Overview
2 day inca trail hike overview
- Day 1: Cusco – Km. 104 – Aguas Calientes
- Day 2: Machupicchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco!
Useful Information hiking the short Inca Trail
- Starting Altitude: 2,170 m / 7,170 ft
- Highest Altitude: 2,720m / 8,920 ft.
- Walking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
Itinerary
Short Inca trail 2 days – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km. 104 – Aguas Calientes
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco early in the morning (4:00am) and then drive through the beautiful mountains into the Sacred Valley until we reach the train station in gorgeous Ollantaytambo. You will board the train and take a scenic and comfortable 3 hour ride to Km. 104. Here we will begin the first steps of our Short Inca Trail Hike, crossing the bridge to the 2 day inca trail check point.
Our very first archaeological site is here, Chachambamba (2,170 m/ 7,170 ft). We will have the opportunity to tour and explore here and prepare for the rest of the Short inca trail.
Our Short Inca Trail today will takes us along the most impressive stretch of the Inca Roads .
Throughout the trek today you will be surrounded by the vibrant flora and fauna and spectacular 360 degree views of the Andean mountains.
We will begin in the powerful Sacred Valley in which you feel as though you are engulfed by the towering and spectacular mountains, as you journey 13km till you reach the site of Winay Waya (2,650 m / 8,700 ft). We will reach the top of the ruins where we will have informative tour and enjoy a deliciously prepared lunch.
Below you will have views of the Willcamayu (Urubamba) river and all around views of snow-capped mountains.
After lunch we continue along for approximately 1 and a half hours on a fairly leveled terrain with slight accents and descents till we reach Machu Picchu. The route takes us through cloud forest that covers the mountains, as we are surrounded by lush green plant life with opportunities to see native birds and gorgeous wild flowers. If we are lucky we may spot Viscachas (rabbit-like Chinchilas) and spectacled bears.
At about 2 in the afternoon we will reach to the Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,920 ft) which is called Intipunku in Quechua. Here we will see our first view of the great site spread out on the mountain below. The lighting at this time is timed perfectly for photos and with fewer tourists so you have the freedom to capture the perfect shot.
Then we descend the mountain for one hour to take a bus to Machupicchu town. Upon arrival you will check in to your hotel and have time to explore this lovely town.
The natural hot springs are an unbeatable way to spend your afternoon, relaxing and rejuvenating. After, we will enjoy a lovely dinner at a lovely restaurant in town.
- Meals: Boxed Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Max. Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
- Min. Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
- Walking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours
Day 2: Machu Picchu!
Today is the day we venture to the famous Machu Picchu! We will wake up early and have breakfast at the hotel. Then, we will will take the first bus up the gorgeous mountain, winding through the scenic cloud forest.
We will reach Machupicchu just in time to see the sun rise and then have a 2 hour guided tour. This extensive tour will take you to the most significant sites, visiting temples, water fountains, and much more; all while learning about the fascinating history of the Empire.
After your tour, you will have free time to explore more, take photos, and if you choose climb Huayna Picchu or Machupicchu mountain. A top Huayna Picchu you have the picture perfect bird’s eye view of the lost city! In the afternoon we take the train back from the high jungle through the mountains to Ollantaytambo and then board a van taking you to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Maximum altitude: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft
- Minimum altitude: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft
Inclusions
Includes in the 2 day Inca trail
- Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
- Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in Cusco to your Hotel
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Pre trek briefing with your Guide 1 or 2 days before your short Inca Trail
- Pick-up from Your Hotel
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104
- Return transportation by train from Machupicchu pueblo to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco
- 1 Boxed Lunch, 1 Dinner,1 Breakfast. If you have a dietary such as vegetarian food please let us know,and request with no cost at all.
- Hotel in Machupicchu town
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
- Entrance to the 2 day inca trail and Machu Picchu
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machupicchu – round trip
Does Not Include
- Lunch and Dinner on Day 2
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain- US $70
- Gratitude for your Guide
- Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your short Inca Trail
IMPORTANT: This Short Inca trail does NOT include porters. You will be carrying all your own things yourself while hiking. Because of this, it is imperative to pack as light as possible. A light backpack is key to enjoy this amazing hike.
What you need to take for this short Inca Trail
- Original passport( the same you have used for booking)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Valid STUDENT CARD (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
- Water
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- T-shirts
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Personal medication
- Camera and film
- Torch with spare batteries
ADDED VALUES FOR FREE
- Apair of walking poles (Included)
Price
2 day Inca Trail Cost
- 2 people US$450 per person
- 3+people US$400 per person
Discounts:
- Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
- Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional extras for our 2 day inca trail trek
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes US$90
- Vistadome Train Upgrade US$60
- Huayna Picchu Mountain US$70
- Machupicchu Mountain US$70
FAQs
The short Inca Trail Permits:
2 day inca trail is one of Peru’s most famous treks, and every year thousands of foreign visitors are lured to the Andes to experience the magic, beauty and outright moderate of hiking this legendary short trek. Unlike other treks in Peru, the path is a protected zone, and trekking is only possible once you have secured a government permit.
Who Controls the Permits?
A department of the Peruvian Government called La Dirección Regional de Cultura (DRC) is in charge of issuing all Inca road System Permits. Permits are limited to 500 per day.
What is the elevation on the trail to Machu Picchu?
During the short inca trail we will find the following altitudes:
- Starting Altitude – 2,170 m / 7,170 ft
- Highest Altitude – 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
Is the 2 day inca trail difficulty?
Moderate ascent to Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku(Sun Gate) and then a descent to Machupicchu and Aguas Calientes.
How long does it take to walk the short Inca Trail?
The great 2 day inca trail, which begins at KM 104 of the Machu Picchu train line. takes just 13 km / 8 miles.
Is the Short inca trail worth it?
This shorter version of this way still allows you to visit the most beautiful inca remains along the way to Machupicchu, Chachabamba, Winawayna and then continue through the Sun Gate for your first view of the Lost City of the Incas.
When is the best time to hike?
How far in advance should I book my Inca Trail permit?
We highly recommend that you make your reservation as soon as possible, as the government has limited the number of people allowed in the 2-day Inca trail to Machu Picchu is only 500 people per day. Especially when you plan to visit Peru in high season (April – October) it is important to make the reservation min. 6 months in advance.
Packing List
IMPORTANT:
This trek does NOT include porters. You will be carrying all your own things yourself while hiking. Because of this, it is imperative to pack as light as possible. A light backpack is key to feeling great.
- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks or bottles are good for this Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Water for your hike.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- 1 Wicking/Hiking Shirt & hiking pants
- Nice shirt and pants for Machu Picchu day – remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love
- 2 sets of undergarments including one pair of hiking socks
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
- Sun hat
- Bathing suits for the hot springs (Optional on your own in Aguas Calientes)
- Sun protection cream
- Insect Repellent
- Personal medication
- Personal first aid kit
- Camera
- IPhone/IPod for music
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Extra money in soles for souvenirs, drinks & tips