Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The 2 day Inca Trail begins when our driver picks you up at your hotel in Cusco and takes you to the Ollantaytambo train station for your 1 hour and 20 minute train ride to km 104 or Chachabamba, the starting point of your trip. After registering at the control ranger station, we will start hiking the Inca Trail. The first archaeological site we will see during the trek is Chachabamba. We'll have a guided tour at this site and then continue for about 2-3 hours to the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna, through a mixture of cactus vegetation and cloud forest.

During the hike we will walk up and down the trail accompanied by the sounds of birds and nature. Once we arrive at the Inca site, you will have a box lunch near Wiñay Wayna. Then we'll continue with a guided tour of the archaeological center of Wiñay Wayna and continue hiking up to Intipata, where we'll take a break. Our guide will take this opportunity to give you a short explanation.

We'll continue on the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The last point we will reach is Intipunku, or the Sun Gate, where we will view Machu Picchu and enjoy the sunset over the Inca citadel. Enjoy the sunset at the Sun Gate before entering Machu Picchu. Then it's a 1 hour walk down to the site, where you'll enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the Guardian House. Take advantage of the photo opportunities here, as you will not return to this route the next day.

Afterwards we descend to Aguas Calientes, walking slowly and enjoying the beautiful scenery, to spend the night in a hotel.

Estimated trekking time: 8 hours
Trekking distance: 15 km
Max. elevation: 2,700 m
Min. elevation: 2,100 m
Difficulty:  Moderate

Short Inca Trail Map - Day 1

The last day of the short Inca Trail has arrived. We start early with a hearty breakfast and then get ready to go to the citadel of Machu Picchu. Take the shuttle bus up to the citadel. We’ll take a shuttle bus up to the site. During the ride, enjoy the views as we ascend the mountain, passing along the zigzag route and admiring the rich flora of the Cusco region.

Upon arrival at the Inca citadel, we will start the guided tour for Circuit 3 of Machu Picchu. It is the lower part of the Inca citadel where you will see the Temple of the Sun and the Llacta. In addition, during the guided tour you will have enough time to take the best panoramic photos of the Inca city. Moreover, if you want to add more experience to the Machu Picchu trek, we recommend you to book Huayna Picchu or Mount Machu Picchu. After the guided tour, you can climb up the mountain and take panoramic photos of the Inca citadel from this high point.

Afterward, you’ll descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon, you’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where a bus will be waiting to return you to Cusco. Our driver will drop you off at your hotel.

Short Inca Trail Map - Day 2

Transfer on the Short Inca Trail

Transportation: All your transportation is included in this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. - 5:30 a.m. (unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo) and brought to Ollantaytambo, to take a train to km 104, the starting point of the trek.

Train on the short Inca Trail

The schedule depends on the availability of train tickets, this is the most common schedule we reserve for your trek:

The train back from Aguas Calientes is included. This is Expedition class but can be upgraded for $65 per person. Once you arrive at he train station, you will be brought back to your hotel in Cusco.

Upgrade your train

If you want to upgrade your Machu Picchu train tickets:

Vistadome Train - Perurail

All our tours include the Expeditions (Tourist) Train. This train is normally booked at 4:22 p.m., leaving Aguas Calientes. The Vistadome train is an upgraded train, that offers slightly larger seats, windows and even some entertainment. Normally the Vistadome train is booked for 4:43 p.m. and travels to Poroy, a train station closer to Cusco. While this is an upgraded fee, we will still include your transportation back to your hotel. This train is $65 per person.

360° Train - Inca Rail

This train is normally booked at 4:12 p.m., leaving Aguas Calientes. The 360° train is an upgraded train, that offers an entertainment app on board which will allow you to learn more about the train journey and the Inca civilization, taller panoramic windows and an observation outdoor carriage including a bar. Normally the 360° train is booked for 4:12 p.m. and travels to Poroy, a train station closer to Cusco. While this is an upgraded fee, we will still include your transportation back to your hotel. This train is $65 per person.

A shuttle bus on the short Inca Trail

Your bus ticket up and down to Machu Picchu in second day is also included. You can buy extra bus tickets on the first day from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes or you can walk down to the town.

Professional Guides:All of our guides studied English and tourism. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional, and will ensure you are safe and happy.

Permits: As soon as we receive your details and a deposit, we will purchase your permits. These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They can’t be changed, once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.

Food: You will be provided with a snack the first day to enjoy along the hike. You will also enjoy a dinner in Aguas Calientes town and breakfast the next morning. Lunch the last day is not included.

Water: A bottle of water of 500 mL is included in the box lunch. You must supply your own water bottles or camel back. We recommend carrying about 3L worth.

First Aid:Every guide has received training in first aid from a physician. Your tour guide will always have a first-aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. We will get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible, if needed, and ensure you get directly to a clinic for treatment.

What is included the snack bag?

• Peruvian Quinoa Chaufa ("Chaufa”is the name of the Peruvian-Chinese fusion of fried rice) with pieces of chicken or meat;
• Quinoa chaufa with pieces with aubergine and soy meat (Vegetarian);
• Small fruit juice box;
• 1x Apple
• 1x Granadilla
• 10x Lemon candy;
• Raisins with peanuts

• Pre-trek briefing with a Tour Guide;
• Transfer by private vehicle to the railway station at Ollantaytambo;
• Accommodation: a hotel in Aguas Calientes Town (1 night);
• Inca Trail Permit and entrance fee to Machu Picchu;
• Meals: 1x breakfast, 1x box lunch + 1x bag of snacks, 1x dinner
• Experienced bilingual Tour Guide;
• A shuttle bus round trip to Machu Picchu on the second day;
• A train round trip between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu);
• Private transportation (a van or a small car) from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. 

• Breakfast on the first day, and lunch on the second. 
• Huayna Picchu ticket (U$ 80)
• A shuttle bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on the first day (U$ 12 one way)
• Travel Insurance (It’s not obligatory, but it is highly recommended. It will be needed in case of an emergency during your stay in Peru or if an unexpected situation prevents you from taking your trip.)
• Tips
• Walking Sticks (Pair): If you don’t want to bring them, they are available for rent: $10

All short Inca Trail tours are accompanied by an experienced tour guide and a dedicated Inca Trail Machu representative. Our guides are specialists in trekking and have extensive knowledge of the Inca Trail gained through years of experience. They are well versed in the culture, history and natural environment of the region, giving you a deeper understanding of everything you'll see along the way.

Each guide holds a university degree and undergoes annual training provided by Inca Trail Machu, including first aid certification and other essential skills needed to lead treks safely and professionally. In addition to guiding you along the trail, they will also provide helpful recommendations for things to do in Cusco or along the Inca Trail.

Your Inca Trail Machu representative plays an important role in the organization of your trek. They have extensive experience in trip planning and will coordinate directly with your guide and driver to ensure that every detail of your reservation is taken care of.

The day before your trek, your guide and representative will visit your hotel to conduct a pre-trek briefing. During this meeting, your representative will ask for your WhatsApp contact and will stay in touch throughout your trek. In case of emergencies or last-minute questions, they will be available for you.

The following hotels will be used in the town of Aguas Calientes (Double or Matrimonial room), depending on availability for your 2 day Inca Trail reservation.

Most of the hotels in Machu Picchu are small and cozy, offering a warm, family atmosphere. Each hotel has a private bathroom with hot showers. A nutritious breakfast is provided in the morning.

Hotel Pisonay

Address: Ave Pachacutec N° 404, Aguas Calientes 08681
Phone: 993 199 730

Hotel Casa de Luz

Address: Avenida Hermanos Ayar 703, Aguas Calientes 08681
Phone: (084) 211047

Hotel Luz Garden

Address: Aymuraypa Tikan 109, Aguas Calientes 08681
Phone: 966 384 656

We recommend the early booking of single supplements and of pre/post-tour accommodation. Single accommodation can be arranged for a supplement, subject to availability. Please request this at the time of booking.

Upgrate Accomodation

If you would like to upgrade your accommodation, please let us know. We can offer a discount on hotel options or help you customize your package to include a hotel of your choice.

Meeting point:

An Inca Trail Machu representative and our guide will visit your hotel 1 or 2 days before the trek for your briefing. During this visit, our guide will give you detailed information about the Short Inca Trail, important recommendations, and the name of the driver who will pick you up. The guide will also ask for your T-shirt size, as you will receive a special Machu Picchu T-shirt upon completion of the trek. At the end of the briefing, the guide will confirm the exact time to pick you up from your hotel.

Our representative will also make sure that everything is in order for your trek. If you have any concerns, feel free to let them know. They will also ask for your WhatsApp contact to stay in touch during the trek or in case of an emergency, so they can help you immediately.

"Inca Trail Machu is ready to provide you with personalized service throughout your experience".

Note: On the day of your Short Inca Trail trek, it is very important to wait inside your hotel. Our guide or driver will either come to find you or contact you via WhatsApp.

If you want to reserve the Inca Trail. We require your passport information such as full name, passport number, nationality and date of birthday.

Once arrived the head trail, the park rangers will require your Inca Trail permit and your original passport. They will compare your personal information, but in case you send the wrong information, you can´t enter to the Inca Trail and you will need to pay the new entrance fee to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (U$ 100).

Can I use the old passport to reserve the permit and then change it with new passport?

Yes, it is posssible, but it is very important to bring a copy of your old passport. When you will enter to the Inca Trail, you should present your current passport and a copy of your old passport.

Machu Picchu Mountain - Circuit 1

Machu Picchu Mountain is the other mountain rising above the ruins of Machu Picchu. It offers even more impressive views than Huayna Picchu, but it takes an hour and a half to reach the summit. Additionally, Route 1-A (Machu Picchu Mountain Route) will allow you to access the upper terrace to take the iconic photo of the Machu Picchu Citadel. Please note that only Circuit 1 (Route 1-A) grants access to this incredible mountain.

Huayna Picchu - Circuit 3

Huayna Picchu is the mountain located next to Machu Picchu. On this tour, along Route 3-A (Huayna Picchu Mountain Route), you will first visit some tourist attractions of the Inca citadel; then you will begin a 45-minute hike to the top of Huayna Picchu Mountain. Please note that only Circuit 3 (Route 3-A) allows access to this fascinating mountain.

Student Discounts:

Students with a valid UNIVERSITY Student card (You must be No older than 25 YO) can have a USD 20 discount (please scan and email the card).

Child Discounts:

• Children 8 to 17 can have a USD 20 discount (please scan and email passports)
• Children 7 or younger can have a USD 40 discount ((please scan and email passports).

Important: On your request we can book this trip as a Private Service.

Maximum Group size for the Short Inca Trail: 8 people per group. A group of up to 8 participants receives 1 Guide, a group over 8 persons receives 2 Guides.

Of course weather on Inca Trail is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December – just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, please make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

Inca trail involve many micro-climates and you will need to be prepared for changing weather on Inca Trail. Layers are always key as they are easy to adjust to the different temperatures. And evenings will always be cold, so please be prepared with a warm, winter-weight jacket.

Weather on Inca Trail during May to September is perfect for hiking, temperatures range from 20-35ºC during the day if it’s sunny, to 10-20ºC during the day if it´s not sunny and 5-15ºC at night in the Aguas Calientes town or Puente Ruinas campsite. At Wiñaywayna and Machu Picchu are lower altitude, temperatures are usually warmer though warm clothes are still recommended at night.

VERY IMPORTANT:;We strongly suggest staying at high altitude (above 3000 metres - in Cusco or another high altitude city) for 1 to 2 days (minimum) before undertaking the trip. This is in order to minimize the effects of possible altitude sickness. Also, you can help your body acclimatize by drinking plenty of liquids, adding a bit more sugar to your drinks, eating food rich in carbohydrates, avoiding cigarettes and alcohol and drinking coca (ancient traditional leaf) tea. Diamox can also be helpful - please ask your doctor about this.

When 2 day Inca Trail tour operators speak to you, of what degree of difficulty, you have this or that walk, do not hesitate to give it medium, moderate or high, referring to the technical difficulty of course. But in reality, the 2 day Inca Trail difficulty, of each walk is in each one. 

• First, 2 day Inca Trail tour operators considerate "The Physical State", if you are a person who does not have health (weight problems, you have no problems with the knees and ankles, etc). If you have a healthy diet, do not overdo it, with alcoholic beverages, do not smoke, get enough sleep and exercise regularly; then the degree of difficulty of any walk, may be more bearable, because you are a healthy person, "fit", to make the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, in a more bearable and less saturated.  
• In second place, "The Preparation", the short Inca Trail is a challenge due to the nature of its terrain, changes of altitudinal floors, steep trails, steep descents, many steps, etc. If you are a person who has been preparing periodically, you do exercises, short walks, sometimes, even with your backpack on your back, and you have been reporting how to do a long walk? have it for sure that you will know how to face, this challenge, called "Inca Trail Machu Picchu" and above all you will know how to enjoy it.

In the end, 2 day Inca Trail tour operators agree that the 2 day Inca Trail difficulty is moderate. The entire route to the wonderful short Inca trail requires moderate and difficult physical effort because the entire route is not easily accessible, due to the height of the route (2600 masl to 4000 masl) and the constant ascents and descents in the journey, the 2 day Inca Trail difficulty is greater. In addition to this effort is worth the unique and unforgettable experience that will live in this great route of pure indescribable adventure only with words, to necessarily know you have to live them. Do not let the 2 day Inca Trail difficulty prevent you from reaching the majestic Machu Picchu, with a good acclimatization before the trip, you can make this walk without any problem. 

ESSENTIALS INCA TRAIL PACKING LIST:

• Passport Valid,
• STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
• Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
• Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
• Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks are encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
• Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

INSIDE YOUR DAYPACK:

Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always recommend the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, no bag larger than 25L will be allowed in. If larger, you will need to store outside citadel gates. 

• 1 wicking t-shirt,
• 1 shirt for Machu Picchu 
• 1 hiking pant, 1 short or pants for Machu Picchu
• 2 sets of undergarments.
• Hiking socks, regular socks
• Sandals 
• 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night 1
• Rain jacket
• 1 sun hat
• Camera

TOILETRIES:

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent – recommended minimum is 20% DEET
• Handsanitizer
• Toothbrush and paste
• Toiletpaper
• Personal medication
• First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

Is important to list extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips in your Inca Trail packing list.

The Inca Trail is a walking adventure that has as destination the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. There are two routes: Classic Inca Trail of 4 days and the Short Inca Trail of 2 days. While the Classic is more popular and more promoted, the short route also offers an unforgettable experience with less effort. Here we try to explain you the Inca Trail 2 day vs 4 day.

1. Duration and itinerary: The first difference of Inca Trail 2 day vs 4 day is the duration of the walk. The Inca Short Trail is two days long. We start from Chachabamba at kilometer 104 and travel around 6 hours until we reach Intipunku. During the second day the guided tour to Machu Picchu takes place.The classic route is four days. During the first day 12 kilometers are covered, the second one 13 kilometers and the third 15 kilometers. On the fourth day there is a two-hour walk to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu and take the guided tour. 
2. Inca Trail camping tours: Are you a nature lover? You can not miss a night of starry sky and Andean landscapes in the Classic Inca Trail. In the Inca Trail 4 day night camps are made on the route the first three days. You only have to bring your sleeping bag and the rest of the equipment is provided by the travel agency. Unlike the long route, during the Inca Trail 2 day, the night is spent at the hotel of your choice in the town of Aguas Calientes. 
3. Travel backpacks for Inca Trail: For the difference of days in Inca Trail 2 day vs 4 day, the amount of clothes is less for the fast road. On the other hand, you should consider that on the classic route night camps are held while on the short route you spend the night in the town of Aguas Calientes. If you want to go lighter, the Inca Trail 2 day is your option.
4. Amount of physical effort: Another major difference of Inca Trail 2 day vs 4 day is the amount of physical effort required. The classic route lasts four days and goes through landscapes that go from low fertile valleys to the pass of Warmihuañusca to more than 4000 meters of altitude. The first days of the route have steep stretches that are a physical challenge for many. Are you looking for a challenge that has a wonderful reward? Choose the 4 day Inca Trail. The 2 day route is lighter since you only walk during the first day.
5. Inca Trail permits: The Classic Inca Trail supports up to 500 people daily, including guides and service personnel. The spaces are usually sold quickly so it is best to buy them at least 6 months in advance. The route of the Inca Short Trail only supports 250 people. This route is new so it is more available. In case there are no spaces for the 4-day route you can take the short route and not miss the best trekking in South America.

Inca Trail 2 day vs 4 day

Can you do the Inca Trail from Lima?

Yes, you can start the Inca Trail from Lima! While the trail itself begins near Cusco, most travelers flying into Peru land in Lima, the country's capital. From there, it's easy to connect to the short Inca Trail experience.

The most common route is to fly from Lima to Cusco, spend a night there to rest, and then start the 2-day Short Inca Trail hike the next morning. This shorter version of the trail is at a lower altitude, so you usually won't have any major acclimatization problems.

The Cusco airport currently only handles domestic flights, so all international visitors must go through Lima first, even if you're connecting to Cusco on the same day and with the same airline. You'll need to pick up your baggage in Lima, go through customs, and check in again for your domestic flight to Cusco.

The fastest and easiest way to get to the Inca Trail from Lima is by air. Airlines such as LATAM offer several daily flights. Although LATAM is often more expensive, it offers more flexibility. However, be aware that due to Cusco's high altitude, flights can sometimes be delayed or canceled due to weather conditions.

If you prefer a more scenic route or have more time, long-distance buses are a convenient alternative. Although the bus ride from Lima to Cusco takes about 20 hours, Peruvian buses are modern and well-equipped. This is also a good option if you're traveling from Puno or other nearby cities.

If you have extra luggage, can be left safely in Cusco at either your hotel or with us at the  Inca Trail Machu store luggage. We will grab from you the morning of your trek and return once you are back in Cusco. If you decided to left it in our store luggage, in the morning our driver will pick your luggage and he will leave it at our office to be safe 2 days and when you return to Cusco, we will leave your luggage at your hotel.

FORCE MAJEURE: This is any event that Inca Trail Machu could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. This covers events such as war or threat, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, disaster or adverse weather conditions, fire or all similar events beyond our control. In this case, we will not accept liability and reserves the right to change, postpone or even cancel the trip (this is the last option of course!).

In the event of a protest/strike, which is not uncommon in Cusco, it may be necessary to leave a day or even 2 days earlier than scheduled so that we are able to comply with other services.

Risks: By booking any of our adventure trips (Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Salkantay, Ausangate, Choquekirao, Lares, Vilcabamba, Ausangate, Cachicata trek etc.) you assume the risks associated with them. For these Inca Trail Machu accepts no responsibility.

Travel Insurance: We strongly advise you to take out travel insurance that covers accidents, medical expenses and emergency repatriation, including rescue and air ambulance. We also recommend that it covers cancellations and loss of luggage. 

Sending your Personal Details for Booking: Your passport number and other information must be valid. Please advise if you change your passport number after booking the tour (especially for booking the classic Inca Trail as if we do not make a change in your official details, you may not be permitted to do the trek). Please is important that the information that you send need to be exactly as appear in your passport.

Student rate: In order to obtain this discount you must have a valid University student card (Maximum age 25 YO) . It is important you scan and e-mail this to us at the time of booking and that it is valid on the date you are booked on the Inca Trail/alternative trek (you will need to show the real University upon your arrival here in Cusco and in Machu Picchu).

Payment of the deposit can be made through following options:

Credit and debit cards: Once you booked your Short Inca Trail, our sales department will send an email with the link payment ASAP.

Western Union, or Bank transfer.

To secure a reservation of a tour package, it is necessary to make a pre-payment of: 50% of TOTAL package cost, the balance must be paid 1 or 2 nights before your tour during the briefing. 

Cancellations:

• Deposit sent is used to buy Inca Trail Tickets , Machu Picchu Tickets, Wayna Picchu tickets (if applicable) also, deposit sent is used to buy Porter tickets, and all taxes asociated with them therefore the deposit sent is Non-Refundable nor transferable to any other date, person or tour (According to Inca Trail - Machu Picchu and goverment Regulations).
• Inca trail Machu must be notified of any changes or cancellations to your trip as soon as you are aware of them, via e-mail so that we do not incur expenses not covered by deposit.
• City Tours and Sacred Valley Tours can be cancelled with a 100% refund up to 15 days before the tour starts; 50% up to a week, 25% lose of deposit less than 5 days and 100% lose of deposit if cancellation is made with les than 48 of notice.
• Once final balance has been paid, we will not be able to refund your trek payment in the case of cancellations. There will, however, be parts of your trip that you are able to use (Machu Picchu entrance fee, 1 train ticket, 1 bus ticket).