The Short Inca Trail is a perfect 2-day adventure for those with limited time who still want to experience the magic of Machu Picchu. This trek offers an unforgettable first glimpse of the ancient city through the iconic Sun
Gate. On Day 1, you'll begin your journey in the Sacred Valley, just outside Cusco, and hike 7 miles (12 km) with a professional guide by your side, leading you towards the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. After a restful night in a comfortable hotel, Day 2 is dedicated to fully exploring Machu Picchu on a guided tour, uncovering the secrets and stories of this world wonder.
We specialize in crafting complete travel packages, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your adventure while we take care of all the logistics. This service is part of a comprehensive itinerary that includes hotels, tours, and ground transportation, giving you a seamless and stress-free travel experience.
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Tour Details - Short Inca Trail 2 Days Trek
Overview:
- Tour Type: Hiking, adventure, history, culture
- Total Distance: 12KM/7 Miles.
- Good For: Moderate physical fitness. Those in moderate shape, families.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Considerations: Permit required
- Season: From March 1st to January 31
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco - 104 Kms - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu Picchu
The Short Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu starts from pick-up at your hotel (4:00 am approx.) or your hotel in Ollantaytambo by 5:30am, and drive you to the train station where you will board the train that leaves from Ollantaytambo train station heading to Km 104 (start of our walk of Short Inca Trail) in this tour you will be able to appreciate beautiful landscapes and different ecosystems.
When you reach km 104 and then cross a suspension bridge to reach the checkpoint, you must present your passport or document with which you made your reservation. At the end of the respective controls we will start with the uphill walk for 3 hours until we reach the Inca Wiñay Wayna site which in Quechua means (forever young) Wiñay Wayna has a height of 2680 meters above sea level and is considered one of the most attractive sites of this route .
After your guided tour we will stop to eat our box lunch. After recharging our energy we will continue our hike for an hour and a half until we reach the Intipunku (Sun Gate) where you can enjoy the first panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Finally we will continue walking through the last section of the Inca Trail until we reach the place where you can take the classic photo with the old citadel.
Then we take our bus to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night in our hotel.
- Meals: Box Lunch & Dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Guiding Tour Of Machu Picchu - Cusco
An early morning will reward you with another momentous day of exploring the “Lost City of the Incas”. Your tour guide will take you through the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, discussing the mystery and skill of its construction as you absorb the magical landscape that surrounds this important ruin.
Enjoy a two-hour tour of this majestic Machu Piccchu Inca City and take some time to savor your accomplishment as you soak in the views. You will have the chance to explore the three zones of this centuries-old city: the urban, agricultural, and adjacent zones.This will give the tourist free time to take photos, scroll on their own wherever your interests take you.
When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs.
The train will take you back to Ollantaytambo, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Back at Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 19:00.
***IMPORTANT:
- You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
- Early trains can be organized by requeste and it has to be done by booking time.
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.
- On the 2 day Inca Trail, we will be doing the circuit #3 and there is now way to do another circuit unless you buy an additional entrance to Machu Picchu like the circuit #2 for US$55 per person.
- OPTIONAL extra tickets for Machu Picchu (Circuit #2 ) will cost US$55
INCLUSION
What Is Included
What Is Not Included
Added Values For Free
PRICES
Price & Availability
“The Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu is available on almost any day that suits your schedule we only need a minimum of two people in order to book”
Prices
- US$475 PER PERSON (AMERICAN DOLLARS) Without Hotel
- US$530 PER PERSON (AMERICAN DOLLARS) 1 Night 3* Hotels
- US$610 PER PERSON (AMERICAN DOLLARS) 1 Night 4* Hotels
- US$830 PER PERSON (AMERICAN DOLLARS) Private Service 1Hiker Only
***We require a minimum of 2 hikers in order to start the trek. For solo travellers- please inquire on the dates you are looking to trek.
Extras
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike: US$75 per person
- Machu Picchu Mountain Hike: US$70 per person
- Vistadome Train: US$57 per person – (For the return to Cusco (Poroy) at 4:43 pm
Discounts
- 18 to 25 years old: US$30 Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
- Under 18 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
- Under 11 years old: US$40 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking
. *** The short Inca trail Machu Picchu is almost always available year round except it is closed in February for maintenance
TRIP NOTES
Important
This trek does NOT include porters. Your duffel bag will be sent by train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas calientes. Please try to pack as light as possible, which is key to enjoying this amazing trek.
Packing List
- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks or bottles are good for this trek.
- Water for the beginning of your hike. We will resupply you at lunch.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- 1 Wicking/Hiking Shirt & hiking pants
- Nice shirt and pants for Machu Picchu day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love
- 2 sets of undergarments including one pair of hiking socks
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
- Sun hat
- Bathing suits for the hot springs (Optional on your own in Aguas Calientes)
- Sun protection cream
- Insect Repellent
- Personal medication
- Personal first aid kit
- Camera
- IPhone/IPod for music
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips