Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train

Outty Ranking 65 5.0 · 51 traveler reviews48 hoursFrom $795
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Outty Ranking

65/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 51 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train worth booking?

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train is a 48-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $795 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 51 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
65 / 100
Rating
5/5 (51)
Duration
48 hours
From
$795 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 65. At $795 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

Prices and availability checked

Make the most of your time in Peru with this 2 day, 1 night Short Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu. After a comfortable transfer from Cusco, follow your guide on a full day hike along the iconic Short Inca Trail, visiting Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Inti Punku. Enjoy a included dinner and overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, then explore Machu Picchu with a guided tour the next morning. You’ll also have free time to wander the ancient citadel on your own. Highlights: Small group (max 9 people) All inclusive transportation 3 meals included Official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance Ideal for travelers with limited time in Cusco

What you get

    About this experience

    Make the most of your time in Peru with this 2 day, 1 night Short Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu. After a comfortable transfer from Cusco, follow your guide on a full day hike along the iconic Short Inca Trail, visiting Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Inti Punku. Enjoy a included dinner and overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, then explore Machu Picchu with a guided tour the next morning. You’ll also have free time to wander the ancient citadel on your own. Highlights: Small group (max 9 people) All inclusive transportation 3 meals included Official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance Ideal for travelers with limited time in Cusco

    What's included

    Included

    • Tour guide
    • 1 Night's accommodation in Aguas Calientes
    • Return Train (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo)
    • Lunch
    • Bus Aguas Calientes -Machu Picchu Sanctuary - Aguas Calientes
    • Dinner
    • Transport (Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Cusco)
    • Breakfast
    • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
    • Train to the Trailhead (Ollantaytambo KM 104)
    • Entrance ticket to Inca Trail

    Not included

    • Breakfast on the day 1
    • Entrance to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (10 Soles)
    • Entrance to Huyana Picchu
    • Lunch and dinner on day 2
    • Tips for the driver and guide (optional)
    • Trekking poles

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 9 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Machu Picchu Peru Tours

    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
    • We require a image (pdf or jpg) of your passport to complete the reservation.

    Photos

    Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, photo 2Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, photo 3Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, photo 4Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, photo 5Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, photo 6Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 51 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Organization

    3 mentions

    Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Food and drink

    2 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Traveler reviews

    51 verified traveler reviews for Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    50
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    nissimyaish · April 2022

    MACHU Picchu Peru Tours

    It was wonderful trip with Machu Picchu Peru Tours. I would like to remind the guy Abel that wes amazing.

    Response from the operator: Dear Nissim, Thank you very much for your comment and for recommending our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days & 1 Night). It is always encouraging for us to know that our clients are satisfied with our services as it is what we strive for every day. It is an honor for us to provide you with great experience in Cusco. Once again, thank you for trusting in our services, we hope you will visit us again very soon! Best regards, Machu Picchu Peru Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    wendyvelasquez9 · January 2022

    Nice overall experience

    I was keen on hiking the real Inca Trail of 4 days but eventually ended up hiking this as the permit for the other was sold out. Overall this was a nice experience. There were a few Inca ruins along the way. The guide knew them well and spoke fair English too. The food and accommodaton in Aguas Calientes were good. I had a two hours tour of Machu Picchu citadel which was very informative and insightful.

    Response from the operator: Dear Wendy, Thank you very much for your comment and for recommending our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days & 1 Night) We are very happy to know that our staff made your experience enjoyable. It is an honor for us to provide you with a great service in Cusco. Once again, thank you for trusting in our team, we hope you will visit us again very soon! Best regards, Machu Picchu Peru Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    Ericksontraveler · December 2021

    Thanks Machu Picchu Peru Tours

    This was an incredible trip. I could not get the Inca Trail permit so decided to hike the shorter version. Everything was outstanding with the agency from start to end. The trail is amazing and I did visit some of the prominent Inca ruins along the way. The guide showed many interesting sites. It was a good worth for the money paid. Highly recommend.

    Response from the operator: Dear Erickson, Thank you very much for your comment and for recommending our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days & 1 Night) We are very happy to know that our staff made your experience enjoyable. It is an honor for us to provide you with a great service in Cusco. Once again, thank you for trusting in our team, we hope you will visit us again very soon! Best regards, Machu Picchu Peru Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    Traveler28529106714 · August 2021

    <3

    An exceptional time. From the breathtaking views you get to see, moments of pure joy, to the guide that is really there for You.

    Response from the operator: Dear Antony, Thank you very much for your comment and for recommending our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days & 1 Night) We are very happy to know that our staff made your experience enjoyable. It is an honor for us to provide you with a great service in Cusco. Once again, thank you for trusting in our team, we hope you will visit us again very soon! Best regards, Machu Picchu Peru Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    soffymanuel · December 2019

    Once in a lifetime experience

    Daniel, Samuel and Jorge made our experience unforgettable. If you are looking for an experience unlike anyother, I cannot recommend Machu Picchu Peru Tours any more highly! The team takes care of the logistics so you can focus on the trip, sights and amazing history that Sam and Daniel tell you on the way. We had a fantastic time.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    48 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    18
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Machu Picchu Peru Tours, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.1.

    See everything Machu Picchu Peru Tours runs

    Why this scores 65

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)97
    Review evidence (18% weight)64
    Booking momentum (14% weight)58
    Value for money (12% weight)23
    Listing quality (10% weight)82
    Local standing (8% weight)64
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cusco.

    How does Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train compare to similar tours in Cusco?

    +

    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 65. At $795 it sits above the typical similar option ($43), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and couples.

    Who is Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train best for?

    +

    It suits families and couples best, based on its 48-hour length, all-ages access and non-refundable terms.

    Is Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $795, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train cost?

    +

    Prices start at $795 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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train take?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 51 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable food & drink in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train suitable for kids and families?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train?

    +

    Around 18 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?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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), Full-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek (Meals Included). 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train?

    +

    Included: Tour guide; 1 Night's accommodation in Aguas Calientes; Return Train (Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo); Lunch; and Bus Aguas Calientes -Machu Picchu Sanctuary - Aguas Calientes. Not included: Breakfast on the day 1; Entrance to Aguas Calientes Hot Springs (10 Soles); Entrance to Huyana Picchu; and Lunch and dinner on day 2. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 298 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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train offered in?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train if the weather is bad?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Hike to Machu Picchu with Permits & Train?

    +

    Across 51 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, organization. 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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