There are several ways to hike the Inca Trail, one of the most impressive adventure routes in the world. The classic route involves four days of trekking, although there is an option that allows you to hike this famous route in a shorter stretch of just two days. This experience is designed for travelers who have limited time to visit Machu Picchu but still want to venture out and experience the Inca Trail. Discover what it’s like and embark on this unforgettable experience.
The two-day Inca Trail
The most immersive experience you’ll find in Cusco is the Inca Trail. This adventure takes you along the paths the Incas themselves traveled, leading you to the citadel of Machu Picchu. The classic adventure lasts four days, covering approximately 43 kilometers, which can be quite exhausting.
Although there is a shorter version that takes half the time, this adventure covers only 12 kilometers , but still allows us to see the most incredible attractions along the route. During the first day of the two-day Inca Trail experience, you will visit Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku (Sun Gate), and the wonder of Machu Picchu. There are no campsites here; you will spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) so that during the second day you can explore the Inca citadel in detail.
Tourists hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
What is the experience like?
Beginning of the adventure (Day 1)
The adventure begins very early, since travel is only possible with a tour service, so the experience will be the same for everyone. Early in the morning, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo. All transportation is included, so all we have to do is enjoy the experience.
Afterward, we’ll board a train that will drop us off at the popular kilometer 104, where our hike begins. The trip from Cusco to this point takes approximately four hours, so we can catch up on some sleep beforehand on the bus. Throughout the tour, we’ll be accompanied by a guide who will also provide us with a box lunch, which we’ll need to bring along to enjoy mid-hike.
Chachabamba
The first checkpoint is Chachabamba , located a short distance from kilometer 104. Here we’ll have time to prepare properly, as the weather is very warm and it’s best to wear light clothing. This place also houses a small archaeological site where we’ll get a glimpse of the wonders the road holds.
From this point, we’ll walk approximately 6 kilometers (3 hours and 30 minutes) to reach the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. The section combines uphill and flat sections, so take it easy. You’ll also find other groups of visitors along the way who will encourage you. Remember to bring plenty of water, as the humidity and the weather can make it more tiring.
Wiñay Wayna
We’ll stop for lunch and a rest stop upon arriving at Wiñay Wayna, where we’ll also explore its impressive archaeological complex on the side of a high mountain. The views from this spot make the effort worthwhile; remember, you can only explore it by following the Inca Trail. The Wiñay Wayna area also features the second checkpoint, from where we’ll depart for Inti Punku on a nearly 4-kilometer stretch (2 hours and 30 minutes).
The second part of the hike is a little more demanding, given that, in addition to carrying the fatigue from before, there are also constant climbs up stone steps. However, the motivation to get closer and closer helps a lot. Along the way, we’ll pass through areas such as the Monkey Stairs and impressive landscapes of the Urubamba River and mountains filled with vegetation typical of the jungle edge.
Inti Punku (Gate of the Sun)
At an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level, Inti Punku offers a unique view of Machu Picchu. It’s an ideal stop for photographs, and it’s also where we’ll know the most challenging part is over, as there are only two kilometers (45 minutes) of steady descent left until we reach the Inca citadel.
Panoramic Machu Picchu
Our impression of Machu Picchu will be from the agricultural area, which allows for classic panoramic photography , although it will only be a short stop, as the immersive experience takes place the following day. Upon leaving the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, we will board a bus that will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes (25 minutes), where we will have dinner and rest in a hotel.
Immersive Machu Picchu (Day 2)
The second day’s experience focuses solely on visiting the main temples and complexes of Machu Picchu . It’s much more in-depth, with our guide providing insightful details that will enrich the experience. After the visit, we’ll have some time to visit the town of Aguas Calientes and have lunch at one of its popular restaurants.
End of the experience
The experience ends when we board the train back to Ollantaytambo and then the bus that will take us to Cusco. It’s a complete two-day adventure, where we’ll experience the best of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, adding even more value to our trip and creating unforgettable experiences.
View of Machu Picchu from Intipunku
Differences between the 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail
If you haven’t yet decided what type of experience to try on the Inca Trail, we’ll provide you with the main characteristics of the two types of treks you can take on these historic trails.
| Differences between the Inca Trail experiences | ||
|---|---|---|
| Feature | 2-day Inca Trail | 4-day Inca Trail |
| Duration | 2 days / 1 night | 4 days / 3 nights |
| Difficulty level | Half | High |
| Total distance | Approximately 12 kilometers | Approximately 43 kilometers |
| Start of walk | Kilometer 104 (Chachabamba) | Kilometer 82 (Piscacucho) |
| Maximum altitude | 2,700 meters above sea level | 4,215 meters above sea level (Abra Warmiwañusca) |
| Places to visit | Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, Machu Picchu | Patallacta, Pacaymayo, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, Machu Picchu |
| Overnight stay | Hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town) | Camp (3 nights at different points along the Inca Trail) |
The 4-day route is much more demanding, covering 43 kilometers, camping in the mountains, and ascending to 4,215 meters above sea level. The 2-day experience, on the other hand, is shorter, at lower altitudes, and without camps—ideal if you’re short on time but still want to experience this unforgettable route.
Tips for hiking the two-day Inca Trail
- The Inca Trail can only be traveled with a tour company like ours, in order to maintain better capacity control and better preserve the route.
- Bring a light backpack, a couple of extra clothes will suffice, remember that there are no porters and you will have to carry all your luggage.
- The time of year you decide to hike the Inca Trail will be crucial. If you visit during the dry season (April to October), you’ll find clearer terrain with beautiful views.
- The rainy season is from November to March, although it doesn’t always rain and there’s milder weather to help you weather it. Always remember to bring a poncho or rain gear with you.
- The Inca Trail is closed during the month of February for proper maintenance.
- Remember to book your Inca Trail experience 3 or 4 months in advance, as demand is usually very high.
- If you’re short on time during your trip to Cusco and want to explore Machu Picchu on an unforgettable adventure, the two-day Inca Trail is ideal for you.
- Before venturing on the Inca Trail, acclimatize during your first few days of travel to make your journey easier and avoid altitude sickness.
Tourists arriving at Machu Picchu
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is the two-day Inca Trail like?
The two-day Inca Trail is a shorter and more accessible version of the classic four-day hike. This experience visits archaeological sites such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku, and finally, Machu Picchu.
2) Do I need to be in good physical condition to do the Inca Trail?
It’s not required, but you should be in good physical condition, as the hike includes sections with constant incline and steps.
3) Where do I start the walk?
The route begins at kilometer 104, which you’ll reach by train from Ollantaytambo. From there, you’ll begin the hike with your guide and your group.
4) What places will I visit during the walk?
On the first day, you’ll explore Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Intipunku (Sun Gate), and enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. The next day, you’ll take a more in-depth tour of the Inca citadel.
5) Where will I spend the night?
There’s no camping on this short Inca Trail experience; you’ll stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Town), allowing you to rest well and continue the next day with more energy.
6) Can I do the Inca Trail on my own?
No, the Inca Trail can only be hiked accompanied by an authorized agency. This guarantees both the preservation of the site and your safety.
7) Does it include admission to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the two-day Inca Trail tour includes admission to both the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
8) How long does the walk last each day?
The first day you’ll walk for almost 7 hours, the second day is much more relaxing, as it’s just a visit to Machu Picchu.
9) Do I need to bring my own food?
It’s not required; you’ll be provided with a boxed lunch on the first day. Dinner and breakfast in Aguas Calientes are also included.
10) How far in advance should I book?
At least 3 to 4 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Space is limited per day, and demand is often very high.
By Inca Trail Machu Picchu - Last updated, 10-07-2025
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We are part of MACHUPICCHU TERRA, Travel agency and tour operator authorized to operate the Inca Trail and other hiking routes in Cusco. Our authorization code is "CI1578".
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