2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 33 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu worth booking?
2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu is a 48-hour experience in Sacred Valley, Peru, from $649 per person. It scores 82 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 33 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 82 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (33)
- Duration
- 48 hours
- From
- $649 per person
Experience the highlights of the famous Inca Trail in just two days. Begin your trek at kilometer 104 and follow the scenic final stretch of this legendary route to the Sun Gate, offering your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. Along the way, discover lesser-known Inca ruins with your expert guide before arriving for a comprehensive guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, relax with an overnight stay in a comfortable Aguas Calientes hotel—combining adventure, culture, and comfort in one unforgettable journey. Important Note: We highly recommend booking your tour at least 5 months in advance, as Inca Trail permits are limited and tend to sell out very quickly, especially during high season. Early booking ensures availability for your preferred departure date.
What you get
About this experience
Experience the highlights of the famous Inca Trail in just two days. Begin your trek at kilometer 104 and follow the scenic final stretch of this legendary route to the Sun Gate, offering your first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. Along the way, discover lesser-known Inca ruins with your expert guide before arriving for a comprehensive guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, relax with an overnight stay in a comfortable Aguas Calientes hotel—combining adventure, culture, and comfort in one unforgettable journey. Important Note: We highly recommend booking your tour at least 5 months in advance, as Inca Trail permits are limited and tend to sell out very quickly, especially during high season. Early booking ensures availability for your preferred departure date.
What's included
Included
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- Lunch and Dinner day 1
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu day 1 and round trip bus ticket day 2
- Round trip transportation by train and bus to Cusco
- Breakfast day 2
- A professional guide
- Hotel pick up and drop off/3 star hotel after your hike in Aguas Calientes
Not included
- Lunch and dinner on Day 2
- Travel Insurance, you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the hike.
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Peru Hikers
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 32 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
4 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
32 verified traveler reviews for 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Wonderful experience!
We were met with Isao our guide at Kilometre 104 on the train to Aguas Calientes. We jumped off the train and he greeted us with a smile and a warm welcome! The trek was mainly all up hill with so many steps but the views were spectacular and Isao encouraged us to stop for a breather whenever we needed. He was full of information about the trail, the Incas, the history and how Matchu Picchu ended up being left. His enthusiasm for the history of his country was admirable and captivating to listen to. He took sooo many photos of us in different areas and I think if he ever gave up being a guide he could become a photographer as he had a real skill in it! Well worth the cost as we had a really wonderful time and would definitely recommend to other travellers in this wonderful part of the world.
Response from the operator: Dear Vicky, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Isao. It’s great to know that his encouragement, knowledge of Inca history, and passion for sharing Peru’s cultural heritage made your trek even more special. We’re also happy that you enjoyed all the photos and the spectacular views along the trail! We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Isao. Thank you for recommending Peru Hikers and for choosing us to be part of your adventure. We hope to welcome you back to Peru for another unforgettable journey! Warm regards, The Peru Hikers Team
via Tripadvisor
A very memorable experience.
We didn’t just go to Machu Picchu — we VISITED! And what an experience! 🇵🇪 Our Short Inka Trek with Peru Hikers was truly once in a lifetime, and so much of what made it special was our amazing guide, Isao. Communication is everything and from our very first contact, Peru Hikers gave us complete confidence that we were in safe hands. They handled everything — tickets, hotels, transfers and logistics — and communication was excellent throughout. Everything was organised, clear and reassuring. The night before our trek, Isao personally contacted us to introduce himself, run through the itinerary and made sure we had everything we needed. At around 4am the next morning, our private taxi collected us from our Cusco hotel and took us to Ollantaytambo, where we caught the train to Aguas Calientes. The Short Inka Trek began at Km 104, where we finally met Isao. What a guy! Friendly, knowledgeable, passionate and full of enthusiasm. It was obvious how much he loves his job, and that enthusiasm was completely contagious. He guided us safely along the trail, shared fascinating stories about the history of Machu Picchu and even captured some incredible photographs and videos for us along the way. We laughed and learned and we were completely blown away by Machu Picchu. A huge thank you to Peru Hikers and especially Isao for making this such an unforgettable experience. You took care of every detail, allowing us to simply enjoy the adventure. We hope the videos, photographs and laughter you captured will help you show others just how fantastic your service is. If you’re thinking about visiting Machu Picchu, we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Peru Hikers.
Response from the operator: Dear Darren, Thank you so much for such a heartfelt review! It means a great deal to our entire Peru Hikers team to know that your Short Inca Trail experience was not just a trip to Machu Picchu, but a truly unforgettable journey. We’re especially grateful for your kind words about Isao. His passion for the Inca Trail, the history of Machu Picchu, and connecting with travelers is at the heart of what we do. We’re so happy that his enthusiasm, stories, photography, and sense of adventure helped make your experience even more special. We’re also delighted to hear that you felt confident and well cared for from your first contact with us through the tickets, transfers, hotel, and trek logistics. We believe that taking care of the details allows our travelers to focus on what really matters — enjoying the trail, discovering the history, and creating unforgettable memories. And we absolutely love the way you described it: “We didn’t just go to Machu Picchu — we VISITED!” That is exactly the kind of experience we hope every traveler takes home. Thank you for trusting Peru Hikers with such a special part of your Peru adventure. We hope the photos, videos, laughter, and memories from the trail stay with you for many years to come. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we would be delighted to welcome you back to Peru for another adventure someday! Warm regards, The Peru Hikers Team
via Tripadvisor
Best Machu picchu experience ever
Very exciting. Very patient. Very informative. Will use them again. Had cramps on the trail and was accommodating with my cramps.
Response from the operator: Dear Client, Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We’re very happy to hear that your 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was exciting, informative, and memorable. The trail can be challenging at times, so we’re especially glad that our team was able to support you when you experienced cramps and help you continue the journey at a comfortable pace. For us at Peru Hikers, reaching Machu Picchu is important, but taking care of our travelers every step of the way is just as important. Thank you for trusting our local team, and we truly appreciate hearing that you would travel with us again. We would be delighted to welcome you back to Peru for another adventure! Warm greetings from Cusco, Peru Hikers Team Journeys that Change You
via Tripadvisor
Perfect trip with Saul
This trip couldn’t have been any better. Our tour guide Saul made it perfect. Peru Hikers is the best possible company you can book with, communication was great, they speak perfect English and are extremely knowledgeable of not just Machu Piccu but the entire region. They truly care that you have a great experience and will go out of their way to achieve that.
Response from the operator: Dear Client, Thank you so much for your incredible review and kind recommendation! We’re thrilled to hear that your 2-Day Short Inca Trail adventure was such a perfect experience with Saul. It’s wonderful to know that our communication, local knowledge, and attention to detail made your journey even more memorable. As a locally owned Cusco tour operator, we take great pride in sharing the history, culture, and beauty of our region while making every traveler feel cared for from start to finish. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Saul! Thank you for trusting Peru Hikers with your adventure to Machu Picchu. We hope to welcome you back to Peru for another unforgettable journey! Warm regards, The Peru Hikers Team
via Tripadvisor
Great experience & highly recommend Peru Hikers & guide Isao!
Our guide for 3 days was Isao. He was amazing - extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and fun. Isao was a great guide for our family trip. We toured the Sacred Valley with him, and he shared many personal stories and history of the area with us. He also led our 1 day hike on the Inka Trail to Machu Picchu to the Sun Gate, and along circuit 1. We then explored circuit 3 with him the following day. He was energetic and always willing to answer our many, and repeated questions. And he's an amazing photographer! He went above and beyond. Also, the travel logistics organized by Peru Hikers were seamless. they made our reservations for hotels, train and access to the sites. Worked out flawlessly
Response from the operator: Dear Debra, Thank you so much for your amazing review and recommendation! We're delighted to hear that your family had such a memorable experience exploring the Sacred Valley, the Short Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu with Isao. Your kind words about his knowledge, enthusiasm, storytelling, and photography mean a great deal to us. We'll be sure to share your compliments with him. We're also happy that all the travel arrangements went smoothly and met your expectations. Thank you for choosing Peru Hikers. We hope to welcome you and your family back to Peru for another unforgettable adventure! Warm regards, Peru Hikers Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 48 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 12
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Peru Hikers, who run 4 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 81.9 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Peru Hikers runsWhy this scores 82
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sacred Valley.
How much does 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu cost?
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Prices start at $649 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sacred Valley usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu take?
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Plan for about 48 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sacred Valley is not rushed.
Is 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 82 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 33 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Sacred Valley, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 48-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu?
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Around 12 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sacred Valley can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sacred Valley and add a light layer if any part of the 48-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sacred Valley within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Sacred Valley?
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On Outty we rank every Sacred Valley experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Best Private Sacred Valley Tour in Cusco ( with Pisac), From Urubamba & Ollantaytambo: Sacred Valley Day tour with Lunch, Machu Picchu Guided Tour from Aguas Calientes. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Sacred Valley?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Sacred Valley?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu?
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Included: Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets; Lunch and Dinner day 1; Bus ticket from Machu Picchu day 1 and round trip bus ticket day 2; Round trip transportation by train and bus to Cusco; and Breakfast day 2. Not included: Lunch and dinner on Day 2; and Travel Insurance, you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the hike. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 2 listed pickup locations in and around Sacred Valley. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Sacred Valley. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu?
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Across 33 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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