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Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu with Camping 2 Days / 1 Night
Experience the magic of the Short Inca Trail with Camping 2 Days 1 Night adventure. This unforgettable trek takes you along ancient Inca paths, visiting the stunning Wiñay Wayna ruins — one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the trail. After enjoying a delicious lunch near the ruins, you’ll hike through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll catch your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas.
From there, descend to Aguas Calientes, the charming village at the base of Machu Picchu. Celebrate your achievement with dinner at one of the best local restaurants before resting for the night in your camp or lodging.
This Short Inca Trail trek is perfect for those seeking a taste of Andean hiking without committing to the full 4-day route — an ideal combination of adventure, culture, and history in just two days.
Overview
Overview:
Embark on a breathtaking journey along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the most beautiful and iconic hikes in the world. In just two unforgettable days, you’ll follow ancient stone pathways, discover the magical ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and immerse yourself in the stunning Andean landscapes. Experience the thrill of arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas, unfolds before your eyes.
As night falls, relax and recharge with an authentic camping experience under the stars, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the mountains — a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and nature that you’ll remember forever.
Embark on a Legendary Journey: Hike a section of the iconic Inca Trail, following ancient stone paths through the Andes.
Explore Wiñay Wayna: Discover the stunning Wiñay Wayna ruins — often called the most beautiful Inca site before Machu Picchu.
Sun Gate Arrival: Experience your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate.
Camp Under the Stars: Spend the night at a scenic campsite with full facilities, surrounded by the beauty of the Andes.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the spirit of the Inca Trail on this short, yet unforgettable adventure. Hike ancient paths, witness breathtaking views, and feel the magic of Machu Picchu like never before. Book your 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu today — and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Itinerary
Itinerary
Pre-trek briefing:
One or two days before your Short Inca Trail with Camping 2 Days 1 Night, you will have a thorough briefing with your guide. The guide will meet you at your hotel to review important details, answer any questions you may have, and help you finalize all preparations for your trek.
Start your unforgettable adventure early in the morning with a pickup from your Cusco hotel around 4:00 am. We’ll drive you through the scenic Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo train station, where we board a train to Kilometer 104 — the starting point of your short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu.
Km 104 is a special stop just for hikers like you. After checking in at the Inca Trail control point, we visit Chachabamba ruins (2,170 meters / 7,170 feet), a fascinating archaeological site once used as an administrative and religious center by the Incas.
Our hike begins with a moderate uphill climb, following ancient stone paths for about 2–3 hours. Along the way, your guide will point out native Andean flora and fauna. We then reach a beautiful waterfall before arriving at the stunning site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 meters / 8,700 feet), known as “Forever Young” in Quechua. Here, you’ll explore ancient Inca terraces and a sacred temple with seven windows dedicated to the rainbow.
After lunch with breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley, we continue hiking for about 1.5 hours along a relatively gentle section of the Inca Trail, finally reaching the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at around 2:00 pm. This magical spot offers your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Descending towards the Lost City, we then take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will camp at Puente Ruinas. Tents and a hearty dinner will be ready, and you’ll meet the porters and chefs who made this experience possible. Enjoy a relaxing evening socializing and celebrating your incredible journey.
This hiking route mirrors our popular 2-Day Inca Trail with Hotel tour but with a unique camping experience!
Included Meals: Boxed Lunch and Dinner freshly prepared by our professional chef.
On our last day, you will get up very early to visit one of the 7 wonders of the World – ¨Machu Picchu¨. At 5:30 am. We will go directly to the line to wait for the first buses to Machu Picchu.
We will arrive at the gate when the sky lights up and ascend to the top of Machu Picchu, while taking in the impressive views of the city. On a clear morning, the sunrise over Machu Picchu is magnificent; This moment is unforgettable.
Our tour guide will take you on a 2-3 hour guided tour, where we will visit the Sun Temple, Royal palace, Main Temple, Three Windows Temple and Sun Dial. It will be an unforgettable experience.
If you have booked Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to coordinate with your guide for Machu Picchu visiting depending on your scheduled time to the mountain, for people not hiking any of the mountains there are some other optional activities on your own (not included in the price).
Train back to Cusco: In the afternoon you will return to the train station in Aguas Calientes for the trip back to Ollantaytambo. Upon your arrival to train station you will be transferred by car to your hotel in Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast.
Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft.
Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
Inclusions
Included:
Pre-trek briefing with your Tour Guide.
Touristic private transport from your hotel to the train station.
Entrance tickets to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Professional English / Spanish guide for entire tour.
Assistant or second guide when there are groups over 9.
Meals according to program + snack at beginning of the trek.
Water bottle and Box lunch in Wiñay Wayna.
Vegetarian meals at no extra charge (also allergy-related menus can be accommodated).
Visit the following Inca archaeological sites (Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Sungate and Machu Picchu).
Bus tickets down to Aguas Calientes town.
One night Camping accommodation.
Bus tickets Aguas Calientes /Machu Picchu/ Aguas Calientes.
2 hour private guided tour by your English speaking tour guide.
Tourism class train ticket until km 104 (Chachabamba).
Return ticket in Touristic class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
First Aid kit.
Touristic class transport from Train / Hotel.
All local taxes.
Not Included:
Breakfast on the first day and lunch in Aguas Calientes Town on the second day.
Extra porter (Extra porters available to carry up to 22 Pounds).
Huayna Picchu Mountain $75.00 pp.
Machu Picchu Mountain $75.00 pp.
Walking Sticks (Pair): $10
Sleeping Bag.
Inflatable Air Mattress: $10
Entrance ticket to hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
Travel Insurance.
**Tips for the crew (Porters and guide).
What you should bring:
Here’s a complete and detailed checklist of essential items to pack for your Short Inca Trail with Camping 2 Nights 1 Night, ensuring you’re fully prepared for an unforgettable adventure.
Original Passport
Sleeping Bag
Light day pack with change of clothes
Rain jacket and pants or rain poncho
Waterproof trekking boots
Warm jacket, fleeces, gloves, scarf, beanie/touk
Thermal clothing
Camera, extra memory cards, batteries
Sun hat or cap
Sunblock
After-sun cream or hydrating lotion
Insect repellent (minimum 20% DEET)
Snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, fruits, muesli)
Reusable water bottle (Nalgene type)
Water for the first morning
Personal medical kit (special medications, paracetamol, blister treatment)
Small towel or sarong
Swimsuit (for hot springs)
Cash (for snacks, tips, souvenirs)
Trekking poles or walking sticks
Prices
The Short Inca Trail with Camping 2 Days 1 Night operates daily, year-round. Prices are valid from March 2025 through January 2026 and are listed in USD.
Group Price (2025 & 2026):
$549 per person
Private Tours are based on Group Size (2025):
Private tours are available and priced by party size.
Two trekkers: $649
Three trekkers: $629
Four trekkers: $609
Five trekkers: $589
Six trekkers: $569
Seven trekkers: $549
Eight, or more Trekkers: $539
Discounts:
18 to 25 years old: $25 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
Under 18 years old: $25 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $30USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:
Inkaterra (5 star hotel) – US $580 per person per night (double occupancy).
Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (4 star hotel) – US $345 per person per night (double occupancy).
Hotel Santuario (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).
Train Upgrades:
Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.
Rentals:
Hiking poles – US$10.00
Sleeping Bag – US$15.00
Inca Trail Availability
Availability
2025
May.
2025
Jun.
2025
Jul.
2025
Ago.
2025
Set.
2025
Oct.
2025
Nov.
2025
Dic.
2026
Ene.
2026
Feb.
2026
Mar.
2026
Abr.
2026
May.
Terms & Conditions
By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.
Booking:
Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.
Cancellations:
Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.
Cancellation By
Terms
91 days or more before departure
we will retain 50% of your deposit.
90 – 30 days before departure
we will retain 75% of the total tour cost.
29 – 0 days before departure
we will retain 100% of the total tour cost.
Inca Trail Tours:
Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.
Medical Information:
You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.
Tours and Treks:
All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee. You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
All tours are done in English.
Delays:
Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.
Thank you so much for choosing Cusco Journeys!!!
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(+51) 966405778 | (+51) 980811833
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