Short Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu Full Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco - Km 104 - Machu Picchu

You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 a.m. (depending on the hotel location) and driven to the Ollantaytambo train station. If your hotel is located in the Sacred Valley or near Ollantaytambo, the pick-up could be around 5:30 a.m.

For the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it is recommended that you stay the day before somewhere closer to the train station in Ollantaytambo; this way, you can save 1.5 hours of travel from Cusco. If you participate in a tour like Sacred Valley the day before, you can request the drop-off in Ollantaytambo and spend the night in a hotel. TreXperience will pick you up from any location near Ollantaytambo or Cusco.

From Cusco, it’s a one-hour, 30-minute bus ride to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we will board the first trains and travel along the Urubamba River until we arrive at Km 104—Chachabamba (located in the cloud forest). We will head straight to the checkpoint at Chachabamba to start our Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu. Please note that you will need the original passports to pass the checkpoint.

Our first stop is the beautiful Inca site of Chachabamba, where our expert tour guide will introduce you to Inca history and Machu Picchu. After exploring the site, we will hike along an ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for about 7 hours.

The first section of the Short Inca Trail is a gradual uphill hike for 4 hours until we arrive at Wiñaywayna (the place that never gets old); this is one of the most beautiful Inca sites on the Classic Inca Trail. We will take some time to explore this stunning archaeological site while enjoying spectacular views of the Andes. A packed lunch and refreshments will be provided; once fed and energized, we will continue our hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) to catch our first glimpse of Machu Picchu Citadel – a truly unforgettable sight. We will arrive at Sun Gate around 3 to 4 p.m. when the crowds from Machu Picchu have left, allowing us to enjoy this place with few people.

Next, we will hike for another one hour downhill from the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu viewpoints, which have breathtaking views. We will arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon and have the unique opportunity to experience the citadel almost empty. This day is the perfect photo opportunity! Then, we will take the bus to Aguas Calientes, have dinner in a local restaurant, and spend the night in a 3-star hotel.

Dinner will be served in top-rated restaurants in the town, and our hotel is also located on exclusive sites. It has a private bathroom, hot showers, WiFi, and beautiful views.

• Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
• Duration: 7 hours
• Highest altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft (Sun Gate)
• Meals: Lunch, snacks, and dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

On the final day of the Short Inca Trail hike, we will get up early and prepare for the highlight of the tour: visiting Machu Picchu—the Lost City of the Incas. Breakfast will be served in the hotel, and we will board the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving as the sky brightens, we will visit the city’s incredible views. On a clear day, we can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu.

Our guide will take you on a 2-to-3-hour comprehensive tour of the city before leaving us in Machu Picchu to explore on our own or take an extra hike to either Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Montaña (tickets must be booked well in advance). We will explore Machu Picchu's most remarkable places with a private tour guide, visit the temples, palaces, and farming terraces, and learn about the city's history.

Optional: After the Machu Picchu tour, you can hike down to Aguas Calientes using the Hiram Bingham original trail. On the way, you will visit the Machu Picchu Museum and the butterfly station and enjoy fantastic views.

After the tour of Machu Picchu, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. You will have time to explore the town, choose a restaurant of your preference, and buy souvenirs in the local market. Later in the afternoon, you will board the Panoramic train (Vistadome or 360°) and bus back to Cusco. The TreXperience Team will meet you off the train and return you safely to our hotel. Our arrival time to Cusco is around 7:30 p.m.

• Tour Duration: 2-3 hours exploring Machu Picchu
• Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
• Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Ultimate Packing List for the Inca Trail 2 days

During the two days on the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, remember that porters will not help you carry your belongings, so you should try to pack as lightly as possible. We recommend you bring a good-quality, light, and comfortable daypack.

If you require a personal porter, you can request one when booking for an extra charge. However, we do not recommend it, as we can even send some of your belongings directly to the hotel by train at no cost (it needs to be requested in advance).

Below, you will find a comprehensive packing list for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which includes two days and one night at a hotel.

Essentials for the Short Inca Trail:

• Daypack: It must be lightweight and comfortable, with enough room to carry water, snacks, and clothes. Due to local regulations, it should not exceed 25 liters. However, this is not just about the capacity of your backpack; ensure that on day 2 at Machu Picchu, your pack looks small. You can store some items at the hotel for the Machu Picchu tour.
• Original passport (a copy will not be accepted): Passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the travel dates to Peru.
• Valid Student Card (if you booked as a student): The original student card must be issued by the university and is valid for students up to the age of 25. It must contain the following: university information, personal information of the student, a photo of the student, and a valid date no later than December 31 of the year of travel.
• Hiking boots: For the Short Inca Trail is highly recommended. Bring a broken-in, comfortable shoes.
• Water storage: Ensure you have at least 2 liters of water, either in a camel bag or water bottle(s). A 1-liter water bottle works well, but you will need two of them to meet the 2-liter requirement. Plastic disposable bottles are prohibited in Machu Picchu, so make sure you have reusable containers.
• Trekking Poles are recommended only for day 1 of the Inca Trail portion. Due to local restrictions, they are not allowed at Machu Picchu.
• Rain gear: No matter what season you travel in, always have a rain jacket and poncho with you. Machu Picchu is located in the cloud forest and has the most unstable weather.
• Buff or bandana: We will be hiking in warm weather and intense sun.
• Hat or Cap: Choose a comfortable, lightweight hat or cap that's easy to pack and store. Avoid bringing bulky items.
• Sunglasses: Bring comfortable sunglasses suitable for hiking with good UV protection.

Clothing:

• 2 t-shirts: Long-sleeved preferred
• 2 Hiking Pants/Trousers: One for the Inca Trail and one for Machu Picchu the next day
• Underwear and socks: Best if they are moisture-wicking
• Change of clothes: Enough for 2 days of tour
• Warm Layers: Early mornings are cold; you need layers to remove quickly when you are hiking
• Swimsuit (optional): For hot springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo

Toiletries:

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Toilet Paper or wet wipes

Accessories and Food:

• Camera, fully charged phones
• Extra batteries for Machu Picchu
• Snacks, power bars, chocolates
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips during the Short Inca Trail

First Aid Kit:

• Pain Relievers: Such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Band-aids: For minor cuts and blisters.
• Sunscreen: The sun is very strong in the cloud forest.
• Insect Repellent: To prevent insect bites.
• Aloe Vera Gel: For minor burns or sunburn.
• Hydrocortisone Cream: For itching or rashes.
• Bandage: For sprains or strains.
• Moleskin: To prevent and treat blisters.

Packing Tips:

• Pack Light: No porter assistance, so focus on essentials.
• Reusable Containers: Ensure all water storage is reusable.
• Health Essentials: Don't forget personal medication and first aid items.

Sending a Carry-on directly to the hotel:

You can send a small carry-on bag directly to the hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). The bag must weigh a maximum of 5 kilos per person. If you don't have extra luggage or bags, we can provide a duffle bag.

Make sure that you carry all the essentials for the day in your backpack. In the carry-on, you will only put clothes for the next day, toiletries, or anything that you don't need during the day.

If you want to send a carry-on bag, please advise in advance after booking the Short Inca Trail to get all permissions to transfer the bags by train.

Price for the Short Inca Trail 2 Days tour

We organize small group tours to ensure a personalized and intimate travel experience. For those traveling with a large party or seeking an exclusive adventure, we offer private Inca Trail tours tailored specifically to your preferences. Contact us today, and we'll provide a customized price and design the perfect tour to meet your needs, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

Price per person:

• From US$ 498 - Adults
• From US$ 458 - Children and students

To book the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.

Student Discount:

• US$ 40 off per person

All travelers under 17 will have a US$40 discount. If you are under 25 years old when traveling to Machu Picchu, you can get the discount with your Student ID. Please email us to receive the code for the discount: Info@trexperienceperu.com.

Valid Student ID for the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu:

To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:

• 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
• The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
• The ID must have a valid expiration date

Invalid Student IDs:

Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:

• Traveler is older than 25
• Expired ID
• Student ID without expiration date
• ISIC cards are not valid. 

Similar tours you might be interested in:

• Classic Inca Trail 4 days
• Rainbow Mountain 1 day
• Humantay Lake 1 day

Short Inca Trail 2 Days Frequently Asked Questions

When most people think of the Inca Trail, they think of the long, classic 4-day trek to Machu Picchu. But many don't realize that a shorter version of the trail can be completed in just 2 days. This shorter trail, often referred to as the Short Inca Trail, Royal Inca Trail, Inca Trail Express, or Inca Trail 2 Days is an excellent option for those who want to experience the Inca Trail but don't have 4 days to spare.

Below are the most common questions asked for the Short Inca Trail 2 days to Machu Picchu.

All you need to know about the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Short Inca Trail is one of the most popular hiking tours to Machu Picchu. This incredible journey takes you on a 6—to 7-hour adventure along the iconic Inca Trail on the first day, followed by a full day exploring the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel on the second day. It is the perfect tour for those who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail in just one day of hiking and one day at Machu Picchu.

The hike to Machu Picchu is relatively challenging but manageable for anyone able to hike for 6 to 7 hours on uneven terrain. Along the way, you will explore ancient Inca sites, enjoy breathtaking views of the Inca Trail, witness beautiful waterfalls, traverse the mystical cloud forest, and savor the unique view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.

The highlight of the Short Inca Trail is the unique arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. This vantage point provides a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photographs of Machu Picchu from above. The following day, you will revisit Machu Picchu and enjoy the sunrise over this iconic site.

TreXperience offers daily premium tours in small groups to guarantee personalized service. Our expert tour guides enhance your experience, and you will travel on the Panoramic Vistadome train, enjoying the spectacular vistas of the Machu Picchu Canyon and the Urubamba River.

Location

The Short Inca Trail is located approximately 70 kilometers (around 43 miles) northeast of Cusco, nestled within the lush Cloud Forest region. This scenic area is part of the Machu Picchu District in the Province of Urubamba. The trail begins at Km 104 .- Chachabmab Control Point, on the left bank of the Urubamba River. The journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from dense forests filled with exotic flora and fauna to ancient Inca ruins of Chachabmaba, Wiñaywyna, and Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.

History

The Short Inca Trail, built in the 1400s and connecting the Sacred Valley, Wiñaywayna, and Machu Picchu, was an important trade and religious path that moved people, goods, and culture around the Inca Empire.

The Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu were left behind and forgotten when the Spaniards conquered the Inca empire in the 16th century. They were hidden by the;thick jungle and time. Hiram Bingham, an American traveler, found Machu Picchu again in 1911, and many years later, Peruvian archaeologists found the Short Inca Trail and Wiñaywayna.

Today, the Peruvian government protects this historical site by allowing only 250 walkers per day to use the trail. This protects the cultural sites and the natural environment so that people can enjoy their beauty and historical importance without harming the environment.

Weather

The weather on the Short Inca Trail is quite variable, with hot days and cool nights, and the possibility of showers at any time. It's important to pack appropriate clothing and rain gear to stay comfortable throughout your hike. The best time to hike the Short Inca Trail is from April to October, as this is when rainfall is at its lowest.

Temperatures typically range from 10 to 25°C (50 to 77°F). Due to its location in the cloud forest, rain can occur unexpectedly, and the trail is often shrouded in clouds. Being prepared for these conditions will help ensure an enjoyable trekking experience.

Hiking distance

The Short Inca Trail begins at km 104 and passes through Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna before reaching the Sun Gate and, finally, Machu Picchu. The total distance covered is 13 kilometers (8 miles), and it is typically completed in about 7 hours of hiking.

Despite its shorter length, the Short Inca Trail is moderately challenging, featuring steep sections and numerous stairs. However, the effort is rewarded with stunning views and the immense satisfaction of completing this epic journey.

Flora

Wildlife along the Short Inca Trail is surprisingly diverse. Many types of plants and flowers grow wild along the trail. The variety of plants along the road makes it look even better and gives you a lot to experience on your hike. These are some of the most popular flowers and plants you might see:

• The Aguaymanto, or Peruvian Cherry, is a small, bright fruit that often grows wild next to the path. It's not only beautiful to look at but also a tasty treat known for its sweetness and sourness.
• Alstroemeria, also known as the Peruvian lily, is a flower that grows in South America. It adds splashes of color to the scenery. You can often see tiny, lily-like alstroemeria flowers growing next to the trail, adding to the beauty of the view.
• Bromeliads are bright plants that grow in the tropical jungles of South America. Along the Inca Trail, bromeliads often grow on trees. Their bright colors stand out against the lush green background. They are beautiful to look at because of their odd shapes and bright colors.
• Cattleya Orchids: Cattleya orchids are one of the most famous flowers in South America. They are hard to find but very beautiful when you do. Orchids are known for their big, fragrant flowers, which represent the foreign beauty of the area's plants.
• Hibiscus: This plant usually grows in warm areas because its flowers are brightly colored and shaped like trumpets. Hibiscus plants sometimes bloom near streams or rivers along the Inca Trail, adding splashes of color to the calm water scenes.

Fauna

Plenty of animals live along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, giving hikers the chance to see many interesting animals in their native environments. These are some of the interesting species you might see:

• The Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus), also called the Andean bear, is the only bear species that lives in South America. It can be easily recognized by the white marks around its eyes that look like glasses. You might be lucky enough to see one of these bears looking for food, but they are usually shy and hard to find.
• Rupicola peruviana, the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock: The bright bird is the state bird of Peru, and its red-orange feathers and fan-shaped crest make it stand out. The male's complicated breeding dance is beautiful to watch. You can often find these birds in the cloud forest.
• The Andean Agouti (Dasyprocta punctata) is a small rodent-like animal known for being quick and agile. It is often seen quickly moving through the bushes to find plants, fruits, and seeds.
• Vizcacha (Lagidium peruanum) is a type of chinchilla that looks like a rabbit and has a long, bushy tail. It lives in rocky places along the trail and is busiest in the early morning and late afternoon.
• Dwarf Brocket Deer (Mazama chunyi): This small type of deer is hard to find and is only seen in the woody parts of the trail. Hikers are lucky to see it sometimes because it is shy and blends in with its surroundings.
• Butterflies: Many kinds of bright butterflies fly through the air, adding to the peaceful atmosphere of the trail.
• Spiders and Other Insects: Spiders and other arthropods are part of the diverse insect life, and they all play important roles in the environment.
• Snakes and Lizards: The trail's diverse wildlife includes snakes and lizards relaxing in the sun or slithering through the plants.
• Llamas: Llamas are an important part of the Inca road and Machu Picchu. You can often see them grazing along the road and at the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. These tamed animals are not only famous, but they also show how people used to live in the Andes.

Inca sites and places to visit

A number of important Inca sites can be found along the Short Inca Trail. Each one gives a different view into the history and culture of this ancient society. Here's a full list of the most important spots along the trail:

• Chachabamba: The walk starts with a stop at Chachabamba, an archaeological site with stone buildings and baths used for ceremonies. The Incas are thought to have used this site as a religious center where they performed ceremonies connected to water. Exploring Chachabamba can teach you a lot about Inca architecture and religious customs.
• Choquesuysuy: Choquesuysuy is an interesting spot that adds to the trail's historical complexity, even though it can only be seen from a distance. Its terraces and buildings can be seen as you walk along the path, giving you an idea of how the Incas farmed.
• One of the best parts of the Short Inca Trail is Wiñaywayna, whose name means "Forever Young." There are large farming terraces, ceremonial fountains, and a number of well-preserved buildings at this impressive site. By exploring Wiñaywayna, you can be amazed by how cleverly the Incas built things and how beautifully they designed their landscapes.
• From afar, Intipata is another impressive Inca site that stands out because of its steep farming terraces. In the tough mountain environment, these terraces were used to grow crops. Looking at Intipata from afar shows how good the Incas were at farming and how they could adapt to different settings.
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The Sun Gate is the last stop on the Short Inca Trail before you get to Machu Picchu. It was a checkpoint for people who wanted to get into the holy city. You can see Machu Picchu for the first time from this point, which makes the walk to the Sun Gate memorable and worthwhile.
• Machu Picchu: The trip ends at the famous Machu Picchu, one of the world's most well-known historical sites. This old city was high in the Andes Mountains and served as a royal palace and a place of worship. When you visit Machu Picchu, you can experience the grandeur and wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage site by wandering through its temples, plazas, and residential areas.

Best time to hike

From April to October, when it is dry and sunny and not likely to rain, is the best time to hike the Short Inca Trail. The best months to go hiking and enjoy clear views of the beautiful landscapes and historical sites are during these months.

From November to March, when it rains a lot, hiking has its own special charm. There are fewer people on the trail, and the lush plants and scenery are at their best. To get around easily in the wetter weather, you'll need good rain gear, waterproof clothing, and sturdy hiking boots.

Short Inca Trail regulations

The Peruvian government manages the Short Inca Trail. Every year, thousands of people from around the world come to hike this trail, ending with a visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu Citadel. The Inca Trail is a protected area with regulations to minimize its impact. Here are some important rules to be aware of:

• Checkpoints: There are three checkpoints on the Short Inca Trail where you will get a stamp: Km 104, Wiñaywayna, and Machu Picchu. The tour guide presents the Anexo and entry tickets at each checkpoint.
• Number of Visitors: Only 250 people, including tour guides, chefs, and porters, are allowed on the trail daily.
• Entry Times: The trail opens when the first train arrives around 6:20 am. Most groups start after 7:00 am and have all day to hike to Machu Picchu. The latest entry time is 11:00 am to ensure timely arrival at Machu Picchu. The last bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town departs at 5:30 pm.
• Closing Period: The Short Inca Trail closes in February every year for maintenance and because of the heavy rainy season.
• Age Restrictions: There are no age restrictions, but travelers must be able to hike for about 6 to 7 hours on uneven terrain with steep stairs and narrow paths. Travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 6 years old are recommended to have extra help, like a porter.
• Permits: You need to book Inca Trail permits with an authorized tour operator. These permits are nonrefundable and nontransferable.
• Tour Operators: Not all tour agencies in Cusco have licenses to operate on the Inca Trail. Tour companies must obtain authorization from the Peruvian government. TreXperience offers a 2-day Short Inca Trail package, including entry tickets, meals, hotels, and panoramic trains.
• Tour Guides: Tour guides need a special license to work on the Inca Trail and must renew it every two years. They must also have First Aid and Mountain Rescue training and know the trail's history and environment.
• Chefs and Porters: Chefs and porters also need training to work on the Inca Trail. Usually, porters and chefs are not included in the Short Inca Trail tour, but you can upgrade to include them for a full trekking team.
• Waste Management: You cannot leave any trash on the Inca Trail. You must carry out whatever you bring. Trekking teams bring red bags for plastic and non-biodegradable waste and green bags for biodegradable waste.
• Plastic Bottles: Plastic bottles are not allowed on the Short Inca Trail due to littering and environmental harm. Use a reusable container instead.
• Cancellation Policy: Inca Trail permits are nonrefundable and nontransferable. If you need to cancel, you cannot get a refund or transfer your permit to another date or person.
• No Shows: If a traveler does not arrive on the specified date, the permit is considered a no-show, and the cost is lost. This strict policy applies to all tour operators.
• Pets: Pets and exotic animals are not allowed on the Short Inca Trail. Only guide dogs are permitted on the trail and in Machu Picchu.

Safety and Security

The Short Inca Trail goes through 13 kilometers of beautiful but difficult land. Along the trail, there are no medical facilities or doctors, so it's important to be careful and do what your tour guide says. The following steps are taken to make sure our guests are safe and sound:

• Experienced Tour Guides: We only hire tour guides with extensive experience and training.
• Safety Gear: We provide a First Aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phones.
• Checkpoints: The Inca Trail has checkpoints to monitor hikers and ensure their safety. Checkpoints are at km 104, Wiñaywayna, and Machu Picchu.
• Emergency plan: Park guards working at each checkpoint can help in an emergency and give advice. Our guides know what to do in an emergency and can quickly call for help if they need to.
• Briefing Before the Hike: We do a full briefing before we start the hike. This briefing describes what to expect on the trail, rules for staying safe, and hiking tips.
• Health Warnings: All hikers should get a medical check-up before the trip to lower their chance of getting sick. This is very important for people who already have health problems.
• Altitude sickness: Before starting the hike, you should spend at least two days getting used to the air in Cusco.
• Responsible Hiking: To avoid accidents, stay on marked paths, bring reusable water bottles, and take all trash with you.
• Being ready for bad weather: Hikers should be ready for a variety of weather conditions, such as rain, sun, and cool temperatures.
• Small group tours: We organize small groups; every 8 travelers will get 1 guide. Our guides can keep a close eye on each walker and help them when they need it.
• Speed: We hike at a reasonable pace so that people of all fitness levels can enjoy the hike without getting too tired.

Code of conduct

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a one-of-a-kind chance to see the amazing sights at this historic place. It's important to follow a code of behavior to make sure your trip is safe, fun, and polite. Here is an in-depth look at the rules for how to behave on the Short Inca Trail:

• Follow the rules to keep yourself and others safe and protect the nature.
• Don't leave trash: Take all of your trash with you and throw it away properly.
• Keep archaeological places safe: Do not climb on, touch, or damage any ruins.
• Show respect to other walkers and locals: Respectfully keep your space and be kind.
• Follow the marked paths: Stay on marked paths to protect the environment.
• Carry out everything you bring in to protect the beauty of the trail.
• Ready yourself: Bring things you'll need, like water, snacks, and the right clothes.
• Respect wildlife: Keep your distance from animals and don't bother them.
• Help environmentally friendly actions: Buy eco-friendly items and shop at neighborhood stores.
• Have fun and value the experience: Enjoy the wildlife and learn about the history of the trail.

Prohibited items

Some things can't be brought on the Short Inca Trail to keep hikers safe, protect the environment, and keep the historical places in good shape. Here is a full list of things and acts that are not allowed:

• Animals (except guide dogs): Only guide dogs are allowed to protect the area's wildlife and keep the trail clean.
• Alcohol and illegal drugs: These are not allowed to keep people from making bad decisions and getting into crashes.
• Weapons (including guns, knives, and other types of weapons) are not allowed to keep everyone safe.
• Materials that can explode or catch fire: Banned because they pose a high risk of fire and explosion.
• For privacy and traffic reasons, big tripods, drones, and professional video gear are not allowed. You need a special pass to bring these things in.
• To protect the fragile historical sites, you are not allowed to touch or climb on the ruins.
• Large backpacks are not allowed in Machu Picchu. Instead, bring only the things you need in a small daypack.