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Short Inca Trail Camping 2 Days to Machu Picchu
Cusco & Peru Adventure

Short Inca Trail Camping 2 Days

Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with camping, Sun Gate entrance, and guided exploration of the Inca citadel.

2 days / 1 night Moderate 2,720 m / 8,924 ft Small groups
Overview

About this experience

The Short Inca Trail Camping 2 Days is one of the most complete short trekking experiences to Machu Picchu. This tour follows the original Inca Trail starting at Km 104, combining history, nature, and adventure. Along the route, you will explore archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, hike through cloud forest landscapes filled with orchids and waterfalls, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Unlike the hotel version, this tour includes camping near Machu Picchu at Puente Ruinas, offering a more immersive experience in the Andes.

Highlights

Why you will love this tour

Hike the original Inca Trail starting at Km 104

Visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna Inca sites

Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate

Enjoy sunset views of Machu Picchu from above

Camp at Puente Ruinas near Machu Picchu

Experience cloud forest landscapes with waterfalls and orchids

One of the best short trekking tours in Cusco

Itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Day 1 Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Puente Ruinas Camp

Your Short Inca Trail Camping 2 Days begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. You will travel to Ollantaytambo train station and board a scenic train through the Sacred Valley, enjoying views of the Urubamba River, mountains, and jungle valleys. After arriving at Km 104, you will meet your trekking team and begin the hike. The first stop is Chachabamba, an important Inca archaeological site where your guide will explain its history. From there, you will hike approximately 3 hours uphill through cloud forest landscapes to reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca sites along the trail. Here you will explore temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas. After lunch, continue hiking for about one hour to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu. After descending toward the lower area, you will take a short bus ride to Puente Ruinas campsite, where your tents will be ready. Enjoy dinner and a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.

Day 2 Day 2: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Wake up early with hot drinks and enjoy breakfast prepared by your trekking team. Then walk to the bus station to be among the first visitors to Machu Picchu. You will arrive early in the morning and have the chance to witness sunrise over the citadel. Your guide will lead a complete guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces while explaining its fascinating history. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore or climb Huayna Picchu if you booked in advance. Later, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation to Cusco.

Includes

What is included and not included

Included

  • Professional English-speaking guide trained in tourism and local culture
  • Pre-trek briefing the evening before the hike
  • Personal porter service (up to 7 kg per person)
  • Hotel pickup and all transportation (Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco)
  • Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104
  • Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Round-trip bus tickets Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
  • Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
  • Camping equipment (tent, foam mattress, pillow)
  • Dining tent and cooking equipment
  • All meals during the trek except lunch on Day 2
  • Daily snacks and happy hour with tea
  • Boiled and filtered drinking water during the trek
  • First aid kit and oxygen tank
  • Satellite phone for safety and emergency communication

Not included

  • Breakfast on Day 1
  • Lunch on Day 2
  • Sleeping bag (available for rent)
  • Inflatable air mattress (optional)
  • Trekking poles
  • Huayna Picchu ticket
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guide, porters, and staff
  • Personal expenses
Before you go

Important information

  • Bring your original passport for checkpoints
  • Book in advance as permits are limited
  • Wear comfortable trekking boots
  • Bring a sleeping bag suitable for cold nights
  • Carry at least 2–3 liters of water
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent
  • Bring rain gear depending on the season
  • Prepare for a 6–7 hour hike on Day 1
Pricing

Price and booking information

Starting from $420 USD

This Short Inca Trail Camping 2 Days includes permits, train transportation, guide service, camping equipment, meals, and full logistics. It is one of the most complete short trekking tours to Machu Picchu.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Where is the campsite located?

The campsite is located at Puente Ruinas near Machu Picchu.

How long is the hike?

The hike is approximately 15 km and takes around 6 to 7 hours on Day 1.

Is this trek difficult?

It is considered moderate and suitable for travelers with basic fitness.

Do I still visit Machu Picchu?

Yes, the tour includes a guided visit to Machu Picchu on Day 2.