SHORT 2-DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU
Missed out on the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail? No problem! The Short Inca Trail is a perfect alternative, offering greater availability and a condensed 2-day, 1-night adventure. Whether you're pressed for time, prefer a less strenuous hike, or simply want a taste of the iconic Inca Trail, this option has you covered. Walk a portion of the historic trail, soak in the stunning natural scenery, and arrive at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This quick and rewarding trek is an excellent way to experience the wonders of the Andes in a shorter timeframe.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 - Cusco – Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna – Aguas Calientes
Pick-up from your hotel to the train station. Train journey (around an hour from Olantaytambo train station) to kilometer 104 Chachabanba entrance, where we begin our hike towards the archaeological site of Chachabamba. From there, we continue hiking to the archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna where we enjoy lunch, and then proceed with the hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Here, we will have our first view of Machu Picchu before heading to the entrance control of the Machu Picchu citadel where a bus takes us downhill to Aguas Calientes. We’ll have dinner here, spend the night, and prepare for our visit to Machu Picchu the next day. - Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) - Altitude: Starts at 2,100 m (6,890 feet) at Km 104 and rises to about 2,650 m (8,694 feet) at Wiñay Wayna.
DAY 2 - Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The day begins with an early breakfast at the hotel in Aguas Calientes before boarding the bus to Machu Picchu, enjoying the scenic ascent to the entrance of the Inca citadel. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a two-hour guided tour, exploring the most significant areas of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will bring the history of Machu Picchu to life, leading you through its ancient temples, agricultural terraces, and ceremonial sites, while sharing insights into Incan engineering and culture. After the guided tour, you have the option to explore further with additional hikes, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, which require prior reservation. In the afternoon, you will head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding a panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus ride to Cusco. Altitude: Wiñay Wayna at 2,650 m (8,694 feet) Intipunku (Sun Gate) at 2,730 m (8,957 feet) Machu Picchu at 2,400 m (7,874 feet). Distance: Approximately 5 km (3.1 miles)
What to bring?
•Hiking shoes •Lightweight backpack (20L) •Cash (preferably small bills) •Hat or cap •Long and short-sleeved shirts •Long and short pants •Optional plastic rain poncho •Reusable water bottle •Sunglasses, Toilet paper •Camera and phone chargers •Sunscreen and insect repellent •Personal / medical items
​ INCLUDES:​
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Pick-up from your hotel and transport to Ollantaytambo train station
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Entrance ticket to Inca Trail
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Entrance to Machu Picchu
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Professional bilingual guide
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1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes
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Bus round-trip Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
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Train tickets Ollantaytambo – Km 104 / Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
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Private ground transportation ​
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Meals as stated on the itinerary
WHAT´S NOT INCLUDED:​
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Flights to Cusco from Lima o abroad
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Tips for guides, porters, and other staff
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Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
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Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain
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Travel insurance