SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS TO MACHU PICCHU

Embark on a 2-day adventure along the Short Inca Trail, South America’s most iconic trek. This route takes you through breathtaking landscapes and hidden Inca sites in the jungle, as you follow ancient paths leading to the magical Machu Picchu. The blend of lush nature, mysterious ruins, and panoramic views makes this experience truly unique.

This trek is perfect for those seeking a different and thrilling way to reach Machu Picchu. Dare to experience the adrenaline and excitement of exploring the heart of the Inca Empire, surrounded by history, culture, and unparalleled natural beauty. Come and create unforgettable memories in Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru!

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – AGUAS CALIENTES

Start your adventure by train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104, where you’ll explore a section of the Inca Trail through the enigmatic archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, surrounded by lush nature. After marveling at a spectacular sunset at Inti Punku, descend to the iconic Machu Picchu and relax in Aguas Calientes, where a well-deserved rest awaits you.

Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

On this day, you’ll discover the stunning wonder of Machu Picchu. From your hotel, our guide will accompany you on a tourist bus to the citadel, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours of its main attractions. Afterward, you’ll return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and later take the train back to Ollantaytambo. There, our representative will meet you and take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

End of our services.

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available in private service and shared service, depending on availability.

Itinerary
What includes?
Recommendations

Day 1

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – AGUAS CALIENTES

The 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail tour begins with an exciting early morning departure from your hotel in Cusco, heading to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you’ll board a scenic train to KM 104, the starting point of this unforgettable adventure. The trek starts at the archaeological site of Chachabamba, located at 2,250 meters above sea level, where an expert guide will immerse you in the history and magic of this ancient Inca site.

After exploring Chachabamba, the hike continues for approximately 3 hours through stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity until reaching Wiñaywayna. This impressive archaeological site, with its agricultural terraces, and religious and urban zones, offers panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll admire lush flora and fauna, including orchids, birds, and hummingbirds, while enjoying an unparalleled natural setting.

After a lunch break, the journey continues toward Machu Picchu, reaching the iconic Inti Punku, or “Sun Gate,” just in time for a spectacular sunset. From here, you’ll descend to the majestic Machu Picchu citadel and then take a tourist bus to Aguas Calientes, where a well-deserved night of rest awaits you.

Overnight in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Difficulty: 3 out of 5 / Moderate.
Distance: Approximately 9 km
Walking Time: About 5 – 6 hours
Meals: Box Lunch and Dinner.
Minimum Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Maximum Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft

Pernocte: Aguas Calientes

Day 2

DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHUPICCHU – CUSCO

After an early breakfast, you’ll be picked up from your hotel for an exciting 30-minute bus ride, winding up a zigzagging road to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, located 2,400 meters above sea level. There, you’ll begin a 2 hour guided tour of the most significant corners of this sacred site, exploring its courtyards, sacred fountains, temples, and the famous Intiwatana, the Inca sun clock.

At the end of the guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to continue exploring on your own. Your guide will take you to a strategic vantage point where you can capture spectacular photos. After enjoying the views, you’ll board the tourist bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll find a delicious variety of lunch options at local restaurants.

Once you’ve enjoyed your lunch, depending on your train schedule, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. Upon arrival, our representative will be waiting with a sign bearing your name, ready to take you back to your hotel in Cusco. This tour offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Cusco, Peru.

Overnight in Cusco (On your own)

Difficulty: 2 out of 5 / Easy.
Walking Time: Around 2 – 3 hrs approximately.
Meals: Breakfast.
Machu Picchu Elevation: 2, 430 m / 7, 972 ft.
Cusco Elevation: 3, 399 m / 11,150 ft.

TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT:

Expect to line up for buses between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, depending on the season.

Follow the one-way circuit 2 at Machu Picchu with (Included) no re-entry unless your ticket includes Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (Not included).

Plan to visit Inti Punku or the Inca Bridge before your guided tour. Train availability varies by reservation time and season.

ADDITIONAL:

If your train schedule allows, we recommend visiting the Chavez Ballòn Museum, which is the Machu Picchu’ site museum, from 12:00 noon, admission is free, to enter you must only show your passport.

Another place you can visit is the Butterfly House, where you can appreciate the growth stages of a butterfly from being a cocoon to an adult butterfly. The entry price is S /. 10.00.

END OF OUR SERVICES

Pernocte: Cusco

Recommendations

Bring your passport or identity document (DNI) (the same with which the reservation was made).
Wear trekking shoes.
Bring waterproof jacket / rain poncho
Bring warm jacket
Wear T-shirts (quick dry)
Wear comfortable trekking pants, shorts
Bring hat and gloves
Bring extra cash (Soles).
Bring a small backpack, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
Bring your camera and extra batteries.
It is only allowed to carry 7 kilos of luggage on the train.
Book your tickets to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in advance.
Bring personal medications
Bring a bottle of water and snacks.
Bring toiletries and hand sanitizer.
Bring a flashlight with extra batteries.