2-Day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu + Circuit 3B Entry

Official 2-Day Inca Trail Permit from KM104 with Machu Picchu Circuit 3B Access

Price
$197

per traveler

2-Day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu + Circuit 3B Entry

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Official 2-Day Inca Trail Permit from KM104 with Machu Picchu Circuit 3B Access

This 2-day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu is ideal for travelers who want the legendary Short Inca Trail experience while keeping full flexibility on services. On day one, the official government-issued permit grants entry at KM104, following the original Inca path through stunning Andean scenery and the famous Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna , before entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Circuit 1C) — the sacred entrance used by the Incas. This day-one access also includes the classic panoramic viewpoint from Circuit 1B (Upper Terrace), perfect for iconic photos of the citadel.

On day two, the permit includes guaranteed entry to Machu Picchu Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples) , allowing a deeper exploration of the lower archaeological sector with temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces. This product is permit only and does not include a tour guide, train tickets, bus tickets, or transportation services. If you need to book your logistics separately, you can purchase train tickets, bus tickets to the entrance, and hire a licensed Inca Trail guide . Availability is strictly limited by the Peruvian government, so advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak season.

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Additional information and requirements:

Entry to the Inca Trail from KM104 is only permitted when accompanied by an official licensed Inca Trail guide, as required by the Ministry of Culture. Guide services are mandatory on day one of the Inca Trail hike and must be arranged separately, as they are not included with this permit. You may hire a licensed guide here: Inca Trail guide from KM104 to Machu Picchu .

Travelers are responsible for purchasing their own train ticket to KM104 that allows disembarkation at the official control point. Train tickets can be booked in advance at: Buy Machu Picchu train tickets . Food, water, buses, and return transportation are not included.

On day two, entry to Machu Picchu Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples) does not require a guide, although hiring one is highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the site. Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance are not included and can be purchased here: Machu Picchu bus tickets . All permits are government-issued, non-refundable, and non-transferable once issued. Proper advance planning of transportation and services ensures a smooth and fully compliant 2-Day Inca Trail permit experience.

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Price

2-Day Inca Trail Permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu + Circuit 3B Entry
Short Inca Trail KM104 • Day 1: Circuits 1C (Sun Gate) & 1B (Upper Terrace) • Day 2: Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples)

Adults 197 USD per person
Minors (ages 3–17) 116 USD per person
Infants (under 3) 0 USD

Important pricing note: This is a fixed-price, government-issued 2-day Inca Trail permit. The total cost remains the same whether or not the second-day Machu Picchu Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples) entrance is used.

What Is Included?

This official 2-day Inca Trail permit grants fully authorized access to the most iconic sections of the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, as regulated by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture:

Inca Trail entrance at KM104 (Day 1) – Begin the Short Inca Trail on the original stone path used by the Incas, accessible only with an official government-issued permit.
Access to Wiñay Wayna archaeological site – Visit one of the most impressive and sacred Inca complexes along the trail, reserved exclusively for Inca Trail permit holders.
Sun Gate (Intipunku) – Circuit 1C – Enter Machu Picchu through the legendary ceremonial gateway used by the Incas, available only to hikers arriving via the Inca Trail.
Machu Picchu Upper Terrace – Circuit 1B – Enjoy access to the classic panoramic viewpoint near the Guardian’s House, ideal for iconic photos overlooking the citadel.
Second-day Machu Picchu entrance – Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples) – Includes a separate Day 2 ticket to explore the lower archaeological sector, featuring temples, terraces, and sacred spaces. Entry time is assigned by availability.

This is a government-issued combined permit and ticket package. All components are bundled, non-separable, and issued together under one reservation. The price remains the same whether the Machu Picchu access is used on Day 1 after completing the Inca Trail hike or only on Day 2 for the Royalty Temples (Circuit 3B).

With this permit, you receive official, fully authorized access to both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, ensuring compliance with all regulations and a seamless experience at one of the world’s most important archaeological sites.

What is not included?

What is NOT included in the 2-Day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu:

Food and water: Meals, snacks, and drinks are not included. Travelers must bring their own food and sufficient water for the Inca Trail hike.
Train ticket to KM104 (Chachabamba): Not included. You must purchase your own train ticket to KM104 that allows disembarkation at the official KM104 control point.
Inca Trail tour guide (Day 1 – mandatory): Not included. Hiring an official licensed Inca Trail tour guide is required by law for entry to the Inca Trail from KM104 and must be arranged separately. You may hire a licensed guide here: Inca Trail guide from KM104 to Machu Picchu .
Bus transportation at Machu Picchu: The bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance and the return bus down are not included. Bus tickets can be purchased separately at: Machu Picchu bus tickets .
Return transportation to Cusco: Train tickets from Aguas Calientes or Ollantaytambo back to Cusco, as well as local ground transportation within Cusco, are not included. Ground transfers in Cusco can be arranged separately at: Cusco transfers and transportation .
Huayna Picchu Mountain: Access is not included with this 2-day Inca Trail permit and must be purchased separately if available: Huayna Picchu entrance ticket .
Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña): Access is not included with this 2-day Inca Trail permit and must be purchased separately if available: Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket .

Requirements and traveler responsibilities:

Entry to the Inca Trail at KM104 on Day 1 is only permitted when accompanied by an official licensed Inca Trail tour guide. Independent entry is strictly prohibited by the Ministry of Culture.
Travelers are responsible for securing all required train tickets, buses, and ground transportation for both Day 1 and Day 2, including access to Machu Picchu on the second day.
After completing the guided portion of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu visit, travelers are responsible for all remaining transportation and logistics, including return travel to Cusco.

Please plan carefully to ensure a smooth and fully compliant experience with the 2-Day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu. Understanding what is not included helps avoid delays, denied entry, or unexpected expenses during your visit.

Itinerary

Recommended Itinerary for the 2-Day Inca Trail Permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu

The 2-day Inca Trail experience from KM104 to Machu Picchu combines the most scenic and historic section of the Short Inca Trail on Day 1 with a more relaxed exploration of Machu Picchu on Day 2. This itinerary allows travelers to hike the Inca Trail, enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku) , and return the following day to explore the lower archaeological sector.

Day 1 – Inca Trail Hike from KM104 to Machu Picchu

Early morning: Arrival at KM104 (Chachabamba), passport and permit verification at the official checkpoint, and start of the guided Inca Trail hike.
Midday: Hike through lush cloud forest and visit the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna , one of the most important ruins along the trail.
Afternoon: Continue along the original stone path of the Inca Trail toward Machu Picchu.
Late afternoon: Reach the Sun Gate (Intipunku) and enjoy the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from above.
Late afternoon / early evening: Enter Machu Picchu via Circuit 1 , including Circuit 1C and the classic viewpoint at Circuit 1B (Upper Terrace), then exit the site and descend to Aguas Calientes.
Evening: Overnight in Aguas Calientes (accommodation not included).

Day 2 – Machu Picchu Visit (Circuit 3B)

Assigned entry time: Return to Machu Picchu for your second-day visit.
Machu Picchu visit: Enter the citadel using your included Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples) ticket and explore the lower archaeological sector with temples, terraces, and sacred spaces.
After the visit: Exit Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes to continue your onward travel.

Key Highlights of the 2-Day Experience

Hike the official Inca Trail with government-issued permit from KM104.
Visit exclusive Inca sites such as Wiñay Wayna .
Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku) , an experience reserved exclusively for Inca Trail hikers.
Enjoy the classic panoramic viewpoints from Circuit 1B on Day 1.
Explore Machu Picchu in greater depth on Day 2 via Circuit 3B .

This itinerary provides a balanced and fully compliant way to experience the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu over two days, combining adventure, iconic viewpoints, and deeper archaeological exploration under a single official 2-day Inca Trail permit.

What to bring

What to Bring for the 2-Day Inca Trail Permit (KM104 + Machu Picchu)

To fully enjoy your 2-day Inca Trail experience from KM104 to Machu Picchu, it’s important to pack appropriately for both Day 1 on the Inca Trail and Day 2 inside Machu Picchu. The hike is short but physically demanding, and weather conditions in the Andes can change quickly. Below is a practical packing list to help you stay comfortable, compliant, and prepared.

Essential Items (Required)

Original passport – Mandatory for entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Your passport must match the details on your official permit and entrance tickets.
Comfortable hiking shoes – Well-broken-in trail shoes or lightweight hiking boots with good grip for uneven stone steps and descents.
Lightweight daypack – A small backpack to carry essentials during the hike and for your visit to Machu Picchu on Day 2.
Water (minimum 1.5–2 liters) – Staying hydrated is critical, especially at altitude. Refill options are limited along the trail.
Rain jacket or poncho – Sudden rain showers are common in the Andes, even during the dry season.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat – UV exposure is strong at high elevations.
Snacks and energy food – Meals are not included with the permit. Bring snacks or light food for the trail day.
Camera or smartphone – To capture Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
Personal medication – Include any required prescriptions and altitude-related medication if advised by your doctor.

Recommended for Comfort

Layered clothing – Temperatures vary significantly between early morning, midday sun, and afternoon cloud cover.
Light gloves or warm layer – Early starts can be cool, especially in the dry season.
Insect repellent – Useful in humid or forested sections near archaeological sites.
Trekking poles – Helpful on steep or slippery sections (must have rubber tips to be allowed on the trail).
Small amount of cash – For restrooms, snacks, or personal expenses in Aguas Calientes.

This 2-day Inca Trail packing list ensures you are fully prepared for the hike from KM104 through Wiñay Wayna on Day 1 and for your independent visit to Machu Picchu on Day 2. Packing light, dressing in layers, and bringing only essentials will make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Fitness Requirements

Fitness Requirements for the 2-Day Inca Trail Permit (KM104 + Machu Picchu)

The 2-day Inca Trail experience from KM104 to Machu Picchu involves one full day of hiking on the Inca Trail followed by a second day exploring Machu Picchu. The hike itself is considered moderate and is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. While shorter than the classic 4-day Inca Trail, it still requires physical preparation due to altitude, stone steps, and sustained uphill sections on Day 1.

What to Expect Physically

Day 1 hiking distance: approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), typically completed in 5 to 7 hours at a steady pace.
Elevation gain: gradual and continuous ascent from KM104 to Wiñay Wayna, followed by descents toward Machu Picchu.
Terrain: uneven stone steps, narrow paths, and staircases common to Inca Trail routes.
Maximum elevation: around 2,700 meters (8,860 feet), which may affect those not acclimatized.
Final approach: a short uphill walk to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), rewarding hikers with the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Day 2: walking inside Machu Picchu on designated circuits involves stairs, uneven stone surfaces, and several hours on your feet, but no long-distance hiking.

Recommended Fitness Level

This experience is ideal for travelers who engage in regular physical activity such as walking, light hiking, cycling, or cardio workouts. You do not need technical climbing skills, but you should be comfortable walking uphill and downhill for several hours on uneven terrain.

How to Prepare

Practice walking, hiking, or stair climbing 2–3 times per week before your trip.
Spend at least 1–2 days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to the hike to reduce the risk of altitude-related symptoms.
Stay well hydrated, eat balanced meals, and avoid alcohol the day before the hike.

With basic preparation and proper pacing, most travelers find the Short Inca Trail from KM104 highly manageable and rewarding. Good fitness and acclimatization will allow you to fully enjoy the scenery, the archaeological sites along the trail, and your visit to Machu Picchu over two days.

Availability

2-Day Inca Trail Availability and Best Time to Hike

The 2-day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu is a popular option for travelers who want to experience the legendary Short Inca Trail on Day 1 and enjoy a second, less rushed visit to Machu Picchu on Day 2. This format combines dramatic mountain scenery, exclusive Inca Trail access, and multiple Machu Picchu circuits under a single government-issued permit.

Year-Round Availability

The Inca Trail operates throughout the year with one important exception: February. During this month, the trail is closed for annual maintenance and conservation mandated by the Peruvian government. The 2-day Inca Trail permit is not available in February.

Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail

The most comfortable months to hike the 2-day Inca Trail from KM104 are from April through October, when weather conditions are generally drier and skies are clearer. These months offer better trail conditions, improved visibility, and ideal conditions for entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate and exploring the site the following day.

High Season Considerations

June, July, and August are peak travel months in Peru. Inca Trail permits, including the 2-day KM104 option, can sell out weeks or months in advance due to strict daily limits imposed by the Ministry of Culture. Travelers planning to visit during high season should reserve their permits as early as possible.

Rainy Season Considerations

January and March fall within the rainy season. While the trail remains open during these months (except February), hikers should be prepared for wet conditions on Day 1 of the Inca Trail and occasional showers during their Machu Picchu visit on Day 2. Proper rain gear and footwear are strongly recommended.

Planning Your 2-Day Inca Trail Experience

Whether you visit during the dry season for optimal conditions or choose the rainy season for fewer crowds, the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a balanced and unforgettable experience. Advance planning is essential, as permits are limited and all entries are issued under strict government regulations.

Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions – 2-Day Inca Trail Permit from KM104 + Machu Picchu Entry

Please read the following terms and conditions carefully before booking your 2-Day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu, which includes Day 1 Inca Trail access and Day 2 Machu Picchu entry (Circuit 3B). These conditions are strictly enforced by the Ministry of Culture of Peru and apply to all visitors without exception.

Non-Refundable and Non-Changeable

All Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets included in this 2-day package are 100% non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-changeable. Once issued, no cancellations, name changes, or date modifications are permitted under any circumstance. These rules are mandated by the Ministry of Culture of Peru and apply regardless of travel delays, illness, missed entry times, or personal circumstances.

KM104 Entry and Day 1 Circuit Access

Access to Machu Picchu Circuit 1, including Circuit 1C (Sun Gate) and Circuit 1B (Upper Terrace), is exclusively reserved for travelers who physically enter via the Inca Trail at KM104 with a valid Inca Trail permit on Day 1.

IMPORTANT: If you do not enter Machu Picchu through the KM104 Inca Trail checkpoint, you will not be permitted to access Circuit 1C or Circuit 1B through the Aguas Calientes entrance. This restriction applies even in cases of injury, illness, weather conditions, transportation delays, or missed entry times. These regulations are strictly enforced by park authorities.

Day 2 Machu Picchu Entry (Circuit 3B)

This permit also includes a separate Day 2 Machu Picchu entrance ticket for Circuit 3B (Royalty Temples). The price remains the same whether Machu Picchu access is used on Day 1 after completing the Inca Trail, on Day 2 only, or on both days, as all components are bundled and issued together by the government.

Compliance with Official Regulations

By booking this permit, you agree to comply with all official Peruvian government regulations governing entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. These regulations are designed to protect UNESCO World Heritage zones, control daily visitor limits, and preserve the archaeological site for future generations.

Important Reminders

Carefully verify your full name, passport number, nationality, and travel date before booking.
Changes to traveler information or dates are not permitted once the permit is issued.
All travelers must carry their original passport matching the permit details.
Hiring an official licensed Inca Trail guide is mandatory on Day 1.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover unforeseen circumstances.

By purchasing the 2-Day Inca Trail permit from KM104 to Machu Picchu, you confirm that you fully understand and accept all terms and conditions established by the Ministry of Culture of Peru.