Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Daily departures (advance booking required)
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Start time: Day 1 – 04:30 h
- Return time: Day 2 – Around 20:30 h
- Mode: Shared Group
- Difficulty level: Medium (recommended for people with basic physical condition)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
The Short Inca Trail is a condensed but equally fascinating version of the classic Andean route. In just two days, you’ll walk ancient stone paths built by the Incas, visit hidden archaeological sites in the cloud forest, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as ancient pilgrims once did.
This circuit is perfect for those short on time but unwilling to miss the spiritual and cultural experience of walking the Inca Trail and exploring the Wonder of the Modern World. With an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes and a full guided visit to Machu Picchu, this journey will be unforgettable.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Cusco – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes – Overnight in Hotel
- Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Cusco → Km 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Aguas Calientes
Early in the morning (04:30 a.m.), we will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the train station to board the train to Km 104, the starting point of the hike. We begin with a visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba (2,200 m.a.s.l.), and then hike uphill to Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m.a.s.l.), one of the most impressive Inca sites on the trail.
After lunch, we continue to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where we will get our first panoramic views of Machu Picchu at sunset. We then descend by bus or on foot to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Dinner on your own and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 2 – Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu → Cusco
After breakfast, we take the bus up to Machu Picchu. A 2.5-hour guided tour will take you through the most important sectors of the citadel: the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, the Main Square, the Temple of the Condor, the Three Windows, and more.
After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own or ascend to Huayna Picchu (optional, with prior reservation). At the end, we return to Aguas Calientes, have lunch, and board the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transport will be waiting to bring you back to Cusco. Approximate arrival: 20:30 h.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Short Inca Trail Tour?
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Transport Cusco – Train Station – Cusco
- Train tickets (round trip – Expedition/Backpacker service)
- Entry ticket to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Bilingual professional guide for the entire tour
- 1 night accommodation in Aguas Calientes (basic or superior hotel, depending on reservation)
- Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- First aid kit and oxygen
What’s Not Included?
- Lunches and dinners (can be included upon request)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)
- Sleeping bag (not required – no camping)
- Personal expenses and tips
Tips
Recommendations for Your Short Inca Trail Tour
- Bring light clothing for the day and warm clothes for the night
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Small towel and sandals for the hotel
- Camera and fully charged batteries
- Passport or ID used for your booking
- Cash in soles for personal purchases
- Note: Advance booking is required. Only 250 people are allowed on the Inca Trail per day. Entrance to Huayna Picchu must be requested at the time of reservation.
