SHORT INCA TRAIL
2 DAYS 1 NIGHT
The Short Inca Trail is a great way to hike to Machu Picchu in a short amount of time. Get a taste of the Classic Inca Trail, visit Wiñay Wayna and walk through Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, into Machu Picchu. Day 2 of this itinerary gives you a chance to fully explore the impressive Machu Picchu citadel.
The Inca Trail trek passes 2 archaeological sites along the way, has a variety of flora and fauna, and is rich in history. The 2 day trek is 13 km (8 m), goes up to 2,700 m (8,858 ft), and is classified as an easy-moderate trek with minimal altitude gain. If you love the idea of hiking directly into Machu Picchu via the Sungate, but want a shorter hike, then the 2D/1N Inca Trail Trek is the one for you!
This trail requires a permit and a limited number of people are allowed to trek per day. These spots fill quickly so booking well in advance (at least 3 months recommended) is essential. Minimum passengers necessary for trek departure: 2 people (1 person or private/custom treks possible with extra fee). Maximum trekkers per group: 10 people (special, private party groups can exceed maximum).
Adventure Rating
★☆☆☆☆
Easy-moderate, minimal gain
Solitude Rating
★☆☆☆☆
Touristy, popular, crowded
Best Time to Visit
Year round
Best from March to November
Closed February
Cost Per Person (USD)
6-10 trekkers: $645
3-5 trekkers: $685
2 trekkers: $765
Is This Trek Customizable?
Yes!
Private, custom, add-ons all available.
Sites
Famous trail
Inca steps and ruins
Short/easier trek
Ends in Machu Picchu
Terrain
Snow-capped peaks
Stone steps
Rocky terrain
Acclimatization
2 day acclimatization and multi-day trekking experience recommended
Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Distance
13 km (8 miles)
Altitude
2227 m (7,306 ft) to 2700 m (8,858 ft)
Departure
Daily departures with 2 or more people
TREK HIGHLIGHTS
WEATHER
The Short Inca Trail trek is not as high altitude as others in the region, therefore the weather is warmer overall. The night in Aguas Calientes is around 55F/13C, and you stay in a hotel. During the day it can get quite warm if the sun is out; anywhere from 60-80F/15-26C. Keep in mind if the weather is rainy or cloudy it will be colder. As with any high-altitude trek you’ll want to bring plenty of layers to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures and appropriate sun/rain protection. And yes, snow is possible (though unlikely) on the Inca Trail.
INCLUDED
Pre-Trek briefing the night before the trek to go over the itinerary, meet your guide(s) and answer any question
Collection from your Cusco hotel in the morning of the first day
English speaking professional tour guide
Private transport to Ollantaytambo
Tourist Train tickets round trip: Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex (Day 1: final time slot, Day 2: first time slot 6-10am)
Inca Trail Permit
Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Hotel (double room) in Aguas Calientes and dinner in a local restaurant
Meals (Day 1: light box breakfast, box lunch, dinner, and snacks, Day 2: breakfast and snacks)
First-aid kit including oxygen tank
Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco