- A.h. Arahuay LL - 1, Cusco, Perú.
- machupicchuperutravel@hotmail.com
(526)
2 DaysIf you’re short on time but still want to experience the energy of the Qhapacñan (Inca Trail) and catch a glimpse of Machu Picchu from the heights of the Sun Gate, the 2-day Inca Trail Trek is perfect for you.
You’ll trek along 12 kilometers of this alternative Inca trail, where you’ll uncover archaeological remains, dense forests, waterfalls, and native flora and fauna. Unlike the crowded 4-day trek, the Short Inca Trail 2 Days offers a more tranquil experience in nature.
The trek begins at the ruins of Cochabamba, where you’ll start on a 3-hour uphill hike to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna. From there, it’s another two hours to Machu Picchu. After soaking in the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, you’ll descend to the remote town of Aguas Calientes to rest and recharge before your guided tour of Machu Picchu on Day 2.
If you’re tight on time and in good physical condition, you can also opt to complete the entire trek in a single day. This allows you to explore Machu Picchu on the same day as your trek.
For those interested, you have the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. Be sure to book these in advance and check availability.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days offers a condensed yet rewarding adventure, allowing you to experience the beauty of Machu Picchu and its surroundings even with limited time.
AM we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco to transfer you to the train station in Ollantaytambo where you will board the train for approximately 1 hour 10 min until Km 104, the starting point of our trek. Upon arrival we will meet the guide and cross the bridge that is on the Urubamba River to reach the control point where we must show our documents of entry and corresponding identification.
After a 15-minute walk, we will arrive at the archaeological center of Chachabamba (2250 m.s.n.m) and Choquesuysuy that are hidden in the forest where we will walk arround and we will have the explanation of our guide, then we will continue our trek through stairways from where we will be able to observe our big valley next to its waterfalls and its different types of orchids. After 4 hours of walking we arrive at Wiñay Wayna (2650 m.s.n.m). On the way we also have beautiful views of the Urubamba river.
The name of Wiñaywayna comes from a beautiful orchid that abounds in this area and that its meaning in Spanish is Forever young in the lower part will observe a number of circular terraces where the Incas cultivated their different agricultural products, here also we will find the Temple of the arch Iris also known as Temple of Fertility, the tour in this place will take us about 1 hour and then taste our Box Lunch to replenish the lost energy and continue until we reach the control of Wiñaywayna.
In the afternoon we continue walking for about 2 more hours crossing stone stairs and tambos (rest places) until arriving at Inti Punku or Sun Gate (2720 m.s.n.m) from where we can observe the citadel of Machu Picchu with the afternoon sun we will descend for about 30 min to the world wonder Machu Picchu World (2490 m), finally we will take the bus to Aguas Calientes or Machupicchu Pueblo (2160 m) the journey lasts 25 min, here we will spend the night in a hotel, is very tired can go to the hot springs that is located 5 min from the village, the cost of admission to this place is 15 soles.
Night Hotel in Aguas Calientes
This day we will wake up very early and after breakfast we will board the first bus (5:30 am) to climb to Machu Picchu (2490 m) where if the weather favors we can observe the sunrise, where we will also have a guided tour to the majestic city of the Incas for approximately 2 hours followed by a free time to visit it and take photos on their own. In the afternoon we will board the bus back to Aguas Calientes where you will find different restaurants to choose your favorite food, finally we take the train back to Ollantaytambo and the transportation that will bring us to Cusco and its respective transfer to your hotel.
End of services
For the private option, please consider the following details:
Visit Machu Picchu with one of these train options, offering the BEST luxury services.
At Machu Picchu Peru Travel, we offer personalized Short Inca Trail 2 Days, designed to match your interests and preferences. With expert local guides and customized itineraries, explore the beauty of the Andes. Check out our pricing options for a memorable adventure.
$ 465.00 USD
(Enjoy this service with a group between 6 – 10 people)
$ 510.00 USD
(Enjoy this service only for you and your family – minimun 2 people)
Our clients trust us, and their glowing reviews on TripAdvisor speak for themselves. Discover why so many travelers choose us for unforgettable experiences in Cusco.
“MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL” is a 100% Peruvian local company and tour operator in Cusco, with many years of experience in hikes, adventure tours, and travel packages. We are a 100% local company.
Our dream as a local company is to offer personalized travel and hiking experiences, operated solely by local professional staff, focusing on a PERSONALIZED and HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE.
We are proud of our reputation as a travel operating agency, in addition to practicing RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE actions with the environment and local people.
We consider our staff as family and guarantee them a fair salary. We are very proud of our team! Without their support, we could not offer the quality of service that hundreds of our travelers have enjoyed.
At “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL,” we are aware that our reputation and what our passengers say are crucial for our travelers to trust their next vacations; you can check the reviews our travelers leave on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google; in an honest and reliable operator to create your adventure in Peru.
To offer a more personalized service at “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL,” we maintain a limit of 8 people for each of our groups. This distinguishes us from other companies that operate with larger groups.
We are very proud of our guides. They are experts and professionals, fluent in English. They are experts and knowledgeable about the routes, and they are passionate about Inca heritage and history. Our guides are dedicated to their continuous personal and professional development, researching to offer you accurate and recognized theories about Inca and Andean culture. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with degrees in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.
Hiking with “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL” is an uplifting experience, we prioritize your comfort and enjoyment throughout the hike, and you will have the assistance of our porters. You will interact with local people, explore incredible sites, and rediscover ancient Inca ancestral towns. Our porters carry your gear, prepare your meals, set up our camp tents, and take care of you while you relax.
We provide our porters for free with: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable travel bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. All are hired from isolated communities, improving their economic circumstances and supporting the education of their children. We treat all our porters like family!
Our team (guides, cooks, porters, muleteers) and our equipment make “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL” stand out among our competitors. On our adventure hikes, we include:
At “MACHUPICCHU PERU TRAVEL,” we have always believed in giving back to isolated local communities. As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we carry out various social projects and always hire local people.
We are very proud to support our local people. We not only employ them but also support their families, contributing to a holistic approach with our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones.
The Short Inca Trail is a two-day trek that allows you to experience a portion of the famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail covers a distance of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over the course of two days.
Yes, the Short Inca Trail concludes at Machu Picchu, allowing you to explore and marvel at this ancient Inca citadel.
Yes, a permit is required to hike the Short Inca Trail. The number of permits is limited, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
The Short Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. It involves uphill sections, uneven terrain, and high altitude. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
It is recommended to bring comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather, a hat, sunscreen, a daypack, a refillable water bottle, snacks, and a camera.
Yes, meals are typically provided during the Short Inca Trail, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
Yes, you have the option to hire a porter to carry your personal belongings during the trek. This can be arranged through your tour operator.
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Short Inca Trail, as parts of the trail reach high altitudes. It’s important to acclimatize in Cusco before the trek and take precautions such as staying hydrated.
While there are no specific age restrictions, the Short Inca Trail involves physical activity at high altitudes. It is recommended for individuals in good health and with a moderate level of fitness. Children and older adults should consult with their healthcare provider before attempting the trek.
| Feature | Short Inca Trail 2 Days | Classic Inca Trail 4 Days |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Altitude | 2,730 m (8,957 ft) | 4,200 m (13,780 ft) |
| Average Altitude | 2,500 m (8,200 ft) | 3,300 m (10,827 ft) |
| Effort Level | Moderate | Challenging |
| Physical Preparation | Moderate fitness required | Good fitness required |
| Distance Covered | ~12 km (7.5 miles) | ~43 km (27 miles) |
| Estimated Hiking Time | 2 days | 4 days |
| Climate | Warm and humid, occasional rain | Varies: warm, cold, and wet |
| Difficulty | Moderate, with some steep sections | High, with several steep and challenging sections |
| Scenic Highlights | Sun Gate, Machu Picchu | Sun Gate, Machu Picchu, Inca ruins, diverse ecosystems |
| Permits Required | Yes, limited availability | Yes, limited availability |
What is the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a two-day trek that allows you to experience a portion of the famous Inca Trail leading to Machu Picchu.
How long is the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail covers a distance of approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) over the course of two days.
Can I see Machu Picchu on the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, the Short Inca Trail concludes at Machu Picchu, allowing you to explore and marvel at this ancient Inca citadel.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, a permit is required to hike the Short Inca Trail. The number of permits is limited, so it’s advisable to book in advance.
How difficult is the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. It involves uphill sections, uneven terrain, and high altitude. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
What should I bring for the Short Inca Trail?
It is recommended to bring comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather, a hat, sunscreen, a daypack, a refillable water bottle, snacks, and a camera.
Are meals provided during the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, meals are typically provided during the Short Inca Trail, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with prior notice.
Can I hire a porter for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, you have the option to hire a porter to carry your personal belongings during the trek. This can be arranged through your tour operator.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Short Inca Trail, as parts of the trail reach high altitudes. It’s important to acclimatize in Cusco before the trek and take precautions such as staying hydrated.
Are there age restrictions for the Short Inca Trail?
While there are no specific age restrictions, the Short Inca Trail involves physical activity at high altitudes. It is recommended for individuals in good health and with a moderate level of fitness. Children and older adults should consult with their healthcare provider before attempting the trek.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all thats left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, well be with you every step of the way. At Machu Picchu Peru Travel, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
Machu Picchu Peru Travel it’s the people who make a difference. Our travel experts craft the perfect trip for every traveler through our award-winning customer service. Real people helping real people. Beside you every step of the way.
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is one of the most popular destinations for adventure treks in South America
Read moreThe Inca Trail is a world-renowned hiking trail that leads to the iconic Machu Picchu in Peru. The trail is a combinatio
Read moreMachu Picchu is a stunning 15th-century Inca ruin located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is considered one of t
Read more
