The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a captivating adventure. It blends history, nature, and a sense of achievement. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking the magic of hiking the Inca Trail without committing to the full-length trek.
Over two unforgettable days, we will walk in the footsteps of the ancient Incas. We will be traversing a section of the world-renowned Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu.
This experience offers you a profound connection to Peru’s cultural and natural heritage. It reveals breathtaking landscapes, awe-inspiring archaeological sites, and a view of Machu Picchu that will leave you speechless.
Starting from the Sacred Valley at KM 104, we will embark on a trek through the Andes. We will be amidst the lush cloud forests, ancient ruins, and vibrant wildlife. The journey begins at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters (6,889 feet). From here, we will ascend through verdant trails that reveal stunning vistas of the valleys below.
Along the way, we will encounter the serene beauty of Wiñay Wayna. It is an impressive archaeological site perched on the mountainside, offering a glimpse into the ingenuity of Inca architecture.
The trail provides an immersive yet manageable experience. It avoids the challenges of extreme altitudes, making it accessible to travelers concerned about altitude sickness. The two-day itinerary ensures a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Professional guides will lead the way, uncovering the history and mysteries of the Inca Empire.
The Short Inca Trail is perfect for travelers who highly recommend quality over quantity. It is ideal for those seeking a meaningful connection with Machu Picchu and its surroundings.
As we approach the iconic Sun Gate or Inti Punku, a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu will unfold before your eyes. This is not just a hike. It’s a moment of triumph as the majestic citadel greets you in the golden light of the late afternoon.
This unique vantage point offers a perspective few others experience, especially compared to arriving by train. Visiting Machu Picchu becomes even more rewarding after following the same paths once traveled by the Incas.
The journey continues with an overnight stay in the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Here you will rest before a fully guided tour of Machu Picchu the next day. With the expertise of our professional guides, we will delve deeper into the history of this site. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in stories and significance.
Together, we will explore its architecture and uncover its spiritual significance.
Traveling back to Cusco aboard the luxurious Vistadome train will ensure the experience concludes with comfort and style.
Hiking the Inca Trail during the dry season offers ideal conditions for a two-day trek. You can enjoy clear skies and take advantage of incredible photo opportunities along the way.
Inca Trail permits are limited. We encourage planning to secure your spot on this unforgettable trek to Machu Picchu. Together, we will create memories of a lifetime. This journey merges adventure with cultural discovery in one of the most iconic destinations on Earth.
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.
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.
An unforgettable adventure! The 2-Day Short Inca Trail with Luan Travel Peru was perfectly organized, blending breathtaking scenery with fascinating history. The trek was challenging yet manageable, and the guided tour of Machu Picchu was insightful and inspiring. Highly recommended!
Incredible journey! The Short Inca Trail with Luan Travel Peru was perfectly planned, offering stunning landscapes and a fascinating glimpse into history. Arriving at Machu Picchu was unforgettable!
Amazing experience! The Short Inca Trail with Luan Travel Peru was well-organized and filled with stunning views and rich history. Reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate was magical. Highly recommend!
Fantastic experience! The 2-Day Inca Trail with Luan Travel Peru was seamless, with breathtaking views and expert guidance. Reaching Machu Picchu was the highlight of a lifetime!
