The short Inca Trail is a breathtaking hiking route that covers 7.5 miles before reaching this wonder of the world. It offers stunning views of rugged, lush mountain slopes. This short trek follows the original Inca paths, rich with abundant flora and fauna. The hike is at a much lower altitude compared to the 4-day trek and begins at a different location than the Classic Inca Trail. However, after the beautiful ruins of Wiñaywayna, hikers will follow the same famous path as the 4-day trek to Machu Picchu.
This impressive 2-day trek to Machu Picchu holds a special significance unlike any other trail. By hiking the 2-day short Inca Trail, you will discover a unique geography with formidable Inca sites, breathtaking landscapes, and finally, the magical feeling of arriving at the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. This magical 2-day hike is an excellent option for visiting the Lost City during the rainy season (November to March), as it allows hikers to visit this great wonder of the world twice in a single trip.
Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba – Short Inca Trail Trek – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
In the morning, at the scheduled time, travelers will be picked up from their hotels in Cusco and transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours. From there, the train ride takes about another 1.5 hours to reach Km 104, the starting point of the 2-Day Short Inca Trail.
After passing through the control checkpoint, you will begin a gradual uphill hike through the beautiful cloud forest for approximately 3 hours until reaching the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna.
Wiñay Wayna is one of the most remarkable Inca sites along the trail, featuring an agricultural sector with extensive terraces, a religious temple, and an urban area. You will have time to explore this fascinating archaeological complex, undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trek. Afterward, you will enjoy a boxed lunch surrounded by spectacular scenery.
The second part of the hike is easier as you continue toward the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Upon arrival, you will be rewarded with your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu. There will be plenty of time to take photographs from this privileged vantage point before descending by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night at your hotel.
Meals Included: Box Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
In the morning, after breakfast at the hotel, your guide will pick you up and accompany you on a bus ride to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, you will enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the archaeological site, visiting the Agricultural Sector, the Temple of the Sun, the ceremonial fountains, the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Rock, the Storehouses, the Main Plaza, and many of the most important and fascinating areas within the citadel.
This will be a truly unforgettable experience in one of the world's most mysterious and extraordinary places, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After the guided tour, you will have free time to further explore the citadel at your own pace or participate in one of the optional hikes available within the sanctuary.
After discovering this remarkable Inca wonder, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes at the scheduled time. There, you will have free time to enjoy lunch before heading to the train station for your return journey to Ollantaytambo. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, our staff will meet you and transfer you back to Cusco. You will then be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable 2-Day Short Inca Trail adventure.
Accommodation: Not Included
Meals Included: Breakfast
Train companies (PeruRail and Inca Rail) only allow one carry-on bag or backpack not exceeding 5 kg (11 lbs) and 62 linear inches (length + width + height). Larger luggage can be stored for free at your hotel in Cusco.
Yes, all of our standard shared guided tours are conducted with a maximum of 8 to 10 people per guide in Machu Picchu to ensure a close, personalized experience and optimal resolution of your questions.
Government entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and train tickets are personal and non-transferable, and their dates are rigid according to official policies. Therefore, rescheduling is subject to penalties and the availability of new tickets at the time of requesting the change.