Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Days

Embarking on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a thrilling 2-day adventure that allows trekkers to explore stunning Inca ruins and reach the iconic Sun Gate before a guided tour of the legendary Machu Picchu. This moderately challenging trek covers transportation, meals, and entrance fees, ensuring an enriching experience filled with historical insights. With a maximum group size of 15, the personal touch allows for an intimate exploration of the ancient Inca civilization. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking an unforgettable introduction to this iconic destination, the Short Inca Trail promises an unforgettable journey that may just leave you craving more.

Good To Know

• This 2-day adventure along the Inca Trail starts at Kilometer 104 and culminates at the Sun Gate with views of Machu Picchu.
• The trek requires moderate fitness and includes a guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins on the second day.
• Meals, transportation, entrance fees, and a professional bilingual guide are all included in the tour package.
• The small group size, with a maximum of 15 participants, ensures personalized attention and a tailored culture experience.
• Booking includes hotel pickup, train tickets, and admission to thermal baths, with no refunds available for cancellations.

Overview of the Tour

The Short Inca Trail tour offers a condensed version of the iconic Inca Trail, catering to those with limited time.

This 2-day adventure starts at Kilometer 104, allowing hikers to skip the more strenuous sections of the full trek. The route visits the impressive Winay Wayna ruins and culminates at the Sun Gate, offering stunning views over the iconic Machu Picchu.

On the second day, travelers enjoy a guided tour of the legendary Inca citadel. With moderate fitness required, this trail provides an accessible way to experience the highlights of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

The tour includes all necessary transportation, meals, and entrance fees, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey.

Included in the Experience

The Short Inca Trail tour includes a variety of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

The package includes all necessary meals, with breakfast on the first day, lunch on the second day, and dinner. It also covers entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, as well as hotel pickup, transfers, and train tickets.

Travelers will have the services of a professional, bilingual guide throughout the trek. Plus, the tour provides admission to the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes and covers tips for the porters.

With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can focus on the stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences of the Short Inca Trail.

Physical Requirements and Restrictions

Moderate physical fitness level is required for the Short Inca Trail tour. The trek isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical issues.

The trail involves hiking uphill and downhill sections, so a good level of endurance is necessary. The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the guide.

This small-group experience allows for a more intimate and customized journey along the Inca Trail, culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu site on the second day.

Group Size and Attention

A maximum of 15 travelers are allowed on the Short Inca Trail tour, ensuring a more personalized experience.

This small group size allows the professional bilingual guide to provide each participant with dedicated attention and support throughout the trek. The intimate group dynamic facilitates easier communication, allowing travelers to ask questions and receive tailored recommendations from the knowledgeable guide.

This personalized approach enhances the overall tour experience, enabling participants to fully enjoy the rich cultural and historical aspects of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

The small group size also allows for greater flexibility and adaptability during the trek, catering to the individual needs of each traveler.

Booking and Pricing Details

The Short Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu starts from $590.00 per person, with the price varying based on group size. Bookings are non-refundable, and cancellations will not receive a refund. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability. Pickup is available from any accommodation in Cusco, with a start time of 4:15 AM.

Booking Details
Price	From $590.00
Refund Policy	Non-refundable
Confirmation	Within 48 hours
Pickup	Any Cusco accommodation

Exploring Wiñaywayna and the Sun Gate

The two-day Short Inca Trail trek commences at the 104-kilometer mark, where hikers embark on their journey to the famed Machu Picchu.

Along the way, they’ll reach the archaeological site of Wiñaywayna, renowned for its impressive Inca ruins.

Continuing upwards, trekkers will reach the Sun Gate, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu in the distance. This vantage point provides a dramatic introduction to the iconic citadel, setting the stage for the guided tour the following day.

Throughout the trek, hikers will be accompanied by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, ensuring they fully appreciate the historical significance and cultural richness of this iconic Inca Trail.

Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

After reaching the Sun Gate and catching that first glimpse of Machu Picchu, the tour progresses into a guided exploration of the iconic Inca citadel.

The professional bilingual guide leads travelers through the ancient ruins, sharing insights into the history, architecture, and significance of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visitors have the opportunity to wander through the stone structures, terraced gardens, and ceremonial plazas, gaining a deeper understanding of the Inca civilization.

The guided tour ensures travelers make the most of their limited time at Machu Picchu, discovering its hidden gems and key highlights under the knowledgeable guidance of an expert.

Concluding the Trek

What happens after the guided tour of Machu Picchu?

After taking in the breathtaking views and learning about the Inca Empire’s impressive ruins, trekkers will start their return journey.

They’ll catch the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. From there, they’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo, and then a private transfer will take them back to their accommodations in Cusco.

The tour includes:

• Entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
• Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Admission to the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes
• Tips for porters

With the two-day trek and Machu Picchu visit complete, trekkers can look back on an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?

Participants can bring their own food and snacks on the trek. The tour includes some meals, but travelers may prefer to supplement with their own provisions to meet dietary needs or preferences during the hike.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Train Ticket?

Yes, there is an option to upgrade the train ticket. Travelers can pay an additional fee to upgrade the train from the standard to the Vistadome train, which offers more amenities and a scenic views along the journey.

Can I Extend the Trek to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, travelers can extend the trek to include additional sites, but this would require booking a different multi-day Inca Trail itinerary. The standard 2-day Short Inca Trail doesn’t provide the option to visit other sites along the trail.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Gear?

No, hikers don’t need to bring their own gear. The tour provides necessary hiking equipment like backpacks, sleeping bags, and mats. Travelers only need to bring personal items and comfortable hiking clothes.

Is It Possible to Access Wi-Fi During the Trek?

Wi-Fi access is not available during the trek. The Short Inca Trail is a remote hike through the Andes, so travelers should expect limited connectivity and plan accordingly. Satellite phones or emergency devices are recommended for communication during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu provides a thrilling 2-day adventure, offering an enriching experience filled with historical insights. Trekkers explore stunning sites like the Winay Wayna ruins before reaching the iconic Sun Gate and enjoying a guided tour of the legendary Machu Picchu. With transportation, meals, and entrance fees covered, this moderately challenging trek is an intimate exploration of the ancient Inca civilization.