The 2-day Inca Trail is a shorter version of the famous 4-day trek that takes travelers to Machu Picchu. This route is ideal for those who wish to experience the historic Inca Trail but have limited time or prefer a less demanding hike. It starts at Km 104 and allows participants to enjoy a mix of nature, history and culture while walking along ancestral trails, visiting archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, and finally entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku).

The 2-day Inca Trail hike is approximately 13 kilometers and lasts between 6 and 7 hours. The route begins at Km 104, where travelers will pass through the first entrance control with their passports. The first stretch is a gradual climb through the cloud forest, which offers breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. On the way, hikers will visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba and then continue to Wiñaywayna, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Inca complexes. After exploring Wiñaywayna, the hike continues to the Sun Gate, where you will have the first impressive view of Machu Picchu. This trek is less demanding than the classic Inca Trail, but still an exciting and satisfying adventure.

Yes, it is essential to book the 2-day Inca Trail in advance. Permits to hike the Inca Trail are limited and sell out quickly, especially during the high season (May to September). It is recommended to book at least 3 to 6 months before your trip to secure a spot. Due to the popularity of this route, travel agencies require advance planning to ensure that all permits and entrance fees are in order.

The best time to do the 2-day Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, weather conditions are more favorable, with less rainfall and clear skies that allow for spectacular views of the Andean landscapes and Machu Picchu. The rainy season, which runs from November to March, can make trails slippery and more difficult to walk. The months of January and February are especially rainy and trails can often be closed for safety.

Although the 2-day Inca Trail is shorter and less challenging than the 4-day version, it is still a moderately demanding hike. The route includes steep climbs and flights of stairs, in addition to the altitude, which can be challenging for some. It is recommended that participants have a basic level of fitness and have done practice hikes prior to the trip. In addition, spending a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek helps acclimatize to the altitude, which is crucial to avoid altitude sickness.

It is important to bring adequate equipment for the 2-day Inca Trail. Essentials include comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate weather changes, sturdy trekking shoes, and a lightweight backpack. It is also crucial to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and insect repellent. Do not forget your original passport, as it is necessary to enter the route and Machu Picchu. It is also recommended to bring energy snacks, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication you may need, including pills for altitude sickness.

The 2-day Inca Trail is considered to be of moderate difficulty. Although it is a shorter version of the classic Inca Trail, the trek includes sections of steep climbing and stairs that can be challenging. However, with proper physical preparation and prior acclimatization, most people can complete the route without major difficulties. The pace of the hike is leisurely, with frequent stops to rest and enjoy the scenery, allowing participants to adapt to the terrain.

The highest point of the 2-day Inca Trail is the Sun Gate (Intipunku), which is 2,700 meters above sea level. From this point, you will have a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu before descending towards the citadel. Although the altitude is not as extreme as in other trekking routes in Peru, it is enough for some travelers to feel the effects of altitude sickness, so it is advisable to acclimatize in Cusco or in the Sacred Valley before starting the hike.