Short Inca Trail 2025 (2 Days / 1 Night)
Duration
2D/1N
Max Altitude
2,700 m.s.n.m
Calification
5
Group Size
8 to 12 people
Type Service
Adventure, trekking
Dificulty
Moderate
ITINERARY
Early Departure from Cusco
We depart from Cusco very early in a private vehicle heading to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there, we’ll take the train to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Start of the Hike at Km 104
Upon arrival at Km 104, we begin the trek towards Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of mountains, rivers, and Andean flora.
Wiñay Wayna: The Most Impressive Archaeological Site
We reach Wiñay Wayna, an Inca complex set on a mountainside. After exploring its terraces and structures, we’ll have lunch before continuing our journey toward Machu Picchu.
Arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Finally, we arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll catch your first spectacular view of Machu Picchu at sunset. After a brief rest and time for photos, we’ll descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night in a hotel.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
At sunrise, we’ll take the bus to Machu Picchu for a comprehensive guided tour lasting approximately 2 to 3 hours. You’ll visit key points in the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, and the agricultural terraces. Our expert guide will share detailed information about Incan history and culture.
Free Time in Machu Picchu
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. If you wish, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advanced booking required).
Return to Aguas Calientes and Train to Cusco
Then we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the station, a private vehicle will take you back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 or 8:00 p.m.
INCLUDES
- Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back
- Round-trip train tickets (standard or Vistadome option)
- Entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish-English)
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (1 night)
- Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Box lunch on the first day
NOT INCLUDES
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the second day
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional and requires advance reservation)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides or drivers (optional)
RECOMENDATIONS
What to Bring:
- Comfortable, lightweight clothing, along with a jacket for cooler mornings
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Small backpack with water and light snacks
- Passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)
- Camera or phone to capture the view from the Sun Gate
Recommended Footwear:
- Trekking boots or comfortable shoes with good grip, ideal for uneven terrain
Local Remedies:
- Coca tea: Helpful for preventing any altitude-related discomfort before and during the hike
- Coca or muña candies: Great for maintaining energy during the trek
Pharmaceutical Remedies:
- Pain relievers for headaches or minor discomfort
- Medications for stomach issues if you’re sensitive to local foods
Possible Issues During the Tour:
- Altitude Sickness: Although the hike is at a lower altitude than Cusco, some may experience mild symptoms. Coca tea and coca candies can help alleviate them.
- Fatigue: The first day includes a lengthy hike, so it’s important to go at a steady pace and rest as needed.
- Dehydration: Despite moderate temperatures, it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day.
FAQ
Yes, we recommend spending at least one day in Cusco to acclimate before the Short Inca Trail, as the Short Inca Trail Altitude reaches 2,650 m at Wiñay Wayna. Coca tea helps ease mild symptoms. Enjoy Cusco City Tour while you adjust!
You’ll spend about 4-5 hours at Machu Picchu on the Short Inca Trail, including a 2-3 hour guided tour of the Temple of the Sun and terraces, plus free time. Arrive via the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu route through Inti Punku. Learn more in Sun Gate: A Gateway to Adventure and History!
Yes, you can add the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike to your Short Inca Trail experience, but it requires advance booking and an additional fee. Contact us to arrange it! Compare with the longer Classic Inca Trail for more options.
The Short Inca Trail includes a night in a comfortable tourist-class hotel in Aguas Calientes, with an upgrade option for an extra cost. Our Short Inca Trail Guide ensures a restful stay. Check 10 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cusco for travel advice!
Yes, the Short Inca Trail is suitable, but the 12 km Short Inca Trail Hike on Day 1 requires moderate effort. Consult your doctor if you have health concerns. For a more challenging trek, try Choquequirao Trek!
The Short Inca Trail is the shortest route to Machu Picchu, spanning 2 days and 1 night with a 12 km hike on Day 1. It’s a condensed Short Inca Trail Trek compared to the 4-day Classic Inca Trail.
The Short Inca Trail difficulty is moderate, with a 12 km hike on Day 1 reaching 2,650 m at Wiñay Wayna. It’s less strenuous than longer treks but requires steady pacing. Prepare with Wiñay Wayna: Always Young for insights!
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day, 12 km Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu, while the Classic Inca Trail is a 4-day, 43 km journey. The shorter route skips some ruins but still includes Wiñay Wayna. Explore the full experience with Classic Inca Trail!
The Short Inca Trail distance is 12 km, hiked on Day 1 from Km 104 to Machu Picchu via Wiñay Wayna. This Short Inca Trail Hike takes about 6 hours, offering a compact adventure to Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail elevation gain is modest, rising from 2,150 m at Km 104 to 2,650 m at Wiñay Wayna, then descending to 2,430 m at Machu Picchu. The Short Inca Trail Altitude is manageable with light preparation.
Yes, Short Inca Trail Permits are required, limited to 500 per day (-200 for tourists). We recommend booking 4-6 months in advance to secure your spot on this Short Inca Trail Tour. Contact us to reserve!
The Short Inca Trail is part of the Inca road network, built over 500 years ago to connect Machu Picchu. You’ll explore its history at sites like Wiñay Wayna. Dive deeper with Inca Empire: The Golden age of the Andes!
The Short Inca Trail altitude peaks at 2,650 m at Wiñay Wayna, starting at 2,150 m at Km 104 and descending to 2,430 m at Machu Picchu. Acclimate in Cusco to handle the Short Inca Trail Altitude comfortably.
Pack light clothing, a jacket, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and your passport for the Short Inca Trail. Comfortable shoes are a must for the Short Inca Trail Hike. See 10 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cusco for more tips!
Our Short Inca Trail Guide navigates the 12 km route from Km 104 to Machu Picchu, ensuring you don’t miss highlights like Wiñay Wayna. No maps are provided, but expert guidance is included. Explore Wiñay Wayna: Always Young for details!
Yes, you can take photos on the Short Inca Trail, capturing Short Inca Trail Ruins like Wiñay Wayna and stunning Machu Picchu views at Inti Punku. Add more scenic shots with Rainbow Mountain Tour!
The Short Inca Trail includes a box lunch and dinner on Day 1, plus breakfast on Day 2. Notify us of dietary needs for your Short Inca Trail Tour. Learn about local cuisine in Andean Food: Authentic Flavors not to be Missed!
The Short Inca Trail weather features mild days (10-20°C) and cooler nights (5-10°C), best from April to October. It closes in February due to rain. Pack layers for your Short Inca Trail Hike and stay prepared!
The Short Inca Trail spans 2 days and 1 night, with a 12 km hike on Day 1 and a Machu Picchu visit on Day 2. It’s a quick Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure for tight schedules.
The Short Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu covers 12 km from Km 104 to Inti Punku, passing Short Inca Trail Ruins like Wiñay Wayna. You’ll arrive at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. Discover more in Sun Gate: A Gateway to Adventure and History!