Short Inca Trail 2 Days

The Short Inca Trail offers a captivating 2-day hiking adventure near the iconic Machu Picchu. Adventurers embark on a scenic 7-hour trek, visiting significant Inca sites before culminating in breathtaking views of the ancient citadel. With knowledgeable guides, immersive cultural experiences, and comfortable accommodations, this unforgettable journey showcases Peru’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or seeking a unique Andean experience, the Short Inca Trail promises an adventure that’ll leave you longing for more.

Key Points

• The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day hiking experience near Machu Picchu that starts at $640.00 and includes world-class service.
• The first day features a 7-hour hike with stops at Chachabamba and Winaywayna, culminating in a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
• On the second day, travelers explore Machu Picchu for approximately 3 hours, with opportunities to spot the majestic condor.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness for the approximately 7 hours of trekking.
• The tour provider, Peru Top Experience, is known for delivering high-quality service and experiences, with flexible booking and cancellation policies.

Overview of the Short Inca Trail

The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day hiking experience that allows visitors to explore the stunning landscapes and historical sites along the ancient Inca network of trails near the iconic Machu Picchu.

Offered by Peru Top Experience, this tour includes world-class service, highly trained guides, and comfortable hotel stays. Priced from $640.00, the Short Inca Trail features a 7-hour hike on the first day, with stops at archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, culminating in a panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

On the second day, travelers visit the iconic Inca citadel, exploring its key highlights such as the Watchman’s House, main square, and Intihuatana.

With an average rating of 5.0 from 8 reviews, the Short Inca Trail promises a memorable culture.

Itinerary: Day 1 – Cusco to Aguas Calientes

On the first day, the Short Inca Trail tour starts early with transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, where travelers enjoy breakfast before embarking on their hike.

The journey takes them through notable Inca sites, including:

• Chachabamba, a historical worship site for Inca deities at 2170 masl.
• Wiñaywayna, an archaeological resting point with a box lunch at 2650 masl.
• Intipunku (Puerta del Sol), offering a panoramic view of Machu Picchu at 2745 masl.

The total hiking time on the first day is approximately 7 hours, leading the group to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Itinerary: Day 2 – Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu

On the second day, travelers take a morning bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, situated at an elevation of 2430 masl (7972 feet). During the visit, they’ll explore the site’s highlights, including the Watchman’s House, main square, sundial, royal quarters, Intihuatana, and the Temple of the Three Windows. Visitors will also have the opportunity to spot the majestic condor. The total duration for the Machu Picchu experience is approximately 3 hours.

Highlight	Description
Watchman’s House	Iconic structure overlooking Machu Picchu
Main Square	Central gathering place for the Incas
Sundial	Functioning timepiece used by the Incas
Royal Quarters	Residences of the Inca nobility
Intihuatana	Astronomical instrument used for solar observations
Temple of the Three Windows	Iconic temple with three trapezoidal windows

Meeting and Pickup Details

Pickup points for the Short Inca Trail tour span various locations throughout Cusco.

The tour starts early in the morning, with pickup times ranging from 04:30 AM to 06:00 PM, seven days a week. Guests should be ready and waiting at their selected pickup location, as the tour operates on a tight schedule.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the hike involves approximately 7 hours of trekking on the first day.

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

Travelers expressed overwhelmingly positive sentiment about their experiences on the Short Inca Trail tour. Many praised the knowledgeable and attentive guides who enriched the journey with their expertise.

The scenic landscapes, awe-inspiring archaeological sites, and the dramatic entry through Intipunku (Puerta del Sol) were particular highlights. Reviewers expressed a strong desire to return to Peru, testament to the memorable nature of the experience.

The high average rating of 5.0 across 8 reviews further underscores the quality of service and the ability of the tour to deliver on its promises. The Short Inca Trail tour provided travelers with a culture and unforgettable adventure.

About the Tour Provider

Peru Top Experience, the tour provider behind the Short Inca Trail, has garnered a reputation for delivering world-class service.

They employ highly trained guides who bring the Inca history to life, ensure comfortable hotel stays, and offer quality equipment like walking poles.

Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in the 5-star reviews from past travelers.

Key features of Peru Top Experience include:

• Extensive experience leading tours in the Cusco region
• Focus on sustainable, responsible tourism practices
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies to accommodate traveler needs

Booking and Cancellation Policy

For the Short Inca Trail tour, Peru Top Experience offers a flexible booking and cancellation policy.

Customers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts, as long as it’s during local time. This policy ensures that travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

Peru Top Experience understands that unexpected circumstances can arise, and this cancellation policy provides peace of mind for those planning their Inca Trail adventure.

With this flexibility, travelers can focus on anticipating the breathtaking views, culture, and memorable experiences that await them on the Short Inca Trail.

Highlights of the Experience

The Short Inca Trail tour offers a remarkable blend of breathtaking landscapes, captivating historical sites, and immersive cultural experiences.

Travelers embark on a journey that includes:

• Trekking through the Andes, taking in the stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and ancient Inca ruins.
• Exploring the well-preserved archaeological site of Chachabamba, a sacred Inca worship site, and the remarkable Winay Wayna, with its impressive terraces and structures.
• Reaching the iconic Intipunku, also known as the "Sun Gate," for a breathtaking panoramic view of the legendary Machu Picchu.

The tour’s expert guides, quality accommodations, and inclusive amenities ensure a truly memorable and enriching adventure along the Short Inca Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Short Inca Trail?

The tour itinerary doesn’t specify the average group size. However, many small-group Peru trekking tours typically have 8-12 participants to provide a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required due to the hiking involved.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?

Travelers can bring their own food and snacks on the hike. However, the tour includes lunch at Wiñaywayna, so hikers may not need to pack a full meal. It’s recommended to bring light snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated during the trek.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price covers most expenses, but travelers may incur additional fees for optional items like walking poles ($15) or items not included, such as personal snacks or souvenirs. It’s best to review the inclusions carefully before booking.

Can We Customize the Itinerary or Activities for the Short Inca Trail?

The tour provider allows customizations to the itinerary and activities, though additional fees may apply. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the provider to create a personalized Short Inca Trail experience that fits their needs and interests.

Recap

The Short Inca Trail offers an unforgettable 2-day hiking adventure near the iconic Machu Picchu. Adventurers will explore significant Inca sites, enjoy breathtaking views, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Peru. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a perfect average rating, this trail provides an exceptional way to discover the country’s stunning landscapes.