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The Short Inca Trail is an ideal choice for those aiming to enjoy the enchantment of the Inca Trail in a shorter duration and without the need for camping. Within two days, you’ll experience breathtaking Andean views, stroll along historic trails, and explore archaeological locations before arriving at Machu Picchu via the famous Sun Gate. Reserve your Short Inca Trail now and turn this unforgettable adventure into your own
Moderate
Hike, Camping, Culture Adventure
3200 meters
08pp Average.16ppl Max
The attraction of this trail is that it is only a few hours walk up a grassy hillside to Wiñay Wayna and a couple of hours further to Machu Picchu making it ideal for trekkers wanting to experience at least a part of the Inca Trail but haven’t got the time (or energy) to complete the full 4 day trek.
The trek begins at kilometer 104 (104 kilometers along the railway from Cusco to Aguas Calientes). The local train will stop only for a few minutes at Km 104 so be prepared to jump off quickly.
On the other side of the river the trail heads off to the right towards the ruins of Chachabamba. These ruins, discovered in 1940, are located on the old Inca road that ran along the southern bank of the Urubamba river. The style of buildings and stonework suggest that this was an important religious site, as well as having the secondary function as a gate house guarding this entrance to Machu Picchu.
From Chachabamba the Inca Trail goes south and climbs the hillside, entering some woods and crossing a small stream. The path then turns west and continues uphill leaving the woods for open grassland. The path is clearly marked.
After about 2 hours after leaving Chachabamba, the path at last descends into a forest and much needed shade. Within minutes you’ll reach a beautiful waterfall, and soon after leave the forest to arrive at the foot of the superb ruins of Wiñay Wayna.
Provided you’re still feeling fit we recommend carrying on to Machu Picchu. It’s only another 1½ hours along an easy to follow trek. Even allowing for plenty of breaks and lunch you should arrive at the ruins by 4pm. You’ll find the ruins very quiet since most people have left to return on the train.
The last bus back to Aguas Calientes is at 5pm so you won’t have enough time for a tour of the ruins but you can stay the night in Aguas Calientes and return the next morning on the first bus up to ruins (6:30am). Provided you’ve kept your entrance ticket, entrance is half price the second time ($5) and you get to see Machu Picchu again before all the crowds arrive on the train at about 9am. You can join a guided tour for little as $4 per person.
Activities: Adventure Trekking, Cultural Exploration, Natural Experience
Difficulty Level: 2/5 (Easy to Moderate)
Maximum Altitude: 2,720 meters above sea level (8,923 feet)
Minimum Altitude: 2,170 meters above sea level (7,119 feet)
Departure Days: Daily departures
Sites to Visit:
Start of the Trek: Begin your adventure early with a 4 am pickup from your Cusco hotel. Enjoy a comfortable ride to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll have a packed lunch and board the train at 6:10 am.
Train Ride: Enjoy breakfast and scenery on the train for over an hour before arriving at Km104, the starting point of your trek. Cross the Urubamba River and show your passport at the checkpoint.
Hike: The initial gentle climb offers expansive views of the Urubamba River. Expect variable weather, including potential rain. After a steeper section, reward yourself with the view of a beautiful waterfall.
Wiñayhuayna: Explore these incredible Inca ruins, partially hidden by jungle. Learn about the area’s rich history and diverse ecosystem from your guide.
Lunch: Enjoy a gourmet lunch and relax at the campsite.
Sun Gate: After lunch, take a mostly flat path to the Sun Gate. Experience your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. Capture the moment with photos and explore additional Inca sites along the way.
Machu Picchu: Arrive in the afternoon for stunning photos of the site. Transfer to your hotel in Aguas Calientes for dinner and rest.
Meals Included: Box lunch, dinner in Aguas Calientes.
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Time: Approximately 6 hours
Accommodations: 3* Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu or similar; 4* El Mapi or Tierra Viva Machu Picchu upgrade (superior room)
Difficulty: Moderate
Note: You may leave an overnight bag at the Ollantaytambo train station for transfer to Aguas Calientes (up to 5 kg per person).
Meals Included: Breakfast at your hotel.
Optional: Huayna Picchu hike (requires separate booking and extra cost).
Important Notes
Best Price The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available on most days. A minimum of two people is required to book.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek is available on any date that suits you, provided we have a minimum of 2 hikers.
GROUP SERVICE
• ADULT PRICE: $480 USD per person
• STUDENT PRICE: $460 USD discount per person for groups of 5 or more
Duffel bag contents:
The Short Inca Trail is a shorter version of the famous Inca Trail, designed for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Inca paths but have less time. This Inca Trail 2 Days adventure still includes breathtaking views and ends with a visit to Machu Picchu. It’s perfect for people who want a taste of the hike without committing to the longer treks. The 2-Day Machu Picchu Hike offers a quicker but still unforgettable journey through ancient trails and ruins.
When it comes to the Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu, you’ll find many options. Most tours include one day of hiking and one day to explore Machu Picchu. Some tours also offer stops at other ruins along the way. Machu Picchu Expeditions is a great option, as they offer well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides. Their Inca Trail 2 Days package ensures you get the most out of your time on the trail.
The weather on the Short Inca Trail can be unpredictable. Mornings might start off cool and cloudy, but as you hike through the day, it could warm up quickly. In some parts, you may experience rain, especially during certain seasons. The temperature drops as you approach Machu Picchu, so be prepared for cool air. Pack for both warm and cool conditions.
Even though the Short Inca Trail is only two days, it’s important to prepare. Spend at least a day or two in Cusco before your hike to adjust to the altitude. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy physical activities in the days leading up to the hike. Make sure you’re in good shape because even a shorter hike like this can still be physically demanding.
The Short Inca Trail is not as physically demanding as the longer version, but it still requires a good level of fitness. People with heart or lung conditions should consult a doctor before attempting the hike. There are age limits for certain tours, so check with your tour company to ensure you meet the requirements. The trail can be steep in parts, so be prepared for a moderate challenge.
After completing the 2-Day Machu Picchu Hike, you’ll need tickets to enter Machu Picchu. Most tour packages include the tickets, but it’s important to confirm with your tour provider. Tickets to Machu Picchu can sell out, especially during high season, so make sure they are arranged ahead of time. Machu Picchu Expeditions takes care of this for you, so you don’t have to worry.
Tour guides are an important part of the Short Inca Trail experience. They not only help you navigate the trail but also provide fascinating information about the history and culture of the Incas. Guides from Machu Picchu Expeditions are knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to answer any questions you may have. Their expertise makes the journey even more enjoyable.
The inca trail 2 days has a moderate altitude, with the highest point being around 8,700 feet above sea level. While not as high as other treks, it’s still important to be prepared for the effects of altitude. The trail gradually descends as you approach Machu Picchu, which sits at around 7,970 feet. The change in altitude is mild compared to the longer trails, but it’s still good to take it slow and stay hydrated.
Important Information About the Trek:
Student Discount Eligibility:
Permit Changes:
Passport Requirement:
Weather:
Group Size:
Hotel Transfers:
Vistadome Train Upgrade:
Tipping:
Sustainability:
Planning to hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? You probably have some questions before starting this unforgettable adventure. Here we answer the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare with confidence.
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