Tour Description
The 2-Day Short Inca Trail is the perfect option for travelers who want to experience the legendary Inca Trail but have limited time or prefer a less physically demanding trek. This express route covers the final, most stunning portion of the classic trail, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of the Incas without spending multiple nights camping.
Beginning at KM 104, you will ascend through the lush cloud forest, visiting the beautiful ruins of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. The highlight of the trek is arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the late afternoon, where you will get your first majestic view of Machu Picchu before the crowds arrive. After spending the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, you will return to the citadel the next morning for a comprehensive guided tour.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes
- 04:00 AMEarly pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station.
- 06:10 AMBoard the scenic train journey to KM 104, the starting point of the trek.
- 08:00 AMPass the checkpoint, cross the Urubamba River, and begin the ascent.
- 12:00 PMArrive at the stunning Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. Enjoy a boxed lunch.
- 03:30 PMReach Inti Punku (The Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
- 04:30 PMDescend to the citadel and take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. Dinner and overnight at a hotel.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco
- 05:30 AMEarly breakfast and bus ride up to Machu Picchu.
- 06:30 AMEnter the citadel for a 2-hour guided tour of the most important temples and plazas.
- 09:00 AMFree time to take photos or hike Huayna Picchu (if booked in advance).
- 01:00 PMReturn to Aguas Calientes by bus for lunch (not included).
- 03:20 PMBoard the return train to Ollantaytambo.
- 07:00 PMArrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
Included
- Briefing in Cusco prior to departure
- Hotel pick-up and transportation to Ollantaytambo
- Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo - KM 104 / Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo)
- Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- Professional bilingual guide
- Boxed lunch on Day 1, Dinner on Day 1, Breakfast on Day 2
- 1-night hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Round-trip bus tickets (Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes)
Not included
- Breakfast on Day 1 and Lunch on Day 2
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets
- Gratuities for the guide
What to bring
- Original passport (mandatory for the trail and train)
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Daypack (max 20 liters)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
Expert Tips
- Permits for the Inca Trail sell out months in advance. Book early to secure your spot.
- You only need to carry a small daypack; leave your main luggage securely at your hotel in Cusco.
