Day 1: Cusco – Km104 – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4 am (depending on the location) and we will go to Ollantaytambo. If your hotel is located in the Sacred Valley or Ollantaytambo, the pick up could be around 5.30 am. For all travelers who walk the Short Inca Trail, we recommend staying the day before somewhere close to the train
station in Ollantaytambo; in this way, you can save 1.5 hours of travel from Cusco. If you participate in a tour such as the Sacred Valley the day before, you can request the drop-off in Ollantaytambo and spend the night in a hotel there. Sacred Expeditons Peru will be able to pick you up anywhere in the Sacred Valley or in the city of Cusco.

From Cusco, it is a 1 hour and 30 minute bus ride to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where we will board the trains and travel along the Urubamba River until we reach km 104 – Chachabamba (located in the cloud forest). We will go directly to the checkpoint in Chachabamba to start the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. Please note that you will need your original passport to pass through the checkpoint. You will have time to prepare, use the restrooms, and warm up for the hike.

Our first stop is a beautiful archaeological site called Chachabamba, where your guide will give you an introduction to Inca history and the Inca Trail. After exploring the beautiful Inca Site, we will walk along an ancient Inca Trail abandoned in the 16th century along with Machu Picchu.

The first section of the Inca Trail is a gradual incline trail for 4 hours until you reach Wiñaywayna (the place that never gets old); this is one of the most beautiful Inca sites within the Inca Trail. At this point, we will take some time
to explore this impressive archaeological site while enjoying the spectacular views of the Andes. Organic snacks and packed lunches will be provided.

Afterwards, we will continue our trek to Puerta del Sol for our first glimpse of the Lost City of the Incas, a truly unforgettable sight. We arrived at Puerta del Sol around 3-4pm when the Machu Picchu crowd had left; this will allow you to enjoy this place with few people around.

From Puerta del Sol, it’s another hour-long downhill trek to Machu Picchu, with  stunning views along the way. We will arrive at Macchu Picchu in the afternoon and we will have the unique opportunity to experience the almost empty city. This day is the perfect opportunity to take photos! Then take the bus to Aguas Calientes, have dinner at a local restaurant and spend the night in a 3-star hotel.

Dinner is served in the best restaurants in the city, and your hotel is also located in exclusive sites with private bathrooms, hot showers, wifi and beautiful views.

• Max Altitude: 2700m / 8858ft
• Distance: 15 km / 8 miles
• Duration: 8 hours
• Meals: Lunch, snack and dinner.
• Accommodation: Susanna INN (or similar)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Explore Machu Picchu (Lost City Of The Incas)

On our last day of the short tour of the Inca Trail, we have to get up very early to prepare for the highlight, the visit of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Breakfast will be served at the hotel; then, we will go directly to
the line to wait for the first buses that go up to Machu Picchu at 5:30 am. Arriving at Machu Picchu, we will go up with the incredible views of the city on the way. On a clear day, you can see the spectacular sunrise over Machu
Picchu. This is truly an unforgettable sight.

Your guide will take you on a comprehensive 2-3 hour tour of the city before dropping you off at Machu Picchu to explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets should be booked as far in advance as possible).

Sacred expeditions peru tour guides are experts in Machu Picchu; they will take you on additional hikes such as the Inca Bridge and spend as much time as needed for Machu Picchu.

Explore the most remarkable places of Machu Picchu with an exclusive private tour guide from Sacred Expeditions Peru, visit the temples, palaces, agricultural terraces and learn the history of Machu Picchu. Optional: After the tour to Machu Picchu, go down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes using the original Hiram Bingham trail; On the way, you can visit the Machu Picchu museum, the Butterfly Garden and enjoy the incredible views.

Your tour guide will explain how to take the Machu Picchu bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). You will have time to explore the town, choose the restaurant of your choice, buy souvenirs in the local market, and later in the afternoon; you will board the panoramic trains (Vistadome or 360°) and the bus back to Cusco. The Sacred Expeditions Peru team will greet you as you get off the train and return you safely to your hotel. Arrival time in Cusco is around 7:30 pm.

• Max Altitude: 2700m / 8858ft
• Distance: 6 km / 3 miles
• Duration: 3-4 hour tour in Machu Picchu
• Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty: Easy

Included in the Short Way

• Safety briefing the day before the tour at 6:00 pm in our office
• Pick up from your hotel on the morning of the tour.
• All transportation for the duration of the trek
• Highly trained professional mountain tourism guides.
• One night in a 3-star hotel in Agua Calientes
• 1 box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
• Entrance ticket to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Round trip buses to Machu Picchu on day 2
• Train to Km 104 (Expedition or Voyager)
• Panoramic trains to return to Cusco (Vistadome or 360 °)
• Return to your hotel
• All taxes and booking fees included.

Not included

• 1st breakfast and last lunch.
• Tickets to Huayna Picchu or Mountain.
• Tips for the staff.

Optional walks after Machu Picchu Tour:

Huayna Picchu Mountain – The cost of this ticket is $75 per person. You can climb after the Machu Picchu tour, and it takes 2 hours round trip; you need to book well in advance.
Machu Picchu Mountain – Also called Machu Picchu Mountain, it is the highest mountain and the climb takes almost 3 hours, the cost is $75 per person.

Packing list for the 2-day Short Inca Trail tour

On the Short Inca Trail, remember that there will be no porters to help you carry your belongings on this trek, so you should try to pack as light as possible. We recommend that you bring a good quality backpack that is light and
comfortable. It is important to note that due to local regulations, your backpack must not exceed 25L. All larger packages cannot be brought into Machu Picchu and will need to be stored outside the gates.
Essentials for the 2-day Short Inca Trail
• Original valid passport (a copy will not be accepted)
• Valid student card (if you booked as a student)
• Mountain boots for the Short Inca Trail
• A good quality backpack (light, small and comfortable)
• Water storage for at least 2 liters; either a camel bag or a
water bottle(s)
• A t-shirt (moisture-wicking t-shirts work best) and a pair of walking pants
• A nice change of clothes to walk around Machu Picchu (and to take lots of
pictures!)
• Toiletries, sunscreen and insect repellent
• Rain gear and warm layers

Others for the Short Inca Trail

• Hat and sunglasses for the walk.
• Hand sanitizer, toilet paper
• toothbrush and paste
• personal medication
• Band-aids, moleskin
• Camera, extra batteries for Machu Picchu
• Additional snacks, energy bars, chocolate
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks and tips during the Short Inca Trail
• Bathing suit for hot springs in Machu Picchu Pueblo (optional)

Covid-19 measures to keep you safe while traveling

• Temperature checks for all travelers are mandatory.
• Face masks required for travelers and staff in public areas
• Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff at all times
• Printed material such as maps or vouchers will be avoided.
• 100% online payments with no booking fees at all
• Flexible bookings during the COVID-19 outbreak

Frequently Asked Questions Inca Trail 2 days

What is the 2-day Inca Trail tour?

The Classic Inca Trail (42 km / 26 miles) takes 4 days and 3 nights; However, if you don’t have enough time or prefer a shorter trek to Machu Picchu and still experience the Inca trail, the Short Version is the perfect option.

The Short Version of the Inca Trail begins at Km 104 or the Inca site of Chachabamba; You will follow an ancient Inca Trail through the cloud forest, visit Wiñayhuayna and reach Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku in the afternoon, this way you will join the last part of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Where does the Inca Trail 2 days start?

The world famous Classic Inca Trail is located in the province of Urubamba, Cusco – Peru, and begins at Km 82 of the railway to Machu Picchu. The Short version begins at km 104 of the railway to Machu Picchu. This trail is considered the real Inca Trail and is believed to have been used by the Royal Panacas during the Inca Period.

How long is the Inca Trail 2 days?

The Short Inca Trail tour of 2 days and 1 night to Machu Picchu covers a total distance of 16 km or 9.9 miles; You will walk for approximately 7 to 8 hours until you reach the great citadel of Machu Picchu. The first day is a hike on the last part of the Classic Inca Trail, and the second day we visit Machu Picchu.

What is the average altitude of the Short Inca Trail?

• The city of Cusco is located at 3,399 m 11151 feet.
• The starting point of the Short Inca Trail is KM 104 at 2170m 7120ft.
• The average altitude of the Inca Trail is 2600m 8530ft.
• The highest point is Puerta del Sol at 2708m 8884ft.
• Machu Picchu, where the Inca Trail ends, is at 2,430m 7972ft.
• The town of Aguas Calientes, where we take the train back to Cusco, measures 2,040m or 6,692ft.

When is the best time to walk the Short Inca Trail?

This question is usually difficult to answer, on the Inca Trail you will be surprised by the sun, the rain, the wind, the cold or any weather you may encounter on your trip. You need to have the right equipment, always be prepared for all kinds of weather. The Inca Trail is located in the cloud forest, and this is famous for having the most unstable climate in Peru and perhaps in the world.

• The best months to hike the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu are from April to
October.
• The driest months of the Inca Trail are May, June, July and August. However,
these are the busiest days in Machu Picchu.
• The rainy season starts in November until March; however, it is
possible to have entire weeks without rain.
• February is always close due to heavy rains and maintenance.

When was the Inca Trail built?

The Royal Inca Trail was built by the Inca civilization somewhere during the 15th century by the ninth Inca king Pachacuteq. During the height of this civilization, this Inca trail was used as a pilgrimage route to Machu Picchu.

Why is the Inca Trail important?

After the rediscovery of the Inca Trail in 1915, archaeologists have explored the ancient route and found many Inca temples, religious sites, and administrative areas such as Llaqtapata, Runcuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamrca, Initipata, Wiñaywayna, and Intipunku.

The large number of Inca sites, the well-preserved ancient Inca Trail, the isolated location of the area, the varied landscapes, the incredible view, the endemic flora and fauna are some of the reasons why the Inca trek has become in one of the most important treks in South America.

How many days in advance do I have to arrive in Cusco before the Inca Trail Short Version?

We recommend arriving at least 2 days before the departure of your trip. In this way, you will have time to adapt to the altitude of the city of Cusco and prepare for the Inca Trail.

When is the Inca Trail closed?

The Inca Trail is closed for the entire month of February due to heavy rain and maintenance.

Which Inca Trail Tour is the best?

Basically there are 3 ways to do the Inca Trail and get to Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku.
• The Classic Inca Trail 4 days and 3 nights are the most popular, and 90% of travelers will choose this option. Just camp.

• The Inca Trail Slow Version 5 days and 4 nights, 3 camping nights, 1 hotel
night in Aguas Calientes.
• The shortest version of the Inca Trail, 1 day of hiking the last part of the Inca Trail and the next day visiting Machu Picchu.

There are other variations and extensions of this trek, such as the Salkantay Inca Trail; however, it is always based on the above.

Where do I have to book the Short Inca Trail?

Authorized registered tour operators such as Sacred Expeditions Peru can only book Inca Trail permits in the city of Cusco. You cannot book permits yourself and must travel with a tour guide, chef, and porters.

Food during the Short Inca Trail?

The first breakfast is not included in this tour, we will leave Cusco or the Sacred Valley early, and you must request a breakfast at your hotel. Lunch on the first day is included; we will provide you with a lunch. Dinner will
be at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.

Breakfast on the second day is included in the hotel. After the Machu Picchu tour, lunch is not included on the second day. You will have time to explore the city and have lunch before taking the train back to Cusco.

What do I need to bring for the Short Inca Trail for 2 days?

We will provide you with a duffel bag where you will pack your clothes for the second day of the tour and everything you need for this 2-day tour. You will also need a backpack for this hike that you need to carry with you at all times.
The canvas bag will travel directly to the hotel in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu town; this should be a maximum of 5 kilos per person.

Your backpack must travel with you during the Inca Trail trek. Remember that we do not have porters on this trip, and your duffel bags will be waiting for you at the hotel.
In your backpack, you must carry water, sunscreen, the snack provided by Sacred Expeditions Peru, rain gear, passport, insect repellent, toilet paper, camera, and space for clothing that you will need to remove once you start walking and warm up. .

Are porters included on this tour?

Porters are not included in the Short Inca Trail 2 days with the hotel; We use porters during the long Inca Trail and Short Version 2 days with camp.

We provide duffel bags for this trip; however, Sacred Expeditions Peru will send them directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes; Everything you need during the trek, such as water, sunscreen, rain gear, should be in your backpack. Porters can be included on this trip upon request and at an additional charge if required.

What do I need to know before choosing a tour?

There are so many different tour operators with great prices when you search online, and it’s always hard to decide which tour company to travel with. You should consider the option that best suits your interests:

• The average price of the 2-day tour is between 450 and 550 USD.
You can find lower prices or options but always remember to check what is
included and what is not. Some tour operators do not include buses from Machu
Picchu and it is offered as an option. However, the trek from Machu Picchu is an
option that we do not recommend.
Sacred Expeditions Peru provides transportation from start to finish (Buses, trains), we are
the only company that includes the panoramic Vistadome trains on the way back at no
additional cost.

How to book the Short Inca Trail?

Booking the Inca Trail is easy with Sacred Expeditions Peru; click on the  BOOK NOW button, select your departure date, complete the form with all the requested details, including passport information, and finally send the initial payment required to reserve the Inca Trail. Due to the strict reservation policy for Inca Trail permits administered by the Peruvian government, all Inca Trail reservations must be confirmed manually.

Is Inca Trek dangerous?

In any adventure trip you undertake, there are always risks involved. Dangerous situations during the Inca Trail can be due to negligence or force of nature. The best way to stay safe on the Inca Trail is to follow your tour guide’s instructions at all times.

Can I do the Inca Trail without a guide?

You cannot enter the Inca Trail without hiring a registered tourist company. You must walk the Inca Trail with a tour guide, chef, and porters.