Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Short Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu is an excellent 2-day alternative for those who want to experience the magic of the Inca citadel in less time, without giving up the beauty and cultural richness that this legendary route offers. During the journey, you will be able to walk along ancient Inca trails, surrounded by impressive landscapes, flora and fauna native to the region, and visit unique archaeological sites before reaching the imposing Machu Picchu, where history and nature merge in an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Day 1: Wiñay wayna – Aguas Calientes
- Hotel pickup: Transfer to train station.
- Train to kilometer 104: Start of the hike.
- Chachabamba: First archaeological site at 2,250 m.a.s.l.
- Hike to Wiñaywayna: Lunch at the agricultural center.
- Inti Punku (Sun Gate): Panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
- Descent to Aguas Calientes: Dinner and hotel accommodation (optional).
Day 2: Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Breakfast and ascent to Machu Picchu: 2.5-hour guided tour.
- Option to climb Huayna Picchu: Entrance not included.
- Return to Aguas Calientes: Train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
- Transport to Cusco: Arrival at hotel in Cusco, end of tour.
Inca Trail Machu Picchu Tour Itinerary
Enjoy an unforgettable adventure with the 2-day Inca Trail, a 2-day, 1-night trek that takes you from kilometer 104, at 2,100 m.a.s.l, to the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
This route is perfect for those who want to explore the Andean landscapes and the Peruvian jungle, with the opportunity to visit several archaeological sites along the way. Additionally, you can enjoy a great diversity of flora and fauna, including a variety of exotic birds and native orchids.
Day 1: Wiñay wayna - Aguas Calientes (L)(D)
The first day begins early with pickup at your hotel to head to the train station, from there, you will board a train that will take you to Kilometer 104, where you will meet your guide to start the hike.
We will arrive at the first archaeological site Chachabamba, located at 2,250 meters, as you advance along the Inca Trail, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba River and the lush vegetation of the cloud forest.
The hike continues towards the agricultural center of Wiñaywayna, where we will make a brief stop for lunch, then, we continue along the trail towards Machu Picchu, passing through Inti Punku or Sun Gate, an ideal place to contemplate the sunset over the Inca citadel. After this magical experience, you will descend to Aguas Calientes, where you will dine with your guide and the group before spending the night in a hotel.
You can choose your own accommodation or opt for one of those recommended by the tour.
Day 2: Machu Picchu - Cusco (B)
Our second day, after breakfast, we ascend to visit Machu Picchu, the wonder of the world that is 2,400 meters above sea level. The visit will be approximately two and a half hours, you will tour the Inca citadel with your guide, exploring the main points of interest, such as the plazas, temples, sacred fountains and the agricultural sector.
After the guided tour, in case you have the entrance ticket for Huayna Picchu (entrance not included) you can take advantage to climb this mountain and enjoy the panoramic views.
Finally, depending on the schedule of your return train, you will return to Aguas Calientes to take the train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. There, our transportation will take you back to Cusco, leaving you at your hotel. With this, your incredible experience on the 2-day Inca Trail concludes.
What's included?
Includes
- Transfers from hotel/train station/hotel.
- Train to kilometer 104.
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets.
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Return ticket to Ollantaytambo/Poroy by tourist train (Expedition).
- Meals according to itinerary: 1L (box lunch), 1D (dinner), 1B (breakfast).
- Professional bilingual guide throughout the tour.
Not Included
- First breakfast (first day).
- Last lunch (second day).
- Huayna Picchu entrance (75 USD).
- Tips.
- Expenses not mentioned in the itinerary.
Recommendations what to bring
- Bring original passport to be shown at the checkpoint before entering Machu Picchu National Park.
- Water bottle for the trail.
- A backpack with enough clothing for the 2 days of the tour.
- Waterproof jacket in case of rain (plastic ponchos can be bought in Cusco).
- Flashlights and batteries.
- Camera.
- Trekking shoes.
- Swimsuit, in case you want to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.
- Cash money, in case you want to buy souvenirs.
- A hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, toilet paper.
- Optional: trekking pole.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is not indispensable. The tour is of moderate difficulty and is designed for people with basic physical condition, although it is recommended to be used to walking for several hours.
The dry season, from April to October, is ideal for its sunny days and clear skies. However, it can be done all year round.
Generally includes transportation, professional guide, entrance fees, indicated meals and lodging in Aguas Calientes. It does not include the ascent to Huayna Picchu or personal expenses.
The guided tour lasts about 2 and a half hours, touring the temples, plazas, sacred fountains and agricultural areas. Then you can explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu if you have the ticket.
