Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay

Outty Ranking 68 5.0 · 50 traveler reviews48 hoursFrom $520
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Outty Ranking

68/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 50 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay worth booking?

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay is a 48-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $520 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 50 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
68 / 100
Rating
5/5 (50)
Duration
48 hours
From
$520 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 68. At $520 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

The Short Inca Trail 2-Day Trek offers a captivating journey along a scenic 12 km (7.5 miles) stretch of the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Experience cloud forests and ancient stone paths, visiting remarkable Inca sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a shorter adventure without compromising the iconic experience of the Inca Trail. Spend a comfortable night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes and conclude your hike with a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, just as the Incas did. - Hike one of the most iconic sections of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. - Visit impressive Inca sites along the trail, including Wiñay Wayna. - Enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch by a professional chef on the trek. - Small group sizes (max 8) ensure a personalized experience with expert guides.

What you get

    About this experience

    The Short Inca Trail 2-Day Trek offers a captivating journey along a scenic 12 km (7.5 miles) stretch of the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Experience cloud forests and ancient stone paths, visiting remarkable Inca sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a shorter adventure without compromising the iconic experience of the Inca Trail. Spend a comfortable night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes and conclude your hike with a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, just as the Incas did. - Hike one of the most iconic sections of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. - Visit impressive Inca sites along the trail, including Wiñay Wayna. - Enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch by a professional chef on the trek. - Small group sizes (max 8) ensure a personalized experience with expert guides.

    What's included

    Included

    • Expedition tourist-class round-trip train tickets
    • Fully guided Machu Picchu and Inca Trail experience
    • Duffle bag for your personal belongings, allowing you to hike with only a small daypack
    • Experienced English-speaking professional guide
    • One-night accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
    • Lunch
    • Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance fees (Circuit 1 & 3)
    • Dinner
    • Breakfast
    • Chef-prepared picnic lunch on the trekking day
    • Three-way bus tickets between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes
    • All transportation: from Cusco to the train station and return to Cusco on Day 2

    Not included

    • Breakfast on day 1 and Lunch on day 2
    • Travel insurance (optional but highly recommended)
    • Tips for your guide, chef, and support staff (optional)
    • Personal expenses

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Qoricancha Expeditions

    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
    • Not recommended for travelers with fear of heights or high altitudes.
    • Not recommended for travelers allergic to mosquito bites.

    Photos

    Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, photo 2Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, photo 3Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, photo 4Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, photo 5Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, photo 6Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay in Cusco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 50 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    9 mentions

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

    Food and drink

    7 mentions

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

    Knowledge and storytelling

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    4 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Organization

    4 mentions

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

    Physical effort

    4 mentions

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

    Traveler reviews

    50 verified traveler reviews for Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    D66MKlisag · October 2026

    Best Machu Picchu experience

    My partner and I did the 2 day Inca Trail with Qoricancha Expeditions on 21 and 22 October, with Ronaldinho as our guide, and we had a fantastic experience. We would absolutely recommend them! Ronaldinho speaks really good English. We are Italian but live in the UK, and we generally find it easier to understand Spanish than English spoken with a strong Spanish accent. Since we don’t speak Spanish ourselves, it was great to be able to communicate easily with Ronaldinho and ask all our questions without struggling to make ourselves understood. The whole team was incredibly attentive and supportive. I’m five months pregnant with our first child, and although I’m fit and have been feeling well, I naturally had some doubts about doing the trek. Ronaldo and Ronaldinho were both amazing, always checking that I was comfortable and reassuring me along the way. They gave me walking poles and made sure the lunches were suitable for my dietary requests. I felt really well looked after throughout the whole experience. And the food was absolutely delicious, too! The trek itself was great fun, and I never felt rushed or pressured to walk faster than I was comfortable with. Ronaldinho was a brilliant guide, not only very patient and always happy to answer our questions, but also incredibly knowledgeable. He knows so much about the history and culture of the places we visited, and he has a lovely way of telling their stories that makes everything much more interesting and brings the places to life. You can really tell that he knows what he’s talking about and enjoys sharing his knowledge with others. What stood out to us, though, was not just how good he was at his job, but also what a genuinely kind person he is. He was thoughtful towards everyone, not just us. At one point, he even helped a porter who was struggling on the final uphill section by carrying her heavy backpack. He was also always kind and encouraging towards his colleagues, which was lovely to see. Ronaldinho has such a calm, reassuring and caring presence, and he really made the experience even more special. We’re very grateful to him, Ronaldo and the whole Qoricancha Expeditions team for making this such a memorable experience for us. We would definitely recommend Qoricancha Expeditions to anyone thinking of doing the Inca Trail. And if you get Ronaldinho as your guide, you’re in very good hands! P.S. he also took very good pictures of us we'll treasure forever!

    Response from the operator: Dear Lisa G. Thank you both so much for sharing such a thoughtful and heartfelt review! We’re truly happy to know that your 2-day Short Inca Trail adventure with Qoricancha Expeditions was such a memorable experience. It means a great deal to us to hear that you felt supported and well cared for throughout the journey. Ronaldinho will be especially happy to read your kind words about his guiding, his knowledge of Inca history and culture, and the care he puts into making every guest feel comfortable. We’ll also make sure he knows how much you appreciated the photos he took! We’re proud of our team, and your recognition of everyone’s efforts — from the guiding and personalized attention to the meals prepared along the trail — means a lot to us. Thank you for placing your trust in our local team and for recommending us to other travelers. It was a pleasure to be part of your adventure, and we wish you both all the very best as you begin this exciting new chapter together. We hope to welcome you back to Cusco someday! Warmest regards, Ronaldo & Qoricancha Expeditions Team

    via Tripadvisor

    V5703GBjacobw · October 2026

    Machu Picchu 2 Day Experience

    What an absolutely amazing experience! Ronaldino was a fantastic tour guide who made the entire adventure incredibly enjoyable and memorable. His knowledge, passion and friendly personality really added to the experience, and he made sure we were comfortable and having a great time throughout. The scenery was breathtaking, but having Ronaldino as our guide made the experience even more special. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure in Peru! Thank you, Ronaldino, for an incredible experience!

    Response from the operator: Dear Jacob W. Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re pleased you had a memorable experience exploring Peru with Qoricancha Expeditions. Ronaldino will be happy to hear that his knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendly attitude made your trip even better. We're proud to have guides who truly care about our guests and work hard to make every journey special. Thank you for trusting us and recommending us to other travelers. It was a pleasure to be part of your adventure, and we hope to see you again in Cusco for another great experience! Warm regards, The Qoricancha Expeditions Team

    via Tripadvisor

    N418ISseanh · October 2026

    Amazing guides , company and chef on the Inca trail classic

    Amazing experience. We had the two best guides ever - Diego and Ronaldo . They were so helpful, explained everything . And just really good humans. Alex was our Chef and the food was out of this world. All the boys, the porters , the tw us etc were so well planned. I went with 9 friends from uk and Australia. If you’re reading this - do it. It’s a trip of a lifetime. Ask for Ronnie and Diego and Alex ( chef) and I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

    Response from the operator: Dear Sean Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! It was a pleasure sharing this adventure with you and your friends. Diego, Ronnie, Alex, and our entire team will be delighted to know they helped make your journey so special. We’re grateful you trusted us with this once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we hope to welcome you back to Peru for another unforgettable adventure! Warm regards, Ronaldo & the Team

    via Tripadvisor

    55siobhanc · October 2026

    Machu Picchu 2 day trek

    My friend and I really loved the two day Machu Picchu trek, the shorter hike compared to the four days worked much better for our itinerary. The hike on day one is magnificent, stopping through several other Inca settlements before reaching the sun gate and Machu Picchu. It can be challenging at times with some stairs, but definitely worth it. The cooked lunch on day one was delicious, with a wide selection including trout, chicken, rice and salads. Our tour guide Simon Puma was very knowledgeable, funny, and made the trip a great time.

    Response from the operator: Dear Siobhan, Thank you for choosing us for your journey to Machu Picchu! We’re delighted that the two-day Short Inca Trail was the perfect fit for your itinerary and that you enjoyed discovering the remarkable Inca settlements along the way. Reaching the Sun Gate and witnessing Machu Picchu is always a special moment, and we’re glad you could experience it firsthand. Simon will be thrilled to know that his knowledge and sense of humor added so much to your adventure. Thank you for trusting our team to be part of such a memorable journey through Peru’s history and culture. Warm regards, Ronaldo & the Team

    via Tripadvisor

    Trek00431722414 · September 2026

    We had a great time!

    We had a great time. Everything was organized. We got from response responses and ability to customize our tour. Highly recommend!

    Response from the operator: Dear Manisha D: Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re glad you enjoyed the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and found everything well organized. Thank you for mentioning our communication and flexibility in customizing your tour. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we appreciate your recommendation. Are you planning a trip to Peru and hoping to see Machu Picchu? We’d love to help make your journey special with personalized planning, local knowledge, and attention to detail. We hope to welcome you back to Peru for another great adventure! Warm regards, The Qoricancha Expeditions Team

    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

    Why this scores 68

    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)48
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)64
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay: questions travelers ask

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

    How does Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay compare to similar tours in Cusco?

    +

    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 68. At $520 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $520, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay cost?

    +

    Prices start at $520 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay 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 Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 50 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay?

    +

    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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay?

    +

    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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay?

    +

    Included: Expedition tourist-class round-trip train tickets; Fully guided Machu Picchu and Inca Trail experience; Duffle bag for your personal belongings, allowing you to hike with only a small daypack; Experienced English-speaking professional guide; and One-night accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. Not included: Breakfast on day 1 and Lunch on day 2; Travel insurance (optional but highly recommended); Tips for your guide, chef, and support staff (optional); and Personal expenses. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 503 listed pickup locations in and around Cusco. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay?

    +

    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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay 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 Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cusco. Standard cancellation terms apply.

    What do travelers say about Short Inca Trail 2 Day Trek to Machu Picchu with Hotel Stay?

    +

    Across 50 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, food and drink, knowledge and storytelling. 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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