Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Day Inca Trail Hike
Duration
2 Days / 1 Nights
Difficulty
Easy
Price from
Best Discounts
Hotel
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Embark on an unforgettable journey where history whispers from every stone. The Short Inca Trail is a carefully planned experience that offers the essence of the classic trek in just two days of total immersion. Your adventure begins at Km 104, crossing a bridge over the Urubamba River and ascending into a world where the modern fades away. You will explore the hidden archaeological complex of Chachabamba before climbing through the cloud forest, an effort rewarded by the imposing sight of Wiñay Wayna, the archaeological site whose name means ‘Forever Young,’ clinging to the mountainside. The final ascent leads you to the Intipunku (Sun Gate). Here, as the Andean mist parts, you will earn your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu spread at your feet, a silent and powerful moment of triumph.
After spending a night in Aguas Calientes, you will return with your tour guide to uncover the secrets of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, from the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Rock, the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Three Windows, and much more. Only with Kaypi Perú Tours will this profound connection with wonder become an truly unforgettable experience.
SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU TRAVEL PACKAGE
Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu Itinerary
Day 1: Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
Your unforgettable 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo Train Station.
Board the Expedition train for a spectacular journey alongside the Urubamba River, surrounded by towering Andean mountains and lush cloud forest landscapes. Your hiking adventure begins at Km 104, the starting point of the famous Short Inca Trail.
After completing the registration process at the official trail checkpoint, visit the fascinating Chachabamba Archaeological Site, an ancient Inca ceremonial complex nestled among the subtropical vegetation.
From here, begin your ascent along original Inca stone pathways, surrounded by beautiful cloud forest scenery, cascading waterfalls, and extraordinary mountain views. Along the way, your professional local guide will introduce you to the region’s fascinating history, biodiversity, and ancient Inca traditions.
Continue toward the magnificent Wiñay Wayna Archaeological Complex, one of the most impressive and beautifully preserved sites along the Inca Trail. Discover its spectacular agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and intricate stonework while learning about its historical and spiritual significance.
After enjoying your box lunch and a well-deserved rest, continue hiking along the ancient Inca pathway toward Intipunku (Sun Gate), the legendary ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu.
As you pass through the Sun Gate, experience one of the most unforgettable moments of your journey: your first breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Machu Picchu Inca Citadel, surrounded by dramatic Andean peaks.
Take time to admire the extraordinary scenery and capture memorable photographs before continuing toward the designated exit route and boarding the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant. Your guide will also provide important information and instructions for the following day’s guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Rest comfortably and prepare to discover the remarkable history and architectural wonders of the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
Overnight in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
Hiking Information
Hiking Distance: Approximately 12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Duration: Approximately 7–8 hours
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: Approximately 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
Starting Point: Km 104
Main Highlights: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Intipunku (Sun Gate), and panoramic views of Machu Picchu
Day 2: Guided tour of Machu Picchu – Train back to Cusco
Wake up surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Andean cloud forest and prepare for the highlight of your 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure: exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
After enjoying an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), meet your professional Kaypi Peru Tours guide, who will accompany you to the bus station for a scenic 25-minute shuttle bus ride to the magnificent Machu Picchu Inca Citadel.
Having admired your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the legendary Sun Gate (Intipunku) the previous day, today you’ll have the opportunity to explore this extraordinary archaeological sanctuary and discover the fascinating history behind its remarkable construction.
Enjoy an approximately 2.5-hour guided walking tour of Machu Picchu, following your assigned visitor circuit as your knowledgeable local guide shares captivating stories about the Inca civilization, its impressive engineering achievements, spiritual beliefs, and architectural traditions.
Admire the extraordinary precision of Inca stonework, ancient agricultural terraces, and ceremonial structures accessible along your designated route, all surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
Discover why this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site remains one of the world’s most celebrated archaeological destinations and an enduring symbol of Peru’s rich cultural heritage.
After completing your guided visit, take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before boarding your return train toward Cusco.
Relax and admire the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley as the train follows the winding Urubamba River through lush valleys and majestic Andean mountains.
Upon arrival at your designated train station, a friendly Kaypi Peru Tours representative will be waiting to provide a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Cusco.
Your unforgettable Short Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night adventure comes to an end, leaving you with extraordinary memories of ancient Inca pathways, breathtaking landscapes, and the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
End of Services – Return to Cusco.
Important: A valid passport is required for entry to Machu Picchu. The archaeological areas visited depend on the assigned entrance circuit.
The 2 days Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu includes:
- Professional English-Speaking Tour Guide
- Private transportations
- Bus up and down to Machupicchu
- Round trip on the expedition train from Cusco to Km 104 and from Machu Picchu to Cusco
- Entrance ticket to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- 1 accommodation in 3-star hotel (1 in Aguas Calientes)
- 1 breakfast at the hotel
- Meals on the Inca Trail: 1 breakfast, 1 packed lunch, and 1 dinner (day 1). If you have any dietary requests, such as vegetarian food, please let us know.
- Water for the hike on day 1
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
The 2 days Inca Trail trek does not include, but you can get it with us:
- Entrances to Huayna Picchu Mountain (need to book in advance)
- Entrances to Machu Picchu Mountain (need to book in advance)
- Upgrade to a 4 or 5 star hotel (contact us)
- Vistadome Observatory train upgrade (contact us)
- Walking sticks (available for rent from us)
Does not include:
- Meals not stated
- Water
- Tips
- Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.
- Laundry
- Single supplement fee if you are traveling alone (60 USD), or you can request a triple room if three people are traveling to avoid the single supplement fee.
Best Price
U$D 775 per Person
HOTELS IN MACHU PICCHU:
U$D 858 per Person
U$D 1199 per Person
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