Thinking about the 2-Day Short Inca Trail (Km 104) but unsure about the difficulty? That’s the smartest question to ask before you book. For most active travelers, it’s a moderate hike—tough in a few spots (mainly the steep Inca stairs and the steady uphill), but very achievable when you know what to expect.
In this guide, I’ll explain the trail in simple, real-world terms: how hard it feels, where the hardest parts are, how altitude affects you, and what you can do to make the hike easier. If you’re deciding between this route and the longer 4-day Classic Inca Trail, keep reading—by the end, you’ll know if the Short Inca Trail is the right fit for you and how to feel confident hiking all the way to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Short Inca Trail Difficulty & Altitude: What to Expect
If you’re wondering how hard the Short Inca Trail really is, you’re in the right place. This section explains the difficulty, altitude, distance, and weather in simple terms—so you can decide if this 2-day hike is a good fit and feel confident before you book.
Short Inca Trail difficulty
The 2-Day Short Inca Trail (Km 104) is a moderate hike for most active travelers. It’s not technical, but it can feel challenging in a few spots—mainly the steep Inca stone stairs, the steady uphill sections, and the long day of walking. The reward is huge: you’ll pass incredible ruins like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, then reach Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
- Difficulty: Moderate (harder if you dislike stairs or arrive tired)
- Hiking time (Day 1): Usually around 5–7 hours (pace and stops vary)
- Distance (Day 1): About 11–12 km (7–7.5 miles), depending on the route
Altitude on the Short 2-day Inca Trail hike
The Short Inca Trail is usually easier on altitude than many hikes around Cusco because you hike at a lower elevation. The highest point is the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at about 2,720 m / 8,924 ft. Most travelers don’t have serious altitude problems on this route, but everyone is different—if you’re sensitive to altitude, it still helps to take it slow and stay hydrated.
- Cusco: 3,399 m / 11,152 ft
- Km 104 – Chachabamba: 2,170 m / 7,120 ft
- Wiñay Wayna: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
- Highest point – Sun Gate (Inti Punku): 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
- Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes): 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Distance and hiking time on the Short Inca Trail
The Short Inca Trail is a one-day hike (on a 2-day itinerary). Most people walk about 11–12 km and reach Machu Picchu in roughly 5–7 hours. It’s the shortest Inca Trail option, but it can still feel tough if you’re not used to stairs or uphill hiking—so a little preparation makes a big difference.
How to prepare (simple and realistic)
A few easy steps can make the hike feel much better:
- Build leg strength: Do stairs, step-ups, and short hill walks a few times a week.
- Improve cardio: Brisk walking, cycling, or jogging helps a lot.
- Arrive acclimatized if possible: Spending time in Cusco can help, but listen to your body and take it slow.
- Pack smart: Bring a light rain jacket, sunscreen, bug spray, and snacks—don’t overload your daypack.
- Practice with your backpack: Do a few training walks wearing the daypack you’ll use on the trail.
- Consider travel insurance: It’s a good idea for any adventure trip.
Weather conditions on the trek
Weather on the Short Inca Trail can change quickly. You might get bright sun, then rain an hour later—so it’s best to be ready for both. In Cusco, we mainly have two seasons:
- Dry season (May to October): More stable weather, warm days, cool nights. Still, pack a rain layer—mountain weather can surprise you.
- Rainy season (November to March): Trails can be muddy and slippery, so good shoes and careful footing matter even more.
Geography and trail conditions
One reason this hike is so special is the variety. You start in the Andes and hike into the lush cloud forest, with changing views, warmer air, and plenty of greenery. Along the way you may spot butterflies and colorful birds, and the scenery gets mistier as you get closer to Machu Picchu.
The trail is an ancient stone path with sections of uneven steps, narrow trails, and stairs going up and down—this is what can make it feel challenging, especially if it’s wet.
Group size
Group size depends on how many people book. Many groups are small to medium, and we keep things comfortable by using the right guide-to-hiker ratio. Smaller groups usually feel more personal, move at a steady pace, and make it easier to ask questions and take breaks when you need them.
Age of hikers on the Short Inca Trail
There’s no single “perfect” age for the Short Inca Trail. Many operators suggest the hike for kids around 9+, but it really depends on fitness, confidence on stairs, and how your family handles long walking days. If you’re considering this hike with children, keep these points in mind:
- Make sure your child is comfortable with uphill hiking and lots of steps.
- Take breaks often, drink water regularly, and keep snacks handy.
- Kids should stay with their parents at all times; for families, a private tour can be a great option.
Inca Trail permits 2026
The Inca Trail is open to visitors, but access is strictly controlled. Because the trail is part of the Machu Picchu archaeological park, the Peruvian government limits entry to protect the route and prevent damage. The Ministry of Culture of Peru oversees these rules and the daily permit system.
This also means you can’t hike the Inca Trail independently. Whether you’re choosing the Short Inca Trail (2 days / Km 104) or the 4-day Classic Inca Trail, every traveler must book through an authorized tour operator. Your operator secures your permit and provides the guide and logistics needed for your trek.
- Permits are limited every day, and they can sell out fast in peak season.
- Classic Inca Trail: only 500 permits per day are issued, and this total includes trekkers, porters, cooks, and guides.
- Permits are personal and non-transferable, so your passport details must match exactly.
- Tip: book early and have your passport details ready to speed up the process.
The Inca Trail 2026 season is open for bookings, and spaces are already being taken. If your dates are important, the safest move is to lock in your permit as soon as you can—especially for the most popular months.
Take note
›› Check dates and secure your spot here: Inca Trail permits 2026 availability .
Short Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Hotel
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a condensed version of the traditional Inca Trail, making it an excellent option for those who may not have the time or physical capacity to complete the whole four-day hike. This shorter trail still provides a challenging trek and the opportunity to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in Peru, including a portion of the classic Inca Trail and the majestic arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Day 1: Cusco - Km 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Aguas Calientes
- Start early and board the train to Km 104, the starting point of the trek.
- The trail starts visiting the Chachabamba Inca site
- After 4 hours of hiking, you'll reach the famous Wiñay Wayna ruins, an impressive Inca site with terraces and ceremonial platforms.
- Take your time to explore Wiñay Wayna and enjoy a packed lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings.
- Afterward, continue the trek toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers the first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
- From the Sun Gate, it's a short descent to Machu Picchu and explore the viewpoints.
- After your visit, you'll take a bus to Aguas Calientes and spend the night in a hotel.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
- Wake up early to take the first buses back up to Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you'll learn about the history, significance, and mysteries surrounding this ancient Inca city.
- After the tour, you'll have free time to explore the site independently, take photos, or hike to the iconic viewpoint of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (additional permits required).
- In the afternoon, you'll take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes and have some free time to relax, visit the hot springs, or explore the town.
- Finally, you'll board a Panoramic Vistadome train back to Cusco or Ollantaytambo, where your Short Inca Trail adventure concludes.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a fantastic way to experience the Andean landscape and immerse yourself in the Inca history. It's important to remember that this trek is physically demanding, so a moderate fitness level is required. Furthermore, the trail can sometimes be booked months in advance, so planning is crucial.
Short Inca Trail with camping
The Short Inca Trail with camping follows the same itinerary as the hotel version; the main difference is that you will stay in comfortable tents. TreXperience organizes premium Short IncaTrail tours with a glamping experience.
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Pickup from your Hotel in Cusco. You'll be driven to Ollantaytambo to board a train bound for Km 104, the start of your short Inca Trail trek. You will enjoy a picnic breakfast at the trailhead.
- You will visit Chachabamba and ascent for 4 hours towards Wiñay Wayna.
- You will enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by our expert chefs
- From Wiñay Wayna, you'll hike for 1 hour to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, you'll have your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
- You'll descend into Machu Picchu and the bus down to Puente Ruinas, where you will spend the night in comfortable walk-in tents.
The Short Inca Trail with camping is a GLAMPING EXPERIENCE where you will sleep in walking tents and camping cots and have excellent meals.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- On the second day, you'll wake up in the tents and enjoy an early picnic breakfast.
- You will hike for 20 minutes to Aguas Calientes to catch one of the first buses back up to Machu Picchu.
- A guided tour will provide insight into the history and significance of the different structures, including the Sun Temple, the Room of the Three Windows, and the Intihuatana stone.
- After the guided tour, you'll have free time to explore Machu Picchu independently. Some may wish to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (note: these require separate tickets, which should be booked well in advance).
- You'll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes to have lunch 8Not included)
- In the afternoon, you'll board a train Panoramic to Ollantaytambo and then be transferred by road back to Cusco, where your short Inca Trail adventure will end.
What is the main difference between the Hotel and the camping Tour?
Both tours follow the same route, same tour guides, same trains. The differences are:
- The Short Inca Trail with Hotel includes 1 box lunch, 1 dinner in a local restaurant, and 1 breakfast at the Hotel. This tour does not include the first breakfast.
- The Short Inca trail with camping includes the first Picnic breakfast, 1 Picnic lunch, 1 Picnic Dinner, and 1 picnic breakfast on day 2.
- Also another difference is sleeping in a hotel and having a comfortable camping night.
The best part of the Short Inca trail with camping is the picnic meal prepared by our expert chefs and the glamping experience.
Tips for Hiking the 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Worried about Short Inca Trail difficulty? These simple tips will make the hike feel easier—especially on Day 1, which is usually the most demanding part.
Book in advance
Inca Trail permits are limited every day and can sell out fast, especially in peak months. If your travel dates are important, book as early as you can.
Prepare your legs and cardio
Even though it’s shorter than the 4-day trek, you’ll still face stairs and steady uphill hiking. A few weeks of training makes a big difference. Use this Inca Trail training plan and focus on stairs, hills, and long walks.
Acclimatize to altitude (if possible)
If you can, spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before your hike. It helps your body adjust and can make the trail feel much more comfortable.
Pack light (you’ll enjoy the hike more)
Keep your daypack light: water, snacks, camera/phone, a rain jacket, and sunscreen. Send your overnight bag to Aguas Calientes ahead of time so you’re not carrying extra weight on the trail.
Drink water often
High-altitude air can feel dry, and hiking dehydrates you quickly. Sip water regularly throughout the day—don’t wait until you feel thirsty.
Dress in layers
Mornings can be chilly, midday can be warm, and rain is always possible. Layers make it easy to adjust as the temperature changes.
Wear comfortable shoes with good grip
The trail includes uneven stone steps and slippery sections when wet. Wear broken-in hiking shoes or boots with solid traction.
Use trekking poles if you have knee issues
Poles can help with balance and reduce pressure on your knees during descents—especially after a long day on stone steps.
Protect yourself from sun and rain
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Pack a lightweight rain jacket too—weather in the Andes can change quickly.
Respect the trail
The Inca Trail is a protected historical route. Please carry out your trash, stay on marked paths, and don’t remove plants or stones.
Choose a licensed tour operator
A good guide makes the experience easier and more meaningful—handling permits and logistics, setting a comfortable pace, and sharing the history behind the sites you visit. If you want a smooth, well-organized trek, take a look at our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu options.
Bring enough snacks for the day
There aren’t shops on the trail, so carry a few easy snacks (like fruit, nuts, or energy bars) to keep your energy up between meals.
Most importantly: go at your own pace, take short breaks when you need them, and enjoy the journey. The Short Inca Trail is challenging in parts—but it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to arrive at Machu Picchu.
Short Inca Trail Difficulty FAQs (2-Day Inca Trail / Km 104)
How difficult is the Short Inca Trail (2 days / Km 104)?
The Short Inca Trail difficulty is usually rated moderate. It’s not technical (no climbing or scary drops), but it can feel challenging because of the steep stone stairs, the steady uphill hiking, and the long walking day.
Most people hike for about 5–7 hours on Day 1 and cover roughly 11–12 km (distance can vary a little depending on the route and circuit).
Is the “2-Day Inca Trail” really two days of hiking?
It’s a 2-day itinerary, but the hiking is mainly one big day (Day 1). Day 2 is usually your guided visit at Machu Picchu, with no long trek.
This is one reason many travelers choose it—it gives you a real Inca Trail hike without doing four straight days on the trail.
What is the hardest part of the Short Inca Trail?
For most hikers, the hardest parts are the uphill sections and the stone stairs, especially as you get closer to Wiñay Wayna.
The last stretch also includes a lot of walking when you’re already tired, so pacing yourself (and taking short breaks) makes a big difference.
Are there a lot of stairs on the Short Inca Trail?
Yes—expect plenty of uneven Inca stone steps going up and down. They’re one of the main reasons people say the Short Inca Trail feels harder than a normal day hike.
If you’re worried about stairs, train with step-ups or stair workouts before your trip, and consider trekking poles for extra support.
What is the highest altitude on the Short Inca Trail?
The highest point on the Short Inca Trail is the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at about 2,720 m / 8,924 ft.
That’s lower than Cusco, so many travelers find this route easier on altitude than they expected.
Will I get altitude sickness on the Short Inca Trail?
Most people do fine, but altitude affects everyone differently. Even though the trek is lower than Cusco, you can still feel short of breath if you arrived recently or you’re sensitive to altitude.
The best plan is simple: take it slow, drink water often, avoid heavy alcohol the night before, and rest well. If you have concerns or a medical condition, check with your doctor before traveling.
How fit do I need to be for the Short Inca Trail?
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking for several hours and handling stairs and uphill sections.
A good test is this: if you can do a 3–4 hour hike (or a long city walk with lots of stairs) without feeling totally destroyed, you’ll likely be fine—especially with some training beforehand.
How should I train for the 2-Day Inca Trail to make it easier?
Focus on two things: cardio and leg strength. Brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming helps your stamina, and stairs/step-ups help a lot for the trail.
Training even 2–4 weeks before your trip can make the hike feel much more comfortable.
Do trekking poles help on the Short Inca Trail?
Yes—especially if you have sensitive knees or you struggle with downhill walking. Poles can improve balance on uneven steps and reduce pressure during descents.
If you bring poles, make sure they have rubber tips (some protected areas require them) and practice using them before the hike.
Is the Short Inca Trail dangerous?
The trail is generally safe when you follow your guide and walk carefully. It’s not a technical hike, but there are uneven stones, steep stairs, and sections that can be slippery in rain.
Good footwear with grip, watching your steps, and not rushing on descents are the best ways to stay safe.
Can kids or older travelers do the Short Inca Trail?
Many families and older travelers do it, but it depends on fitness, balance on stairs, and comfort with a long hiking day. Some operators recommend kids be around 9+, but there’s no single rule that fits everyone.
If you’re unsure, think about how your child (or you) handles long walks, uphill hiking, and lots of steps. A private tour can also help because you can move at your own pace.
Do I need a guide and permits for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. You can’t hike the Inca Trail independently. You must book through an authorized tour operator who arranges your permit and guide.
Permits are limited and can sell out, so it’s smart to book early if you have fixed travel dates.
What happens if I can’t finish the hike?
If you’re struggling, your guide will assess the situation and choose the safest option based on where you are on the trail. In many cases, the plan is to get you back toward Aguas Calientes and help arrange the next steps.
This is also why good preparation and travel insurance are important—it gives you peace of mind if anything unexpected happens.
What time of year is best if I want the easiest hiking conditions?
For the easiest trail conditions, most people prefer the dry season (May to October), when paths are usually less muddy and days are more stable.
The rainy season (November to March) can still be beautiful, but it often means wetter steps and slippery sections—so good shoes and extra caution matter more. The Inca Trail is typically closed in February for maintenance.
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