2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu worth booking?
2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 48-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $525 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (4)
- Duration
- 48 hours
- From
- $525 per person
Explore the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for a less crowded and more intimate trekking experience. This 2-day hike offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and passes through several Inca ruins along the way. Offering stunning views of the Andes Mountains and passing through several Inca ruins along the way and culminating in the breathtaking views of Sun GATE and Machu Picchu, this trek is perfect for those looking for a shorter, less crowded alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. The trail allows hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Peruvian landscape while still experiencing the wonder of this ancient civilization.
What you get
About this experience
Explore the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for a less crowded and more intimate trekking experience. This 2-day hike offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains and passes through several Inca ruins along the way. Offering stunning views of the Andes Mountains and passing through several Inca ruins along the way and culminating in the breathtaking views of Sun GATE and Machu Picchu, this trek is perfect for those looking for a shorter, less crowded alternative to the traditional Inca Trail. The trail allows hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Peruvian landscape while still experiencing the wonder of this ancient civilization.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Guía Oficial de Turismo
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Tren de ida y retorno
Not included
- Lunch on the last day
- Mineral water and alcoholic beverages
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
- Southern Peru Explorers
Know before you go
- 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 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Food and drink
1 mentionThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
4 verified traveler reviews for 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Can’t miss
Rolando was the most fun guide. He explained the history beautifully and really showed us the immense beauty of the Inca trail. 10/10 recommend and request Rolando!!
via Tripadvisor
The best experience with our tour guide Erick
We did the 2-day Inca Trail and it was an unforgettable experience thanks to our amazing guide Erick. He was incredibly knowledgeable about Inca history and culture and made the whole journey fun and meaningful. He took great care of us, always making sure we were safe comfortable and enjoying every moment. The hike itself was beautiful with stunning views and reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate was absolutely magical. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide or experience - highly recommended. Being able to visit Machu Picchu twice and see it from different views was also particularly great and made the whole trip really special. Thanks so much Erick!
Response from the operator: Hi Antonia, Thank you so much for sharing your experience in such a thoughtful way! We're really happy to hear that your 2-day Inca Trail was so memorable and that Erick played such an important role in your journey. He has a real passion for Inca history and culture, and we’re sure he’ll be very happy to read your kind words about his guidance and care throughout the trek. It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the hike itself and those breathtaking views along the way. Arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate is always a powerful moment, and being able to experience the site from different angles truly makes the journey even more special, just as you mentioned. Most importantly, we’re glad you felt safe, comfortable, and well taken care of throughout the entire experience—that’s exactly what we aim to deliver on every trek. Thank you again for choosing Southern Peru Explorers and for your recommendation. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Peru in the future! Warm regards, The Southern Peru Explorers Team
via Tripadvisor
Machu Picchu short hike was perfect experience.
We hiked the short Machu Picchu Inca trail in mid November. It was a fantastic experience. The weather on day one was perfect for the hike to the sun gate where we were lucky to see the sun shining on Machu Picchu before heading to the upper area of Machu Picchu. The success and enjoyment of our hike was due to a great guide - Jhimmy. He was knowledgeable, patient and shared with us so much about the Inca culture and history along the trail. The hike was challenging for us but by hiking we got to see so much more of the Inca civilization than we would have if we had taken the bus. We hadn't adopted as well as we liked to the altitude and we weren't as fit as I would have liked so Jimmy's patient encouragement,support and smiling leadership got us to Machu Picchu with time to enjoy the upper area before heading to Agua Caliente for dinner. We couldn't have done it with out him. Day 2 was raining and our tour of Machu Picchu was in the fog and rain making the site seem magical and emphasizing the ingenuity and hard work of the Inca people. Jhimmy again patiently answered our questions and allowed us all the time we wanted to explore. Thanks. We had a great trip
Response from the operator: Hi Helga, Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We’re really happy to hear that your short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu was such a memorable journey, especially that special moment at the Sun Gate when the sun revealed Machu Picchu—it’s truly one of those unforgettable highlights of the trek. It means a lot to know that Jhimmy played such an important role in your experience. His patience, encouragement, and passion for Inca history are exactly what help many travelers complete the hike comfortably, especially when dealing with altitude or physical challenges. We’ll make sure he hears your kind words. We’re also glad you were able to enjoy Machu Picchu in different conditions—from clear skies to mist and rain. Both perspectives show a very different kind of beauty and mystery of the site, and it’s great that you could experience it fully and at your own pace. Thank you again for trusting us and for your thoughtful recommendation. We hope to welcome you back to Peru for another adventure someday! Warm regards, The Southern Peru Explorers Team
via Tripadvisor
2 days in Machu picchu. Our Guide helped us a lot!
My mom and I did the two-day inca trail including the machu picchu tour. We were led by Jhimmy. He was an excellent Guide. He gave us effort to continue the Inca trail when we were tired, took very cute photos and his passion for his culture is affectionate. It is very informative and we learned a lot from it. This experience was unique and we had an excellent time! I hope everyone has this experience! Thanks Jhimmy!
Response from the operator: Estimada Joanna Estamos contentos de saber que tu mamá y tú hayan tenido una experiencia única y memorable en el Inca Trail con Jhimmy como guía. Su pasión por la cultura peruana sin duda hizo que el viaje fuera aún más especial y nos agrada saberlo. ¡Esperamos que todos tengan la oportunidad de vivir una experiencia tan increíble como la suya! ¡Muchas gracias!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
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
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cusco.
How much does 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu cost?
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Prices start at $525 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cusco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Cusco is not rushed.
Is 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 4 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
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Around 1 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 Cusco 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 Cusco and add a light layer if any part of the 48-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Cusco 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 Cusco?
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On Outty we rank every Cusco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sacred Valley Full Day Tour, Full-Day Humantay Lake Trek (Meals Included), Cusco: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley Premium Day Trip with Meals. 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 Cusco?
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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 Cusco?
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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 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
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Included: Private transportation; Guía Oficial de Turismo; Lunch; Dinner; and Tren de ida y retorno. Not included: Lunch on the last day; and Mineral water and alcoholic beverages. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 312 listed pickup locations in and around Cusco. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail 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 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about 2 Days and 1 Night Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
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Across 4 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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