Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 Days & 1 Night

Experiencing the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a desire shared by many. And for small wonder as you pass through stunning Inca ruins, spectacular mountain valleys, lush vegetation and remarkable ecological varieties.

The Inca Trail hikes up and enters into Machu Macchu through the Sun Gate with the most famous unforgettable views of Machu Picchu. You will pass through cloud forest and finally into subtropical vegetation. Trekkers on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu have the privilege of visiting the Ancient Machu Picchu City twice, on the 1st day when they arrive through the sungate, and the second day when they take a tour with their guide.

The second day, you will be taken by shuttle bus from Machu Picchu Pueblo up the mountain, just in time for sunrise over the mountains and Machu Picchu (2,400m/7907ft), you then begin your exploration of the natural world and ancient culture in the City of Machu Picchu. Catch yourself as you travel back in time to this magical, sacred, and mysterious place, known as Machu-Picchu, “The Old Sacred Mountain.” Take your time exploring magestic Machu Picchu, the Incan ruins rich in history of its past and the once-thriving culture of the people who lived there.

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short inca trail

Itinerary

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM104  – WIÑAYHUAYNA – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU

With two full days packed with excitement waiting, we begin your hotel pick up bright and early. Be ready for us at 4 am so we can start the drive through the Sacred Valley to the train station in Ollantaytambo.

We arrive with plenty of time to spare for your 6:10 am departure, so grab some coffee and have your breakfast. Today is a big day, make sure you’re well energized for it! We’ll be on the train for roughly an hour and ten minutes before arriving to KM104, our starting point for the day (elevation 2,100m/6,927ft).

Here, we find our first checkpoint of the day. Take a minute here to repack your bag, stuff and last minute snacks in your cheeks, reapply sunscreen and bug spray and adjust your hiking poles. Our first ruin of the day is Chachabamba, found just a few steps from the entrance of the hike.

We’ll take a few minutes here to explore the area and listen to the history from your guide before beginning the main section of the hike. The main section of the hike consists of roughly three hours of gradual uphill climbing. We’ll pass plenty of viewpoints and great photo ops, so keep your cameras ready!

At the end of this section of the hike is a beautiful waterfall where we can stop to rest our legs for a while. The next part is shorter but much steeper. Next stop, Wiñay Wayna!

From the waterfall it is just a few more minutes until we get our first glance at Wiñay Wayna (2,650m/8747 ft) nestled in the mountain. After climbing the steep stairs we can take a moment to explore these truly remarkable ruins, learning about the history and the discovery which happened long after Machu Picchu was discovered.

We stop for lunch at the Wiñay Wayna campsite, this is where our trail joins the 4 day Inca Trail route. We have about 2 hours left until we reach Machu Picchu! The next hour winds up and down, coming to a head at the “Gringo Killer” steps- steps so steep you’ll be using your hands to help you up!

Finally, we arrive at the iconic Inti-Punku, the Sun Gate. From here, you will be able to enjoy your first glimpse at Machu Picchu. Soak it in, grab some pictures, and from here we begin our final stretch. This is an hour downhill, through a few more ruins before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.

We will have a little time here to enjoy the view from the famous viewing platform before leaving and taking the bus to Aguas Calientes, the town below. Here, we will get you checked into your hotel and fed before an early night, ready for the tour of the citadel tomorrow.

  • Meals: Box Lunch & Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu
  • Difficulty: Moderate.

DAY 2: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Today is the day! We begin exploring the magnificent Machu Picchu, where you can learn all about why they call her the Old Sacred Mountain. Even today she has magical and mysterious presence that is hard to explain.  If your group takes the first bus at 5:30AM to the Machu Picchu Citadel, you may be in time to enjoy the sunrise over Machu Picchu

Your guide will expertly show you through the ruins, answering all of your questions throughout your morning tour of Machu Picchu.  Be sure to take a moment to soak in the vibes of the city and appreciate the journey you took to get here.

Here are a couple of additional activities that you might wish to try out:

  • Climb up Huayna Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from above (not included in your tour price and must be booked way in advance to guarantee a ticket).
  • In Aguas Calientes a visit to the new local museum or to the hot springs (entrance fees required)

You will descend to Aguas Calientes when you are ready to eat lunch and later on board the Expedition Train at pm 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM for the return trip to Cusco. You will arrive at the Ollantaytambo Train Station and where our private van will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, arriving in your hotel at around 7 pm.

  • Meal: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy.

Note: It is possible to upgrade to Vistadome Train from Aguas Caliente to Cusco (Poroy), see times and prices below. 


Inclusions

WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

  • Pick up at your hotel
  • Private transport from your hotel to the train station
  • 3 Bus tickets, Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on day 1, and the return trip on day 2.
  • English speaking professional guide experienced in trekking.
  • Private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
  • Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to KM104, where your trek begins.
  • Expedition Train- from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo with private van back to Cusco.
  • Admission Tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological sites.
  • One night accommodation in Aguas Calientes  in a 3 star hotel (hot shower, private room and bathroom, plus breakfast included)
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Taxes

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED NOT INCLUDED FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain US$75.
  • First breakfast on day 1 (Usually hotels offer a picnic breakfast option).
  • Last lunch in Aguas Calientes.
  • Upgraded Hotel to 4 or 5 star.
  • Vistadome Train to Cusco instead of Expedition Train, Please add US$67 per person (For the return only to Cusco (Poroy) at 2:55 PM, 3:20PM, and 4:43 PM)
  • Tips for our staff (Sam Travel Peru staff receives a fair and decent payment immediately after they end their trip, tips are optional but greatly appreciated)


Price & Availability

BEST PRICES

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is almost always available year round as long as permits are available except in February, when it is closed for maintenance. We only need a minimum of two people in order to confirm this trip. This trek takes you into Machu Picchu by walking through the Sun Gate just like in the Inca times. You will explore some amazing Inca ruins along the way like Wiñay Wayna Inca City.

PRICES

  • US$477 per person without a hotel included.
  • US$497 per person with a 3 star hotel (single traveler supplement $40 extra. Trek prices are based on double occupancy).

EXTRAS

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike: US$75 per person
  • Vistadome Train: US$67 per person – (For the return to Cusco (Poroy) at 2:55, 3:20, & 4:43 PM. 
  • Single supplement US$40 per night for hotel (for solo travellers with single room. Prices based on double occupancy).
  • Free duffle bag (5 kilos): to your hotel in Aguas Calientes for those staying extra days

DISCOUNTS

  • 18 to 25 years old: US$30 Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: US$40  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

CHECK YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU TREK AVAILABILITY BY CLICKING ON THE MONTH OF YOUR CHOICE!

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FREE ADDED VALUE

  • Transfer From Airport to your hotel in Cusco included (Airport to Hotel in Cusco only).
  • Small Groups average 4 to 6 with a maximum of 8 hikers.
  • Afternoon Train – We give you enough time to explore Machu Picchu and have a relaxing lunch at Aguas Calientes (lunch not included).  Your train back to Ollantaytambo is at 2:55 PM or 3:30 PM. When you arrive in Ollantaytambo you catch your private van to Cusco, arriving in Cusco by 7 PM.
  • 3 Star Hotel at Aguas Calientes, which includes private bathroom, hot shower, buffet breakfast, and wifi etc.


Important Info

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 

Please read carefully the following information carefully; it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu.

WELCOME TO CUSCO

You will be welcomed at Cusco airport and taken to your hotel, please ensure that you inform us of your full flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek. Look out for our representative holding an orange board saying either your name or “Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu” outside the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal in order to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).  We can pick you up on the day that is best suited to you! 

THE BRIEFING

The briefing will take place the night before your treks departure. Typically briefings begin at 6pm in our office which is located at Calle Garcilaso #210 (second floor), in La Casa del Abuelo shopping center. 

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE IN YOUR OFFICE:

Of course! During the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free. Please do not  pack anything in your main luggage that you will need for your hike.

HOW TO BOOK THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU

FIRST, to book your Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu, you need to fill out our booking form by clicking the BOOK NOW button on our homepage.

Please be ready with the following information (FOR EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase a Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu permit without the following information:

  • Your full name, exactly as on your passport
  • Gender as it is listed in your passport
  • Passport number
  • D.O.B. (dd/mm/yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of US$211.00 (US$200 + US$11) which includes a 5.5% service charge by PayPal and Visa per person.  In order for us to purchase a permit for the 2 day Inca Trail Machu Picchu please make your deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page or click here on the payment type of your choice, either VISA or PAYPAL, 

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many cash machines in the historical center where you can withdraw money.  You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online- this includes a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address of info@shortincatrailmachupicchu.com. 

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

  1. According to Peruvian Law you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu (students 18 & above need valid student cards). For example if you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.
  2. All students from 11 to 17 years, the discount is $30.
  3. For children from the age of 2 to 11 the discount is $40.
  4. For children from the age of 0 to 2 are free.
  5. All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of their booking to get the student discount.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately the answer is “NO”. Once the tickets have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure date after the ticket has been bought. The Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu tickets are also not transferable nor refundable.

If you cancel your Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu, the deposit is completely non-refundable.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

Yes for sure! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number that you booked your tour with. The rangers have various checkpoints along the trail to Machu Picchu where you will need to show your passport.

If you need to renew your passport before coming to Peru (remember you need at least 6 months validity before entering), we can secure your permit using your old passport, and can either change it when you get a new one or simply bring both passports with you.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

It’s important to understand that in the Andes, the weather is very unpredictable and you can experience 4 seasons worth of weather in an afternoon. Likewise, on the trail we will pass through several different microclimates, each of which may present its own type of weather. It’s best to dress in layers that are easy to get on and off.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

In general if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to let your body acclimatize, you will be fine.

The recommended medicine for altitude sickness is water, coca tea, plenty of rest and oxygen only if necessary. The best thing you can do for yourself is to give yourself time to take it easy in Cusco before the trek begins. Once on the trek, our guides are trained to treat you for altitude sickness.

See our detailed information about Altitude Sickness under FAQS.

We can add on a Cusco City Tour or Sacred Valley Tour to help you get used to the altitude before your trek. Check them out in our “Day Tours” tab.

HOW MANY PEOPLE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is 8 persons. Usually our groups are between 2-6 persons. Sam Travel Peru is specialised in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provide a personalised service.

WHAT DOES THE SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU LOOK LIKE IN THE PEAK SEASON?

It can get a bit crowded but with the strict government regulations to limit the amount of people hiking per day, there is enough space for everyone. To improve your experience on the Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu, we have small groups with expert guides.

ARE WE DROPPED AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

Absolutely! Hotel pick up and drop off is included in this tour. We also have the option for drop-offs in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo or Urubamba).

WHAT TIME IS THE TRAIN’S DEPARTURE?

It will depend on the train availability but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views from the train on the way back to Cusco. Typically we try to ensure the train at 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM depending on availability.  

VISTADOME TRAIN UPGRADE; HOW MUCH IS IT?

Upgrading to Vistadome train is a great way to add a little comfort and luxury to your trip without breaking the bank. The Vistadome has nicer seats as well as panoramic windows- even on the ceiling. There are snacks provided and a traditional dance shown aboard.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many SAM Travel Peru destinations. Of course you are free to tip however much you feel, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator in that we incorporate the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our staff to know, understand and respect the local places and it’s people.


Packing List

PACKING LIST FOR THE SHORT INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU

The Short Inca Trail Machu Picchu DOES NOT INCLUDE the extra porter, so, you will need to carry all your things, please try to pack as light as possible which is the key to enjoying this amazing trek.

  • Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
  • Good daypack (25 to 30 liters)
  • Water 1 to 2 liters of water
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Toilet Paper
  • 1 T-shirt
  • 1 hiking or comfortable pants
  • Undergarments
  • Hiking socks
  • Polar or sweater for early mornings and evenings
  • Jacket if cold season
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Personal medications
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Rain jacket  – rainy season
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
  • Camera
  • Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips.


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