The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a two-day trek that offers stunning views of the Andean mountains, Inca ruins, and lush cloud forest. The trek begins at Kilometer 104 of the railway line from Cusco to Machu Picchu, and it follows a scenic trail through the mountains, passing by several Inca ruins, including Wiñay Wayna, a spectacular archaeological site. Along the way, trekkers will enjoy views of the River Urubamba and the surrounding valleys.
After spending the night in a comfortable lodge near Machu Picchu, the trek continues to the famous Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, where trekkers can catch their first glimpse of the iconic Machu Picchu citadel. The trail then descends to the ancient Inca city, where trekkers can explore the ruins and learn about the fascinating history of this once-thriving civilization. The trek ends with a visit to the spectacular Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.
Over the course of the trek, hikers will cover a distance of approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), reaching elevations of up to 2,700 meters (8,860 feet) at the highest point. The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a moderately difficult trek that is suitable for most hikers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Cusco Hotel Transfer.
04:00 AM.
The Short Inca Trail Two Day Tour is a thrilling adventure that takes visitors on a journey through the stunning Andean mountains to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The tour offers a unique perspective of the history and culture of the Incan Empire, with expert guides providing valuable insights into the significance of each site and its cultural heritage. Visitors can witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andean mountains, with its stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. With its fascinating history, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural significance, the Short Inca Trail Two Day Tour is a must-do activity for any traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure in Peru.
On the first day of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the tour will begin at 4:00 am. The hike will start at the kilometer 104 train station and continue along the Urubamba River with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail will lead to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, a well-preserved Inca ruin.
From there, the hike will continue uphill towards Wiñay Wayna, a beautiful Inca site featuring terraces, fountains, and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The trail will continue uphill to Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, which offers the first view of Machu Picchu from above.
After a short rest at Inti Punku, the hike will continue downhill towards the entrance of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you will have a chance to explore the ancient city and marvel at its architectural wonders. The first day of the tour will end with a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest in the town of Aguas Calientes.
On the second day of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we will wake up early in the morning and have breakfast before starting our hike to Machu Picchu. We will start the trek at around 5:30 am and hike for about 1.5 hours until we reach the Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, where we will have our first stunning view of Machu Picchu. The trail to the Inti Punku is relatively easy with some uphill sections.
After enjoying the view, we will continue our hike to Machu Picchu and explore this ancient citadel with a professional guide. The tour of Machu Picchu will take approximately 2.5 hours, during which time we will learn about the history and significance of this fascinating site. We will see highlights such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the agricultural sector.
After the guided tour, we will have some free time to explore Machu Picchu on our own, take pictures, and soak in the magical atmosphere of this ancient Inca site. Later in the afternoon, we will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will have time for lunch and to explore the town before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a bus back to Cusco.
Yes, camping is required for the overnight portion of the tour. Tents and camping equipment are typically provided by the tour operator.
Food and drinks are typically provided by the tour operator. However, you can bring your own snacks and drinks if you prefer. Please check with your tour operator for any food or drink restrictions.
The tour is closed during February for maintenance and restoration of the Inca Trail. It is recommended to check with your tour operator for any specific tour dates and availability.
Yes, it is important to respect the cultural heritage and traditions of the local communities and the archaeological sites along the tour. This may include removing your shoes before entering certain areas, asking for permission before taking photographs of people, and disposing of trash responsibly. Please check with your tour guide for any specific customs or etiquette to observe during the tour.
