Tour Details:
The 2-day Short Inca Trail is the perfect option for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail. This scenic route takes you through lush subtropical jungle landscapes rich in flora and fauna. Along the way, you’ll explore impressive archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”).
The hike covers a distance of 10 km / 6.3 miles and offers a more accessible yet rewarding adventure. One of the best parts of this tour is that you’ll get to visit Machu Picchu twice—once in the afternoon and again in the morning—giving you the chance to enjoy the site in two different lights and capture unforgettable photos.
Highlights:
- Enjoy a scenic hike through beautiful jungle landscapes
- Visit the remarkable Inca sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna
- Enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
- Experience Machu Picchu at both sunset and sunrise
- Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of the classic Inca Trail
Gallery
Itinerary
DAY 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 2:30 AM and transfer you to the train station in Ollantaytambo. There, you’ll board a train bound for Km 104, the starting point of your Short Inca Trail adventure.
Upon arrival, we begin our hike by exploring the archaeological site of Chachabamba, an elegant Inca complex located near the banks of the Urubamba River. From there, the trail ascends through lush cloud forest toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most stunning and well-preserved sites along the trail, featuring agricultural terraces, ritual fountains, and temples.
After a picnic lunch and a short rest, we continue hiking toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the original Inca entrance to Machu Picchu. From this unique vantage point, you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking view of the citadel.
We then descend to Machu Picchu, taking in the magical atmosphere in the soft afternoon light. After this unforgettable experience, we take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where your hotel awaits.
Around 7:00 PM, you’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and receive a briefing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.
DAY 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
After an early breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu to enter the citadel at sunrise—an unforgettable and magical moment. Accompanied by your professional guide, you’ll enjoy a 2 to 3-hour guided tour of the most important temples, plazas, and ceremonial sites within the complex.
After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. If you booked in advance, you can also hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Once your visit is complete, we’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, you’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to drive you back to Cusco. We will drop you off at San Francisco Square, arriving in the evening.
Included / Excluded
- Pre-departure trip briefing
- Bilingual guide (English–Spanish)
- Private transportation to the trailhead
- Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo – Km 104 & Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
- Inca Trail permit
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- All meals specified in the itinerary: (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner) Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at no extra cost
- Bus tickets (Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes)
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Responsible tourism: All waste generated during the trek is carried back to Cusco
- Domestic flights (we can assist with bookings)
- Tours in Cusco and the Sacred Valley (available upon request)
- Breakfast on the first day
- Personal items (e.g. individual gear, medications, laundry, phone calls, etc.)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Entrance fee for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: $70 per person
- Lunch on the second day in Aguas Calientes
What to Bring:
- Original passport (and valid university/college student card, if applicable)
- A comfortable 45-liter backpack if you plan to carry your own belongings
- Trekking poles with rubber tips (metal tips are not allowed on the Inca Trail)
- Personal toiletries, toilet paper, and a small towel
- Reusable 2-liter water bottle (disposable plastic bottles are prohibited)
- Extra cash for snacks, drinks, or souvenirs along the route and in Aguas Calientes
- Emergency cash: at least 300 soles (~USD $150–$180) per person
Additional Information
IMPORTANT:
To issue your Machu Picchu entry ticket, the Peruvian authorities require the following information exactly as it appears on your passport:
- Full name
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Please ensure all details are accurate when making your reservation.
Pre-Trip Briefing:
A representative from Sungate Peru Travel will contact you one day before your departure to arrange a pre-trip briefing. This meeting will take place in your hotel lobby or at our office, as agreed in advance, around 6:00 PM.
During the briefing, we will provide a detailed step-by-step itinerary map and deliver all relevant tickets and documents for your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between the Short Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day version with only one day of hiking, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those seeking a less physically demanding trek. The Classic Inca Trail lasts 4 days and includes multiple challenging sections with higher altitudes.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes. Inca Trail permits are limited and often sell out quickly, especially during the high season (May to September). We recommend booking at least 2 months in advance to secure your spot.
Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for beginners?
Yes. The trail has moderate difficulty and is suitable for people with average physical fitness. No prior hiking experience is required, but it’s important to be prepared for walking at altitude.
What is the highest altitude on the Short Inca Trail?
The trail’s highest point is Inti Punku (Sun Gate), located at approximately 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level.
Tour Map
This comprehensive map is designed to guide you through an exciting journey filled with remarkable destinations and captivating experiences.
