Inca Trail 2 Day Tour – Short Inca Trail 2 Day

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  • Length Of The TourTwo Day Tour
  • Group SizeUpto 9 People
  • Max. Altitude4,215 meters (13,828 feet).
  • DifficultyModerately Challenging

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Tour Details

Join us on an unforgettable journey along the Short Inca Trail 2 Day Tour. We will immerse ourselves in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Peru. This compact yet thrilling trek will perfectly balance adventure and comfort as we hike to Machu Picchu.

Starting from Cusco, we will pick you up from your hotel and embark on this 2-day Inca Trail trek. We will be following in the footsteps of ancient explorers on the original Inca Trail.

Experience the Magic of the Inca Trail 2 Day Tour: From Scenic Train Rides to Machu Picchu’s Splendor

Our adventure begins with a scenic train ride from Ollantaytambo to the trailhead at Kilometer 104. We will start our hike here. As we walk along the trail, we will be surrounded by lush flora and fauna. We will pass through fascinating archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna.

The hike will lead us to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. We will witness our first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, just as the Inca did centuries ago. This magical moment is the day’s highlight, as the ancient city reveals itself in all its splendor.

We will spend the night in Aguas Calientes, relaxing and unwinding in the town’s soothing hot springs. We will be preparing for the second day of exploring Machu Picchu. The following day, we will return to the citadel for a comprehensive guided tour.

We will learn about its history, significance, and intricate construction. You may also choose to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These peaks reward with even more spectacular views of the surrounding Andes.

Discover the Accessible Adventure of the 2 Day Inca Trail: A Short, Unforgettable Journey to Machu Picchu

Altitude sickness is always a consideration when trekking in the Andes. With this short Inca Trail tour, the acclimatization period is manageable, making it accessible to most adventurers. Train tickets for the return journey will be arranged, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

The Inca Trail 2 Day Tour is perfect for those who wish to trek to Machu Picchu. It offers a shorter option without committing to the full four-day classic Inca Trail.

Over two days, we will experience the grandeur of this ancient civilization while making lasting memories. You may find yourself marveling at the Sun Gate or exploring Machu Picchu’s ruins. Either way, this trail promises to captivate and inspire.

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Tour Includes

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    Meals: Includes 1 breakfast and 1 boxed lunch.
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    Guides: A professional English-speaking tour guide is provided. Additionally, for groups of 9 or more people, an assistant tour guide will be included.
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    Pick-up service from your hotel.
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    Train transportation to Km-104, which is the starting point of the trek.
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    Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco after the trek.
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    Accommodation: 1 night’s hotel stay in Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes).
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    Entrance fee to the Inca Trail.
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    Entrance fee to Machu Picchu.
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    Machu Picchu Shuttle: Round trip bus journeys between Machu Picchu and Machu Picchu Pueblo.
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    Safety Measures: Oxygen bottle and first aid kit are provided for emergencies.

Short Inca Trail 2 Day Tour Excludes

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    Optional: Entrance fees to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain.
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    Breakfast on the first day of the trek.
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    Lunch and dinner on the second day.
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    Personal Expenses: Any private expenses incurred by travelers are not covered.
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    Gratuities: Tips for the Inca Trail guide are not included and are at the discretion of the traveler.

What to Expect from Inca Trail 2 Day Tour?

On the Short Inca Trail 2 Day Tour, we will trek along ancient paths, exploring stunning archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna and reaching the breathtaking Sun Gate, Inti Punku. You can expect to be immersed in both history and nature, with panoramic views of the Andes and your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. The first day will be filled with adventure as we hike through lush cloud forests and awe-inspiring landscapes.

 

On Short Inca Trail Day 2, we will visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour of the iconic citadel. Our guide will share fascinating details about its history and significance. You will have time to explore the site and even choose to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for additional views before returning to Cusco.

Inca Trail 2 Day Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Km104 - Chachabamba - Wiñay Wayna - Intipunku - Aguas Calientes

We will begin our first day of the 2 Day Inca Trail adventure with an early start in Cusco. Our team will pick you up from your hotel. We will make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo. It is a journey of about 1 hour and 30 minutes (60 kilometers or 37 miles). 

As the train winds through the Sacred Valley, you will have time to admire the stunning Andean landscapes. Upon reaching Kilometer 104, we will disembark and begin our trek along the Short Inca Trail.

Chachabamba

Our first stop will be Chachabamba. This is an archaeological site where Inca ceremonies once took place. After taking in its history, we will continue our hike. We will be making our way uphill through a diverse landscape of lush cloud forests. The trail will offer panoramic views, with every step bringing us closer to the ancient world of the Inca.

Wiñay Wayna:

As we ascend, we will reach Wiñay Wayna, another significant archaeological site. Here, we will pause to explore its impressive terraces. They are still irrigated by mountain springs and marvel at the intricate stone structures. 

Wiñay Wayna is one of the most beautiful sites along the Inca Trail. Its proximity to nature is truly breathtaking.

Sun Gate, Inti Punku:

Afterward, we will press on toward one of the most iconic points of the day: the Sun Gate, Inti Punku. Reaching this ancient gateway, we will witness first stunning views of Machu Picchu. The magical moment when the vast citadel comes into sight is one that every adventurer treasures. The beauty and scale of the site, nestled in the mountains, will take your breath away.

We will descend from the Sun Gate and make our way down to Aguas Calientes. After a rewarding day of trekking, we will arrive in the town where you can relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest. You may choose to unwind in the local hot springs or simply take in the atmosphere. Either way, the first day of this Short Inca Trail will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Day 2: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Cusco

On the second day of our 2 Day Inca Trail Trek, we will wake early in Aguas Calientes. After breakfast, we will board the bus that will take us up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. It is a journey of around 25 minutes (9 kilometers or 5.6 miles). As we ascend, anticipation will build for the moment we arrive at the ancient citadel.

Once inside, we will begin our tour of Machu Picchu. Our knowledgeable guide will take us through the most significant parts of this legendary site. We will explore the temples, terraces, and sacred spaces that reveal the remarkable engineering skills of the Inca. 

As we wander through the ruins, the guide will share fascinating details. You will learn about the history and purpose of Machu Picchu. This will make the experience even richer.

Optional Hike to Huayna Picchu:

We will have time to take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The iconic Huayna Picchu will be towering above. For those who wish, an additional hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can be arranged. From these viewpoints, the sight of Machu Picchu from above is simply unforgettable.

After exploring Machu Picchu, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. There will be time to enjoy a relaxing lunch before we catch our train back to Ollantaytambo. The journey through the Sacred Valley will once again offer spectacular views of the Andean landscape. 

From Ollantaytambo, our private transport will return us to Cusco. This will bring our 2 Day Short Inca Trail adventure to an end.

This day will be filled with moments that will stay with us forever. We will experience everything from visiting Machu Picchu to absorbing the beauty of the surrounding mountains. The combination of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery makes this an experience unlike any other.

Inca Trail 2 Day Tour FAQ

How hard is the Short Inca Trail

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.

How long is the Short Inca Trail?

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.

Is the short inca trail worth it?

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.

Do you need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?

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.

What is the Short Inca Trail?

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.

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From$450
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