How I Conquered the 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: The Shortest Hike to Machu Picchu

Ever dreamed of standing at the Sun Gate, overlooking the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu as the mist lifts like a secret?
Me too.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t have four days to hike the classic Inca Trail.
Luckily, I found the perfect solution: the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu, also known as the shortest hike to Machu Picchu.

Spoiler alert — it was one of the best adventures of my life, and I’m going to tell you exactly why.

Planning the Trip: Why the Shortest Hike to Machu Picchu Was Perfect

When I started researching how to visit Machu Picchu, I kept seeing incredible pictures from people who hiked for days.
Honestly, it sounded amazing — but I just didn’t have the time (or the hiking stamina!).
Then I stumbled upon the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu option with a company called Andean Path Travel.

What grabbed me?
It promised the authentic Inca Trail experience — ancient ruins, mountain paths, the famous Sun Gate — all in just two days.
And without sleeping in tents!

Andean Path Travel handled all the tricky parts: permits, trains, accommodations, meals, and the all-important local guides who know every Inca legend.

I was in.

Day 1: Hitting the Trail

The day started early, with a pickup from my hotel in Cusco.
Excited (and a little nervous), I boarded a train bound for KM 104 — the hidden starting point for the shortest hike to Machu Picchu.

We crossed lush valleys, misty forests, and towering peaks.
Finally, it was time to lace up my boots and start walking.

The first thing that struck me?
The 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu is not just a shortcut — it’s an adventure in its own right.

We hiked through incredible archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
Wiñay Wayna was my favorite: stone terraces carved into the mountainside, delicate orchids blooming everywhere, waterfalls gushing nearby — pure magic.

The trail was steep at times, but every step felt worth it.
Our guide from Andean Path Travel was amazing, stopping to explain the Inca history, point out hummingbirds, and encourage us through the tougher stretches.

After several hours of trekking, we reached a set of steep stairs — known jokingly as the "Gringo Killer."
I climbed them, heart pounding, and suddenly there it was: Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.

Nothing could have prepared me for that first view of Machu Picchu — sunbeams breaking through the clouds, the ancient city glowing below.
It was emotional, honestly.
I just stood there, speechless.

Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu

After a good night's sleep in Aguas Calientes (in a comfy hotel arranged by Andean Path Travel), it was time for the main event: a full guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Getting up early was tough, but totally worth it.
By sunrise, we were walking into the ruins, ahead of the bigger tourist crowds.

Our guide brought Machu Picchu to life — sharing stories about Inca astronomy, sacred temples, farming innovations, and theories about why the city was built.
I loved how interactive it was; he pointed out tiny details I never would have noticed on my own.

Because the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu included a full second-day entry, I didn’t feel rushed.
I had time to sit quietly, soak up the atmosphere, and let my imagination run wild about life here centuries ago.

What I Packed for the 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you're wondering what to bring for the shortest hike to Machu Picchu, here’s what saved me:

• Good hiking shoes (broken-in, not new!)
• Small daypack for water, sunscreen, camera, and snacks
• Light rain jacket — the weather changed fast
• Layers — chilly mornings, hot afternoons
• Insect repellent — trust me
• Passport — you need it for both the trail and Machu Picchu entry

Andean Path Travel provided a detailed packing list too, which was super helpful.

Tips for the Shortest Hike to Machu Picchu

If you’re thinking about doing the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu, here’s my best advice:

• Book Early: Permits are limited and go fast — even for the shorter trail.
• Train Before You Go: It’s not a walk in the park — there’s real altitude and climbing involved.
• Listen to Your Guide: They know how to pace you and spot the best photo ops!
• Stay in Cusco for a Few Days First: Helps you acclimate to the altitude.

And honestly? Go with a reputable company like Andean Path Travel.
They made everything easy — transportation, logistics, accommodations — so I could focus on enjoying the journey.

Why the 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Stole My Heart

I had worried that doing the shortest hike to Machu Picchu might feel like cheating somehow.
Would it feel less magical?

No way.

The 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu gave me everything I could have hoped for:
Adventure. Nature. History. Achievement. Awe.

In fact, it felt even more special because it fit perfectly into my travel time without exhausting me.

There’s something about reaching Machu Picchu on foot, through the same Sun Gate the ancient Incas once used, that connects you to the spirit of the place.

Taking the bus up would never have felt the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu?

It’s a moderate hike.
There’s some real climbing (especially near Wiñay Wayna) and stairs at the end, but if you're reasonably fit, you’ll be fine.
Andean Path Travel paced the day really well, with lots of breaks.

When is the best time to do the shortest hike to Machu Picchu?

The dry season (April to October) is ideal.
I went in June and the weather was absolutely perfect — cool mornings, sunny afternoons.

What’s included when you book with Andean Path Travel?

Pretty much everything!
Train tickets, entry permits, accommodation, meals, guides, and transportation.
They even helped arrange extra things like storage for my big backpack in Cusco.

Can you hike solo?

No — the government requires licensed guides for all Inca Trail hikes, even the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu.
Another reason I was glad to go with Andean Path Travel — they made the whole process hassle-free.

Final Thoughts

If Machu Picchu is on your bucket list but you're short on time (or worried about your trekking stamina), the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu is your dream come true.

The shortest hike to Machu Picchu still delivers ALL the adventure, ALL the beauty, and ALL the heart-stopping magic — without the intense exhaustion.

And if you want a company that treats you like family, knows the trail inside out, and takes care of every detail?
I couldn’t recommend Andean Path Travel more.

Trust me — you’ll thank yourself when you stand at the Sun Gate, grinning like crazy, knowing you made it.

🌄🏞️