The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an enticing 2-day, 1-night trekking experience for those with limited time or moderate fitness levels. Exploring stunning Andean scenery, visitors will uncover archaeological wonders like Chachabamba and Winay Wayna before the grand finale – a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and knowledgeable guides, this trek promises breathtaking vistas and a rewarding adventure. Yet, what truly sets this experience apart may surprise even the most seasoned travelers.
About Our Review: We hope you find our review helpful! Though we don’t operate tours, you can easily book this experience using the button at the bottom of this page. If you do make a booking, we will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Key Points
- This 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail trek offers a manageable option for limited time or moderate fitness levels, providing access to the iconic Machu Picchu.
- The itinerary includes trekking through stunning Andes scenery, visiting archaeological sites, and a guided exploration of Machu Picchu on the second day.
- The package includes essential services such as dinner, lunch, a tour guide, round-trip train tickets, and one night’s accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and breathtaking scenery.
- Participants should be prepared for the moderate physical demands of the trail, with proper hiking gear and layered clothing recommended for the unpredictable Andean weather.
More tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a rewarding 2-day, 1-night trek that’s ideal for travelers with limited time or moderate fitness.
This popular tour includes a visit to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, one of the New7Wonders of the World.
During the trek, hikers will experience the stunning scenery of the Andes, including stops at the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Winay Wayna.
On the second day, a guided exploration of Machu Picchu provides an in-depth look at this ancient Inca citadel.
With over 280 positive reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this short Inca Trail is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Machu Picchu experience.
Inca Trail Itinerary
This 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail itinerary offers a comprehensive experience for travelers.
On the first day, hikers will trek along the trail, culminating in an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
The second day begins with a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu, followed by a return train journey to Cusco.
Highlights include walking to the Sun Gate for panoramic views of Machu Picchu and accessing the site through a side entrance, bypassing the main queues.
With knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and breathtaking scenery, this Inca Trail adventure is a rewarding experience that exceeds expectations.
Activities and Experiences
Hikers can look forward to an engaging trek along the Inca Trail, culminating in an overnight stay in the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
On the first day, they’ll hike to the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Winay Wayna, taking in the stunning mountain vistas. After a hearty dinner, they’ll retire to their bed and breakfast accommodation.
The following day, hikers will enjoy a guided exploration of the iconic Machu Picchu, marveling at the ancient ruins and taking in panoramic views from the Sun Gate.
With side entrance access, they can avoid the main queues and fully enjoy this New7Wonder of the World.
It’s a rewarding experience that exceeds expectations.
Accommodations and Meals
After the day’s hiking, travelers can look forward to comfortable accommodations and hearty meals during the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu experience.
Overnight accommodation is provided in Aguas Calientes, a charming town at the base of Machu Picchu. Travelers will stay in a bed and breakfast hotel, ensuring a good night’s rest before the next day’s exploration.
Meals are also included, with a delicious dinner served on the first evening. Lunch on the second day is provided as well, giving hikers the energy they need to fully experience the wonder of Machu Picchu.
The meals are carefully prepared using fresh, local ingredients, providing a tasty and satisfying dining experience.
Pricing and Inclusions
Priced from $545.00, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu package includes a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
The package covers dinner, lunch, a tour guide, round-trip train tickets, one night’s bed and breakfast accommodation, a bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, the Inca Trail permit, and Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
Hikers can also rent hiking poles if needed. The only additional cost is the $24 bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on the second day.
With a flexible cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Short Inca Trail offers an accessible and convenient way to explore the iconic Machu Picchu.
Group Size and Accessibility
The tour groups for the Short Inca Trail are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate trekking experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour does provide infant seats for those traveling with children. However, it is not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions, as the physical demands of the trail may prove challenging.
| Accessibility | |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair | Not accessible |
| Infants | Seats available |
| Back Problems | Not recommended |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Medical | Not recommended for serious conditions |
Customer Reviews
Overwhelmingly positive reviews speak to the rewarding nature of this Short Inca Trail experience, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, well-organized logistics, delicious meals, and breathtaking scenery along the way.
Many reviewers highlighted the personalized attention and engaging storytelling of guides like Lino and Dario, which enhanced the overall experience.
Travelers consistently reported that the tour exceeded their expectations, describing it as a ‘must-do‘ and highly recommending it to others.
The 5.0 overall rating based on 280 reviews is a testament to the quality of this Short Inca Trail trek, offering an ideal introduction to Machu Picchu for those with limited time or moderate fitness.
Important Considerations
While the overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the rewarding nature of this Short Inca Trail experience, there are some important considerations travelers should keep in mind before booking this trek.
For instance:
-
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, as the trek involves hiking several hours each day on uneven terrain. Those with serious medical conditions or limitations may find the trek too challenging.
-
The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so travelers should come prepared with proper hiking gear and dress in layers.
-
Though the tour includes round-trip train tickets, there’s an additional cost for the bus from Aguas Calientes to the Machu Picchu entrance on the second day.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Get to the Starting Point of the Trek?
Travelers can reach the starting point of the trek by taking a train or bus from Cusco to the town of Ollantaytambo. From there, they’ll be transported to the trailhead to begin their hike.
Can I Bring My Own Trekking Gear or Is It Provided?
Hikers can bring their own trekking gear, but rental options are available. The tour company typically provides hiking poles. Travelers should ensure they have proper footwear and clothing for the trek.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Fitness Requirements?
The tour is recommended for most travelers, but not suitable for those with serious medical conditions, back problems, or pregnant women. There are no strict age limits, but a moderate level of fitness is required to complete the trek.
What Is the Weather Like During the Trek Months?
The weather during the trek months is generally mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Occasional rain showers are possible, so hikers should pack layers and rain gear to stay comfortable on the trail.
Can I Extend My Stay in Aguas Calientes After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Aguas Calientes after the tour. Many choose to spend extra time exploring the town, visiting hot springs, or preparing for their return trip to Cusco at their own pace.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Panoramic Cusco + Machu Picchu 3D/2N
- Ausangate Trek + Rainbow Mountain 6 Days
- From Lima: Ica and Paracas-Machu Picchu-Humantay Lake 6d/5n
- Qeswachaca the Last Inca Bridge
- Andean Marriage in Cusco Peru
- Inka Jungle Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days, 3 Nights
- Tandem Paragliding in the Sacred Valley From Cusco.
- 6 Days Manu Reserve Zone
- The Only Hop on – Hop off Service in Cusco
- Night Adventure at Starlodge Cusco: Via Ferrata & Zipline
- Humantay Lagoon in Private: Arrive Before the Crowd
- Machu Picchu Full Day
- Sacred Valley From Ollantaytambo (Private Tour)
- Full Day: Luxury Train From Cusco to Puno
- S.T.coffeetours
Recap
The short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a remarkable 2-day, 1-night trekking experience.
Participants will explore stunning Andean scenery, visit archaeological sites, and enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and knowledgeable guides, this trek promises breathtaking views and a rewarding adventure in a small group setting.
It is an ideal choice for those with limited time or moderate fitness levels.