2-Day Short Inca Trail Trek
with Hotel

Highlights

1. Highlights

   This short two-day Alpaca Expeditions Inca Trail Tour with a hotel allows you to visit the most magnificent ruins while heading to Machu Picchu, Winawayna. Help yourself to lunch before visiting and then pass through the Sun Gate for your first view of the Lost City of the Incas. You’ll continue down to Aguas Calientes village and have an unforgettable dinner. This will be at a popular restaurant in town before heading to your hotel room. For those who want a small taste of hiking the Andes, this 1-day hike and the next day spent at Machu Picchu can’t be beaten.

   The short Inca Trail or 2 day Inca Trail is a great option if you are not too experienced in hiking or if you have limited time. As its name commands the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 1 day hike covering the last portion of the Inca Trail that ends at Machu Picchu. Instead of starting on Km 82 as the classic version we will start on Km 104 after a train ride.

   This short Inca trail has one day of hiking that allows you the once in a lifetime experience of entering Machu Picchu directly from the trail. Then you’ll get a guided walking tour of Machu Picchu the second day, which makes it a really great way to see the area and still a fun challenge for those new to hiking. During this Machu Picchu 2 day hike you’ll also get to visit the archeological parks of Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna and Intipunku or Sun Gate.

   Remember: This short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu package has the same regulations as the classic Inca Trail. That means a permit is needed and there’s always the chance these will be sold out. So, like all of Alpaca Expeditions’ tour package you need to be book in advance to ensure you get the tour and timing you want.

   Note: It’s best to book your hotel in the central part of town, due to the early pick-up. We’re unable to go to most Airbnb locations as they’re not easy to find. Before you book, please let us know where you’re staying so that we can confirm if our Alpaca Expeditions vans can access that location.

    

2. Itinerary Overview

   Day 1: Inca Trail – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu (Walking Distance: 15 km / 8 miles)
   Day 2: Machu Picchu! (You will be back in Cusco around 8:30PM)

    

3. Briefing

   The night before your trek, you’ll come to the Alpaca Expeditions office for your 2-Day Inca Trail briefing. During this meeting, your guide will go over all the details of your hike and provide you with your duffel bag.

4. Duffle Bags

   These personal duffle bags will be given to you the night before your trek, during the briefing at 6:00 p.m. at our office. The duffle bags are similar in size to a small carry-on and are meant for packing only the clothes you’ll need for one night. The total weight should not exceed 5 kilograms (about 10 pounds).

   After receiving your duffle bag, you’ll return to your hotel to pack your clothes and bring it with you the next morning. At the Ollantaytambo station, you’ll give your duffle bag to your guide. The bags will then be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes. When you arrive in the evening, you’ll find your duffle bag waiting for you at your hotel.

   The next day, before visiting Machu Picchu, you can leave your duffle bag at the hotel’s storage. After your tour, stop by the hotel to pick it up and take it with you on the train back to Cusco. Before being dropped off at your hotel in Cusco, you’ll return the duffle bag and transfer your belongings to the plastic bags provided.

5. Special Offers

   Add Rainbow Mountain Hike: $150 US

   Experience a full day hike to the striped Rainbow mountain at a very special rate. This can be done before or after your Inca Trail Tour. You will just need to arrange with your Alpaca Expeditions sales team member. This is an incredible experience so be sure to look into it!

    

Inclusions

1. Included

   • Professional Guides: Every single on of Alpaca Expeditions’ guides attended Cusco National University and studied tourism as well as English. They’re all local residents who are from villages in the area. This means they’re dedicated to their families and heritage.
   • Permits: As soon as we receive your details and a deposit, we’ll purchase your permits (pending availability, check our Inca Trail Availability link). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They can NOT be changed once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.
   • Hotel Accommodation: This trek includes one night in a three-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The specific hotel will be confirmed in your trip reminder, which is sent approximately 7–15 days before your trek. Upgrades are always available upon request.
   • Transportation: All transportation is included in your trek for a seamless experience:
     • Hotel pickup: You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 a.m. and 4:20 a.m. (unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo).
     • Train to KM 104: From Ollantaytambo, you’ll take the train to KM 104, where your trek begins.
     • Return train from Aguas Calientes: After your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll ride the Vistadome Train back. There is also an option to upgrade to the Vistadome Observatory  Train for $75 per person, offering panoramic views.
     • Private transfer to hotel: Upon arrival at the train station in Ollantaytambo, an Alpaca Expeditions team member will escort you back to your hotel in Cusco.
     • Bus to Machu Picchu: Your round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is also included.

   This ensures a smooth, stress-free journey from start to finish, allowing you to focus on the adventure and the scenery.

   • Food: Alpaca Expeditions ensures you enjoy delicious meals during your trek to Machu Picchu:
     • Day 1 Breakfast: Not included. We recommend arranging a to-go breakfast with your hotel in Cusco or Ollantaytambo, or you can purchase something at the cafeteria inside the Ollantaytambo train station.
     • Day 1 Lunch: Enjoy a peaceful lunch at the Wiñay Wayna ruins.
     • Day 1 Dinner: Dine at one of the restaurants in Aguas Calientes.
     • Day 2 Breakfast: Provided at your hotel.
     • Day 2 Lunch: Not included.

   This ensures you are well-fueled while giving you flexibility to enjoy meals at your own pace.

   • Water: From your first lunch until your last breakfast, Alpaca Expeditions will provide all the water you need. The water is carefully boiled, filtered, and cooled before distribution to ensure safety and freshness.You should bring your personal water bottles or a CamelBak, and we recommend carrying about 3 liters of water with you. You’ll have the opportunity to refill your bottles at each meal, keeping you well-hydrated throughout the trek, a key to feeling great in the mountains.
   • First Aid: Every Alpaca Expeditions guide has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training sessions every February for all Alpaca Expeditions’ employees. Your Alpaca Expeditions guide will always have a first-aid kit with oxygen for basic medical problems. If something does happen, which is rare, we’ll get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible. We will stay with you the entire time until you are either back at your hotel or being seen by a medical professional.
   • Satellite Phones: Alpaca Expeditions’ top priority is and always will be the safety. While all our Alpaca Expeditions guides are prepared and trained for these situations. We go the extra mile and ensure that you’re always only a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or to check on things back home. All Alpaca Expeditions guides are required to carry radios but they are limited in how far they can reach. That’s why Alpaca Expeditions added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used to reach anyone from anywhere. They can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well for an additional fee.
   • Briefing: The night before your trek, you’ll come to the Alpaca Expeditions office for your 2-Day Inca Trail briefing. During this meeting, your guide will go over all the details of your hike and provide you with your duffel bag.
   • Duffel Bag: These personal duffle bags will be given to you the night before your trek, during the briefing at 6:00 p.m. at our office. The duffle bags are similar in size to a small carry-on and are meant for packing only the clothes you’ll need for one night. The total weight should not exceed 5 kilograms (about 10 pounds).
     After receiving your duffle bag, you’ll return to your hotel to pack your clothes and bring it with you the next morning. At the Ollantaytambo station, you’ll give your duffle bag to your guide. The bags will then be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes. When you arrive in the evening, you’ll find your duffle bag waiting for you at your hotel.
     The next day, before visiting Machu Picchu, you can leave your duffle bag at the hotel’s storage. After your tour, stop by the hotel to pick it up and take it with you on the train back to Cusco. Before being dropped off at your hotel in Cusco, you’ll return the duffle bag and transfer your belongings to the plastic bags provided.

2. Not Included

   • Rentals: Because there is no camping on this trek the only possible needs would be an extra porter or walking sticks. The items are listed below:
   • Walking Sticks (Pair): $10
   • Porters: Because this is just a one day hike without camping, there will not be porters. Your day pack should include anything you need for the evening and the next day at Machu Picchu. It’s your responsibility to carry it yourself.
   • Huayna Picchu: Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It’s a 45-minute hike to the top of Huayna Picchu. The views of Machu Picchu from the top are incredible. However, if you’re afraid of heights you need to be warned that coming back down the path is quite steep. If you decide to take this hike then you would it after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75 per person and arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance due to popularity.

    

Price

1. Price

   We would love to take everyone on the Inca Trail and guide you to Machu Picchu. We can leave any day of the week as long as permits remain with the government. Please remember, permits are only needed for your START DATE.

    

2. Group Price:

   $585 per person

3. Private Tours are based on Group Size:

   2 Trekkers: $1000 per person
   3 Trekkers: $910 per person
   4 Trekkers: $850 per person
   5 Trekkers: $770 per person
   6 Trekkers: $710 per person
   7 Trekkers: $650 per person
   8 or more Trekkers: $580 per person

    

4. Hotel

   Alpaca Expeditions includes a three-star hotel stay in Aguas Calientes, using one of the following options based on availability at booking: Inti Punku, Retama Hotel, or Hatun Inti Classic. All rooms feature private bathrooms with hot showers and Wi-Fi. Accommodation is based on double or triple occupancy, and there is a single supplement fee of $50 USD per person for those who prefer their own room.

   We can also arrange hotel upgrades if you’d like something more luxurious. Please note that service standards in Aguas Calientes are generally more limited than in Cusco. Below are some popular upgrade options, though we work with most hotels in town:

   • La Jaya: +$60 shared (+$110 single) – ★★★★
   • El Mapi: +$70 shared (+$152 single) – ★★★★
   • Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo: +$250 shared (+$380 single) – ★★★★★

   If you choose to book your own hotel, a discount of $40 USD per person will be applied.

    

5. Single Travelers

   • + $50 US per person

   For solo travelers or those who prefer their own room, there is a $50 single supplement fee to cover the full cost of a private room. We understand that sharing with a stranger can be uncomfortable, so we never pair solo trekkers together. This rate applies to the included Inti Punku or similar 3-star hotels and may be higher if you choose an upgraded accommodation option.

    

6. Student Discount

   – $25 off per person

   Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.

    

7. Additional Items

   As seen in our Additional Items under Trip Overview there are several optional upgrades. Below is a quick list of prices but be sure to check our Overview section for more details.

    

8. Huayna Picchu

   Huayna Picchu: is the iconic peak that rises beside Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stone pathways and breathtaking views. The hike typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the summit, depending on your pace. Although this portion is done independently, your guide will accompany you to the checkpoint and point out the trail entrance before you begin.

   This hike requires an additional entrance ticket, which we can secure for you in advance, as availability is very limited.

   Huayna Picchu tickets are issued in timed entry groups to manage trail capacity. The sessions currently offered are:

   • Group 1: Entry from 7:00–8:00 AM
   • Group 2: Entry from 9:00–10:00 AM

   We usually book the 9:00–10:00 AM entry so you can fully enjoy your guided tour of Machu Picchu first, then begin the hike without rushing. Once inside the checkpoint, you may take your time ascending and descending.

   The additional ticket cost is $75 USD per person.

9. Machu Picchu Mountain

   Machu Picchu Mountain is the higher peak overlooking the citadel, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding Andes. The hike is longer and less steep than Huayna Picchu, usually taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the summit.

   This visit requires an additional entrance ticket, which we can secure for you in advance.

   Machu Picchu Mountain tickets have two entry time options:

   • Group 1: Entry at 6:00 AM
   • Group 2: Entry at 8:00 AM

   Because these time windows are early in the morning, it is not possible to combine Machu Picchu Mountain with the guided visit included after hiking the Inca Trail. Instead, hikers who want to do this climb must schedule a second visit to Machu Picchu on the following day.

   The cost of this additional ticket is $75 USD per person.

    

10. Vistadome Train

    All our tours include the Expedition Train, which is typically booked between 2:30 pm – 3:20 p.m. from Aguas Calientes.
    If you prefer an upgraded experience, the Vistadome Train offers larger panoramic windows, more spacious seating, and onboard entertainment. The departure time for the Vistadome depends on availability and is usually scheduled at 1:37 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 4:43 p.m. This train generally travels to the Ollantaytambo station, where private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
    If you would like a train that travels to Poroy or directly to Cusco, this can also be arranged with advance notice, though it is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost.
    The Vistadome upgrade from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is $75 per person

     

11. Extra Day at Machu Picchu

    You’ll have a full day at Machu Picchu arriving at the citadel around 6 AM and leaving no later than 12 PM to catch your 14:30 train. If you would like to tour Machu Picchu again on your own the next day that can be arranged for you.

    The entrance ticket into Machu Picchu is $55 per person.
    The roundtrip bus ticket between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu is $30 per person

     

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Travel Info

1. Getting to Cusco

   Cusco’s airport (Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport) currently operates domestic flights only. All international travelers must first arrive in Lima, where you’ll go through immigration and customs. Even if you have a connecting flight to Cusco on the same airline, you’ll need to collect your checked bags in Lima and recheck them for your domestic flight.

   The fastest and most convenient way to reach Cusco is by plane. Major airlines such as LATAM, SKY Airlines, and JetSMART offer multiple daily flights between Lima and Cusco (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes). Because of Cusco’s high altitude and mountain weather, flight delays or cancellations can occur, so it’s best to plan some buffer time in your itinerary.

   If you prefer to travel overland, comfortable long-distance buses are available. The journey from Lima takes about 20–22 hours, while routes from nearby cities such as Arequipa or Puno take between 6–10 hours. Peruvian bus companies such as Cruz del Sur and Oltursa are known for their safety and comfort, with reclining seats and onboard service.

    

2. Luggage Storage

   Any extra luggage can be left in Cusco at your hotel or with us at the Alpaca Expeditions while you trek. We’ll store your luggage on the morning of your trek and return it once you’re back in Cusco. Make sure your bags have tags on them to keep from any confusion.

    

3. Altitude

   As soon as people book their trips to Peru, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen and can make it more difficult to breath. Over several days your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air and you begin to feel normal. Because of this we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek. Giving your body time to adjust ensures you truly enjoy your trek. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do. So, if possible, plan in a few slow site seeing days into your schedule before your trek starts.

   Altitude sickness causes you to feel like you have the flu or a bit of a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, or trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe please contact our Alpaca Expeditions office and we’ll help you get to a doctor.

   We always recommend easing into activity slowly allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, which helps with altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee because they dehydrate you. Avoid smoking because it makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills as they may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to get oxygen.

   Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is meant to be an amazing adventure. The views on the trail are best enjoyed at a regular walking pace. This is not a race. Plus, if you push yourself too hard then even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness. Expect to hike at an even steady pace.

   If you speak to your healthcare provider, they may prescribe medication such as Acetazolamide and Dexamethasone to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to high altitude and continue to take it while you’re at high altitude. Please remember that this is your holiday and you don’t want to stress out about getting sick. Do everything slowly, drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you get sick just let your Alpaca Expeditions guide know right away. Alpaca Expeditions guides are specifically trained to help you get through it.

    

4. Weather

   No matter what month you’re schedulthe trek make sure that you have rain gear. This should include a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

   Typically, the dry season in Cusco is from April through October. This doesn’t stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December.
   Treks in the Andes involve various microclimates and you’ll need to be prepared for each one. Layers are always key since they’re easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evenings will be cold.

    

5. First Aid

   Every Alpaca Expeditions guide has received first aid training from a physician. We also conduct mandatory training every February that every Alpaca Expeditions guide is required to attend. Each of your guides will have a first aid kit for basic medical problems on the trail.

   In case something happens and you feel you can no longer continue they also know the safest and quickest way off the trail. You’ll always have someone with you. A member of the team will escort you every step of the way. When you’re feeling up to it, we can even make sure you have the chance to visit Machu Picchu. You’ll be able to re-connect with your group, traveling by train comfortably.

    

6. Travel Insurance

   To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Getting travel insurance before you leave home is strongly encouraged and easy. We work with a great agency in the United States that has made it easy and affordable.

   If interested in booking through our trusted partner Ahart, Frinzi & Smith CLICK HERE.

    

7. Environmental Impact

   Alpaca Expeditions uses biodegradable soap and transports all our garbage back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to look after the trail and pick up any waste. We also use environmentally-friendly portable chemical toilets that allow us to carry waste out. Alpaca Expeditions believes in leaving no footprint behind.

    

8. Community

   Alpaca Expeditions is proud of the work we do for our community, as this is the main focus of our company. We’ve worked with villages directly to help supply them with the needs their families were missing. We have supported local schools by giving them computers and books. Alpaca Expeditions also sponsors a teacher at the village where most of our porters come from.

   We buy all our food from local farmers and markets and serve the freshest ingredients. We provide English classes for all our team: guides, porters, chefs, and drivers. We’re building our porters a safe and comfortable house to stay at before and after our treks.

   And twice every year we bring our porters and their families to Machu Picchu. The men and women who work tirelessly have never visited the Lost Citadel of the Incas. So that makes this trip our favorite to-do. It is an honor to show them this place.

   We’re always looking to do more and for partners. Please let us know about your ideas and we’ll work to help.

    

Packing List

1. IMPORTANT REMINDER

   Duffel Bag & Luggage Information

   This trek does not include porters, so you will carry your own day pack while hiking. However, Alpaca Expeditions provides personal duffel bags for your overnight belongings to make your journey more comfortable.

   You’ll receive your duffel bag the night before your trek, during the briefing at 6:00 p.m. at our office. The bag is similar in size to a small carry-on and should contain only the clothing and personal items you’ll need for one night. Please note that the total weight must not exceed 5 kilograms (about 10 pounds).

   After receiving your duffel, you’ll return to your hotel to pack it and bring it with you the next morning. At the Ollantaytambo train station, you’ll hand your duffel bag to your guide. It will be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll find it waiting for you at your hotel when you arrive that evening.

   The next day, before visiting Machu Picchu, you can leave your duffel bag in the hotel’s storage area. After your tour, simply stop by the hotel to pick it up before boarding your train back to Cusco. Once you arrive, your Alpaca Expeditions team will help you transfer your belongings to the plastic bags provided and return the duffel.

    

2. PACKING LIST

   • Passport
   • Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
   • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
   • Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks or bottles are good for this trek.
   • Water for the beginning of your hike. We will resupply you at lunch.
   • Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

   • 1 Wicking/Hiking Shirt & hiking pants
   • Nice shirt and pants for Machu Picchu day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love
   • 2 sets of undergarments including one pair of hiking socks
   • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
   • Sun hat
   • Bathing suits for the hot springs (Optional on your own in Aguas Calientes)

   • Sun protection cream
   • Insect Repellent
   • Personal medication
   • Personal first aid kit
   • Camera
   • IPhone/IPod for music
   • Flashlight with spare batteries
   • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips