Summary
Duration
Tour Type
Difficulty
Altitude
Accommodation
Group Size
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days) is the best alternative to the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a family-friendly excursion. It does not include strenuous high-altitude hikes like the Classic Inca Trail, nor does it require camping overnight in remote areas. We have designed our Short Inca Trail so that you will arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes) on the first night and stay in a comfortable hotel room with a private bathroom.
The best part: Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days) does not require booking six or seven months in advance. We have tailored the Short Inca Trail itinerary to provide you with the Classic Inca Trail experience but in a much simpler and more convenient way.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days) is closed during February for conservation and maintenance work. It reopens on the first of March.
- Embark on this jungle trek to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you will visit several Inca archaeological sites, including Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku. On the second day, experience the thrill of a lifetime as you explore the fourth wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy the train ride from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104 (the starting point of the hike), traveling alongside the Vilcanota River. During the train journey, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape. If lucky, you may spot river otters while crossing the Vilcanota River.
- Witness the incredible transition of scenery, climate, and ecosystems as you venture into the Peruvian cloud forest upon reaching Kilometer 104.
- Along the Inca Trail, if lucky, you might encounter spectacled bears, exotic butterflies, viscachas, Andean cock-of-the-rock birds, diverse bird species, and snakes.
- Explore the magic and mysticism of Machu Picchu: Immerse yourself in the legacy of the Incas as you tour the Machu Picchu citadel, one of the world’s wonders. Experience the grandeur of this historical gem as you uncover its secrets and legends in a guided tour filled with fascinating details.
- Relive history and culture in every corner of the citadel: Accompanied by an expert guide, explore the passageways and structures of the citadel, including iconic landmarks such as the Guardian’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Three Windows, the Intihuatana, the Acllahuasi, the Temple of the Condor, and the water fountains.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 | Machu Picchu Pueblo
We begin the tour with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. You will be taken in our private transport to the Ollantaytambo Train Station (a 1-hour 45-minute drive). From there, we will board the train to Kilometer 104 (a 1-hour 20-minute journey), the starting point of the hike (2,200 m / 7,218 ft). This point is named for its distance from Cusco on the way to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The first part of the hike involves a 2-kilometer uphill trail lasting approximately 1 hour, from Kilometer 104 to the Inca Trail Checkpoint. Here, we will present our identification documents, such as a passport, alien card, or national ID.
Just 15 minutes from the checkpoint are the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, hidden in the semi-tropical forest.
After this stop, we will continue hiking through ascending steps. Along the route, you will see waterfalls and various species of orchids. After about 4 hours of hiking, we will arrive at the archaeological site of Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). Here, we will take a 1-hour tour and then enjoy a meal to regain energy.
The second part of the journey involves a 2-hour hike through stone stairs and tambos (“resting places”) until we reach Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). During the Inca era, this served as the entry checkpoint to the Machu Picchu citadel. From here, we will have a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley, spending some time enjoying the sunset.
We will then descend for approximately 30 minutes through cloud forests and take a bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo (2,160 m / 7,087 ft), a 25-minute downhill ride. Upon arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo, we will spend the night in a local lodging.
If you are not too tired, you may visit the Hot Springs, located just 5 minutes from town, for an additional cost of 10 Soles. Additionally, Machu Picchu Pueblo offers a wide variety of bars and restaurants, as well as ATMs, should you need to withdraw cash.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Pueblo - Machu Picchu - Cusco
We start early with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, we will prepare for a bus ride of about 30 minutes from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the Machu Picchu citadel. Along the way, you will see the beautiful jungle landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the main entrance, our guide will assist you through the security checkpoint.
Once inside the citadel, you will witness the golden rays of the sun illuminating Machu Picchu’s walls. Our local guide will provide a comprehensive 2-hour tour, sharing fascinating facts about this wonder of the world. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore at your leisure. If you have reserved a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our guide will assist you at the entry. Alternatively, you can visit the Inca Bridge.
After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back to Machu Picchu Pueblo. At the scheduled time, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo Station, where we will pick you up and transfer you back to Cusco. You will be dropped off two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.
Inclusions
Incluye
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
- One-way train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104
- Return train tickets from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Consettur bus tickets from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Machu Picchu and back
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish)
- 1 night of accommodation
- 1 lunch and 1 dinner on the first day
- 1 breakfast on the second day
- First aid kit
Not Included
- Access to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain (an additional $60.00 USD, subject to availability). If you wish to have a guide accompany you to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, an additional $60.00 USD will apply per group of up to 10 people climbing the mountain.
- Upgrade to the Vistadome train ($100.00 USD per route).
- Entrance to the Hot Springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo
- Snacks
- Tips (optional)
What to bring
- Original passport
- Clothing for both warm and cold weather, such as a waterproof jacket
- Lightweight pants
- Trekking shoes
- Flip-flops or sandals (for showers and hot springs)
- Short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts
- A hat
- Swimsuit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, water bottle and purification tablets, and toilet paper
- Camera
- Some snacks like chocolate bars and dried fruits
- Peruvian soles in cash
Mapa:Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days)
Summary
Duration
Tour Type
Difficulty
Altitude
Accommodation
Group Size
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days) is the best alternative to the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a family-friendly excursion. It does not include strenuous high-altitude hikes like the Classic Inca Trail, nor does it require camping overnight in remote areas. We have designed our Short Inca Trail so that you will arrive at Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes) on the first night and stay in a comfortable hotel room with a private bathroom.
The best part: Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days) does not require booking six or seven months in advance. We have tailored the Short Inca Trail itinerary to provide you with the Classic Inca Trail experience but in a much simpler and more convenient way.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (2 Days) is closed during February for conservation and maintenance work. It reopens on the first of March.
- Embark on this jungle trek to Machu Picchu Pueblo, where you will visit several Inca archaeological sites, including Chachabamba, Choquesuysuy, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku. On the second day, experience the thrill of a lifetime as you explore the fourth wonder of the world, Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy the train ride from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104 (the starting point of the hike), traveling alongside the Vilcanota River. During the train journey, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape. If lucky, you may spot river otters while crossing the Vilcanota River.
- Witness the incredible transition of scenery, climate, and ecosystems as you venture into the Peruvian cloud forest upon reaching Kilometer 104.
- Along the Inca Trail, if lucky, you might encounter spectacled bears, exotic butterflies, viscachas, Andean cock-of-the-rock birds, diverse bird species, and snakes.
- Explore the magic and mysticism of Machu Picchu: Immerse yourself in the legacy of the Incas as you tour the Machu Picchu citadel, one of the world’s wonders. Experience the grandeur of this historical gem as you uncover its secrets and legends in a guided tour filled with fascinating details.
- Relive history and culture in every corner of the citadel: Accompanied by an expert guide, explore the passageways and structures of the citadel, including iconic landmarks such as the Guardian’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Three Windows, the Intihuatana, the Acllahuasi, the Temple of the Condor, and the water fountains.
Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 | Machu Picchu Pueblo
We begin the tour with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. You will be taken in our private transport to the Ollantaytambo Train Station (a 1-hour 45-minute drive). From there, we will board the train to Kilometer 104 (a 1-hour 20-minute journey), the starting point of the hike (2,200 m / 7,218 ft). This point is named for its distance from Cusco on the way to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
The first part of the hike involves a 2-kilometer uphill trail lasting approximately 1 hour, from Kilometer 104 to the Inca Trail Checkpoint. Here, we will present our identification documents, such as a passport, alien card, or national ID.
Just 15 minutes from the checkpoint are the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Choquesuysuy, hidden in the semi-tropical forest.
After this stop, we will continue hiking through ascending steps. Along the route, you will see waterfalls and various species of orchids. After about 4 hours of hiking, we will arrive at the archaeological site of Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). Here, we will take a 1-hour tour and then enjoy a meal to regain energy.
The second part of the journey involves a 2-hour hike through stone stairs and tambos (“resting places”) until we reach Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). During the Inca era, this served as the entry checkpoint to the Machu Picchu citadel. From here, we will have a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding valley, spending some time enjoying the sunset.
We will then descend for approximately 30 minutes through cloud forests and take a bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo (2,160 m / 7,087 ft), a 25-minute downhill ride. Upon arrival in Machu Picchu Pueblo, we will spend the night in a local lodging.
If you are not too tired, you may visit the Hot Springs, located just 5 minutes from town, for an additional cost of 10 Soles. Additionally, Machu Picchu Pueblo offers a wide variety of bars and restaurants, as well as ATMs, should you need to withdraw cash.
Day 2: Machu Picchu Pueblo - Machu Picchu - Cusco
We start early with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, we will prepare for a bus ride of about 30 minutes from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the Machu Picchu citadel. Along the way, you will see the beautiful jungle landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the main entrance, our guide will assist you through the security checkpoint.
Once inside the citadel, you will witness the golden rays of the sun illuminating Machu Picchu’s walls. Our local guide will provide a comprehensive 2-hour tour, sharing fascinating facts about this wonder of the world. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore at your leisure. If you have reserved a hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, our guide will assist you at the entry. Alternatively, you can visit the Inca Bridge.
After your visit to Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back to Machu Picchu Pueblo. At the scheduled time, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo Station, where we will pick you up and transfer you back to Cusco. You will be dropped off two blocks from the Plaza de Armas.
Incluye
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
- One-way train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 104
- Return train tickets from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
- Consettur bus tickets from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Machu Picchu and back
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish)
- 1 night of accommodation
- 1 lunch and 1 dinner on the first day
- 1 breakfast on the second day
- First aid kit
No Incluye
- Access to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain (an additional $60.00 USD, subject to availability). If you wish to have a guide accompany you to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu, an additional $60.00 USD will apply per group of up to 10 people climbing the mountain.
- Upgrade to the Vistadome train ($100.00 USD per route).
- Entrance to the Hot Springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo
- Snacks
- Tips (optional)
- Original passport
- Clothing for both warm and cold weather, such as a waterproof jacket
- Lightweight pants
- Trekking shoes
- Flip-flops or sandals (for showers and hot springs)
- Short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts
- A hat
- Swimsuit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hand sanitizer, water bottle and purification tablets, and toilet paper
- Camera
- Some snacks like chocolate bars and dried fruits
- Peruvian soles in cash
