Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu Two Days One Night

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an enticing 2-day, 1-night trek for travelers with limited time. Beginning at the archaeological site of Chachabamba, the journey showcases stunning Inca ruins and culminates at the iconic Sun Gate, providing breathtaking views of the legendary Machu Picchu. With knowledgeable guides and meals provided, trekkers enjoy the rich cultural history and captivating landscapes of this iconic region. While the trek may be shorter than the classic Inca Trail, it’s no less impressive, making it a must-consider option for those seeking an unforgettable Andean adventure.

Key Points

• The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day, 1-night trek that offers a shorter and less physically demanding alternative to the classic Inca Trail.
• The trek begins at km 104 and includes visits to the Chachabamba archaeological site and the impressive Inca site of Winay Wayna.
• Trekkers reach Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate in the afternoon, allowing them to witness the ancient citadel before the crowds.
• The trek includes breakfast and lunch on both days, as well as dinner, and walking poles are available for trekkers.
• The experience provides a rich cultural and natural exploration of the Inca legacy, with stunning landscapes and impressive archaeological sites along the way.

Overview of the Short Inca Trail

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 2-day, 1-night trek that provides an ideal option for those with limited time or physical capability compared to the classic 4-day Inca Trail.

This abridged route is part of the extensive Inca Trail network that once spanned the Inca Empire. Trekkers will experience diverse Inca archaeological sites, ascend to the Sun Gate, and reach the iconic Machu Picchu, all within a condensed timeframe.

Though less physically demanding than the classic trek, the Short Inca Trail still offers a rich cultural and natural experience for adventurous travelers seeking to explore the Inca legacy.

Itinerary and Highlights

On the first day, participants begin their trek from the train station at km 104, Chachabamba (2200m).

After registration and a visit to the Chachabamba archaeological site, the group ascends 5 km to Winay Wayna (2700m), exploring diverse Inca construction sectors along the way.

The approximately 7-hour trek culminates in arrival at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate in the afternoon.

On the second day, an early departure to Machu Picchu allows participants to witness the sunrise and receive a detailed explanation of the Inca construction with minimal crowds.

The tour then returns to Aguas Calientes village for the train back to Cusco.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The Short Inca Trail includes meals: breakfast, lunch (on Day 1 and Day 2), and dinner.

Walking poles are also provided. This trek isn’t wheelchair-accessible, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

Confirmation for the tour is received within 48 hours of booking, and there’s a non-refundable policy.

Pickup is available from hotels within the city or along the route to the starting point in Chachabamba.

The meeting point is in Cusco, and travelers can contact the tour provider via WhatsApp to make arrangements.

The end point is the same as the pickup location.

Meeting and Pickup Details

For the Short Inca Trail, pickup from hotels within the city or along the route to the starting point in Chachabamba is available. Travelers can contact the tour operators via WhatsApp to coordinate meeting arrangements. The end point of the trek is the same as the pickup location, providing a convenient, round-trip experience.

Meeting Point	Pickup Time	Drop-off Time
Cusco	6:30 AM	6:30 PM
Ollantaytambo	7:30 AM	5:30 PM
Urubamba	8:00 AM	5:00 PM
Machu Picchu Pueblo	5:30 AM	7:00 PM
Cusco	6:30 AM	6:30 PM

The Short Inca Trail offers a seamless transportation experience, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the trek.

Reviews and Recommendations

Rated 5.0 based on 4 reviews, the Short Inca Trail has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from past participants.

Reviewers highlight several key aspects that have made their experiences unforgettable:

1. The tour’s excellent organization, with seamless logistics and a knowledgeable guide providing rich cultural insights.

2. The breathtaking scenery and Inca ruins along the trail, offering a glimpse into the empire’s impressive engineering feats.

3. The overall sense of accomplishment and lasting memories, making the Short Inca Trail a must-do for history and nature enthusiasts seeking a culturally immersive adventure.

Recommended for its efficient itinerary and ability to deliver a fulfilling Machu Picchu experience, the Short Inca Trail is an excellent choice for those with limited time.

Exploring the Chachabamba Archaeological Site

Departing from the train station at km 104, the Short Inca Trail trek begins with a visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba.

Situated at an elevation of 2,200 meters, this Inca ruin offers a glimpse into the empire’s extensive network of infrastructure. Guests will explore the site’s diverse construction sectors, including religious structures, agricultural terraces, and water management systems.

The guide provides insights into the site’s history and significance, allowing trekkers to appreciate the ingenuity of Inca engineering. This introduction sets the stage for the rest of the journey, as hikers ascend towards the iconic Machu Picchu, following in the footsteps of the Inca.

Ascending to the Majestic Winay Wayna

After registering with the guide at the Chachabamba archaeological site, trekkers embark on the ascent towards the majestic Winay Wayna, located at an elevation of 2,700 meters.

The trail winds through diverse Inca construction sectors, providing glimpses into the ingenuity of the ancient civilization.

Along the way, trekkers will:

1. Traverse lush, verdant landscapes dotted with terraced fields and stone structures.
2. Admire the impressive stone masonry and architectural techniques employed by the Incas.
3. Arrive at the Winay Wayna ruins, a sprawling Inca settlement nestled amid the towering mountains.

The climb to Winay Wayna sets the stage for the final approach to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Witnessing the Sunrise at Machu Picchu

The early morning departure to Machu Picchu allows trekkers to witness the first rays of sunlight illuminate the ancient citadel. Taking the first bus up the winding road, they arrive at the iconic site before the crowds.

As the sun rises, the ruins come alive, casting dramatic shadows and highlighting the intricate Inca stonework. Guides provide detailed explanations of the site’s history and significance, ensuring trekkers gain a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage wonder.

With minimal crowds, this tranquil experience offers a chance to fully take in the majesty of Machu Picchu, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?

No, pets are not allowed on the Short Inca Trail trek. The trail is not pet-friendly, and bringing a pet would not be permitted or recommended due to the challenging terrain and national park regulations.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in the Tour?

No, you don’t need a visa to participate in this tour. The trek is part of the Inca Trail network in Peru, and a valid passport is typically sufficient for foreign visitors to enter the country and join the excursion.

Is There an Age Limit for the Short Inca Trail?

There is no specific age limit for the Short Inca Trail. However, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as the trek involves steep ascents and descents over several hours each day. Younger and older participants are welcome, within their physical capabilities.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Trek?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Machu Picchu after the Short Inca Trail trek. Many choose to spend an extra day exploring the site in-depth or hiking up Huayna Picchu mountain for a different perspective.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a non-refundable policy. Cancellations are not allowed, and no refunds are provided. Travelers should be aware of this policy when booking the tour to avoid any financial losses.

Recap

The Short Inca Trail offers travelers a captivating 2-day trek to the iconic Machu Picchu. With stunning Inca ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and knowledgeable guides, this adventure provides a memorable experience for nature and history enthusiasts with limited time. Trekkers will witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu after exploring the rich cultural heritage along the way, making it a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable journey in Peru.