Tour Description
Inca Trail – Fast Track Trek
The Short Inca Trail is a perfect option for those seeking a shorter yet immersive journey to Machu Picchu. This trek takes you through stunning Inca ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and offers a glimpse into Andean traditions and history.
With permits for the Classic 4-day Inca Trail often selling out months in advance, the Short Inca Trail is an excellent alternative, providing a rewarding experience in less time.
“From ancient paths to the wonders of Machu Picchu, embark on an unforgettable journey.”
Meet Your Travel Advisor
Diego
Senior Travel Advisor
- diego@sierratours.io
- +5199141312
- Travel Division - South America
- Spanish
Diego creates exclusive, tailor-made journeys across Latin America, ensuring unforgettable, authentic experiences with utmost comfort and personalized service.
Explore Perú in 2 Days
Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu 2 Days
The Short Inca Trail is an exceptional alternative for those seeking a condensed yet deeply immersive trek to Machu Picchu. This scenic route winds through captivating Inca archaeological sites, offering a rich exploration of Andean traditions and Peru’s storied history, all culminating in the awe-inspiring splendor of Machu Picchu.
The 4-day Classic Inca Trail is renowned, but its limited permits—restricted to 500 daily, including porters, guides, and visitors—often sell out months in advance. For those unable to secure a spot, the Short Inca Trail stands as an ideal option, combining the majesty of ancient ruins with breathtaking landscapes in just two unforgettable days.
Perfect for adventurers with limited time, this trek delivers a profound connection to the legacy of the Incas, blending history, culture, and natural beauty into an unparalleled experience.
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
Book your spot on the Inca Trail today and experience Machu Picchu the iconic way—spaces are limited!
Itinerary
Description
Begin your adventure with an early morning pick-up from Cusco. Your expert guide will escort you through the breathtaking Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, a charming Andean town surrounded by ancient terraces and centuries of Inca history. From there, board the train toward KM 104, the official starting point of your unforgettable trek.Cross the Urubamba River via a quaint wooden bridge, then check in at the trailhead before exploring Chachabamba, a fascinating Inca site once used for ceremonial and agricultural purposes.The trail gradually ascends through lush cloud forests and verdant mountain landscapes, teeming with orchids, hummingbirds, and butterflies. After a couple of hours, the spectacular Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”) ruins appear, perched dramatically on a steep mountainside. Explore its terraces and ceremonial baths while your guide shares the historical and spiritual significance of this remarkable site.Enjoy a gourmet lunch near the Wiñay Wayna campsite, surrounded by vibrant tropical flowers and ancient stonework. Continue along a mostly flat, scenic path toward Inti Punku, the legendary Sun Gate. Here, tackle the famous steep steps humorously known as the “Gringo Killers,” carved into the rock by the Incas over 500 years ago.Reaching the Sun Gate, witness your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—a breathtaking moment as the Lost City of the Incas emerges among towering green peaks and misty cliffs. Descend gently to explore the citadel and take those classic postcard-perfect photos from the upper terraces and Guard House.Finally, board the shuttle to Aguas Calientes, a vibrant town at the base of the mountain. Check into your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, or unwind in the thermal hot springs. Reflect on a day filled with history, adventure, and awe-inspiring scenery—a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Meals
- Dinner
- Box lunch
Highlights
- Cusco
- Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes
Description
After a restful night in Aguas Calientes, rise early for a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Today is the day you’ve been waiting for—a full-day experience at Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.Take one of the first buses up the winding mountain road to the citadel, arriving as the morning mist lifts and the sun rises over the peaks. Watch the golden light illuminate the ancient city perched between clouds and jungle—a truly magical moment and a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.Your expert guide will lead a comprehensive 2-hour tour, showcasing the Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, Temple of the Three Windows, Intihuatana sundial, and Royal Quarters. Learn about the mysterious architecture, engineering feats, and spiritual traditions of the Incas.After the guided tour, enjoy some free time to explore independently. Climb to a nearby viewpoint for panoramic shots or simply soak in the extraordinary surroundings and reflect on your Short Inca Trail journey.Return to Aguas Calientes via shuttle for lunch at a local restaurant (not included), or explore the town’s artisan markets, museum, or hot springs. In the afternoon, board the Expedition train along the scenic Urubamba River, retracing part of your trail through the Andes. Spot Wiñay Wayna perched above the valley—a final reminder of your hike.Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, your private driver will transfer you back to Cusco, concluding your unforgettable 2-day Machu Picchu adventure.Accommodation: Return to Cusco hotel
Meals
- Breakfast
Highlights
- Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu
- Cusco
Travel package information
This information outlines the itinerary, highlighting what's included and what's not, along with key details such as a travel essentials list, departure date, travel duration, best time to travel, price, payment terms, group size, and other important facts, helping travelers fully understand the package and know what to expect during their trip.
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Pre-briefing time at 19hrs in our office 1 or 2 days before your date departure (It has to be confirmed at the booking time)
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Private transfer from your hotel in Cusco to train station
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Tourist train from Ollantaytambo to km. 104 at 7hrs 45 (Beginning of the 2-Day Inca Trail)
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Collective tourist transfers from the train station in Ollantaytambo to the hotels in the Sacred Valley or Cusco City
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Tourist bus 1 way between Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes(first Day)
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Tourist bus 1 way between Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu(second Day)
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Entrance fee to the Inca trail and Machu Picchu
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Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English)
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Meals during the excursion (1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 dinner/option vegetarian)
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Hotel in the village of Aguas Calientes
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First-aid kit and oxygen bottle.
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T-shirts with inca trail map design Communication radios and satellite phones
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Day first breakfast and last lunch in Aguas Calientes
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Travel insurance and tips
Frequently Asked Questions - Tours
The FAQ section addresses common queries about the travel package, including key details such as the itinerary, what's included and excluded, payment terms, group size, departure dates, and other important information, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details to prepare for their trip.
International flights are not included unless specified. Domestic flights may be included depending on the destination and itinerary.
Hotels are pre-selected for quality and location, but if you have a preference or request, let us know—we'll do our best to accommodate.
Yes, the package includes guided group tours with experienced, English-speaking (and sometimes bilingual) guides.
This is a set package, but minor adjustments may be possible for an extra cost. For full flexibility, consider a tailor-made trip.
Breakfast is not included on international travel or arrival days. During the tour, breakfast is included only when explicitly stated in the itinerary. Any additional meals, including lunch or dinner, are provided only if clearly specified in the tour program.
Groups usually include 10–16 travelers. Some transportation services (like buses or boats) may accommodate more.
Yes, we strongly recommend travel insurance to cover medical needs, trip cancellations, and other unexpected situations.
We'll provide a packing list tailored to your trip, but basics include comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle.
Yes, airport transfers are typically included, but please confirm with your booking to ensure coverage for both arrival and departure.
The package includes 4-star hotel accommodations with breakfast, guided group tours, transfers, entrance fees as per the itinerary, and some meals (as specified).
About your Trip
Need help
Together with you, we plan a customized trip according to your preferences, with the content and standard you desire. The travel advisor will discuss the trip layout with you and provide new suggestions based on your wishes.
