Inca Trail 2 Day Tour – Short Inca Trail 2 Day

The Short Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike, making it accessible to most travelers with a reasonable fitness level. The trek covers approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) on the first day, with some uphill sections and stone steps, particularly near Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). The altitude, which reaches around 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) at its highest point, can make the hike feel more challenging for those who aren’t acclimated.

While it doesn’t require the same endurance as the full four-day Inca Trail, the steep paths and uneven terrain still require some physical preparation. However, the manageable distance and the gradual pace of the hike make it an achievable and rewarding experience for most adventurers.

The Short Inca Trail is approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) in length. This distance is covered on the first day of the trek, starting at Kilometer 104 of the railway and continuing to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) before descending to Machu Picchu. On the second day, the focus is on exploring Machu Picchu, but there is no extensive hiking beyond the guided tour within the site.

Yes, the Short Inca Trail is definitely worth it, especially for travelers who want to experience the magic of trekking to Machu Picchu without committing to the full four-day hike. This two-day trek offers stunning scenery, rich history, and the thrill of reaching the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first views of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will explore fascinating archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna and enjoy the natural beauty of the Andes.

The Short Inca Trail gives you a taste of the famous Inca Trail experience while being more accessible in terms of time and physical effort. It provides the perfect balance between adventure and cultural immersion, making it an excellent option for those with limited time or moderate hiking abilities. The sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views at the end of the trek make it a truly rewarding experience.

Yes, you do need a permit for the Short Inca Trail, just like the full Inca Trail. The Peruvian government regulates access to preserve the trail and its archaeological sites. Permits are limited, so it’s important to book well in advance, especially during the high season (April to October).

The permit is usually arranged by the tour operator, like Luan Travel Peru, as part of the package. It includes your entry to the trail and Machu Picchu. Keep in mind that permits are non-transferable and tied to your passport, so you’ll need to have the correct documentation when booking the tour.

The Short Inca Trail is a two-day trekking route that leads to Machu Picchu, offering a shorter alternative to the classic four-day Inca Trail. This route begins at Kilometer 104 on the railway line from Cusco to Aguas Calientes and covers approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) of stunning Andean landscapes. Along the way, hikers visit important archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where they get their first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.

Unlike the full Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail offers the experience of trekking through the original Inca paths while requiring less time and physical endurance. On the second day, hikers explore Machu Picchu with a guided tour, making it an ideal choice for those who want a balance of adventure and cultural immersion in a limited timeframe.