Lace your hiking shoes for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s a 2-Day Inca Trail that promises an unforgettable adventure. Hiking to Machu Picchu is perfect if you’re looking to experience the routes without a long commitment.
Our real journey starts at Ollantaytambo train station, where we will board an amazing train. The windows offer breathtaking views of the Urubamba River valley.
Upon arriving at Km 104, the real excitement begins. We will hike this portion of the Inca Trail, stepping on the same paths that the Incas did centuries ago. The trek covers approximately 12 kilometers (about 7.5 miles), combining natural beauty with historical richness.
You’ll witness a variety of flora and fauna, making every step a discovery. Our first major stop will be the fascinating archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. The Short Inca Trail tour is an amazing opportunity to learn more about the ecosystems and history of Peru.
After exploring Wiñay Wayna, we continue our trek to Machu Picchu. The anticipation builds as we approach the Sun Gate, where you’ll catch the first mesmerizing glimpse of the iconic ruins. It’s a sight that will stay with you forever. We’ll spend the night at a nearby town, resting and preparing to explore Machu Picchu the next morning.
Wiñay Wayna stands as a testament to Inca architectural skill. Located along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it features stunning terraces that cascade down the hillside. These were used for agriculture by the Incas. The site also boasts a series of ceremonial baths, highlighting their advanced water management techniques.
The Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, offers the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. It is strategically positioned above the iconic city. Historically, it served as the main entrance for those arriving by the Inca Trail. Standing at the Sun Gate, travelers can witness the sun rise, illuminating Machu Picchu in a golden glow.
Day two starts with an early visit to Machu Picchu. With our knowledgeable tour guide, we will explore the famed Inca site. You’ll learn about the historical significance and marvel at the architectural precision.
This Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an ideal choice for those looking for a quick yet enriching trek. Keep in mind that the Inca trail permits are limited, so we will handle all necessary arrangements. Don’t worry about altitude sickness. We will guide you on how to best acclimate and enjoy your hike. Join us for this spectacular 2-Day Inca Trail and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
04:00
Documentation Required for Machu Picchu Entry: It is mandatory to present your passport. If you don’t have it with you, you can use an identity document to enter Machu Picchu. Ensure your documents are valid and easily accessible throughout the trek.
Limited Entry to Machu Picchu: During the high tourist season (June to September), tickets can sell out quickly. We advise you to book your tickets at least two months in advance to secure your spot.
Limited Tickets for Mountain Hikes: Entry to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain is highly restricted. The tickets often sell out quickly. These tickets should be booked simultaneously with your Machu Picchu tour, ideally several months in advance.
Additional Costs for Mountain Access: Accessing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain requires an additional fee. It costs $60.00 USD per person. This cost is over and above the standard entry fee to Machu Picchu.
Discounts for Children: Children aged between 3 and 17 years are eligible for student rates. This can make the trip more affordable for families.
Our adventure starts early, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. We will head to Ollantaytambo train station, where we board the train to Km 104. After a brief check-in at the trail’s control post, we will be ready to start our hike.
The first leg of our journey involves a visit to the Chachabamba archaeological site. Here, we will explore the ruins and learn about their historical significance. Next, we ascend gradually through a tropical cloud forest for about three hours to the stunning Wiñay Wayna. We will climb ancient Inca stairs, marvel at the terraces, and delve into the history of the site with our guide.
After enjoying a specially prepared box lunch, we continue along the most enchanting part of the Inca Trail. We will be surrounded by lush vegetation, the scent of wild orchids, and spectacular views.
We will have traversed the Machu Picchu Valley and Urubamba River. If we follow the trail it will lead us to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. This is where you first see the breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu. A 45-minute descent brings us to the citadel for an initial exploration and photo parade.
We then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, checking into our hotel to relax and prepare for the next day. The evening concludes with a delightful dinner with our guide.
After a restful night in the hotel in Aguas Calientes, we will take an early bus back up to Machu Picchu. Upon entering the sanctuary, our guided tour commences. Over the next three hours, we explore major sites within the citadel. We will spot places such as the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sun Dial, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the quarries.
Following our comprehensive tour, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes. Where you may stop at one of the local restaurants to buy lunch.
Later in the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a bus will take us back to Cusco, concluding our journey with a drop-off at your hotel.
Join us for this spectacular Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Day Inca Trail. Experience the history, the culture, and the breathtaking landscapes of this ancient path. Be sure to book in advance to secure your spot on this remarkable adventure of the Inca Trail hiking.
The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season from April to October. Is when the weather is generally clearer and more predictable.
Yes, a permit is necessary to hike the Short Inca Trail. Permits are under limitations and can sell out months in advance, so it’s advisable to book early.
The Short Inca Trail is moderately difficult. It involves some steep sections and stone steps. It’s important to be in good physical condition and to acclimate to the altitude before starting the trek.
To prepare, focus on cardiovascular exercises such as walking, jogging, or cycling. Practice hiking with a backpack. It’s also crucial to spend a few days in Cusco or another high-altitude location to acclimate.
Major highlights include the archaeological sites of Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
No, hiking the Short Inca Trail independently is not legal. You must book through a licensed tour operator who provides a professional guide.
On the Short Inca Trail, accommodations typically involve one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. There are no camping facilities on this shorter trail.
The tour usually includes a box lunch, breakfast, and dinner. The meals provide the energy needed for the hike.
Group sizes can vary, but typically, tour operators keep groups small. This ensure a more personal and less crowded experience.
Absolutely phenomenal experience! The 2-day trail was perfect for our family. The hike was manageable and scenic, and staying overnight in Aguas Calientes allowed us to refresh before exploring Machu Picchu. Our guide made sure we knew the best spots for photos and even helped us learn a few words in Quechua!