The Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour is an unforgettable journey. It offers a condensed version of the world-famous Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. This exciting trek is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to experience the magic of hiking through the stunning Andean landscape and discovering the impressive Inca ruins.
The two-day tour offers a challenging but rewarding adventure that takes you on a journey through the Andean Mountains. You will experience breathtaking views, encounter local wildlife, and learn about the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization.
Inca trail is the only trek to Machu Picchu that gives hikers a chance to enter Machu Picchu through the Sun gate or Intipunku.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, the Short Inca Trail 2-Day Tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the best of the Andes and experience the unique wonder of the Inca Trail.
Please note that hiking to Machu Picchu on Short Inca Trail 2 Days is a high altitude experience. Hence, we strongly recommend that you spend at least 3-4 days in Cusco and acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness.
If you wish to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, do let us know in advance.
Do take a moment to check our reviews on Tripadvisor.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
04:00 AM
The short Inca Trail is a moderate trek that covers around 11 kilometers (7 miles) of relatively easy terrain. The trek includes both ascending and descending, and some sections can be steep, so it’s essential to be in good physical condition. The trek is suitable for most people with moderate fitness levels, and it’s an excellent way to experience the beauty of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andes Mountains in a shorter amount of time.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a popular and exciting trek that allows you to experience some of the stunning landscapes and ruins of the Inca Empire in a condensed timeframe. Here’s what you can expect on a typical two-day trek:
We will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco at 0400 AM. We will be driving you through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo train station. Here you will be boarding an Aguas Calientes bound train to Km 104, the trail head.
Once in Km 104, local authorities will be verifying your Short Inca Trail permit against your original passport.
We will begin the hike with a gradual climb to the first Inca site along the trail, Chachabamba. It nestles at 2150 meters above sea level (7053 feet).
This notable Inca site houses a stone altar that the Incas used to worship Inti (Sun God) and Apus (Mountain Peaks). We will be giving you a detailed insight on this. The tour guide will be introducing you to different Andean traditions and customs here.
We will be continuing the trek further up the hill to the most notable site, Wiñay Wayna.
Wiñay Wayna is an impressive Inca archaeological site located along the famous Inca Trail in Peru. The name Wiñay Wayna translates to “forever young” in the Quechua language. It is believed to have been a sacred site for the Incas.
Wiñay Wayna is located on a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba River and the surrounding Andean mountains. It is situated about halfway between KM104 and Machu Picchu.
The site is believed to have been built in the 15th century by the Inca civilization. This was during the height of their power. It is believed to have been a religious and administrative center, as well as a place for agricultural experiments.
The site features a series of impressive terraces and structures built into the hillside. The terraces are designed to provide different microclimates. This allows the farmers to cultivate a variety of crops. The structures include ceremonial baths, temples, and residential areas.
Wiñay Wayna is considered to be one of the most important Inca sites along the Inca Trail. It is believed to have been a pilgrimage site for the Incas. Even today it is still considered a sacred site by local indigenous people.
We will be stopping for lunch in the campsite here.
After lunch, we will be hiking to the iconic Sungate (Inti Punku).
The Machu Picchu Sungate, also known as Intipunku in the Quechua language, is a fascinating and iconic site located in Peru. The Sungate is a checkpoint along the Inca Trail, and it is the entrance to the majestic Machu Picchu citadel.
Sun gate is believed to have been an important ceremonial site for the Incas. This place marks the end of the Inca Trail. Hiking to the Machu Picchu Sungate is a popular activity for visitors to Peru. It provides an unforgettable experience and a stunning view of the famous Machu Picchu citadel.
The Sungate is an essential stop for anyone interested in Inca history, architecture, and culture. It offers a unique insight into the incredible engineering feats of the ancient civilization.
From here, we will be descending to the exit of Machu Picchu citadel. We will be taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes town. We will be accommodating you here in an ensuite hotel room for the night.
Early in the morning, we will be meeting at the bus terminal. Here we will be embarking the 35 minute bus ride up the hill to visit Machu Picchu citadel. After verifying your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, the authorities will let you in to explore the Inca’s marvel.
After a brief introduction to the Inca civilization. We will be giving you a detailed guided tour of the complex.
The tour includes a guided visit to the site. You can learn about the history and significance of Machu Picchu, as well as its impressive architecture and engineering.
The tour typically lasts for two hours, providing ample time to explore the site, take photos, and appreciate the breathtaking views.
After the tour you will have the option of hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain.
We will be taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes town. Here we will be having some free time for you to have lunch.
In the evening, we will be taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will transfer you to Cusco. We will be reaching Cusco by 0800 PM.
