mysteries in depth.
This combination creates one of the most balanced, immersive, and unforgettable ways to experience Machu Picchu.
If you are looking for a short trek that delivers maximum impact, cultural depth, and spectacular scenery — the 2-Day Inca Trail is the perfect choice.
Includes
- Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
- Briefing the day before leaving on the tour at 5:30 pm.
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Pick-up from your hotel
- We will drop you off at your hotel at the end of the tour.
- Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo (Train station)
- Touristic Train from Ollantaytambo to Km104 (beggining of our Adventure)
- Return tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo*
- Return Transportation from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco
- 1 Box lunch on the first day (Please save room in your backpack to carry your box lunch.)If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian food please let us know
- 1 Dinner on the first day in a touristic restaurant in Aguas Calientes
- 1 Breakfast in the hotel on the second day.
- 3 Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Gringo Bill's , Santuario , Waman Hotel)
- Oxygen bottle for emergencies.
- First aid kit for emergencies.
- Entrance ticket to the Inca Trail
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- 2 Bus tickets for the second day (Aguas Calientes -Machu Picchu - Aguas Caliente).
* If you wish, you can upgrade the service to the Vistadome train (Panoramic Train) .Return trips on the PeruRail Vistadome also offers live dances inspired by the ancient culture of the Andes. Passengers also receive a snack made from local ingredients, so you can get the full Andean experience through our cuisine. . please check the Virtual Visit
Does Not Include
- Water
- Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 2
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Tips
- Travel Insurance - you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.
What you need to take
🏔️ 2-Day Short Inca Trail
The Short Inca Trail is a beautiful 2-day hike combining stunning scenery, Inca ruins, and the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Because you’ll carry your own belongings during the trek, it’s important to pack light and smart. Here’s what to bring:
🧾 Documents & Essentials
Original Passport – Mandatory to enter both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. It must match the details used in your booking.
- Student card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
Cash (small bills) – Useful for snacks, souvenirs, or tipping local staff along the route.
🎒 Clothing
Comfortable Hiking Boots or Shoes – Choose footwear that’s already broken in, with good grip for stone steps and uneven paths.
Light T-shirts / Base Layers – Breathable fabrics help regulate body temperature during the hike.
Hiking Pants or Leggings – Avoid jeans; lightweight quick-dry materials are ideal.
Waterproof Jacket or Rain Poncho – The weather in the Andes can shift quickly from sunny to rainy.
Fleece or Warm Layer – Mornings can be cool, especially near Wiñay Wayna and Aguas Calientes.
Sun Hat or Cap – Essential for protection against strong mountain sun.
Light Jacket for Evening – Aguas Calientes can be humid and slightly chilly at night.
☀️ Personal Care
Sunscreen (SPF 35 or higher) – The high-altitude sun is very intense, even on cloudy days.
Insect Repellent – Especially important around Machu Picchu and the jungle edge.
Hand Sanitizer & Basic Toiletries – Keep it simple; bring travel-size items only.
Personal Medication – Include any prescription medicine, and consider altitude or stomach relief if you’re sensitive.
Wet Wipes / Tissues – Practical for the trail and rest stops.
💧 Food
Snacks – Energy bars, nuts, or chocolate for quick energy between meals.
Box Lunch – Provided by us on the first day — remember, you’ll need to carry it in your daypack.
📸 Gear & Accessories
Small Daypack (20–25 liters) – Enough to carry your essentials, water, lunch, and personal items.
Camera or Smartphone – For photos of Machu Picchu and the breathtaking views from the Sun Gate.
Plastic Bag / Dry Sack – Keeps your belongings dry in case of rain.
💤 For the Overnight in Aguas Calientes
Light Sleepwear & Change of Clothes – After the hike, you’ll want something dry and comfortable.
Phone Charger / Power Bank – Outlets are available in the hotel, but always good to have backup power.
✅ Pro Tip:
Pack light — your daypack should ideally weigh no more than 5–6 kg (11–13 lbs) including water and snacks. Every extra kilo counts on the stone steps!
IMPORTANT NOTICE :
ZERO PLASTIC BOTTLES ON THE INCA TRAIL AND MACHU PICCHU FROM DECEMBER 1ST:
Due to New goverment regulations for the Inca Trail it will be 100% PROHIBITED to TAKE PLASTIC WATER BOTTLES. We believe that in the first days the new enforced regulations may NOT be 100% controlled however as the days go it will be more and more strict therefore WE KINDLY suggest you getting your aluminum plastic bottles to avoid any dissapointment at the check points along the Inca Trail and in the Machu Picchu citadel.
ALUMINUM 0.700ml BOTTLES:
As a way to avoid any inconvenience with our clientes Llama Path offers 0.700ml aluminum water bottles FOR SALE at the office for as liitle as 10 Soles (USD3.00).
Aluminum water bottles can also be bought in many different shops around the main square.
Also, if you are still at home and ready to fly to Peru for your trek we recommend you bringing aluminum water bottles or camel bags.
We look forward to meeting you
Llama Path Terms and Conditions
DEFINITIONS: The definitions below will apply throughout these terms and conditions:
- Client means a person who books a trip offered by Llama Path and includes all participants that person may book a trip on behalf of;
- Day Tour means any Trip offered by Llama Path that only lasts one day in duration;
- Deposit means
- For Treks: USD $300 per participant, per Trek, payable to Llama Path at the time of booking the Trek. If a Client wishes to do Wayna Picchu Mountain, or Machu Picchu Mountain, the deposit will be $385 for all Inca Trail treks and any alternative treks e.g. Salkantay, Lares,Vilcabamba.
- PLEASE: Make sure to add the fees associated with your PayPal / VISA transaction (aprox. 4.5%) Llama Path will be sending you a receipt indicating the exact amount we received from you and the amount of the balance to be paid upon your arrival in Cusco.
- For Peru Itineraries: 50% of the total itinerary price, payable to Llama Path at the time of booking the Trip.
- Once the deposit is received, we proceed to purchase the permits and all services immediately through the Peruvian Goverment.
In the event of a cancellation by one or more participants in a private tour, the final price of the service will be adjusted based on the final number of travelers who attend the tour. The originally quoted price is based on the confirmed group size at the time of booking; therefore, any reduction in the number of participants will result in a recalculation of the total cost per person.
- Llama Path means Llama Path, a fully licensed, professional tour operator, based in Cusco, Peru and includes any employees, and associated persons of the company;
- Peru Itinerary means a multi-day Trip offered by Llama Path where trekking is not the main activity.
- Terms means these terms and conditions, as may be updated by Llama Path from time to time;
- Trek means a Trip where trekking is the main activity;
- Trip means any trip, tour or trek offered by Llama Path and booked by a Client.
- ACCEPTANCE: The Client agrees that the Client will be bound by these Terms upon payment of the Deposit.
- APPLICATION AND TERM: These Terms apply to all Trips from the date that a Deposit is paid, until the date the Trip finishes.
- PRICE: The prices of all Trips offered by Llama Path are as listed in the Llama Path offices and on the Llama Path website, and may be updated by Llama Path from time to time. All prices are based on double accommodation, an extra charge will be applied for single accommodation in case of Alternative treks and shot Inca Trail.
- PAYMENT:
- Deposit: the Client may pay the Deposit using one of the following two methods:
- PayPal: using www.paypal.com the option must be selected to ‘send money’ to the address deposits@llamapath.com, as a purchase of services, not a personal payment.
- Visa: follow the prompts to pay the Deposit using https://www.multimerchantvisanet.com/formularioweb/formulariopago.aspx, found on the payment section of the Llama Path website. The Client will receive an order number, and this must be sent in an email to Llama Path confirming the deposit has been paid.
- Balance: Following payment of the Deposit, the balance payable for a Trip is due as follows
- For Treks and Day Tours: no more than 48 hours before the first day of the Trek, at the Llama Path offices. Payments may be made in cash in USD or Peruvian soles (using the exchange rate on the day). If a Client is unable to comply with this clause, Llama Path must be notified at least 48 hours before the Trip, and will have full discretion as to whether late payment will be permitted.
- For Peru Itineraries or multi-day Trip offered by Llama Path: no less than two weeks before the start date of the Trip, using the payment method described in clause 5ai. If a Client is unable to comply with this clause, Llama Path must be notified at least two weeks before the Trip, and will have full discretion as to whether late payment will be permitted.
- AVAILABLE DATES: When a Client sends a booking enquiry to Llama Path, they must provide a range of dates that they are available to travel. Llama Path will prioritize the Client’s preferential dates, however the Client authorizes Llama Path to use any of the dates in the range provided by the Client to book a Trip.
- STUDENT AND UNDER 18’S DISCOUNT: A discount will be provided to students aged 25 or under, and persons under the age of 18, at the date the Trip begins. The amount of such discount will be advised by Llama Path. Students must send a copy of a valid university identification card to Llama Path at the time of booking, the identification must be valid for the duration of the Trip, and the physical card must be presented upon arrival in Cusco.
- TRANSFERS: The Client is not permitted in any way whatsoever to transfer a Deposit, including to a different Trip, date, to any other person, or to the balance of another Trip or person.
10. CANCELLATION:
a) If a Trip is cancelled or a Client wishes to leave a Trip, for any reason, the Deposit and any balance paid will not be refundable, . If the Trip has been paid in full, there may be components that the Client can still use, such as the Machu Picchu entrance, train ticket and bus ticket.
b) Deposit is non refundable , non transfarable to another tour ,date or person Because the permits are purchased through the Peruvian government and due to their rules the permits are not transferable and no refundable.
c) The deposit paid for your itinerary or multi-day Trip offered by Llama Path is non-refundable and non-transferable to another date or person. This is because the deposit is fully allocated to secure your services in advance with our providers (including tours, hotels, transportation,plan tickets and related arrangements).
- ALTERATION BY LLAMA PATH: The Client acknowledges that travelling in Peru requires flexibility, patience, and understanding that changes may be required. Llama Path may at any time alter a Trip’s itinerary, due to any circumstances that may occur beyond its reasonable control, and will not be liable for any such change
11.FORCE MAJEURE: Llama Path is not responsible or liable where any force majeure event or circumstance occurs which is beyond the control of Llama Path, including but not limited to acts of God, civil or military disturbances, extreme weather, disease, technological interruptions, labour strikes, or acts of war or terrorism . The Client recognizes that Llama Path may need to alter, or even cancel, a Trip in response to a force majeure event or circumstance, and will not be liable for any such alteration or cancellation.
12. PROTEST OR STRIKE EARLY DEPARTURE: In the event of a protest or a strike, which may affect the itinerary of a Trip, Llama Path, at its discretion, may decide to leave early for the Trip in order to provide the best service possible. In such cases, Llama Path will charge an increment to cover the extra costs incurred, such amount as to be determined by Llama Path, depending on the circumstances
13. HOLIDAY OR ELECTION EXTRA CHARGE: Where a Trip takes place on one or more of any of the following days, due to reasons of public holiday, or elections in Peru, an extra charge per person, per Trip will be applied: December 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31, January 1, and any day that an election may fall on. The extra charge will be determined by Llama Path (35 usd), and covers staff’s fines for missing elections, or is a bonus for staff missing a public holiday.
- EVACUATION: If a Client is not able to complete a Trip, transport costs back to Cusco or the final destination of the Trip, in the case of medical emergency will be covered by the Client. Any other loss, damage or costs related to a Client’s evacuation from a Trip and additional emergency services will also be the Client’s responsibility. The Client agrees to abide by all Llama Path’s guides’ decisions in all circumstances where a Client needs to be evacuated for any reason from a Trip CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES
- Insurance: Llama Path strongly recommends that the Client purchases adequate travel insurance to cover any cancellations, delays, medical expenses, emergencies, interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances, and loss or damage of personal possessions or equipment that may occur in relation to a Trip. The Client acknowledges that the Client is responsible for all loss or damage suffered by the Client, except as expressly provided in these Terms.
- Risk: The Client acknowledges that Trips are adventurous, and inherently involve a certain amount of personal risk, especially Treks. The Client accepts responsibility for all risks associated with a Trip and agrees to neither sue, nor hold liable in any way, Llama Path, or any of its employees for any loss, damage or injury suffered by a Client in relation to a Trip.
- Guide authority: The Client agrees that Llama Path guides have full and final authority on all matters and decisions in relation to the Trip, and the Client will act in good faith to follow such authority and advice of Llama Path guides.
- Preparation: The Client acknowledges that although Llama Path will act in good faith to assist the Client during the Trip, it is the Client’s sole responsibility to ensure that the Client is adequately prepared for the Trip with the correct gear, and any special medial or dietary requirements that he or she may require.
- Passport Validity: The Client must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months from the date of their arrival in Peru. This is a Peruvian government requirement, and failure to do so may result in permission being denied to enter the country.
- It is the responsibility of each tourist to check the requirements to enter Peru before organizing a tour in our country.
- Visa to visit Peru: It is the Client’s responsibility to ensure sure they organize and fulfill the visa requirements, if any, required for their entry and stay in Peru;
- Acclimatization: The Client acknowledges Llama Path’s very strong recommendation that the Client stays in Cusco, or another high altitude city above 3,000 meters, for at least three days before starting a Trek. This will help minimize any possible effects of altitude sickness.
- GEAR: Llama Path require that an additional price be paid by the Client to hire certain gear items that a Client borrows for a Trek. Such prices are listed on the Llama Path website, and may be updated by Llama Path from time to time at its sole discretion.
- PORTERS ON THE INCA TRAIL: Llama Path uses porters on the Inca Trail to carry cooking equipment and tents. This does not include sleeping bags or sleeping mats, these are the Client’s responsibility. A Client may hire an extra porter to assist them in carrying their personal belongings, including their sleeping bag and sleeping mat, however this will require payment of an extra cost, found on the Llama Path website.
- LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: Llama Path’s total liability to the Client is limited, to the maximum extent permitted by law, to the amount of money paid to Llama Path by the Client. Llama Path will be in no way liable for any further loss or damage suffered by the Client except as expressly provided in these Terms.
- GOVERNING LAW: These Terms shall be governed by the laws of Peru and the Client and Llama Path agree to submit to the jurisdiction of the courts of Peru in relation to any dispute regarding these Term
- For tours outside of Cusco we work with our partners, reliable companies with many years of experience, we always make sure to provide you with the best possible experience through them.
- Prices are subject to change due to social, economic, political and other reasons that prevent us to continue doign our tours with the prices agreed upon prior to the reservation.
- Confirmation According to the authorities it is very important to confirm your reservation 24 hours before the tour so you have to confirm your presence at the tour at least 24 hours in advance.
Group Service Prices 2026
2 Day / 1 Night Inca Trail
1 Traveler — US$845 per person
2 Travelers — US$685 per person
3 Travelers — US$595 per person
4 Travelers — US$555 per person
5 Travelers — US$525 per person
6+ Travelers — US$510 per person
Important Information
- Prices are based on shared double room accommodation
- Single room supplement: US$35
- Group prices depend on the final number of travelers
- Maximum group size: 16 hikers with 2 guides
- Private service available upon request
Optional Add-Ons
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$85
- Machu Picchu Mountain: US$85
- Vistadome / Panoramic 360° Train Upgrade: US$50
- Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: upon request
Optional Rentals
- Walking Pole: US$5
Student & Child Discounts
- Students (under 25 with valid university ID): US$20 discount
- Children 8–17 years old: US$20 discount
- Children 7 or younger: US$40 discount
Student Discount Requirements for Machu Picchu & Inca Trail Permits
Students may qualify for a discounted entrance ticket to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, subject to approval by the Peruvian Government. To apply for the student discount, a valid university student card must be submitted at the time of booking.
Student Card Requirements
The student card must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be issued by a recognized university.
- Be valid for the year of travel (e.g., 2026).
- Clearly display both the issue date and expiration date.
- Include the student's full name.
- Include a clear photograph of the student.
- Include the university's name and information.
- The student must be 25 years old or younger at the time of travel.
Important Notes
- International Student Identity Cards (ISIC cards) are not accepted by the Peruvian Government.
- Student discounts are subject to verification and approval by the Peruvian authorities.
- The student card must be submitted before permits and entrance tickets can be issued.
- Once permits have been purchased, student discounts cannot be applied retroactively.
To secure the student discount, please send a clear copy of the student card as soon as possible so we can process the reservation and obtain the corresponding permits.
How to Book
Booking is simple through our secure WeTravel booking form.
- Choose your departure date
- Complete the booking form
- Pay the required deposit
- Receive your official confirmation email
Alternatively, deposits can also be paid via PayPal.
Deposit Required
- US$300 per person
- US$385 including Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Please ensure all passport information matches your passport exactly.