- Moderate
- 2 Days
- Up to 12
- All weather
Short Inca Trail 2 Days
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day express trekking tour to Machu Picchu starting from Km 104, covering 12 km (7.5 mi) with a maximum altitude of 2,732 m (8,963 ft) at Intipunku (Sun Gate), and rated as moderate difficulty. Designed for travelers with limited time or seeking a shorter hike, it includes one day of hiking, hotel overnight in Aguas Calientes, and entrance permits.
You have two days. Most people would settle for a bus ticket. You are not most people. The 2-Day Inca Trail condenses the essence of the legendary route into 16 kilometers of pure, distilled Andean magic. You will board a train through the Sacred Valley, hike past the ruins of Chachabamba and the breathtaking terraces of Wiñay Wayna, and arrive at the Sun Gate just as Machu Picchu reveals itself below. This is proof that depth does not require duration — only intention.
Trip Itinerary
If you plan to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, be sure to book at least 3 months in advance ($70 USD).
Included:
- Pre-tour briefing at our office
- Pick-up from your hotel and transport to Ollantaytambo train station
- 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner (vegetarian options available)
- Entrance ticket to Inca Trail
- Professional bilingual guide
- 1 night accommodation in Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes)
- Bus round-trip Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
- Train round-trip Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Minivan Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Not Included:
- Personal care items
- Breakfast on the first day, lunch on the last day
- Entrance to hot springs of Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance (book 3 months in advance, US $70)
1. Huayna Picchu
Huayna Picchu is the mountain behind Machu Picchu, climbable in 1 hour aprox. While optional, our guide will take you to the entry point. A ticket is required, which we can secure if booked in advance.
Tickets are aligned with your Inca Trail dates. The ticket for Huayna Picchu costs US$ 70.00 per person.
2. Montaña Vieja
Montaña Vieja offers stunning views, even more so than Huayna Picchu, but takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. A ticket is required, which we can secure if booked in advance.
The ticket for Montaña Vieja costs US$ 70.00 per person.
3. Rental Equipment for Inca Trail
A sleeping bag is essential for camping. Our bags are mummy-style, with liners, and protect down to -18ºC (0ºF). Inflatable mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but recommended.
- Sleeping bag US$ 20
- Walking poles (pair) US$ 15
- inflatable mattress US$ 15
- Valid passport
- Trekking clothes (pants, socks, short, t-shirt, jacket)
- Hiking boots or shoes (waterproof)
- Waterproof jacket and raincoat.
- Hat, sunblock, sunglasses, insect repellent
- Flashlight, camera, batteries, chargers, power bank
- Extra money (soles)
- Personal medication
- Water bottle or CamelBak
- Sleeping bag (-20°C) and Trekking poles
- Medium trekking backpack (25 liter)
- Bathing suit and towel
Briefing (Informative Meeting)
Join us for a 30-45 minute briefing the evening before your tour at our Cusco office or your hotel. If you can’t make it, please coordinate a different time via email, phone, or in person.
Payment Balance
Please settle any outstanding balance 1 day before your trek to confirm your reservation. Cash payments in USD or Soles are preferred and can be made at our office or during the briefing. ATMs are available nearby. Credit/debit cards or PayPal are accepted with a 5% service fee. Unfortunately, we don’t accept checks.
Can I store my luggage with you?
Yes, you can store your main luggage at our office or your hotel free of charge. For items you won’t need on the trek, check with your hotel—they usually offer storage. Keep valuables in the hotel safe and get a receipt for insurance purposes. For extra security, put valuables in a sealed, signed envelope.
How long should I acclimate in Cusco before the Trek?
To avoid altitude sickness, we suggest arriving in Cusco 2-3 days before your trek. Even if you’ve been at high altitude elsewhere in Peru, it’s best to spend a full day in Cusco to rest and explore before your trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the specific altitude profile of the Short Inca Trail challenge cardiovascular endurance?
The Short Inca Trail is a 1-day hike covering 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) with a steady climb to Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,692 ft) and the Sun Gate (2,730 m / 8,956 ft). While shorter than the 4-day trek, it features steep stone steps that require good leg strength and moderate cardiovascular preparation.
What is your ethical commitment to the Quechua porters compared to standard industry regulations?
Even on the 2-day tour, our logistics are supported by Quechua staff. We enforce a 20kg weight limit per porter, provide high-quality equipment, and guarantee fair wages. Your journey will never come at the cost of human exploitation.
Why is acclimatization in Cusco mandatory, and how does it prevent the collapse of your itinerary?
Although the trail is at a lower elevation than Cusco, you will still hike at over 2,700 meters. Spending 2 to 3 days in Cusco prior to the hike is essential to ensure your body is fully adapted, allowing you to enjoy the trek without the risk of altitude fatigue.
Can the mystical experience of the Andes be disrupted by mass tourism during the high season?
The Short Inca Trail shares the same strict permit limit as the Classic route, ensuring a peaceful hike. Reaching the Sun Gate in the afternoon is particularly special, as it allows you to overlook Machu Picchu when most day-trippers have already departed.
