SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU – 2 DAYS
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu offers a shorter alternative to the classic four-day trek. Follow ancient Inca paths through lush Andean landscapes, combining a scenic hike with a guided visit to the citadel.
Starting at Km 104, the trek covers approximately 12 kilometers through Andean cloud forest. Along the way, you visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the citadel through the Sun Gate. You spend the night in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to visit Machu Picchu on the second day.
This trek is ideal for active travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail without committing to the full four-day route. SACRED VALLEY TOURS arranges transportation, train tickets, Inca Trail permits, one night of accommodation, and guided visits throughout the adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Day 1 of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
We begin with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and drive to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, a one-hour train ride takes us to Km 104 (2,150 masl). After we cross the checkpoint bridge, a five-minute walk leads to Chachabamba, the first Inca site on the trail.
From Chachabamba, we begin a gentle climb through cloud forest full of orchids and river views. After about three hours, we reach the Wiñaywayna ruins (2,650 masl), an impressive Inca site with a cascade and dramatic scenery. Then we walk about twenty minutes more to the lunch spot.
After lunch, we continue for two more hours on a flatter, less exposed section of trail. After about an hour, we pass through the Sun Gate and descend toward Machu Picchu (2,430 masl). Finally, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for the night.
Day 2: Day 2 of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
After breakfast, we take a 25-minute bus ride back up to Machu Picchu for the guided tour. Your guide explains the history of the Incas as you visit the citadel's main groups. You also have plenty of time for photographs and questions.
If you booked tickets in advance, you can also climb Huayna Picchu Mountain during this visit, subject to availability. Afterward, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch on your own before the train.
We continue by train to Ollantaytambo. There, our private vehicle takes you back to your hotel in Cusco (3,399 masl).
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