The iconic trail · condensed

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Walk through cloud forest, discover Wiñay Wayna and enter Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate—all in two unforgettable days.

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Local licensed operatorSmall groups24/7 assistance
Duration2 Days / 1 Night
DifficultyModerate
Max altitude2,720 m
From$520 USD
Wiñay Wayna archaeological site
A once-in-a-lifetime entranceArrive through the Sun Gate
Tour overview

The Inca Trail experience, perfectly sized for your Peru trip

This rewarding 2-day trek follows the final section of the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Pass waterfalls, orchids and archaeological sites before exploring Wiñay Wayna and reaching Inti Punku. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes, then return for a guided sunrise visit to Machu Picchu.

Easy logisticsPickup, trains, buses and permits arranged.
Expert local guideProfessional bilingual guidance.
Highlights

Why travelers love this trek

Ancient Inca sites

Discover Chachabamba and the remarkable terraces and temples of Wiñay Wayna.

Spectacular scenery

Walk through cloud forest, waterfalls and orchid-filled landscapes above the Sacred Valley.

Enter through the Sun Gate

Get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from historic Inti Punku.

Explore Machu Picchu

Enjoy a guided visit plus free time in the world-famous Inca citadel.

Your journey

2-day itinerary

01
11 km · 6–7 hours hiking

Cusco · Wiñay Wayna · Machu Picchu

Early pickup and transfer to Ollantaytambo, then train to KM 104. Cross the Urubamba River, visit Chachabamba and climb through cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna.

Continue to Inti Punku for your first view of Machu Picchu. Descend to the citadel and take the bus to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.

02
Guided visit · Return to Cusco

Machu Picchu · Cusco

Take an early bus for a 2.5-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Enjoy free time before returning by train and transfer to Cusco in the evening.

Trip details

Everything taken care of

Included

  • Hotel pickup in Cusco
  • Transfer to train station
  • Train to KM 104
  • Professional bilingual guide
  • Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu ticket
  • Breakfast, box lunch and dinner
  • Hotel in Aguas Calientes
  • Oxygen and first aid kit
  • Guided Machu Picchu tour
  • Return bus and train
  • Transfer back to your hotel
  • Special diets on request

Not included

  • Breakfast on day 1
  • Lunch on day 2
  • Entrance to hot springs
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and personal expenses
Packing list

What you should bring

Pack light and keep the essentials in your daypack.

  • Original passport
  • ISIC card, if applicable
  • Comfortable daypack
  • Hiking boots
  • Rain jacket and poncho
  • Layered hiking clothes
  • Sun protection
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal medication
  • Water bottle
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp and batteries
  • Camera
  • Small towel and swimsuit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Extra cash
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Our local team can check permits and help plan your dates.

Choose your dates and submit a request. Our team checks permit availability and normally confirms within 24 hours on weekdays.

Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Contact us as soon as possible and we will review available options.

Practice hiking, use broken-in footwear, arrive early to acclimatize, dress in layers and follow your guide.

The route covers approximately 13 km (8 miles), with 6–7 hours of hiking on day one.

Porters are not included because this itinerary does not camp. Your overnight bag travels by train.

Active children with hiking experience may complete it. Ask our team for advice before reserving permits.
Traveler reviews

Real experiences, unforgettable journeys

Travelers choose Coca Life Adventure for attentive service, expert local guides and carefully organized experiences.

4.9★★★★★
Excellent84 Tripadvisor reviews
★★★★★

The best travel experience

“The team was kind, organized and attentive throughout her solo trip. She especially valued the impeccable accommodations, food and personal care.”

A
Alejandra V.May 2026
★★★★★

An unforgettable experience

“Everything was carefully organized from beginning to end. The professional team created an authentic connection with Peru’s culture, history and landscapes.”

P
Paradise32603611181April 2026
★★★★★

Excellent tours and guides

“She highlighted the punctual service, friendly treatment and knowledgeable guides, and left Cusco hoping to return and discover even more.”

S
Sidey S.March 2026
Ready for the trail?

Permits are limited. Start planning today.

Tell our Cusco team your preferred date and we’ll help confirm availability.

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