02 Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Private Service

About Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu was designed for those travelers who do not have much time and still have the desire to travel part of the entire length of the Inca Trail and live the unique experience of this path.

Overview of Short Inca Trail 2 Days

1

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 104 – AGUAS CALIENTES

Walking Distance – 10km / 6.21 miles

Starting Elevation – 3350 meters ASL / 10990 feet ASL

Highest Elevation – 2730 meters ASL / 8956 feet ASL

Short inca trail difficulty: Moderate

2

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Starting Elevation – 2050 meters ASL / 6561 feet ASL

Highest Elevation – 2400 meters ASL / 7873 feet ASL

Difficulty: Easy

DAY 1: CUSCO - KM 104 - AGUAS CALIENTES

To start the adventure of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco in our private transport, which will transfer you to Ollantaytambo town, located in the Sacred Valley. To then board the train that will take us to our starting point at km 104 (Chachabamba). Where our trekking to the river bank of the Urubamba River will begin. After a slow climb, we will arrive at the first archaeological complex of the Short Inca Trail known as Wiñay Wayna, where we can discover its secrets, and then taste our delicious box lunch.

Along our journey through the Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu, we will pass through its lush and verdant landscapes, like cloud forests that cover the mountains in their entirety and likewise, we will appreciate an immense variety of plants, flowers, and birds exclusive of the Inca Trail. Without leaving aside the fauna, we can appreciate some mammals like the Viscachas (rabbits similar to chinchillas) and the bear with glasses (if we are lucky).

After the first leg of the walk, we will reach the Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku). Here, we will get our first privileged views of the Machu Picchu citadel. Where you can take exclusive photos of this great resort, taking advantage of the weather and the small number of travelers.

Afterward, we will start the descent from the Sungate crossing the beautiful paved path to Machu Picchu and when you reach the «Mirador», located at the top of the citadel, we can have a preview of what we will go through the 2nd day of the tour. Finally, from here we will descend to the village of Aguas Calientes, where we will spend the night in our hotel previously booked, not without first enjoying a delicious dinner.

ROUTE DETAILS:

Min. Elevation: 2730 m / 8956 ft

Highest Elevation: 3350 m/ 10,990 ft

Campsite Elevation: 2050 m / 6,571 ft

Walking Distance: 10km / 6.21 miles

Walking time: 6 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Weather: Warm and windy

Meals: Box Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Golden Sunrise Machu Picchu Hotel *** or similar.

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU (11 KM)

After waking up very early, we will take the bus to Machu Picchu, to start the second day of our 2-day Inca Trail tour. To enter the site in the first round of visits to the archaeological complex on this tour. Once at the entrance of the complex, we will have a tour guide, who will provide us with a tour of approximately 2 hours «in situ». During this, we will learn about the Incas and visit the most important areas of the citadel of Machu Picchu.

After the tour, if you have the permit and/or the extra entrance tickets, you can climb to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (at your own expense). At the end of your tour through the archaeological site, we will return to Aguas Calientes, where you can board the train that will take us back to Ollantaytambo. Where our private transport will be waiting for us, which will take us to Cusco city, and in this way, we will have culminated with our tour of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

ROUTE DETAILS:

Min. Elevation: 2050 m / 6,571 ft

Highest Elevation: 3350 m/ 10,990 ft

Campsite Elevation: —

Walking Distance: 2 km / 1.24 miles

Walking time: 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: —

SHORT INCA TRAIL INCLUDES:

BRIEFING

1 or 2 days prior to the trek you will have a briefing, where you will meet your guide to receive key details about the 2-day Inca Trail Tour.

PROFESSIONAL AND TRAINED STAFF

Professional English Speaking Tour Guide.

Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+

EMERGENCY KIT

First aid kit

Oxygen bottle

PERMITS AND ENTRANCE

Inca Trail permits

Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 3)

ACCOMMODATION

3 Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes

FOOD

1 Breakfast, 1 Boxed Lunch, 1 Dinner. If you have a dietary request (vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free, allergies, etc.), please let us know

TRANSPORT

Pick-up from your hotel

Train Ticket Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (Expedition (Peru Rail) or Voyager (Inca Rail))

Train Ticket Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition (Peru Rail) or Voyager (Inca Rail))

Return transportation to Cusco

Consettur Bus (round trip)

NOT INCLUDED:

Water.

Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 2.

Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain US$85

Tips.

Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.

PACKING LIST FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

ESSENTIALS

Original Passport

Valid Student Card (if you booked as a student)

Water storage: Water bottles or Camelbaks are recommended.

Money in cash (Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips)

Sunscreen

Bug spray

Hand sanitizer

Sun hat

Snacks

CLOTHES

T-shirt

Hiking pants

1 Fleece jacket

Comfortable hiking shoes

Waterproof jacket/rain poncho

Quickdry towel.

EQUIPMENT

Plastic bags (to keep clean)

Good daypack (smaller is great)

RECOMMENDED

Face moisturizer

Wet wipes

Toothbrush and paste

Toilet paper

Personal medication

Camara

Rain gear

View prices by party size and student discounts ↑

Departure date for Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:

Above all, we offer daily departures with at least 02 people. Our tour can leave any day of the week, 12 months a year.

Departure time:

Certainly, we depart from Cusco around 05:00 am or 05:30 am to start the Inca trail 2 days. Moreover, it will depend on the location of your hotel in Cusco.

What is the Short Inca Trail?

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the simplest and most scenic version of the famous Inca Trail, which is characterized by being less challenging, making it the ideal choice for travelers who wish to know the best of this stretch and have a great experience. Perfect option if you do not have much time and still want to enjoy the best of the trekking adventure on this trail.

What to expect from the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

This trek promises a memorable adventure through the best captivating landscapes of this trekking route without the challenging part, perfect for a family adventure. You will enjoy the archaeological jewel of Wiñay Huayna, as well as the Inti Punku, combining the natural and cultural landscapes of this stretch until reaching the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu.

What is the altitude of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Short Inca Trail starts at an altitude of approximately 2,200 m/ 7,218 feet and during the journey, you will reach the maximum altitude of 2,730 m/ 8,956 feet, which reaches the archaeological site known as Inti Punku.

How hard is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The difficulty of the Short Inca Trail compared to the classic version, is much more accessible for travelers of all ages, since factors such as altitude, length, and duration are less challenging and easier to complete, Achieving a more pleasant experience for the enjoyment of the trek without complications.

Do I need to perform physical training before the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

While this version does not require any prior training, it is always advisable to do pre-workout exercises such as regular short walks, cardio, and muscle strengthening. Because these exercises will help you to have a greater resistance to physical effort and in the same way will help you to have a more comfortable and pleasant experience.

Where does the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begin and end?

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins at kilometer 104 of the railroad, which is located between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, from where we will start a trek along this incredible path until we can reach Machu Picchu, where we can appreciate the beauty of this city before our tour on day 02.

Note: Remember that your tour starts and ends in Cusco.

How can I know the availability of the Short Inca Trail?

It is important to know that the only way to book a Short Inca Trail or Inca Trail permit is through an authorized travel agency such as Inkayni Peru Tours. So you can find out the availability by contacting our sales agents directly, who will be happy to provide you with all the necessary information.

Where to book the permits for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

To obtain the permits for the Short Inca Trail safely and formally, it is essential to process them through an authorized travel agency such as Inkayni Peru Tours. Obtaining the permits on your own is not possible, as you must do the Inca Trail in the company of a professional and certified guide.

How far in advance should I book for the Short Inca Trail?

We recommend you make your booking as soon as possible. The Inca Trail is a famous route in high demand because it has only 200 spaces daily. For this reason, we suggest you make your booking well in advance, recommended 3 to 4 months.

Do I need to make a deposit to secure my trip to the Short Inca Trail?

It is essential that before making a deposit you contact our sales agents to check the Inca trail availability on your ideal travel date.

After the availability of the Inca Trail has been confirmed by the requested date, it is essential to deposit 40% of the total amount of the trek to secure your trip. These deposits can be made by credit or debit card, bank transfer, Western Union, and PayPal.

Once the payment has been made, the reservation will be confirmed by e-mail to the email address provided during the booking.

Is there a difference between the private tour of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with a group?

If there is a difference a private tour gives you the exclusive experience only for you and your friends or family, which means that you can have a tour of your own and enjoy the most peaceful and calm experience.

Instead, a group tour gives you the experience of meeting people from all over the world and sharing moments with them, creating unique and anecdotal moments in which you can exchange opinions and experiences with them.

In Inkayni Peru Tours we work with a maximum of 8 – 10 travelers, which allows us to maintain a close atmosphere and facilitate interaction between participants.

Is it possible to change the start date of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu after booking?

Unfortunately, changes to dates are not possible once entry permits or tickets have been purchased due to government restrictions. These are not transferable or refundable. Therefore, it is crucial to make sure you select the correct dates when booking. Remember that upon receipt of your form and deposit, we acquire the permits immediately, since spaces are limited in many cases.

What if I cancel my booking for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is refundable?

It is important to note that once the Inca Trail deposit has been made, this amount is not refundable or transferable. This deposit is used to acquire the permit of entry to the trek and secure your space on the requested date.

Can I transfer my Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit to someone else?

Unfortunately no, as the permits of the Inca Trail are not transferable or refundable in any case. Once a permit is issued, it cannot be transferred to another person.

What is the difference between the Classic Inca Trail (4 days) and the Short Inca Trail?

The main difference between these versions is techniques such as duration, cost, and difficulty. These two versions have a target of travelers own, so you should choose the version that best suits your goals and itinerary.

What can I do in Cusco before the Short Inca Trail?

It is important to acclimatize in the city of Cusco, at least 2 days before you make the trekking of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, so we recommend these tours:

Cusco City Tour: Explore the city of Cusco with an afternoon guided tour.

Tour Sacred Valley + Chinchero: If you do this tour and plan to stay in Ollantaytambo, we will organize your pick-up at this place, after coordination with our travel agents, to start your trek along the Inca Trail.

South Valley Tour: Explore the route south of Cusco as you acclimate to the altitude of the Andes.

What happens if the Short Inca Trail permits are sold out?

If we are unable to find a space on your required date, our sales agents will contact you with alternative dates or ways of getting to Machu Picchu.

Is it better to travel with a group of 8 people or one from 12 to 16?

In contrast to other agencies that operate with large groups, Inkayni Peru Tours offers the experience of trekking in small groups of only 8 – 10 people. This is to ensure a more personalized and comfortable experience at all times.

What is the best season to do the Short Inca Trail?

The best season to do the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this season the days are warm and the chance of rain is almost nil, something that helps significantly to have a quiet and safe experience during the journey.

However, it is important to consider that from June to August, which corresponds to the high season, there is a higher demand and it is necessary to make reservations in advance.

Is there an age limit for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

There are no specific age restrictions for the Inca Trail, but at Inkayni Peru Tours, as an authorized and responsible travel agency, we will only accept bookings for children aged 12 years and older, as long as parents take full responsibility for them throughout the trek.

Therefore, children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult, and for passengers over 60 years old, it is recommended to hire an additional porter.

How many days do I have to acclimatize in Cusco before taking the Short Inca Trail?

To ensure optimal adaptation to altitude and minimize the symptoms of altitude sickness that may occur during the trek, we advise you to spend at least two days in Cusco City or the Sacred Valley of the Incas before starting your adventure on this trail. This additional period will allow you to gradually acclimate to the mountainous elevation of the imposing Andes.

What to do or how to prevent altitude sickness on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

You may suffer altitude sickness on your arrival in Cusco and if you are not used to altitudes above 3,000 m/9,842 feet. Although the path of the Short Inca Trail is “simpler” and does not require a high physical effort, it is possible to suffer symptoms, even in a mild form. So you should take into account the following tips.

Maintain proper hydration.

Avoid alcoholic drinks before and after you arrive; wait to adapt.

Limit the consumption of red meat in the first days.

Opt for light fruits and soups in your initial diet.

Drinking coca mate is ideal to reduce symptoms, but do not abuse it, as it could cause insomnia and stomach upset.

How are the meals during the Short Inca Trail?

In Inkayni Peru Tours we take into account your food preferences and offer a variety of foods on the Inca Trail. If you are vegetarian, vegan, or other, you must inform us to guarantee a personalized dining experience. That’s why we will provide you with a nutritious and delicious Box Lunch so that you can recover all the energy of the trek and at the same time enjoy a culinary experience.

Where can I leave the luggage that I do not need to take to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

If you have luggage that will not be needed during your journey on the Inca Trail, you can leave it at your hotel in Cusco (most hotels offer this service free of charge). If your hotel does not offer this option, we will take care of storing your luggage safely at our office.

Are trekking poles necessary for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Yes, it is highly recommended to have trekking poles for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. These poles provide additional support when walking on varied and steep terrain, reducing strain on the joints and providing improved balance.

If you do not have poles to make the Inca Trail, you can rent them from us for an extra USD 15.00.

Why do I have to assist the briefing before the Short Inca Trail?

The briefing is important, as you will have the opportunity to meet your guide, who will explain important details about the trek to the Short Inca Trail, the clothing you must wear, and the weather conditions you will face (according to your season).

Note: If you have not yet canceled the remaining balance of the trek, you may do so during this meeting.

Will I need a porter for the Short Inca Trail?

The truth is that this trail does not require a porter to carry your luggage, since the trek duration is short and you will only need a backpack of approximately 30 liters, to carry your necessary implements for your 2 days of tour.

If I am traveling alone, will I be able to do the Short Inca Trail?

If you are a solo traveler, the best recommendation will be to choose the group service of the Short Inca Trail. Since you can only access the tour of the Short Inca Trail with a minimum of 02 travelers or otherwise, you will have to face the expense of both countries.

Are there toilets on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Yes, along the Inca Trail, there are “squat” and cold running water bathing facilities. These toilets are often unhygienic, as they are used by many travelers. So we recommend using hand sanitizer after each service.

Is there a telephone or internet connection on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

During the crossing of this section of the Short Inca Trail, you are likely to find limited or no connection to telephone and internet due to the mountainous and forested geography. It is important to remember that the purpose of the trek on the Inca Trail is to appreciate the natural environment, get away from the hustle and noise of the city, and return with renewed energy.

Is it possible to opt for a different train from the one offered by Inkayni Peru Tours?

If you wish to enhance your train travel experience upon returning from the Inca Trail, you can opt for the Vistadome train from Peru Rail, for which an additional cost of USD 45.00 will be applied. We advise you to contact our sales agents for detailed information on this subject.

SERVICE

PRICE

Vistadome Train Upgrade

$70.00

Single Supplement

$60.00

Extra night in Aguas Calientes at a 3-star hotel

$85.00

Why book with Inkayni?

Inkayni Peru Tours is a local tour operator exceptionally recommended by its clients, guidebooks, forums, and others. Our principal objective is to provide the best service, achieve the maximum satisfaction of our customers, and assume the responsibility as guardians of Nature in all our undertakings.

Experienced and Professional Team: Get assistance and support from our team, a group of specialists highly qualified to organize your trek to Machu Picchu.

Eco-friendly Local Tour Operator: We respect and protect the environment and the local communities that we visit. We use biodegradable products, recycle waste, support local businesses, and donate to social projects.

Door-To-Door Service: Pick-up and drop-off are included at no additional cost from your hotel or Airbnb located mainly in the surrounding area of the Historic Center of Cusco.

Delicious Andean Fusion Food: During your expedition to Machu Picchu, taste delicious foods prepared by our highly recommended chefs for this kind of experience to Machu Picchu. If you have any dietary request or allergy let us know.

High-Quality Camping Equipment: Included kitchen tent, dining tent with tables and chairs, portable private toilet, and comfortable 4 people Eureka Tent (2 people per tent).

Comfortable Sleeping Pads: Included inflatable Thermarest or REI sleeping mattress, and inflatable pillow.

Labor Welfare: We take care of all our staff, and fully comply with the salary and insurance of our porters, cooks, horsemen, and additional staff.

02 Days Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu