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Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – The Fast, Intense & Magical 2-Day Route
Connect with Inca history, trek through the cloud forest, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate – all in just 48 unforgettable hours.
Operated by Allpackers Expeditions – Experts in authentic trekking experiences
Connect with Inca history, hike through the cloud forest, and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate – all in just 48 unforgettable hours.
Imagine walking along ancient stone paths once used by Inca messengers, surrounded by misty mountains, lush jungle, and hidden archaeological gems. Now imagine doing it in just two days, without missing the magic of the legendary Inca Trail.
The Short Inca Trail, operated by Allpackers Expeditions, is the express version of the world-famous trek—crafted for travelers who want authenticity, adrenaline, and awe without committing to four or more days.
You’ll start at kilometer 104, explore the jaw-dropping ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) just as the sun hits the citadel. It’s a moment you won’t forget. The next day, we return for a relaxed, guided visit to dive deep into the stories, temples, and mysteries of the lost city.
The next day, you’ll return to Machu Picchu with fresh energy for a guided tour that brings every stone and secret to life.
Why choose this tour?
Because it’s efficient, epic, and 100% operated by a local expert team. Allpackers Expeditions specializes in turning short adventures into powerful experiences. You’ll hike the real Inca Trail (yes, the official one), surrounded by nature and guided by people who live and breathe this route.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a quick escape, or someone ticking Machu Picchu off your bucket list—this tour is the smart, bold way to do it.
Tour Snapshot:
Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Difficulty: Moderate (you’ll earn those views!)
Route: Original Inca Trail – no buses, no alternate paths
Access: Enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Operated by: Allpackers Expeditions – trusted local specialists
Availability: Limited daily permits – book in advance
Best time to go: April to October (dry season = best experience)
What makes it unforgettable?
It’s the perfect mix: a taste of the Inca Trail, ancient ruins, cloud forest landscapes, and the most iconic entrance to Machu Picchu—with none of the fluff.
Allpackers Expeditions makes sure every step is about connection: with history, with nature, and with the moment. No rushing, no crowds, just real trekking with real soul.
Book your spot and experience the power of the Inca Trail in just two days.
Short on time? Go big anyway. This is not the train-to-Machu-Picchu tourist route—this is the real deal. Walk it. Feel it. Own it.
Where does the Short Inca Trail start?
The Short Inca Trail adventure begins early in the morning—either from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, depending on where you’re staying.
🏙️ If you’re staying in Cusco:
Our team from Allpackers Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel at approximately 5:00 AM. We’ll make sure you’re fully prepared and ready for the journey ahead, then drive you to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
🏞️ If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, or nearby):
Allpackers Expeditions will pick you up about an hour later, depending on your hotel’s location. It’s a more relaxed start, and you’ll be closer to the trailhead.
No matter where you’re staying, our team handles all the logistics—so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Just get your backpack ready and leave the rest to us.
If you’re still deciding where to stay before the trek, feel free to ask—we’ll gladly recommend ideal options to make your adventure smoother.
3 Hours Before Flight Time
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We’ll meet at 4 p.m. at our hotel in Luzern (Lucerne) for a “Welcome to Switzerland” meeting. Then we’ll take a meandering evening walk through Switzerland’s most charming lakeside town, and get acquainted with one another over dinner together. Sleep in Luzern (2 nights). No bus. Walking: light.
Enjoy an orientation walk of Zurich’s OLD TOWN, Switzerland’s center of banking and commerce. Then, leave Zurich and start your Swiss adventure. You’ll quickly discover that Switzerland isn’t just home to the Alps, but also to some of the most beautiful lakes. First, stop at the foot of the Jura Mountains in the picturesque town of Biel, known as Bienne by French-speaking Swiss, famous for watch-making, and explore the historical center. Next, enjoy a scenic drive to lakeside Neuchâtel, dominated by the medieval cathedral and castle. Time to stroll along the lake promenade before continuing to stunning Geneva, the second-largest city in Switzerland, with its fantastic lakeside location and breathtaking panoramas of the Alps.
Our morning drive takes us from Swiss lakes to Swiss Army. At the once-secret Swiss army bunker at Fortress Fürigen, we’ll see part of the massive defense system designed to keep Switzerland strong and neutral. Afterward, a short drive into the countryside brings us to the charming Alpine village of Engelberg, our picturesque home for the next two days. We’ll settle into our lodge then head out for an orientation walk. Our stroll through the village will end at the Engelberg Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with its own cheese-making operation. You’ll have free time to wander back before dinner together. Sleep in Engelberg (2 nights). Bus: 1 hr. Walking: light.
An unforgettable trip to the high Alpine wonderland of ice and snow is the true highlight of a visit to Switzerland. Globus Local Favorite At an amazing 11,332 feet, the JUNGFRAUJOCH is Europe’s highest railway station. Jungfrau’s 13,642-foot summit was first ascended in 1811 and in 1912 the rack railway was opened. There are lots of things to do here: enjoy the ALPINE SENSATION, THE PANORAMA 360° EXPERIENCE, and the ICE PALACE. Also receive your JUNGFRAU PASSPORT as a souvenir to take home with you. The round trip to the “Top of Europe” by MOUNTAIN TRAIN will take most of the day.
It’s market day in Lausanne! Enjoy browsing and packing a picnic lunch for our 11 a.m. boat cruise on Lake Geneva. A few miles down-shore we’ll dock at Château de Chillon, where we’ll have a guided tour of this delightfully medieval castle on the water. On our way back we’ll take time to peek into the vineyards surrounding Lutry before returning to Lausanne. Boat: 2 hrs. Bus: 1 hr. Walking: moderate.
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