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Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days with camping
2 Days12 travelers maxPhysical rating 2/5
The experience
Why this journey stays with you.
Short on time but still dreaming of hiking the Inca Trail? This Short Inca Trail with camping is the perfect balance between adventure and comfort.
Duration
2 Days
Group size
12 travelers max
Difficulty
Moderate
Tour style
Trekking
Highlights
Early Morning Pickup & Train to KM 104 Your adventure begins at 4:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We drive to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll enjoy…
Hiking the Original Inca Trail The hike begins with a visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, followed by a steady ascent along original Inca stone pathways.…
Arrival at the Sun Gate & First View of Machu Picchu In the afternoon, you’ll reach the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking…
Camp at the Foot of Machu Picchu After exploring the upper part of the citadel, we take a short bus ride to Puente Ruinas and walk to our…
Day by day
Follow the journey.
Choose a day, explore each stop and see the route on the map.
Day 1
Cusco → Sun Gate
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Your adventure begins at 4:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We drive to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll enjoy a boxed breakfast before boarding the early train to KM 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Upon arrival, you’ll pass the control checkpoint and meet our chef and porter team, who will take care of the camping equipment and prepare your…
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The hike begins with a visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, followed by a steady ascent along original Inca stone pathways. As you continue, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes and cloud forest vegetation. One of the highlights of the day is exploring the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most spectacular archaeological sites along the entire Inca Trail. Here, you’ll…
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In the afternoon, you’ll reach the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above — just as the Incas once did centuries ago. From there, we hike approximately 45 minutes down to the citadel, entering through the upper section to capture the iconic postcard views. You’ll follow Circuit 1 to take unforgettable photos from the…
Route map
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- 1.Early Morning Pickup & Train to KM 104
- 2.Hiking the Original Inca Trail
- 3.Arrival at the Sun Gate & First View of Machu Picchu
Day 2
Machu Picchu → Cusco
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After exploring the upper part of the citadel, we take a short bus ride to Puente Ruinas and walk to our exclusive campsite located at the base of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our chef and relax for the night surrounded by nature.
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You’ll wake up early with hot tea delivered to your tent, followed by a freshly prepared breakfast. Afterward, we walk to the bus station and take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to witness the magical morning light illuminating the citadel. After presenting your passport at the entrance, your guide will lead you to the best panoramic viewpoints.
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You’ll enjoy a two-hour guided tour following Circuit 3, visiting the most important areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Sacred Rock, Temple of the Condor, ceremonial fountains, and royal residences. Your guide will explain the history, architecture, and mysteries of this extraordinary Inca sanctuary.
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After the guided visit, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have free time to explore the town or enjoy lunch before boarding your afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will return you to your hotel in Cusco in the evening. If you have reserved an additional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your guide will provide…
Route map
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- 1.Camp at the Foot of Machu Picchu
- 2.Sunrise Experience at Machu Picchu
- 3.Guided Tour of the Citadel
- 4.Return to Cusco
Plan with confidence
Everything you need to know.
Inclusions
What's included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo (6:10 am) to KM 104, the starting point of the hike
- Official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Professional English-speaking guide with radio communication
- Pre-departure briefing at our office at 6:00 pm the day before the trek
- Personal porter to carry up to 7 kg (14 lbs) of your belongings
- Additional porter team for camping equipment and food (in compliance with Ministry of Culture regulations — we never overload our porters)
- 4-season Kayla Doite tents (2 people per tent for extra comfort)
- Foam sleeping mattresses
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Professional chef and full kitchen equipment
- Portable eco-friendly toilet (Pett system)
- Duffle bag for your 7 kg personal items (including sleeping bag and personal belongings)
- 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner, and 1 snack (vegetarian, gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergy-friendly options available)
- Boiled and filtered water after each meal to refill your bottles or Camelbak
- Hot water basins each evening
- Wake-up tea delivered to your tent on Day 2
- Rain poncho
- Daypack rain cover
- Satellite phone
- Emergency oxygen bottle and complete first aid kit
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
- Round-trip bus tickets between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes (Day 2)
- Two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Expedition train ticket (14:55 hrs) to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco
What's not included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain permit: $65 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain permit: $65 USD
- Vistadome train upgrade (return only): $50 USD
- Sleeping bag rental: $5 USD
- Walking sticks rental: $5 USD
- Lunch on Day 2
- Tips (optional)
Packing list
- Original passport (must match your Inca Trail permit)
- Student ID (if you booked a student discount)
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses
- Lightweight hiking pants
- Comfortable trekking shirt (moisture-wicking recommended)
- Warm layer (fleece or insulated jacket)
- Waterproof jacket or rain shell
- Undergarments and extra socks
- Sleepwear
- Sun hat or cap
- Beanie and light gloves (especially in cooler months)
- Comfortable hiking boots or trekking shoes
- Sandals or light shoes for the campsite
- Daypack (20–30L recommended)
- Sleeping bag (or rent one from us)
- Reusable water bottle or Camelbak
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Insect repellent
- Personal toiletries
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
- Small towel
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Portable charger / power bank
- Trekking poles (can be rented)
- Snacks or energy bars
- Camera or smartphone
- Swimsuit (optional for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
Important information
Tour Availability & Permits
The Short Inca Trail requires an official permit issued by the Peruvian government. Spaces are limited and often sell out months in advance, especially during high season (May to September). We strongly recommend booking early to secure your preferred date.
Permits are non-transferable and linked directly to your passport number.
Physical Requirements
This hike is considered moderate. You will walk approximately half a day on stone Inca pathways, including uphill sections and uneven terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
Although Machu Picchu is lower in altitude than Cusco, we suggest spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco before the trek to properly acclimatize.
Accommodation & Camping
You will spend one night at our exclusive campsite located at the base of Machu Picchu. Tents are 4-season and shared between two people for comfort.
We provide a full camping setup including dining tent, portable eco-toilet, foam mattresses, and hot water for basic washing. Wake-up tea is delivered to your tent on the second morning.
Meals on the Trail
All meals are freshly prepared by our professional chef using quality ingredients. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and other dietary restrictions upon request.
Boiled and filtered drinking water is provided after each meal.
Guided Visit to Machu Picchu
Your tour includes entry through the Sun Gate (weather permitting) on Day 1 and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 2 following the assigned circuit.
If you wish to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, permits must be booked in advance as they are subject to availability.
Weather
The Inca Trail passes through cloud forest terrain. Conditions are typically warm and humid during the day, with cooler temperatures at night. Rain is possible at any time of the year, especially between November and March.
What to Bring
You will receive a duffle bag to pack up to 7 kg (14 lbs) of personal belongings. Please pack light and bring only the essentials. Your original passport is required for entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book?
The Short Inca Trail has limited daily permits issued by the government. We recommend booking several months in advance, especially during high season from May to September.
Is this hike difficult?
The trek is considered moderate. You will hike on original stone pathways with some uphill sections. A basic to moderate fitness level is recommended.
Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes. We recommend spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco before starting the hike to adjust to the altitude and avoid discomfort.
Where do we camp?
You will spend the night at our exclusive campsite located at the base of Machu Picchu, close to Puente Ruinas. The campsite includes full equipment and facilities for your comfort.
What circuit do we visit in Machu Picchu?
On Day 1, you enter through the Sun Gate and explore the upper part of Machu Picchu (Circuit 1) for panoramic views. On Day 2, you return for a guided tour following Circuit 3, visiting the main temples and ceremonial areas.
Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Yes, but permits must be reserved in advance as they sell out quickly. These hikes are done independently unless you request a private guide for an additional cost.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes. We offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and allergy-friendly meal options. Please inform us in advance about any dietary requirements.
How much weight can I bring?
You will receive a duffle bag to pack up to 7 kg (14 lbs), including your sleeping bag and personal items. We recommend packing light.
What happens if it rains?
The trek operates rain or shine. We provide rain ponchos, and tents are 4-season and fully waterproof. A good rain jacket is still recommended.
What documents do I need?
Your original passport is mandatory for both the Inca Trail checkpoint and Machu Picchu entrance. It must match the passport number used during booking.
Prepare for this journey
A little knowledge goes a long way.
Local stories and practical guides selected around this tour, its destinations and its trekking route.
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