Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days
Itinerary
Day 1 | Hike from Km 104 (Chachabamba) to Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Early Start (4:00 AM)
Your adventure begins before dawn! Your professional guide from Russell Experience Peru Travel will pick you up from your Cusco hotel (or a prearranged meeting point). We’ll drive to Ollantaytambo to catch the 6:10 AM train through the Sacred Valley’s stunning landscapes.
Train Ride & Trailhead (Km 104 – Chachabamba)
At 7:00 AM, we arrive at the Inca Trail checkpoint in Chachabamba (2,150m / 6,927ft). After passport control, we’ll begin hiking through lush cloud forests and visit the impressive Wiñayhuayna archaeological site (2,650m / 8,747ft).
Sun Gate & Machu Picchu Reveal
After a delicious lunch, we continue hiking 2 more hours to reach the iconic Intipunku (Sun Gate, 2,730m / 9,007ft). From here, you’ll witness your first magical view of Machu Picchu—an unforgettable moment!
Machu Picchu Exploration (Circuit 1)
We’ll enter through the Guardian’s House, perfect for iconic photos, and enjoy a guided tour of the citadel. Your expert guide will reveal fascinating insights about Inca history, engineering, and mysteries.
Evening in Aguas Calientes
After the visit, we’ll take the Consettur bus down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Check into your hotel, enjoy a hearty dinner, and relax after an extraordinary day of trekking.
Key Information
Meals: Box lunch / Dinner
Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Estimated Walking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Starting Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel in Machu Picchu Town
Day 2 | Guided Tour of Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
Early Morning Start (5:00 AM)
Your second day begins with an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Afterward, we’ll head to the Consettur bus station for a short ride up to the majestic Machu Picchu Inca City.
Make sure to have your passport, entrance ticket, and student card (if applicable), as these will be required at the checkpoint.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu (8:00 – 10:00 AM)
Explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World alongside your expert guide from Russell Experience Peru Travel. You’ll discover the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, including its sacred temples, ceremonial areas, and hidden ruins.
Your guide will bring the citadel’s history to life, revealing the engineering genius and spiritual traditions of the Inca civilization.
Optional Hikes (Not Included)
If you’ve booked your entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll have the chance to enjoy:
Huayna Picchu Mountain: ~2 hours round trip. Famous for its steep, adventurous trails and breathtaking panoramic views.
Machu Picchu Mountain: ~3 hours round trip. A more peaceful hike offering unbeatable vistas of the citadel and surrounding valleys.
Note: “Machu Picchu Mountain” refers to the peak opposite the main Machu Picchu site.
Free Time in Aguas Calientes
Before returning, you can enjoy optional activities such as:
Visiting the local museum.
Relaxing at the hot springs.
These experiences are not included but highly recommended if you have extra time.
Return to Cusco
After exploring Machu Picchu, we’ll descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes. From there, you’ll board the “Expeditions” tourist train to Ollantaytambo, where a private bus will take you back to Cusco.
Typical departure time: 2:55 PM (subject to availability).
You may request to adjust your train schedule if you prefer an earlier or later arrival.
Key Information
Meals: Breakfast at hotel
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Walking Time: 1.5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,430 m / 6,693 ft
Accommodation: Not included (return to Cusco)
What’s Included in Your 2-Day Inca Trail Tour
When you book your 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Russell Experience Peru Travel, you get a complete, stress-free experience. We take care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Pre-Tour Briefing
Meet your expert Inca Trail guide at our Cusco office (or another agreed location) around 18:00 hrs.
Learn everything you need to know about the trek, what to pack, and useful tips.
Transportation
Round-trip tourist transport: Cusco ↔ Ollantaytambo.
“Expeditions” tourist train to Km 104 (Chachabamba) — the starting point of the trek.
“Expeditions” tourist train from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo.
Three Consettur buses for the Machu Picchu visit (ascent, descent, and final descent).
Professional Guides
Highly qualified bilingual guides (English & Spanish).
One guide for the Inca Trail hike and another for the Machu Picchu archaeological tour.
Our guides are also trained in first aid and mountain rescue.
Tickets & Permits
Entrance ticket to the Short Inca Trail.
Machu Picchu entrance included on Day 1 (Guardian’s House – Circuit 1).
Additional entrance to Machu Picchu on Day 2 (Circuit 2 or 3, depending on availability).
Accommodation
1-night stay at a 2-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Includes hot water, private bathroom, Wi-Fi, and breakfast.
Meals & Dietary Options
1 breakfast (hotel), 1 box lunch, and 1 dinner.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at no extra cost.
Safety & Support
First aid kit and oxygen tank always on hand.
Our guides are fully trained in emergency response and mountain evacuation procedures.
24/7 Customer Service
Enjoy 24-hour phone support with our travel experts before, during, and after your tour.
Free Luggage Storage
Leave your extra luggage safely at our Cusco office while you enjoy your trek — exclusive for our passengers.
Trekking Poles – Not included but highly recommended for the hike. You can bring your own or rent them from us.
Additional Entrances – Tickets for Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included.
Lunch on Day 2 – You’ll have free time to choose where and what to eat.
Unexpected Expenses – Any additional costs or delays beyond our control, such as natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes due to health issues, pandemics, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, etc.
💡 Tip: You can easily rent trekking poles and arrange additional entrance tickets or lunch directly with us or on-site for your convenience.
Why Choose Russell Experience Peru?
Local guides with deep knowledge of Inca culture
Comfortable private transport from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Customizable itineraries to suit your interests and pace
Authentic experiences with attention to every detail
Optional Add-Ons & Upgrades
Enhance your Machu Picchu experience with our optional services designed to make your journey even more comfortable and unforgettable:
Trekking Poles – Ideal for extra support during hikes. ($15.00 USD)
Economical Lunch in Aguas Calientes – Enjoy a delicious meal in the charming “Machu Picchu town.” ($15.00 USD)
Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge – Dine right next to the Machu Picchu entrance. ($45.00 USD)
Huayna Picchu Entrance – Subject to availability and time slots: 7:00 am / 8:00 am / 9:00 am / 10:00 am. ($75.00 USD)
Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance* – Available time slots: 8:00 am / 9:00 am. ($75.00 USD)
Guided Tour – For Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, led by an expert guide. ($75.00 USD per group)
Upgrade to Vistadome Train – Travel in comfort with panoramic windows and onboard service. ($50.00 USD)
Upgrade to Vistadome Observatory Train (Return) – Enjoy breathtaking views and live music onboard. ($75.00 USD)
Camping Upon Request – For a unique overnight experience. ($50.00 USD)
Hotel Booking Assistance – We can help you reserve standard or luxury accommodations throughout Peru.
Note: “Machu Picchu Mountain” refers to the peak opposite the main Machu Picchu site.
Note: Machu Picchu is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with limited daily entries. Booking in advance is essential to secure your spot. If you don’t, you may need to hire a private guide or adjust your schedule accordingly.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days | Prices, Discounts & Availability
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days Price – USD 524.00
Exclusive Discounts
We offer special discounts for students and children:
🎓 Students (18 – 24 years old) → $20 USD OFF
To qualify, you must have a valid student ID and be under 25 at the time of your trip.
Please email us a scanned copy when booking.👧 Children under 17 years old → $20 USD OFF
You must be under 18 at the time of your trip.
A scanned copy of the passport is required.
Check Availability
Due to high demand, Inca Trail permits sell out quickly — often 3 to 6 months in advance, especially from May to September.
🔗 Check Inca Trail Availability Here
No Spaces Available? Don’t Worry!
If permits for the Inca Trail are sold out, you still have amazing alternatives:
Salkantay Trek
Choquequirao Trek
Inca Jungle Adventure
Cachicata Trek
Lares Trek
All options include Machu Picchu on the final day (Circuit 2 or 3, subject to availability).
Booking Process
Complete your reservation form here:
🔗 Book NowContact our travel agents via email or WhatsApp: +51 946 033 024
Please wait for confirmation from our team.
Tip: Occasionally, a limited number of permits become available 2 days before your desired start date — but this is not guaranteed.
Important Notes
🗓️ Itinerary may change due to weather, government regulations, or health conditions.
🚆 Train schedules are subject to availability. We include the Expedition Train by default, but upgrades are possible.
🧍♀️ The Inca Trail is limited to 250 people per day to protect this historical path — book early!
Optional Hikes: Huayna Picchu & Machu Picchu Mountain
Enhance your Machu Picchu experience by adding one of these epic climbs (optional, subject to availability):
Huayna Picchu Mountain (Highly Popular)
⏱️ Duration: ~45 minutes up, 45 minutes down
🌄 Views: Iconic postcard panorama of Machu Picchu
⚠️ Difficulty: Steep and narrow paths — not recommended if you suffer from vertigo or fear of heights
🎟️ Tickets: Only 400 available per day — reserve at least 6 months in advance
Machu Picchu Mountain (Panoramic Alternative)
🏔️ Altitude: 3,050 m (10,007 ft)
⏱️ Duration: Around 2.5 to 3 hours round trip
🌿 Highlights: Unbeatable 360° views of Machu Picchu, the Urubamba River, and surrounding peaks
🎟️ Tickets: Limited and subject to availability
Tip: Combining your Machu Picchu tour with either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers a unique perspective of the lost Inca city and its incredible engineering feats.
Packing list for the 4-day Inca Trail
Essential
Clothing
Recommended
Equipment
Cancellation Policies
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.
Frequent Asked Questions About 2-day Inca Trail Tour
Is the Inca Trail worth it for 2 days?
Absolutely! The 2-day Inca Trail is perfect if you want a shorter hike without missing the magical experience of arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. You’ll still enjoy breathtaking Inca ruins, stunning mountain views, and a taste of the famous trail, but with less physical demand and time commitment compared to the 4-day trek.
How far is the Inca Trail 2-day hike?
The 2-day Inca Trail covers approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) on the first day and a short walk to Machu Picchu on the second day. While shorter than the classic 4-day Inca Trail, it still offers incredible scenery and a rewarding hiking experience.
Can I hike Machu Picchu in 2 days?
Yes! The 2-day Inca Trail is designed for travelers who want to hike part of the trail and visit Machu Picchu in just two days. On the first day, you’ll trek to the Sun Gate and enjoy your first panoramic view of the citadel. On the second day, you’ll have a guided tour of Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.
How difficult is the 2-day Inca Trail?
The 2-day Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. You’ll hike about 5–6 hours on the first day, with some steep steps and altitude reaching 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) at the highest point. However, since it’s much shorter than the 4-day trek, it’s suitable for travelers with average fitness levels and limited time.
Strict cancellation
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.