
SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2 DAYS
- OVERVIEW
- ITINERARY
- INCLUDED
- WHAT TO BRING
- GALLERY
OVERVIEW:
Embark on an unforgettable Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a 2-day, 1-night adventure designed for travelers who want to experience the most scenic section of the legendary Inca Trail without camping. This route is an excellent option for beginners, first-time hikers, and travelers looking for a shorter and more accessible alternative to the classic Inca Trail.
The hiking experience takes place on the first day and lasts approximately 6 hours, following a moderate route through lush cloud forests, valleys, and spectacular mountain scenery. Along the way, you will discover the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most remarkable Inca settlements on the Inca Trail, before continuing toward the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From this iconic viewpoint, enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu surrounded by the majestic Andes.
After completing the Short Inca Trail hike, you will spend the night in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to rest before the following day’s guided exploration of Machu Picchu. Discover the sanctuary’s fascinating temples, terraces, intricate stonework, and ancient architecture while learning about the history and mysteries of the Inca civilization.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect combination of hiking, nature, history, and adventure, offering an unforgettable way to experience one of the world’s most iconic archaeological wonders without the commitment of a multi-day camping trek.
AT A GLANCE
Day 1
Depart Cusco or Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo train station – train to Km104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sungate (Inti Punku) – Bus to Aguas Calientes or stay at the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu (BL)
Day 2
Bus to Machu Picchu – Tour – Bus back to Aguas Calientes – Train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station – Transfer to Cusco (B)
ITINERARY:
Day 1.- Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu – KM 104 – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Transfer from your hotel in Cusco or Sacred Valley to the Ollantaytambo station for the train to Km104 Chachabamba (2150m/7,053ft).
Disembark with your guide and walk to the check point to present your passports and permit. Then the excitement begins ascending at your pace observing the lovely Vilcanota River and cloud forest. We pass a pristine waterfall in route to the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna (2650m/8,694ft).
This site is set on a steep hillside overlooking the Vilcanota River, consisting of upper and lower house complexes connected by a staircase and fountain structures. Here we will enjoy a box lunch in nature.
After lunch we continue for about 1 to 2 hours through cloud forest hiking upwards to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the sacred entrance to Machu Picchu.
Soak up the experience and take some pictures of the citadel below before hiking for about 50 minutes there and exiting to take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes where you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
- Aguas Calientes Hotel.
- Box lunch included.

Day 2.- Machu Picchu – Train ride to Ollantaytambo or Poroy Station – Cusco
Morning at the agreed time with your guide set off to the nearby bus station and wait on line for your turn to board the shuttle bus to Machu Picchu, 25-minute ride. Inhale and exhale as you finally reach the breath taking Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. At last you say.
Enjoy a fantastic historical fun walking tour with your guide of this impressive citadel. Visit the guard house, main temples, royal tomb, sacred plaza and more. After a fabulous time return to town and have lunch on your own before boarding the train to the Ollantaytambo or Poroy station. Return to your hotel in Cusco.
Services end.
Breakfast included.

INCLUDED
- Briefing at your hotel before the trek.
- Transfer to the train station.
- Private transport + Driver.
- English speaking guide.
- Permit for short Inca Trail includes entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Tourist Train to Km104.
- Box lunch day 1 on the trail.
- Aguas Calientes Hotel 1 night with breakfast.
- Private tour as per program.
- Bus Tickets: One-way bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes day 1, Round trip day 2 from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back to town.
- Tourist train to the Ollantaytambo or Poroy station.
- Transfer from the train station to Cusco in private transport.
NOT INCLUDED
- Travel Insurance (highly recommend it).
- Lunch on day 2.
- Huayna Picchu or Montaña hike.
- Tips.
- Anything not mentioned in the program.
WHAT TO BRING
- Physical Passport.
- Daypack.
- Carryon luggage per person for one night up to 6 kilos (rest of luggage you will leave in hotel storage).
- Hat or cap for sun protection.
- Sunglasses.
- Comfortable broken-in walking shoes with good sole grip.
- Comfortable clothes.
- Sunblock.
- Insect repellent.
- Moisturizer.
- Light jacket for cool morning or night.
- Rain poncho in case of rain.
- Canteen to refill water.
- Camera.
- Wet wipes.
- Small towel.
- Snacks.
- Personal medicines and first aid items.
- Cash for tipping etc.

SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2 DAYS








