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Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Legendary Journey in Just Two Days.
This iconic excursion is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through history, where every step reveals the skill and spirit of the Inca civilization. The experience finishes with the awe-inspiring sight of the sun rising over Machu Picchu, providing an opportunity to connect with the past in a meaningful way while surrounded by stunning scenery.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a full day of hiking to this iconic destination. Along the way, explore stunning landscapes and visit the impressive Wiñay Wayna Inca site before entering Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate.
From this elevated viewpoint, you’ll witness the Lost City at the perfect moment, taking in unforgettable panoramic views. A delicious box lunch is included, allowing you to relax and recharge as you continue this remarkable journey.
The following morning, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu at sunrise and discover the fascinating history behind this ancient wonder. Afterwards, relax on the panoramic train on your return journey. Peru Travel Company will take care of every detail to ensure that your group has a seamless, stress-free and truly unforgettable experience.
Book now and create memories that will last a lifetime…
Highlights
Short Inca Trail at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Inca Trail – Machu Picchu (13 km, 7 hrs)
Start your day with a scenic train ride to Km 104 (Chachabamba). Begin your hike through lush cloud forests, passing remarkable Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna. Enjoy a delicious lunch along the way.
After lunch, hike for about an hour to the Sun Gate for your first stunning view of Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient citadel on Circuit 1, then unwind with dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu — Return to Cusco
After breakfast, take the bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the terraces, temples, and palaces along Circuit 3. Our expert guides will bring the history of this ancient wonder to life.
Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available (advance booking required). After enjoying lunch in Aguas Calientes, take the scenic panoramic train and bus ride back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Here’s what you need to pack for the Inca Trail (2 days).
If you plan to hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in two days, please remember that porters are not included, so you will need to carry your own belongings. For this reason, we recommend packing light and using a comfortable, lightweight daypack.
To make your hike easier, we offer a free service to send some of your belongings directly to your hotel by train (please let us know in advance).
Below is a list of what you need for the Short Inca Trail, which includes two days of hiking and one night at a hotel.
Clothing:
About toiletries:
Accessories:
Extra Snacks:
Extra Money:
First Aid Kit:
Guidance on what to pack:
Sending a carry-on directly to a hotel is simple and convenient:
You can send a small carry-on bag directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu Pueblo. Each bag must weigh no more than 5 kilos. If you don’t have any additional luggage, we can provide a duffel bag.
Make sure you pack all the essentials for the day in your backpack. In your carry-on bag, put clothes for the next day, toiletries and anything else you won’t need during the the first day of hiking.
If you would like to send a bag as a carry-on, please let us know after booking the Short Inca Trail so that we can obtain the necessary permissions to transfer the bags by train.
Early Start: Begin your adventure with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel at 4:00 AM.
Train Journey: Board the train in Ollantaytambo and enjoy a scenic ride through the Sacred Valley for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to Km 104, the official trailhead.
Entering the Inca Trail: Cross the Vilcanota River and embark on the trail, heading towards the archaeological site of Chachabamba. Explore its well-preserved structures and learn about its possible function as a checkpoint or resting point for travelers.
Ascending into the Mountains: The trail gradually climbs towards the cloud forest, offering a change in scenery and a chance to spot diverse flora and fauna.
Lunch Break: Savor a delicious lunch amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Wiñaywayna’s Enchantment: Descend into the lower part of the magnificent ruins of Wiñaywayna, an impressive Inca complex showcasing agricultural terraces, houses, and a ceremonial center.
Sun Gate Glory: Hike the final stretch of the trail, climbing 60 steps to reach the Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Witness the unforgettable sunrise over Machu Picchu, a truly magical experience.
Descent to Aguas Calientes: Descend towards the town of Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Early Rise and Machu Picchu Awaits: Grab an early breakfast and catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to avoid crowds.
Guided Tour: Join a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, delving into the history, architecture, and significance of this remarkable citadel. Explore the various sectors, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana (Sun Hitching Post), and the intricate agricultural terraces.
Optional Hike: If you have booked in advance, conquer the challenging but rewarding hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.
Descent and Return: Descend back to Aguas Calientes, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, and take a bus back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.
The adventure begins with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel at 4:30 AM.
The train journey starts in Ollantaytambo and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach Km 104, the official trailhead.
Wiñaywayna is an impressive Inca complex showcasing agricultural terraces, houses, and a ceremonial center.
From the Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, you witness the unforgettable sunrise over Machu Picchu.
The optional activity on Day 2 is the challenging but rewarding hike to either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.

