Short Inca Trail 2 Days

Introduction

This two-day short Inca trail pulls you straight into those ancient stones fast without the long haul you leave Cusco early hop a train to Km 104 and bam youre on Inca-made paths hitting spots like Wiñay Wayna first with its terraces and water channels that scream smart engineering then climbing to Chachabamba ruins where rituals happened ages ago the push gets real intense at the Sun Gate overlook on Machu Picchu that view slams you hard after quick peeks you drop to Aguas Calientes for hotel sleep basic but needed next morning back up for full dive into temples and farming levels that stun the mix of effort and history grabs hikers tight sometimes I question if altitude will bite but it passes for folks chasing quick thrills.

The path links deep to Andean ways guides spill on Quechua customs still alive in peaks and the eats like packed lunches fuel the grind but entering Machu Picchu walking not riding bus shifts it all makes it yours raw even doubts like rain odds fade when you stand there post-hike back to Cusco by train wraps it smooth.

Trip Details

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Activities: Hiking Culture Adventure
Average Group Size: Up to 16
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Hotel
Tour Language: English Spanish
Hiking Distance: Approximately 12 km / 7 mi
Starts/Ends: Cusco / Cusco
Minimum Altitude: 2050msnm (6726 feet)
Max Altitude: 2720msnm (8924 feet)
Age Recommended: Min 12 Years Old
is Necesary Aclimatization: yes
Tickets to entrance: is Necesary buy in advance

Trip Summary

Day 1: Up at 4 am Cusco quick breakfast transfer Ollantaytambo station by 6 am train leaves 7 am hits Km 104 8 am hike starts cross river see Wiñay Wayna ruins noon lunch there poke around till 1 pm head to Chachabamba by 2 pm first Machu Picchu glimpse intense drop to site overview 3 pm bus Aguas Calientes 4 pm hotel check rest dinner free night.
Day 2: Hotel eat 6 am bus Machu Picchu 7 am tour kicks 8 am check farming levels temples maybe add Montana till noon wander free 2 pm bus Aguas Calientes lunch train 3 pm Ollantaytambo 5 pm drive Cusco 7 pm done.

Why you'll love this tour

You hit Wiñay Wayna early those baths and steps show Inca brains at work then sharp climb to Sun Gate drops Machu Picchu punch earned not gifted overnight in Aguas Calientes chills with chats over drinks bonds trail mates quick.
Hotel rest trumps tent life wake ready day two guides unpack stars-aligned stones or slope farms that depth mixes sweat with learnings hooks walkers wanting more than pics.
Groups small no mob on route share breaks spot wildlife in misty woods train bookends easy from Cusco fits tight schedules no fuss.
Spots limited 250 daily keeps it hush personal like history sneak the moderate push thrills without leg wreck ideal for quick-getaway types.

Itinerary

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DAY 1 CUSCO – KM 104 – WIÑAYWAYNA – MACHU PICCHU (Boxed Lunch).

We will take the train from Ollantaytambo, to KM104, this is the control point for Inca Trail. After the guards have checked our tickets and passports, we will begin our hike (lasting approximately 3 hours), to the well-conserved archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna at 2652m/ 8700 ft.

After lunch, we will have the time for a short rest, and to explore the houses, terraces, and towers of this impressive site, as well as visit the Inti Punku, “The Inca Sun gate” where we will see the magnificent Machu Picchu for the first time. After a briefing by our guide, and a general orientation explanation about Machu Picchu, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the evening.

** We will spend the night in a 3 star hotel unless you choose a higher category at the time of booking

DAY 2 MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO (Breakfast).

After an early breakfast, your guide will collect you from your hotel to visit the impressive Machu Picchu citadel, to spend the day exploring this magnificent site. After this incredible visit, we will return Aguas Calientes, where you will have lunch in one of the local restaurants and where we will board our Expedition Train to return to Cusco. On arrival at the train station in Ollantaytambo, our private car will take to the city of Cusco.

PRICES PER PERSON IN USD: Note (Students require an ISIC card to apply for a student discount), Prices are per person and in USD

Reviews

5.0 4.9 - 462 TripAdvisor Reviews

Discover what fellow travelers have to say about their journeys through Turkey. From breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural experiences, these reviews highlight the unforgettable moments that make each trip truly special.

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Oswaldo Luiz C

5.0

A Agencia primou pela qualidade. Tanto nas programações, excelentes guias, qualidade dos transportes, horários e pontualidade.

Ruan N

5.0

A agência Yacana foi perfeita! Organizou nossos passeios no Peru da melhor forma possível, nos deu todo suporte que precisamos, independentemente do horário, nos deu dicas valiosas para os passeios, sugestões, além do acompanhamento de tudo ao longo dos dias....

Sunshine60374635165

5.0

Experiência indescritível! Fomos em 2 casais para o Peru e contratamos absolutamente todos os passeios com a Yacana. Vale Sagrado, Machu Picchu, 7 lagunas, montanha colorida, city tour cusco e islas ballestas e oasis em Lima. Segurança impecável, pontualidade perfeita...

Diego R

5.0

Experiência incrível, passeios todos bem feitos com a Yacana. Guias muitos preparados e prestativos, em especial a Rosa. Recomendo!

Daniele P

5.0

A agência tem um excelente atendimento, faz adaptações e oferece os melhores passeios, além de todo o pós venda que captura os feedbacks de forma atenta e cuidadosa. Recomendo para todos que posso os serviços da Yacana.

Flávia F

5.0

Tivemos ótima experiência com nossos tour! Equipe pontual, muito organizada, guias bem preparados e simpáticos . Empresa de confiança!

Tamara F

5.0

Tivemos uma experiencia maravilhosa com o guia Robert e motorista Hernan no passeio a Wanacancha + Pisac! O Robert é uma simpatia e cheio de cultura - um professor!!! Recomendamos muito!!

Miliani Greco

5.0

Desde o início do atendimento até a execução do que contratamos, foram extremamente atenciosos e pontuais. Não precisávamos nos preocupar com nada, apenas em curtir o Peru e suas belezas.

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Included

Pre-trek briefing.
Private transport Cusco-Ollantaytambo-Cusco.
3 Star hotel (subject to availability)
Professional trekking guide (English speaking) with 2 guides for groups of more than 8 people.
Boxed lunch (1^st day)
Train (return)to Aguas Calientes (Expedition Service).
01 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (please ask us for superior hotel categories).
Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes – to the Machu Picchu entrance (return trip).
Others: Hot water each day in the morning and evening to wash / and boiled water to fill your water bottle for the days trekking. (Please ask in advance to boil enough water.
Emergency first aid kit with an oxygen tank.
Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition Service).
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel.
Personal assistance 24 hours per day in Spanish and English.

Not Included

Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain
Lunch after the guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Optional extra night in Aguas Calientes.
Dinner in Aguas calientes
Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (Ask for availability).
Tips/ Gratuities.
Extra Services.

What to Bring

Passport real one for checks train no go without waterproof pouch safe.
Boots tough grip ones for wet rocks post-rain break in avoid foot sores ruin vibes.
Rain gear light poncho covers pack too mountains dump sudden even dry times.
Sun block strong SPF hat shades high sun fries skin quick regret miss.
Bottle water fillable 1 liter min height drains you fast.
Bars energy nuts boosts when meals lag hunger hits climbs hard.
Phone camera charger snap views dont lose on path.
Soles cash tips buses extras Aguas Calientes cards flaky.
Clothes layers fleece cold starts shorts warm bits swap keeps ease.
Spray bug heavy deet low areas swarm.
Aid kit bands pills meds height stuff if prone.
Pack day small 20L essentials crew hauls other.
Poles walk optional steep aids knee save.
Paper toilet wipes trail spots thin.
Jacket warm Aguas Calientes nights drop despite day warm.

Is this trip right for you?

Active hikers liking uphill bits and Inca feels short yeah suits but count six hours day one rocky so knee woes maybe skip or grab sticks I doubt my puff sometimes but it eases.
Time-short adventurers score this two-dayer skips epic but nails Machu Picchu vibe sans job quit acclimate Cusco first dodges head pound that tanks jaunts.
Folks 12 up digging culture with effort thrive no ultra train just solid shape handles steps heat but bug haters or wet-phobes rethink Andes shift fast.
Group okay up to 16 laugh shares fit but privacy seekers upgrade personal lead else trail vibe builds those post-stories we swap.

Pricing

*Important

To guarantee your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, the government regulations require your complete passport information for all passengers. The permits are not transferable and may sell out. We recommend that you reserve with 4 months anticipation.

The Huayna Picchu climb, is an excellent option on a trip to Machu Picchu. The climb offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu but is a steep climb, lasting 3 hours approximately.

Entrance permits to Huayna Picchu are limited and have a programmed entrance time; visitors should reserve permits con anticipation if you would like to climb a mountain. You should lt us know at the time of booking of you want this option.

While it is considered an easier hike than the 4-day Inca Trail, hikers should still be in decent physical condition.

Additional Information.

During the trip, you can store your main luggage in our office or in your hotel at no extra cost.
If you are vegetarian, or have special dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking.
It is the trekkers responsibility to provide us with Passports and other Immigration documents required by the authorities of the countries, destinations or transit countries such as visas, health documents, special permissions for travelling with children etc. Your Passport should have a minimum of 6 months validity from your date of travel. (If the passenger has renewed their Passport since the booking process, you must advise us immediately to make the necessary changes as we will make all of your ticket reservations with the passport information provided
The original valid ISIC card needs to be produced if you are a student and have applied for a student discount.
Travel Insurance.
Spare money in small denominations in Nuevos Soles.
A day pack.
Rain clothing (waterproof jacket and trousers are recommended).
We recommend comfortable, waterproof walking shoes.
Sandals (to let your feet rest at the campsite).
Warm clothing, a fleece and thermal under garments for the cold weather at the campsites.
Sombrero o gorra (para protegerte del sol, la lluvia y el frío).
Sun block /protection.

Insect Repellent: A small hand towel.

Swim suit to visit the thermal springs in Aguas Calientes.
Snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, etc.).
Bottled water for the morning and a water bottle/ container to refill along the route

Special Instructions:

Please confirm your hotel details at least 1 week before your tour.
Pick-up time: 6:00 from your hotel (every day including bank holidays).

The transport will do a number of pick-ups from different hotels in Cusco which is why there is not an exact time. Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby.

Departure place: Your Cusco hotel.
Drop of at: Plaza San Francisco in the centre of Cusco.

RENTALS AND UPGRADES:

Expedition Train (One Way) – US$55.00
Entrance to Huayna Picchu o Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability) – US$70.00
Walking Sticks – US$20.00

DETAILS:

We use 3 * hotels in Aguas Calientes, if you do not wish to share a room (twin or triple room), ask for a single supplement at the time of booking.
If you are a lover of the countryside and nature then the Vistadome train is an excellent option. The panoramic Windows in the roof of the train allow you to connect to the outside in a unique way. Ask us about this upgrade.

Updgrades

Montana ticket extra hike less steep than Huayna Picchu for top views approximately 60 USD buy early slots few adds adventure without height freak needed if want more than base tour.
Huayna Picchu entry climb sharp steps overlook Inca city around 75 USD advance limited daily worth for fit knees but scream if not prepped essential for bird view crave.
Guide private swap group for solo focus deeper Quechua tales roughly 100 USD per head good hate mobs or custom speed necessary for personal dig.
Hotel fancy boost Aguas Calientes basic to plush tubs overlooks about 50 USD night extra soothes aches post-walk if comfort calls.
Train Vistadome wide windows comfy seats bites en route 40 USD up from basic turns ride view fest not just move handy for scenic kick.
Veggie meals no cost add but flag early fits diet no trail issues vital if standard eats dont mesh.

Travel Guide

Recommendations

Permits for the short trail sell quickly especially high season. Book six months ahead through registered agency.

Climate

Temperatures from ten to twenty degrees Celsius by day drop to around plus five at night. Rain possible November to March.

Best Season

May through October is dry season so paths stay firm and water levels in springs stay low.

How To Dress

Layering works best. Start with moisture wicking base add fleece then shell jacket. Avoid cotton.

Physical Preparation

Do uphill walks stair sessions and at least one four hour hike carrying five kilo pack before trip.

Local People

You’ll meet Quechua families at Chachabamba who tend small maize plots. They sell fresh cheese and wave as you pass.

Who Should Go

Anyone over twelve with moderate fitness and time for two day excursion. Not for people who need full day rest.

Food On Route

Breakfast near Cusco is buffet style then packed lunch on trail includes sandwich fruit cookies. Dinner in Aguas Calientes features local trout potatoes and herbal tea. Snacks available at small shops in town.

Faqs

What is the permit requirement for the Short Inca Trail

You need an Inca Trail permit issued by government. Book through a tour agency at least six months ahead to ensure availability.

Can I do the short trail without a guide

No government regulation requires licensed guide for any section of Inca Trail including the short version.

How long is the first day hike distance

Day one covers approximately ten to twelve kilometers with about five hundred meters of ascent.

Is the short trail less crowded than the four day route

It shares the same final section so crowds concentrate at Sun Gate but the earlier forest stretch is quieter.

Where do we stay overnight on this trek

Overnight lodging is in Aguas Calientes town in standard hotel or optional private room.

What altitude can cause issues on the short trail

The highest point near Sun Gate at two thousand seven hundred twenty meters is below Cusco altitude so less risk.

Do I need to bring my own camping gear

No camping gear needed you stay in hotel; daypack only matching weight limits.

Are meals included in the tour cost

Yes lunch day one dinner in town and breakfast next morning plus train snacks on day two are covered.

Can I add a visit to hot springs after hike

Yes you can unwind in Aguas Calientes hot springs for a small entry fee at your own expense.

What time does the hike start on day one

Hike begins around eight AM after pickup from hotel between five and six AM.

Is there cellphone reception along the trail

Signal appears near town at start and end but drops off completely on forested sections.

How do I get from Aguas Calientes back to Cusco

Take train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo then minivan transfer to Cusco hotel.

What if the trail is closed for maintenance

Short trail remains open when four day classic closes in February though occasional closures for repair can happen.

Are bathrooms available along the route

Basic toilet facilities near trail start and at Sun Gate viewpoint; bring your own toilet paper.

Can I upgrade to Huayna Picchu hike after Machu Picchu visit

Yes you can add Huayna Picchu entrance if tickets are available; extra permit required and must buy in advance.

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