SHORT INCA TRAIL 2 DAYS

If you’ve ever dreamed of trekking the ancient Inca pathways to Machu Picchu but don’t have time for the full classic 4-day trek, the Short Inca Trail 2 Days offers the perfect alternative. Embark on the wonderful adventure and discover the breathtaking Andean landscapes, explore some of the most enigmatic ancient archaeological sites, and witness the wonder of Machu Picchu. This trek is ideal for hikers with a moderate level of fitness who want to enjoy a combination of outdoor adventure and history.

What is the Short Inca Trail 2 Days?

The Short Inca Trail is a great alternative option to the Classic Inca Trail, leading travellers through the best section of the classic one in just 2 days. Arrive at Machu Picchu via the exclusive Sun Gate, which offers a panoramic view of Machu Picchu. This short version of the Inca Trail allows everyone to enjoy the stunning view along the ancient path.

It starts at Km 104 on the railway tracks, and you’ll explore some ancient sites like Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and the famous Sun Gate before reaching to Machu Picchu.

Highlights of the Short Inca Trail

• Enjoy the scenic and comfortable train journey through the Urubamba Valley and see how the landscapes turn to the lush green cloud forest.
• Hike on the ancient Inca Trail in the cloud forests, where you will encounter a range of plants and wildlife, including some of the endemic orchids and wildlife.
• Discover the incredible Inca ruins, such as Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Sun Gate, before reaching to Machu Picchu, the Seven Wonders.
• Have the best view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, which only hikers along the Inca Trail can obtain.
• Explore Machu Picchu in the afternoon after the crowds have already left; the next day you will have the option to enjoy the sunrise early in the morning.
• Learn the history of the Incas while you enjoy the stunning views of the Inca Trail and the Inca ruins.

Why choose the Short Inca Trail?

• The short Inca Trail is perfect for those who are limited on time but still want to experience hiking along the Inca Trail. By choosing this 2-day trek, you will walk on the best section of the classic one, see the most stunning Inca site, and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, just like the same last the people who hike along the Classic Inca Trail do.
• As the trek is not very demanding, this short version of the Inca Trail is perfect for those who are in moderate physical condition; the shorter distance and fewer days of hiking make it a more relaxed adventure while still offering a satisfying experience.

Stunning scenery and ancient ruins

Despite its shorter duration, the Short Inca Trail still takes you through stunning landscapes, including lush cloud forests, impressive mountains, and Incan ruins. All of these combinations make for one of the best experiences on the way to discover the most iconic ancient site, Machu Picchu.

The well-preserved trail and showcases many of the highlights of the full Inca Trail, such as breathtaking landscapes, history, and unique flora and fauna. 

Best route to reach Machu Picchu

The Short Inca Trail 2 Days is well recommended for adventurous people such as solo travellers, couples, families, and friends. Who wants to discover some of the most fascinating routes to the New Seven Wonder, Machu Picchu.

Arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate is the best experience that you should do once in your life. Imagine seeing, for the first time, one of the Seven Wonders at a distance from above; this view will stay in your eyes forever. This is why the Inca Trail is the best route to get to Machu Picchu compared to the other alternative trek running to Machu Picchu.

Explore Machu Picchu Twice

Hiking along the Short Inca Trail 2-Day allows you to explore Machu Picchu twice: first, on the first day in the afternoon after the crowds are already gone, and the second day in the morning to enjoy the sunrise.

This is the best option to explore the iconic Machu Picchu and get the best photos even during the rainy season, perfect for those who love capturing incredible photos at different times. 

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu

The adventure starts in Cusco, where your guide will collect you from your hotel early in the morning and then drive for 2 hours to reach Ollantaytambo train station to board one of the best train trips in the world. The train runs along the Urubamba Valley, where you have a chance to see how the Andean landscapes change to the lush forest.

The trek begins at Chachabamba Ruins, or Km 104.

Experience the most beautiful hike along the valley. The trail steadily climbs through dense cloud forest, offering occasional glimpses of the Andes mountains in the distance and  explore the best Inca archaeological site,  Wiñaywayna (Forever Young) where you guide will explain you with all the history and you will be amazed with the perfect architecture,

The Sun Gate (Inti Punku)

After visiting Wiñay Wayna, the final stretch of the trail takes you to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From this elevated point, you’ll be treated to your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. The sight of the ancient citadel perched on the mountain slopes, with the vast green landscape surrounding it, is one of the most iconic views in the world.

At this point, you’ll have officially completed the Inca Trail, albeit the shortened version, and can soak in the magnificence of the view before descending to the ruins themselves. Explore Machu Picchu and take your time to enjoy the magical views with not many people.

After, you will board towards Aguas Calientes town, where you will get dinner together with your guide, who will explain to you all the details about your next day tour; finally, you will be accommodated at your hotel.

Day 2. Exploring Machu Picchu

On the second day, you will explore Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Most visitors start early in the morning to catch the first light of day over the ancient citadel.

A Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

Upon entering Machu Picchu, you’ll be guided through the site by an expert, who will explain the history, architecture, and significance of this incredible place. From the Temple of the Sun to the Intihuatana Stone (the Hitching Post of the Sun), every corner of Machu Picchu is steeped in mystery and wonder.  

Returning to Cusco

After you have explored Machu Picchu, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain if you have booked the ticket; otherwise, you will end the circuit at the exit, where you can board the bus down to Aguas Calientes and have lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo.

The train runs for about 2 hours until Ollantaytambo station, where you can take the bus back to Cusco, reaching Cusco around 6 to 7 pm.

Inca Trail 2 Days

The Short Inca Trail is an excellent option for those who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail without the physical strain of a 4-day hike. It combines stunning natural beauty, fascinating historical sites, and, of course, the magnificent Machu Picchu, all within a manageable timeframe. If you’re planning to visit Machu Picchu, the Short Inca Trail is an unforgettable adventure that offers the perfect balance of history, culture, and adventure.