Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in Cusco, Peru
Cusco, Peru

Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night

Outty Ranking 86 5.0 · 337 traveler reviews48 hoursFrom $600
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Outty Ranking

86/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 337 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night worth booking?

Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night is a 48-hour experience in Cusco, Peru, from $600 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 337 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
86 / 100
Rating
5/5 (337)
Duration
48 hours
From
$600 per person

The Outty verdict

It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 86. At $600 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 to Machu Picchu is ideal for travelers who have limited time or want something less strenuous. This adventure hike starts at KM 104 of the Machu Picchu train line on a trail that leads to two archaeological sites Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This hike also gives you the opportunity to enter the lost city via the famous Sun Gate, the dramatic entrance that provides Inca Trail trekkers with their first glimpse of the site. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and then wake up on Day 2 for a Machu Picchu tour.

What you get

    About this experience

    The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is ideal for travelers who have limited time or want something less strenuous. This adventure hike starts at KM 104 of the Machu Picchu train line on a trail that leads to two archaeological sites Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This hike also gives you the opportunity to enter the lost city via the famous Sun Gate, the dramatic entrance that provides Inca Trail trekkers with their first glimpse of the site. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and then wake up on Day 2 for a Machu Picchu tour.

    What's included

    Included

    • Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1.
    • Tour guide
    • Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket through circuit 3
    • Lunch
    • Round trip train tickets

    Not included

    • Hiking poles (can be rented from us)
    • Tips
    • Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on day 2 (US $24).
    • Hotel in Aguas Calientes
    • Dinner in Aguas Calientes on Night 1

    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
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Action Peru Treks

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in CuscoMachu Picchu, Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in CuscoThe Sun Gate, Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in CuscoMachu Picchu, one of the new wonders of the world!, Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in CuscoPlaying with a llama on the Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in CuscoWhat a great view on the Inca Trail, Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night in Cusco

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 337 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

    6 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Physical effort

    3 mentions

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

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    337 verified traveler reviews for Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    333
    4 star
    3
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    tinakN3608CM · August 2026

    An awesome experience

    Our trip to Machu Picchu was fabulous. Three of us hiked the KM104 trail, while the other three took the train and bus. We also added a one day Sacred Valley tour. Our guide Miguel was really knowledgable and took good care of us. He went out of his way to help us when one person in our familiar struggled with the altitude. He also has good tips on where to eat in Aguas Calientes. I can highly recommend Action Trek Peru and especially Miguel

    via Tripadvisor

    Mika_T · May 2026

    Do not book with Action Peru Tours!!!

    Action Peru Tours ruined our Peru trip. We booked the 2D/1N Inca Trail in early February for late May. They messaged us and stated that the initial date we booked was not available, but confirmed they would be able to take us on May 29. We booked our entire Peru trip around this, having confirmed Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets, and now on May 27, less than 48 hours before the tour was supposed to start, they canceled our trip with absolutely no notification other than an email from Viator stating we were getting a refund. In fact, they did not answer any communications in the week prior to our trip. They will not answer the phone, and when we went to the address listed as their office in Cusco, there was no office there. Action Peru Tours is a scam and will ruin your Peru trip. It is impossible to get Inca Trail tickets on two days notice, and now it is unlikely we will even get to see Machu Picchu, even if we cancel the rest of our planned itinerary in order to stand in line for several days in Aguas Calientes in hopes of getting last minute tickets. This has been an absolutely horrible experience that has ruined the rest of our Peru trip and this company needs to be removed from the Viator platform.

    via Viator

    kayleec535 · May 2026

    Amazing experience!

    Christian Piña was an amazing guide!! We were able to learn so much about Machu Picchu and see all of the best views (and take awesome pictures). 10/10 recommend adding on the huchapinchu (?) hike too.

    via Tripadvisor

    82jaylac · May 2026

    AMAZING EXPERIENCE!!

    This tour was absolutely amazing and we really enjoyed the experience. We had such an amazing guide, Christian, who walked us around and showed us all of the great sites and told us all about the history of the site. I really think that anybody who’s looking to go to Machu Picchu should book this tour. They are so coordinated and made the process so easy for us. I also love that every step along the way we had somebody guiding us so we could really just sit back and relax and just enjoy the trip. The hotel that was booked was also amazing and super comfortable. Would highly recommend to anybody!

    via Tripadvisor

    Isaac K · May 2026

    Managed Trek to and from Machu Picchu

    Getting to Machu Picchu is very tedious and the company handles all of the logistics for you. We were able to purely enjoy the experience without worrying about the details of getting around. And our tour guide Christian showed us around Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes which made our time informative and relaxing.

    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
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    118
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Why this scores 86

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

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)99
    Review evidence (18% weight)95
    Booking momentum (14% weight)94
    Value for money (12% weight)39
    Listing quality (10% weight)78
    Local standing (8% weight)68
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night: questions travelers ask

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

    How does Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night compare to similar tours in Cusco?

    +

    It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cusco, with an Outty Ranking of 86. At $600 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night best for?

    +

    It suits families and couples best, based on its 48-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

    Is Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night good value?

    +

    It is a premium pick. It starts at $600, above the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cusco.

    How much does Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night cost?

    +

    Prices start at $600 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 337 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Cusco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night?

    +

    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 Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night?

    +

    Around 118 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night?

    +

    Included: Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1; Tour guide; Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket through circuit 3; Lunch; and Round trip train tickets. Not included: Hiking poles (can be rented from us); Tips; Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on day 2 (US $24); and Hotel in Aguas Calientes. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 3 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night?

    +

    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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; and 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 To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Cusco. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night?

    +

    Across 337 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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