Experience the legendary path to Machu Picchu through a lens of sisterhood, strength, and local expertise. This exclusive Short Inca Trail Womens Trek 2 day by Tunqui Expeditions is a transformative journey designed by women, for women. It offers a unique opportunity to walk the ancient trails of the Incas in a supportive, safe, and inspiring environment.
From our expert lead guides to our powerhouse porters and culinary masters, your entire support team is comprised of incredible Andean women. This isn’t just a hike—it’s a celebration of female resilience and the vibrant natural beauty of the Sacred Valley.
We are proud to break barriers in the trekking industry. By booking the Short Inca Trail Womens Trek 2 day, you are directly empowering local women by providing professional opportunities in roles traditionally held by men. On this trek, the camaraderie is unmatched; you’ll share stories, laughter, and an incredible sense of achievement with a group of like-minded female adventurers.
Whether you are a solo traveler or hiking with friends, this route offers the perfect balance of physical challenge and soulful connection.
The short Inca Trail (a two-day trek) to Machu Picchu is a route that’s perfect for nature lovers; along this route, we will be able to observe the different types of wild orchids, as well as animals in their natural habitat.
You will have an incredible experience in a shorter period, so you will visit Machu Picchu up to two times.
During your trek along the Short Inca Trail, we will offer you a lunch prepared by our women chef who specializes in typical food of the region; the food is made with organic products grown by us, and your food will be based on your energy requirements for the Short Inca Trail.
During your visit on the second day, you will be able to climb the famous Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (for an additional cost). Come and explore this oasis of orchids!
Our private van by Tunqui Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco or Urubamba and take you to the train station in Ollantaytambo. We will travel for an hour and a half on a scenic train before arriving at the beginning of Km 104, the trailhead (Chachabamba ruins).
In route, you will understand why the Incas called this place “the Sacred Valley“. Snow-capped mountains tower above green fields. We will continue to descend into the high jungle or cloud forest and see the Urubamba River flowing through this picturesque landscape.
At the trailhead, Km 104, we will be near the registration point and the beginning of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our first archaeological complex will be the site of Chachabamba (2050 m), which is a masterfully built construction in an awe-inspiring location.
A 3-hour hike uphill will take us to the magnificent archaeological center called Wiñay Wayna (2650m).
This will be our lunch spot for the day, enjoy a freshly prepared Andean breakfast crafted by our talented female trekking chef. Our journey continues through the semi-tropical forest for 2 hours until we reach Intipunku, the mystical Sun Gate, which will offer us our first panoramic view of the Machu Picchu site! You will see how beautifully the Incas placed this citadel between the mountain peaks, the green Sacred Valley, and the beautiful Urubamba River.
Another 30 minutes of walking will take us to the citadel, where we will have the opportunity to take pictures and enjoy the sunset. Then, a bus will take us to Aguas Calientes (2030m), where we will spend the night.
After a warm breakfast at the hotel, we will take an early bus to Machu Picchu; we will climb for an hour and a half until we reach the mountain of Machu Picchu to have a panoramic view of the whole Inca Citadel.
Then you will have a 2 to 3-hour tour to learn all about the past of this sacred city and the opportunity to explore and admire the ingenuity of the Incas. Afterward, we will head back to Aguas Calientes by bus and to Cusco by train.
Note: If you wish to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain, you must inform Tunqui Expeditions before traveling to Peru to book in advance as the tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain tend to run out fairly quickly, especially during the high season.
We recommended staying in the Sacred Valley one day before starting the Inca Trail. The visit to these sites is subject to limited capacity and must be booked in advance.
As soon as we receive your personal details and deposit, we’ll secure your official Inca Trail permit—subject to availability (please check our Inca Trail Availability link).
These permits are issued in your full name for a specific date and cannot be changed once confirmed.
Please note: Only your passport number can be updated later, if needed.
Your permit also includes your entry ticket to Machu Picchu, making it essential to book early due to limited daily spaces.
We believe it’s the small details that set us apart. Every hiker receives:
All government taxes and trekking permit fees are included in our prices. No hidden fees.
Although less tangible, the following points are just as important and reflect our core values:
Most trekkers could not complete these treks without the help of porters. They are the backbone of our company. Our founder, Silvio Tunqui, began as a porter himself and knows their needs intimately.
We are committed to offering:
We are proud of our 300+ porters and grateful for their dedication.
We also run 4 trips per year for our porters and their families to experience Machu Picchu as guests—not just as workers. For many, it’s their first time entering the historic sanctuary their ancestors helped build.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly included female guides, chefs, and porters. While the numbers aren’t yet 50/50, we’re working toward full equality across our team.
We go above and beyond to be eco-conscious.
Huayna Picchu Mountain (Optional)
Looking to take your adventure to the next level? Climb Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that towers behind Machu Picchu. This steep 45-minute ascent offers jaw-dropping panoramic views and an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
It’s a real challenge—not recommended for those with a fear of heights—but if you’re up for it, the reward is absolutely worth it!
With your 6:00 a.m. Machu Picchu entry on Circuit 2, you’ll have plenty of time for a guided tour before tackling the Huayna Picchu hike on your own, following your guide’s instructions.
Machu Picchu Mountain
For those seeking stunning views without the steep drop-offs of Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain is the perfect choice. Its wide, less intimidating trails make it ideal for a more relaxed but equally rewarding hike. The round-trip ascent takes around 1.5 hours, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding Andes.
If you’re entering Machu Picchu with a 6:00 a.m. Circuit 2 ticket, you can opt for the 8:00 a.m. Machu Picchu Mountain entry, pausing your guided tour to complete the hike independently, following your guide’s instructions.
We’ll gladly secure your ticket in advance upon request—just let us know during booking.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. Here you’ll find answers to all your most common questions in one place.
Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and ensure a smooth experience. More info: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu FAQs
Have a question we haven’t answered here?
Feel free to contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
It’s very important to be well-acclimatized to the altitude before starting any trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to allow your body to adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been to another high-altitude area in Peru before Cusco, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the sights before starting your trek.
Suggested activities before your trek:
Sacred Highlands Hike To Pisac: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
Cusco Ruins Hike: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
Authentic Andean Experience: US$ 180.00 → Special offer: US$ 150.00
Chinchero to Urquillos Inca Trail Adventure: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00
Scenic Day Hike with Llamas: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 PM the night before your trek. The briefing lasts approximately 30–45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please coordinate another time via email, phone, or by visiting our office.
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation may not be confirmed.
We greatly appreciate if you can pay the balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office. ATMs along Avenida El Sol dispense both currencies.
You can also pay via credit/debit card or PayPal (online or in person), but note that a 5% service fee applies via Niubiz or PayPal.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Porters will carry it along the trail and deliver it to your camp.
Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in
Maximum weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and personal items.
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage safely at our office or your hotel (most hotels offer luggage storage) at no additional cost.
However, please do not store valuables in your suitcase. Keep items like credit cards, electronics, and passports in your hotel safe. Request a detailed receipt, as insurance companies may require proof of value in case of loss.
For added security, seal valuables (like credit cards) in a signed envelope before storing them.
Tunqui Expeditions offers hotel pick-up within the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm your pick-up time during the briefing. Please note that pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Cusco is a historic city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs are located on steep hills or pedestrian-only streets, which may make luggage transfers difficult.
We highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group tours bring together people from different backgrounds, ages, and fitness levels.
By joining a group, you agree that some hikers may be faster or slower than others, and everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If the group wishes to modify the itinerary, the guide will decide, in consultation with the group, whether the change is feasible.
The return from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry—we handle everything!
Strikes and protests are relatively common in Peru and may disrupt transportation or tours.
Roads and train tracks can be blocked. We always try to maintain your itinerary as planned, even if it means departing the night before.
In extreme cases, tours may be canceled. If changes or cancellations are necessary, our Operations Team will coordinate with you directly.
Your safety is our top priority, and we will make decisions accordingly.
Please take care of your belongings during the trip.
You are responsible for your personal items at all times—whether in transport, tents, or restaurants.
Double-check your space before leaving any area to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Here’s a complete list of what to bring for your 2-day Inca Trail adventure. Keep in mind that weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for both sun and rain, cold and heat. More Info: Ultimate Inca Trail Packing List
Available year-round, from January to December
We operate this itinerary every day of the week, all year long. This is a guaranteed small-group tour with departures starting from only 2 people.
Note: PayPal charges a 5% transaction fee that clients are asked to cover, as it is related to the use of their secure payment service. This fee only applies to online deposits—the remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or PEN) in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your adventure in Peru with any of these tour extensions:
Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley: US$ 180.00 → Special offer: US$ 150.00 Sacred Highlands Hike To Pisac: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00 Cusco Ruins Hike: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00You can rent or add extra items to your trip for more comfort:
Personalize your experience with the following add-ons:
This tour includes 1 night at a standard 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, with double or triple occupancy. If you need a hotel upgrade or prefer a single room, we can include them at extra cost.
Once your booking is confirmed, the price is 100% guaranteed.
No changes or increases will apply, regardless of circumstances.
Before booking, we recommend reading all the important tour information to be fully informed.
[email protected]The short Inca Trail (a two-day trek) to Machu Picchu is a route that’s perfect for nature lovers; along this route, we will be able to observe the different types of wild orchids, as well as animals in their natural habitat.
You will have an incredible experience in a shorter period, so you will visit Machu Picchu up to two times.
During your trek along the Short Inca Trail, we will offer you a lunch prepared by our women chef who specializes in typical food of the region; the food is made with organic products grown by us, and your food will be based on your energy requirements for the Short Inca Trail.
During your visit on the second day, you will be able to climb the famous Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (for an additional cost). Come and explore this oasis of orchids!
Our private van by Tunqui Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco or Urubamba and take you to the train station in Ollantaytambo. We will travel for an hour and a half on a scenic train before arriving at the beginning of Km 104, the trailhead (Chachabamba ruins).
In route, you will understand why the Incas called this place “the Sacred Valley“. Snow-capped mountains tower above green fields. We will continue to descend into the high jungle or cloud forest and see the Urubamba River flowing through this picturesque landscape.
At the trailhead, Km 104, we will be near the registration point and the beginning of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our first archaeological complex will be the site of Chachabamba (2050 m), which is a masterfully built construction in an awe-inspiring location.
A 3-hour hike uphill will take us to the magnificent archaeological center called Wiñay Wayna (2650m).
This will be our lunch spot for the day, enjoy a freshly prepared Andean breakfast crafted by our talented female trekking chef. Our journey continues through the semi-tropical forest for 2 hours until we reach Intipunku, the mystical Sun Gate, which will offer us our first panoramic view of the Machu Picchu site! You will see how beautifully the Incas placed this citadel between the mountain peaks, the green Sacred Valley, and the beautiful Urubamba River.
Another 30 minutes of walking will take us to the citadel, where we will have the opportunity to take pictures and enjoy the sunset. Then, a bus will take us to Aguas Calientes (2030m), where we will spend the night.
After a warm breakfast at the hotel, we will take an early bus to Machu Picchu; we will climb for an hour and a half until we reach the mountain of Machu Picchu to have a panoramic view of the whole Inca Citadel.
Then you will have a 2 to 3-hour tour to learn all about the past of this sacred city and the opportunity to explore and admire the ingenuity of the Incas. Afterward, we will head back to Aguas Calientes by bus and to Cusco by train.
Note: If you wish to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain, you must inform Tunqui Expeditions before traveling to Peru to book in advance as the tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain tend to run out fairly quickly, especially during the high season.
We recommended staying in the Sacred Valley one day before starting the Inca Trail. The visit to these sites is subject to limited capacity and must be booked in advance.
As soon as we receive your personal details and deposit, we’ll secure your official Inca Trail permit—subject to availability (please check our Inca Trail Availability link).
These permits are issued in your full name for a specific date and cannot be changed once confirmed.
Please note: Only your passport number can be updated later, if needed.
Your permit also includes your entry ticket to Machu Picchu, making it essential to book early due to limited daily spaces.
We believe it’s the small details that set us apart. Every hiker receives:
All government taxes and trekking permit fees are included in our prices. No hidden fees.
Although less tangible, the following points are just as important and reflect our core values:
Most trekkers could not complete these treks without the help of porters. They are the backbone of our company. Our founder, Silvio Tunqui, began as a porter himself and knows their needs intimately.
We are committed to offering:
We are proud of our 300+ porters and grateful for their dedication.
We also run 4 trips per year for our porters and their families to experience Machu Picchu as guests—not just as workers. For many, it’s their first time entering the historic sanctuary their ancestors helped build.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly included female guides, chefs, and porters. While the numbers aren’t yet 50/50, we’re working toward full equality across our team.
We go above and beyond to be eco-conscious.
Huayna Picchu Mountain (Optional)
Looking to take your adventure to the next level? Climb Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that towers behind Machu Picchu. This steep 45-minute ascent offers jaw-dropping panoramic views and an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
It’s a real challenge—not recommended for those with a fear of heights—but if you’re up for it, the reward is absolutely worth it!
With your 6:00 a.m. Machu Picchu entry on Circuit 2, you’ll have plenty of time for a guided tour before tackling the Huayna Picchu hike on your own, following your guide’s instructions.
Machu Picchu Mountain
For those seeking stunning views without the steep drop-offs of Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain is the perfect choice. Its wide, less intimidating trails make it ideal for a more relaxed but equally rewarding hike. The round-trip ascent takes around 1.5 hours, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the citadel and surrounding Andes.
If you’re entering Machu Picchu with a 6:00 a.m. Circuit 2 ticket, you can opt for the 8:00 a.m. Machu Picchu Mountain entry, pausing your guided tour to complete the hike independently, following your guide’s instructions.
We’ll gladly secure your ticket in advance upon request—just let us know during booking.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. Here you’ll find answers to all your most common questions in one place.
Please read the following information carefully—it will help you understand our services better and ensure a smooth experience. More info: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu FAQs
Have a question we haven’t answered here?
Feel free to contact us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
It’s very important to be well-acclimatized to the altitude before starting any trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to allow your body to adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
If you’ve already been to another high-altitude area in Peru before Cusco, we still suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the sights before starting your trek.
Suggested activities before your trek:
Sacred Highlands Hike To Pisac: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00 Cusco Ruins Hike: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00 Authentic Andean Experience: US$ 180.00 → Special offer: US$ 150.00 Chinchero to Urquillos Inca Trail Adventure: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00 Scenic Day Hike with Llamas: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00All pre-trek briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 PM the night before your trek. The briefing lasts approximately 30–45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please coordinate another time via email, phone, or by visiting our office.
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation may not be confirmed.
We greatly appreciate if you can pay the balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office. ATMs along Avenida El Sol dispense both currencies.
You can also pay via credit/debit card or PayPal (online or in person), but note that a 5% service fee applies via Niubiz or PayPal.
We do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing. Porters will carry it along the trail and deliver it to your camp.
Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in
Maximum weight: 7 kg / 15.4 lbs, including sleeping bag, pad, clothing, and personal items.
Absolutely!
You can store your main luggage safely at our office or your hotel (most hotels offer luggage storage) at no additional cost.
However, please do not store valuables in your suitcase. Keep items like credit cards, electronics, and passports in your hotel safe. Request a detailed receipt, as insurance companies may require proof of value in case of loss.
For added security, seal valuables (like credit cards) in a signed envelope before storing them.
Tunqui Expeditions offers hotel pick-up within the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm your pick-up time during the briefing. Please note that pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.
Cusco is a historic city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs are located on steep hills or pedestrian-only streets, which may make luggage transfers difficult.
We highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group tours bring together people from different backgrounds, ages, and fitness levels.
By joining a group, you agree that some hikers may be faster or slower than others, and everyone is encouraged to hike at their own pace.
If the group wishes to modify the itinerary, the guide will decide, in consultation with the group, whether the change is feasible.
The return from Machu Picchu requires some logistics, but don’t worry—we handle everything!
Strikes and protests are relatively common in Peru and may disrupt transportation or tours.
Roads and train tracks can be blocked. We always try to maintain your itinerary as planned, even if it means departing the night before.
In extreme cases, tours may be canceled. If changes or cancellations are necessary, our Operations Team will coordinate with you directly.
Your safety is our top priority, and we will make decisions accordingly.
Please take care of your belongings during the trip.
You are responsible for your personal items at all times—whether in transport, tents, or restaurants.
Double-check your space before leaving any area to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
Here’s a complete list of what to bring for your 2-day Inca Trail adventure. Keep in mind that weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for both sun and rain, cold and heat. More Info: Ultimate Inca Trail Packing List
Available year-round, from January to December
We operate this itinerary every day of the week, all year long. This is a guaranteed small-group tour with departures starting from only 2 people.
Note: PayPal charges a 5% transaction fee that clients are asked to cover, as it is related to the use of their secure payment service. This fee only applies to online deposits—the remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or PEN) in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your adventure in Peru with any of these tour extensions:
Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley: US$ 180.00 → Special offer: US$ 150.00 Sacred Highlands Hike To Pisac: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00 Cusco Ruins Hike: US$ 210.00 → Special offer: US$ 180.00You can rent or add extra items to your trip for more comfort:
Personalize your experience with the following add-ons:
This tour includes 1 night at a standard 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, with double or triple occupancy. If you need a hotel upgrade or prefer a single room, we can include them at extra cost.
Once your booking is confirmed, the price is 100% guaranteed.
No changes or increases will apply, regardless of circumstances.
Before booking, we recommend reading all the important tour information to be fully informed.
[email protected]
