Imagine stepping onto the same ancient stone path once walked by Inca messengers, priests, and emperors. Feel the crisp mountain air fill your lungs as you ascend through misty cloud forests alive with the sounds of rushing waterfalls and exotic birds.
In just two days, you’ll journey deep into the heart of the Andes, tracing the footsteps of a lost civilization and emerging at one of the most breathtaking wonders on Earth.
This is the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – an intense, unforgettable adventure designed for those with limited time but an insatiable hunger for epic experiences.
In only 48 hours, you’ll climb steep Inca staircases carved into the mountainside, discover hidden archaeological treasures shrouded in history, and stand in awe as the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu reveals itself dramatically through the Sun Gate.
With just 200 permits issued per day, this trail is one of the most exclusive and sought-after experiences in Peru. Demand is extremely high, so booking well in advance is essential.
This is not a gentle stroll. It’s a heart-pounding, leg-burning, soul-stirring challenge that rewards every step with jaw-dropping scenery and profound cultural immersion.
You’ll hike through vibrant ecosystems bursting with colorful orchids, exotic bromeliads, and fluttering hummingbirds.
Your knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories of Inca conquests, spiritual rituals, and ingenious engineering that still astonish the modern world.
The ultimate prize? That magical moment when you reach Intipunku (the Sun Gate) and witness Machu Picchu unfolding beneath you like a dream — its emerald terraces, towering temples, and dramatic mountain backdrop bathed in golden Andean light.
This is the New Seventh Wonder of the World, and you’ll arrive not as a tourist, but as a modern-day pilgrim who has earned every breathtaking view through your own effort and determination.
If you’re ready for an action-packed, adrenaline-fueled journey that blends physical challenge, ancient mystery, and pure natural beauty, the Short Inca Trail hike 2D/1N is calling your name!
ITINERARY – Short Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu
Pre-trek briefing (required):
We host a comprehensive briefing the afternoon or evening before your trek at your hotel in Cusco.
This is your chance to meet your professional guide, receive important safety and packing tips, ask questions, and get fully prepared for the adventure.
Please arrange your arrival in Cusco at least one day in advance to attend.
DAY 1: Cusco – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Early Morning Pickup
As you finally reach Kilometer 104, the official gateway to the Inca Trail, a surge of excitement hits you.
After a quick registration at the checkpoint, your epic journey truly ignites at the breathtaking Inca site of Chachabamba.
Tucked dramatically against the roaring, turquoise waters of the Urubamba River, this remarkably preserved ruin pulses with ancient energy.
Once a sacred spiritual sanctuary and a vital agricultural stronghold of the Inca Empire, Chachabamba stands ready to welcome you into its secrets.
Wander through its beautifully intact stone terraces, open plazas, and ceremonial platforms as your expert guide unlocks the mysteries of this place.
Feel the weight of history beneath your boots while you discover how the Incas lived, worshipped, and thrived in this powerful riverside outpost.
Every step here whispers tales of conquest, devotion, and ingenuity – and your adventure into the heart of the Inca world has only just begun.
Ascent Through Cloud Forest
The next three hours will carry you on a steady, breathtaking ascent along the original Inca stone staircases – ancient steps carved directly into the mountainside more than five centuries ago.
Step by step, you’ll enter the magical realm of the cloud forest: a living, misty wonderland where delicate orchids cling to moss-covered branches, exotic birds fill the air with melodic calls, and giant ferns tower overhead like prehistoric guardians. As you climb higher, the drifting clouds part dramatically, unveiling sweeping vistas of jagged mountain peaks and lush, emerald valleys far below.
Your expert guide will bring the trail to life, sharing captivating stories about the native flora, the elusive wildlife that calls this cloud forest home, and the remarkable engineering genius of the Inca, whose stonework has withstood the test of time in one of the most extraordinary environments on Earth.
Wiñay Wayna (ForeverYoung)
Reach this spectacular site around midday.
Perched dramatically on steep terraces beside a cascading waterfall, Wiñay Wayna is often called “Baby Machu Picchu” for its intricate agricultural terraces, ceremonial baths, religious structures, and still-functional Inca water channels engineered over 500 years ago.
Temple of the Rainbow
Explore the fascinating temple with its seven windows – each symbolizing a color of the rainbow – dedicated to the Inca rainbow god, Cuychi.
Marvel at the advanced hydraulic system that continues to function today.
Recharge with a spectacular box lunch at Wiñay Wayna
Perched on a lush mountainside with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the winding Urubamba River far below and the snow-capped Andean peaks soaring above.
After conquering the morning’s challenging climb, treat yourself to this well-earned reward: a fresh, flavorful, and nutrient-packed lunch sourced straight from our own organic farm.
Every bite is crafted specifically for hikers – rich in high-quality protein, sustained-release energy, and vibrant ingredients that will power you through the final leg of your unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
Crisp vegetables, tender proteins, hearty grains, and energizing snacks – all thoughtfully prepared to refuel your body and delight your senses while you soak in one of the most magical viewpoints along the Inca Trail.
This isn’t just lunch. It’s the delicious highlight of your adventure.
Final Stretch the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu
After a satisfying lunch, the trail finally eases.
The steep climbs give way to a gentler, almost forgiving path that winds through the cloud forest. Your legs thank you with every step.
Then, as the afternoon sun bathes the mountains in golden light, you arrive at the legendary Sun Gate – Intipunku – around 3:00 PM.
This is the moment.
You step through the ancient stone doorway, and suddenly… the world opens up.
Below you, the entire Machu Picchu citadel dramatically reveals itself in all its glory — a breathtaking sea of emerald terraces and precision-carved ruins cradled between the towering, mist-shrouded peaks of Huayna Picchu and the jagged Andes. The view is nothing short of cinematic. Jaw-dropping. Soul-stirring.
This is the iconic “first sight” every traveler dreams of – the triumphant payoff after days of effort. The air feels electric. Your heart races. A wave of pure awe washes over you.
Cameras out. Phones up. But honestly? Just pause. Breathe it in.
Let the sheer magic of this sacred place hit you.
Welcome to Machu Picchu.
You’ve made it.
Decent into Machu Picchu
Push through the ancient stone portal of Inti Punku – the legendary Sun Gate – and feel your breath catch as the entire lost citadel of Machu Picchu dramatically unfolds below you. This is the iconic first reveal that has left Inca Trail hikers speechless for centuries
Now begins the magical descent: a winding stone path that gently carries you down toward the heart of the Inca sanctuary.
As you walk, the sweeping panorama opens wider with every step – emerald terraces cascading down the mountainside, mist dancing between jagged peaks, and the sacred Urubamba River carving through the valley far below.
Arrive at the classic viewpoint (the famous postcard spot near the Guardhouse) and soak it all in.
This is your time to capture those jaw-dropping photos that make hearts skip a beat – Machu Picchu bathed in warm afternoon light, looking even more unreal in person than in any dream or documentary.
As the golden hour approaches, stay a little longer. Watch the sun dip behind the surrounding peaks, painting the citadel in fiery oranges, soft pinks, and deep purples.
The crowds thin out, the energy shifts, and the ancient stones seem to glow with a quiet, almost mystical presence. Few experiences rival a sunset over Machu Picchu – it’s pure magic.
When the last light fades, make your way to the main entrance and hop on the winding bus ride down the mountain.
You’ll soon arrive in the lively, charming town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), where the streets buzz with energy, colorful markets tempt you with local crafts, and cozy restaurants invite you to relax with a well-earned Pisco Sour while sharing stories of your unforgettable day.
Overnight inAguas Calientes 
After your unforgettable day along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, arrive in Aguas Calientes and check into your comfortable 3-star hotel (such as the Hatun Inti Classic, Rojas Machu Picchu hotel or similar).
Take a moment to freshen up and unwind in your cozy room. Then, treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the town’s famous natural thermal hot springs – the perfect way to ease your tired muscles and reflect on the magic of the day.
In the evening, gather with your group for a lively dinner at a charming local restaurant. Share stories, laughter, and your favorite highlights from the journey as you celebrate this incredible achievement together. (Drinks not included.)
- Meals: Box Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Maximum altitude: 2,720 m/8,920 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
- Distance to walk: 13 km/8 miles
- Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 600 – 700 m (mostly in the first half).
DAY 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Sunrise at Machu Picchu
Before the first light kisses the Andes, enjoy a quick breakfast at your hotel. Then board the very first bus as it snakes its way up the steep, misty mountain road toward the ancient citadel.
Hold your breath as you step through the entrance… because nothing prepares you for what comes next.
As the sun crests the jagged peaks of Huayna Picchu, golden rays dramatically flood the terraces, temples, and emerald-green mountains surrounding Machu Picchu. The entire Lost City of the Incas awakens in a blaze of warm light, with wisps of morning mist dancing between the stone ruins.
It’s pure magic. A once-in-a-lifetime moment where history, nature, and wonder collide in perfect silence.
This is the Machu Picchu you came for – breathtaking, soul-stirring, and utterly unforgettable.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Enjoy a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour focused on Circuit 3 (the Royalty Route).
Your expert guide will bring the site to life, explaining the history, advanced Inca architecture, astronomy, engineering, and enduring mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage wonder.
Discover royal residences, temples, agricultural terraces, and sacred spaces in a more tranquil lower section of the citadel.
Optional Activity 
Climb the iconic Huayna Picchu Mountain (additional cost and permit required well in advance; departures typically start at 09:00 AM).
This challenging but rewarding hike takes about 1 hour up and 1 hour down and offers spectacular bird’s-eye views.
It is done independently without your guide.
Note: If you skip the climb, you can enjoy additional free time exploring the ruins (subject to current Machu Picchu visitor regulations and circuit rules).
Return Cusco
Take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, then board the comfortable Expedition (or Vistadome, if upgraded) train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy station.
Our private vehicle will meet you for the final transfer back to your hotel in Cusco, with arrival typically between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Minimum altitude: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
- Maximum altitude: 2,440 m/8,052 ft
SERVICES INCLUDED
- Expert Guidance: A professional, English-speaking guide throughout the trek. For groups larger than 8 people, an additional guide will be provided for personalized attention.
- Pre-Trek Preparation: A detailed briefing session before the trek, including a complimentary Short Inca Trail map to help you visualize your journey.
- Convenient Transportation: Private pickup from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Scenic Train Rides: Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (starting point of the trek), and return Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Poroy or Ollantaytambo.
- Bus Transfers: One-way bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on Day 1, plus round-trip bus tickets between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu on Day 2 for easy access.
- Return to Cusco: Private vehicle transport from Poroy or Ollantaytambo train station back to Cusco.
- Entry Tickets: Admission to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological Site.
- Due to strict regulations governing the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, the entrance ticket for Machu Picchu on Day 2 (the day following your arrival at the site) is automatically assigned to Circuit 3, with no option to choose otherwise.
- If a client prefers a different circuit on Day 2, an additional permit must be purchased, incurring an extra cost of USD $75 per person.
- The good news is that hiking the Inca Trail provides the unique benefit of arriving at the classic Machu Picchu viewpoint at the end of the hike on Day 1 (your arrival day), which is part of Circuit 2 in Machu Picchu.
- Comfortable Accommodation: One night in a cozy double-occupancy room at Hatun Inti Classic Machu Picchu Hotel or Rojas Machu Picchu Hotel in Aguas Calientes (or a comparable alternative if these are unavailable).
- Delicious Meals: A convenient box lunch on Day 1, a satisfying dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, and a hearty breakfast at your hotel on Day 2.
- Exclusive Tour: A private, guided walking tour of Machu Picchu, led by your expert guide to uncover its history and hidden gems.
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED:
- Hiking Poles: Essential for stability on uneven terrain; these can be conveniently rented from us at an affordable rate.
- Select Meals: Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 2 are not provided, allowing you the freedom to explore local eateries or pack your preferences.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Permit: This thrilling optional ascent offers stunning views but requires an additional ticket, available for purchase at USD $75 per person (subject to limited availability – book early!).
- Gratuities for Your Guide: Tips are not included but are a wonderful way to show appreciation for exceptional service.
- Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended to safeguard against unexpected events like trip cancellations or medical emergencies; please arrange your own comprehensive coverage.
Items to bring with you:
Documents and Essentials
- Original Passport: Required for checkpoints and entry to Machu Picchu (keep in waterproof bag; photocopies won’t suffice).
- Cash in Peruvian Soles: Small bills (USD 30 – 50 equivalent) for tips, souvenirs, and extras (no ATMs on trail).
- Travel Insurance Proof: Digital or printed, covering hiking and altitude.
Bags and Storage
- Daypack (15-25L): Lightweight with rain cover, hip belt, and pockets (e.g., Osprey Daylite); carry all your gear since no porters.
- Ziplock/Plastic Bags: A few for organizing wet/dirty items or waste (follow leave-no-trace; note Peru’s disposable plastic ban – use reusable where possible).
Clothing (Layer for Variable Weather)
Opt for moisture-wicking synthetics (polyester/nylon/merino) over cotton to handle sweat and rain. Pack for 2 days with one change of clothes.
- Base Layers: 1 lightweight long-sleeve top (merino for warmth).
- Shirts: 1-2 moisture-wicking t-shirts (short-sleeve preferred; polyester ideal).
- Pants/Shorts: 1 pair quick-dry nylon hiking pants (reversible or zip-off for versatility).
- Outer Layers: Warm jacket (fleece or light down), waterproof rain poncho or jacket (Gore-Tex for breathability).
- Underwear and Socks: 2 pairs sports underwear; 2 pairs soft, blister-preventing socks (wool or synthetic).
- Head and Hands: Sun hat/cap with neck flap, fleece beanie or scarf, lightweight gloves, UV-protective sunglasses.
- Other: Small quick-dry towel, swimsuit (for Aguas Calientes hot springs).
Footwear
- Hiking Boots/Shoes: Waterproof, broken-in with good grip and ankle support (e.g., Salomon or similar; trail runners suffice for this moderate trek).
- Camp/Hotel Shoes: Lightweight sandals or flip-flops for evenings and showers.
Hiking Gear
- Trekking Poles: 1-2 adjustable poles (highly recommended for steep sections and knee support; rentable in Cusco).
- Water System: Reusable 1-2L bottle or bladder.
Health and Toiletries (Minimal and Biodegradable)
Keep in a small pouch; facilities are basic (no showers on trail, hotel on Day 1).
- Sun and Bug Protection: High-SPF sunscreen (water-resistant, lip balm included), insect repellent (DEET-based).
- First Aid/Meds: Personal kit with ibuprofen (for headaches/aches), Imodium (stomach issues), blister plasters, rehydration salts, any prescription meds (consult doctor for altitude like Diamox).
- Hygiene: Toothbrush/toothpaste (travel-size), deodorant, wet wipes/tissues (biodegradable), hand sanitizer, toilet paper (pack out waste).
Accessories and Snacks
- Electronics: Phone/camera in waterproof case, powerbank (no outlets on trail).
- Other: Snacks (energy bars, nuts, fruit; personal preferences since lunches provided), varied for energy.
- Optional: Small binoculars for views, guidebook/app for Inca history.
Note: As part of our service, we’ll transport up to 8 kg of your personal belongings directly to your hotel in Aguas Calientes while you’re on the hike. Please prepare these items in a small carry-on bag or backpack, clearly labeled with your name, and ensure it’s securely packed and fastened.
SHORT INCA TRAIL PRICE & ADD-ONS
Group: USD $565 per person
Private: USD $645 per person
Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?
- Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
- If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
- Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Action Peru Treks is able to join that person with additional groups.
Discounts
- Under 18 years Discount: USD $20
- Under 7 years Discount: USD $35
Rentals
- Hiking poles – USD $15 (pair)
Upgrades
- Return Vistadome train – USD $80 per person
- Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $520 per person
- Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $270 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra (4 star hotel) – USD $120 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $60 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Single Hotel Room in Aguas Calientes – USD $50 per person
SHOR INCA TRAIL FAQs.
What is the Short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu?
This Short Inca Trail is ideal for travelers who have limited time or want something less strenuous.
This Short Inca Trail starts at KM 104 of the Machu Picchu train line on a trail that leads to two archaeological sites Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This hike also gives you the opportunity to enter the lost city via the famous Sun Gate, the dramatic entrance that provides Inca Trail trekkers with their first glimpse of the site.
Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and then wake up on Day 2 for a Machu Picchu tour.
Note also that we offer a short Inca Trail with Camping if you would like to spend the night in a tent rather than in a hotel.
Why Hiking the Short Inca Trail is so popular?
The Short Inca Trail is a microcosm; lush green cloud forest alive with birds, Andean peaks and steep mountain passes, a landscape dotted with centuries old Inca ruins, accessible only to those that follow this most famous pathway.
However, as truly beautiful as the hike may be, the real reason for its popularity lies at the very end of this four-day adventure; passing through the famous Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu in the distance.
Only Inca Trail hikers can access the gate early in the morning, and it is this crescendo, at one of the new seven wonders of the world which makes this hike a feature on so many ‘South America bucket lists’.
The Inca Trail is the best way to arrive at one of the world’s most iconic attractions.
What does this 2 day Inca Trail involve?
The Inca Trail involves an early bus and train ride from Cusco, followed by a three-four-hour uphill hike to the spectacular Inca site of Wiñay Wayna.
From there, you have a packed lunch before continuing for around two hours to reach the iconic Sun Gate where you get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
The trail then descends for about 45 minutes to reach the ruins. Rather than visiting Machu Picchu straight away, you take a bus to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes where you spend the night in a hotel, then return to the ruins the following morning for a guided tour.
In the afternoon of the second day, take the train and vehicle back to Cusco, arriving in the evening around 8 PM.
How far in advance should I reserve my permit for the Inca Trail?
Everyone should book their Inca Trail permit as far in advance as possible. The Inca trail permits are in super high demand as they do offer access to one of the top hiking trails on the planet!
It’s very common that permits for certain months of the year to sell out completely for the upcoming season in just a matter of days or hours.
On top of that, permits are non-refundable or transferable, so if any hikers who have purchased permits subsequently cancel them, they won’t become available again at a later date in the government system.
The Peruvian government releases all the permits in bulk throughout the month of October for the upcoming year.
For example, for a hike in 2024, you can expect permits to be released in October 2023.
The best way to ensure you’re in the running for your chosen trek date is to have your Inca Trail pre-booked for the upcoming year before the permits are released in October 2023.
A general rule to follow is to book permits for the Inca Trail at least six to eight months in advance to ensure trail availability for treks on the Inca Trail route.
How many Inca Trail permits are issued per day?
There are now 250 Inca Trail permits are available each day, around 50 of those are allocated to porters and guides, so in reality there are really only 200 permits a day for hikers.
These 250 permits were recently added by the Peruvian government for sole use on the Short Trail to Machu Picchu.
The two and one night Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is essentially the final day of the Classic Inca Trail route with some variations in the beginning of the hike.
Note: Once the permit has been issued, you can not alter or change any details, so be sure you get them correct from the start.
Does the Inca Trail trip include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket?
Yep, the cost of Machu Picchu entry is included in the trip price and it’s the responsibility of us to take care of all that and provide you with the ticket on the day you’re entering the site.
Is there a waiting list for sold out trekking dates?
No, there is no waiting list for permits. Permits are only available for purchase through the Peruvian government. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be refundable or transferred to another individual.
Is it possible to do without a tour company or guide?
Since June 2002 trekking independently on the Inca Trail has been prohibited. Access to the Inca Trail is strictly controlled by the Peruvian government and your trek must be organized through a tour operator.
Only specific licensed companies like Action Peru Treks are permitted to lead groups on the 5-day Inca Trail, 4-day Inca Trail and 2-day Inca Trail routes.
Companies must meet certain basic requirements proving that they have professional guides and good camping equipment, radio communications and emergency first aid including oxygen. Their license is renewed each year.
Is it possible to enter with different name?
No, you need to carry your valid ID (passport) to enter the trek park.
What is the 2 day Short Inca Trail Difficulty?
It’s a lot of hiking to cover in a day, and at high altitude, but it is achievable if you have a good level of fitness.
There will always be slower and faster hikers in your group but your guide will adjust his or her walking pace to make sure that everyone in your group is happy. The toughest part of the day is the three-hour walk uphill at the start, climbing rapidly from the Urubamba River to the Wiñay Wayna ruins. The Short Inca Trail may not be suitable for those who suffer from vertigo.
Before you start your trip, we recommend you arrive to Cusco at least two days in advance to help your body acclimate to the high altitude.
What do I need to carry on this Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek?
Travelers should carry only a small daypack with the items that they will need while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film.
Our team will ship 6 kg of each of your personal extra gear to your Aguas Calientes hotel during the trip for free.
We generally ask clients to bring only the necessary items that you will need for the 2-day trip and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or at our office in Cusco.
How big are the groups?
Our groups are usually small. Average is 3 to 5 people and maximum 16 people plus the trekking team.
Is there an age limit to hiking the Inca Trail?
Nope! we trust that you will gauge your own fitness levels when it comes to taking a trek of this nature. We have clients who are in their 80s that are fitter than many 30-year-olds.
Age is just a number if you are fit enough to do the trip, go for it! Children under 6 years old should not attempt to hike as they would likely find the trek too difficult.
What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
From April to October, it is usually warm and humid during the day (around 20-25ºC) and night time temperatures are around 15ºC.
The dry season lasts from May to September, when the weather is more changeable.
During the wet season, from October to April, it can rain heavily, although it can also rain year-round.
Is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu always open?
The Inca Trail is open 11 months of the year (March through January). It is closed every February for maintenance.
See the trek availability in real time here.
Are there toilets along the two day Inca Trail route?
Yes, there is one toilet at the start of the hike, halfway and at the end of the hike (Machu Picchu).
The first two toilets are free and the one by Machu Picchu has a cost of 2 soles.
What altitude does it reach?
The Short Inca Trail starts at 2,170 m / 7,170 ft and ascends to 2,720 m / 8,920 ft the Sun Gate, before descending to Machu Picchu which sits at an altitude of 2,040 m/6,691 ft.
The guides carry basic medical supplies, but as you will be in remote mountain areas, more advanced medical facilities are not available.
What is the food like on the 2 day Inca Trail?
A packed lunch is provided by us for the hike and this must be carried by yourself during the hike.
If you want other snacks during the trail, these can be bought in Cusco.Breakfast on the second day is included at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Breakfast on day one and lunch on day two are not included in this trip. For breakfast on day one, you will need to request a box breakfast from your Cusco hotel.
Lunch on the second day can be bought in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes before taking the return train to Cusco.
Vegetarian and vegan meals are also available upon request.
Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice.
Is drinking water supplied along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Nope, you must bring your own dirking water for hiking our short Inca Trail 1 day hike and we recommend you bring at least 2 liters per person which will cover the hike of day one.
You can buy water in Aguas Calientes for your Machu Picchu visit on day two of the trip.
Note: there aren’t places to buy water along the hike so you must purchase your drinking water in Ollantaytambo or in Cusco before taking the train to the start of the hike.
What are the guides like?
Our team are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere.
They are from the surrounding Cusco and the Sacred Valley areas and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the Inca indigenous language of Quechua. Most have 8-10 years of experience leading Inca trail hikes and other alternative treks and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area.
How can I prepare for the Inca Trail?
The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek.
We recommend 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week in the 2-3 months leading up to your departure. Take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs or hills for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness.
Are there any ATMs?
There are no ATMs along the Inca Trail. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for any last-minute purchases before starting the hike or tips.
There are some ATMs in Aguas Calientes if you need to withdraw additional cash.
What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the Inca Trail?
Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/scrapes, etc.).
They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 1000 travelers along the Inca trail each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike.
In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, he/ she has been escorted back to the start of the hike and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Aguas Calientes via train later in the day.
Aguas Calientes has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.
Is there internet access on the Inca Trail?
Nope, your last chance to use the internet or have a reliable phone signal will be in Ollantaytambo train station and your first opportunity will be at Machu Picchu or in Aguas Calientes.
How much money should you bring on the Inca Trail trek?
The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your trip, but there are a few costs along the trip for which you’ll need to bring cash:
- Snacks and drinks from stallholders in the train station of Ollantaytambo
- Toilet entry fees (usually 2 soles at Machu Picchu)
- Tips for your guides
- Breakfast on day 1 and Lunch on day 2 at Aguas Calientes.
It’s sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins.
We’d say at least 250 soles per person for the Trail-specific section.
Will I get altitude sickness on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Many of the most popular places in Peru, such as Cusco and Huaraz, are at high altitude; this means that for anyone planning a trip to Peru understanding altitude sickness (and how to avoid it) is incredibly important.
In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travelers in South America.
The best way to minimize the likelihood and impact of altitude sickness is factoring in enough time into your Peru itinerary to acclimatize to the conditions.
This means that it is incredibly foolish to arrive in Cusco, which is at 3,339m (11,151 feet) above sea-level, and leave the next day to do a strenuous hike or even start the Inca Trail. Your body needs the time to adjust to the altitude!
A good rule of thumb is to give yourself and your body two easy days at altitude to acclimatize to the change, and to keep yourself well hydrated throughout.
What about medication?
Obviously, medical attention and facilities along the Inca Trail are pretty much non-existent so you need to bring any of your own required medication with you and keep it on your own person or in the daypack.
What climates can I expect on the Short Inca Trail?
Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra/Andean Mountain region. Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance.
While the average daily temperature may only vary a few degrees Celsius between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temperature range is often huge.
You can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 15-25°C (60 – 77 °F), falling as low as 10 °C (50°F) at night.
See the Inca Trail weather here.
How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu for a maximum of four hours and must follow one of three predetermined routes. Admission is not allowed after 4pm.
Additionally, all visitors must always be accompanied by a guide.
The early morning is one of the best times to savour the views and atmosphere of Machu Picchu.
The mystical morning light over the enigmatic sites is spectacular. Try and catch the sunrise at the sanctuary, you won’t regret the early wakeup call!
Still Not Convinced to Hike This Trek?
Read here why you should hike this trek to Machu Picchu with us.
