Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days

Q: What should I pack for the Short Inca Trail?

One personal daypack (a 30 to 50 L backpack is sufficient). Reusable water bottle Small coins in Peruvian Soles (Bathrooms are free at the campsites but cost 1 Sol along the route. Keep small change for water bottles, snacks, and toilet paper.) Rain jacket or rain poncho Sleeping bag (also available for rent) Flashlight/headlamp and batteries Clothes for the entire trek: Long-sleeve trekking shirts Short-sleeve shirts Leggings or trekking pants Shorts Three pairs of underwear Sweatpants for the night Two pairs of hiking socks A rain poncho An insulated jacket Gloves Beanie A hat with a brim Hiking boots Sandals to rest your feet at the campsites Sunscreen Insect repellent Additional snacks (we supply plenty of food already) Original passport (mandatory for entrance to Machu Picchu)

Q: More Details about the Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain Add-On

The entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain are additional add-ons that you can choose to purchase besides the Machu Picchu visit already included in this trek. You can visit one of these mountains after your Machu Picchu visit to see the Inca Citadel from the top. Please send us an email asking about availability. Then, if available, you can select which mountain you would like to climb when you make your reservation online. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are an additional 60 USD. What is Huayna Picchu Mountain? Huayna Picchu Mountain is home to the Temple of the Moon and is the famous mountain peak seen behind the ruins in all the classic photos of Machu Picchu. It’s an approximately 45-minute climb with more ruins at the top and offers an incredible view of the Machu Picchu ruins. The visit to Huayna Picchu takes approximately 2 hours. This hike is an additional 60 USD. What is Machu Picchu Mountain? Machu Picchu Mountain offers a much higher view of the ruins and overlooks the entire valley. It’s an additional hike within Machu Picchu and is also available for 60 USD.

Q: I’ve made my reservation for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, now what?

Adventure awaits you! We have sent you a confirmation e-mail with more details about your trekking adventure. The day before your departure, at 17:00, 18:00 or 19:00, please stop by our office located at Portal Espinar Nro 163 to receive the informative briefing. Our professional guide will go over everything you need to know about your trek and answer any final questions you may have.

Q: Do I need hiking experience to complete this trek?

Previous hiking experience is recommended but not required. Our guides are trained to support hikers of all fitness levels and experience, ensuring that no one is left behind. Most importantly, make sure to acclimate yourself to the altitude before your trek.

Q: Can I leave extra luggage in your office?

Yes, you can leave extra luggage in our office free of charge. Just let us know if you have any fragile or technological items that require special care, and we’ll ensure they are handled appropriately.

Q: What are the minimum and maximum group sizes for the Short Inca Trail?

The minimum group size is 4 people and the maximum group size is 15 people. There will be an assistant guide for groups over 12 people.

Tour Availability
Available
Group Size
2 A 8
Departure City
Cusco
Difficulty
Medium

OVERVIEW

ITINERARY

INCLUSIONS

FAQs

PACKING LIST

Overview

Overview Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful treks and is ideal for those with limited time but who still want to walk along the original paved Inca pathways. Experience the breathtaking scenery of Machu Picchu and explore fascinating archaeological sites, dense forests, waterfalls, and native flora and fauna.

The trek begins with a visit to the Cochabamba ruins, followed by a 3-hour uphill hike to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna, and another 2 hours to reach the Lost City of the Incas. You’ll visit Machu Picchu twice: once in the afternoon after your hike, and again the next morning to enjoy the early light over the Inca citadel.

Reservation Recommendation:

Admission to Machu Picchu on the second day will be subject to the circuit available at the time of booking, which could be Circuit 1, 2, or 3.

Extras & Upgrades Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Optional visit of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: $60.00 per person. Let us know at the time of booking as it requires a separate permit.
Trekking poles: Available for rent for $15.00 per person.

Why book with KB Adventures?

At KB Adventures, we ensure your Short Inca Trail trek is safe, comfortable, and memorable.

Expert Local Guides: Our guides know the Inca Trail and the history of Machu Picchu inside out
Small Private Groups: Maximum of 8 people, giving you personal attention and a relaxed experience
High-Quality Service: We provide all necessary permits, fresh meals, and reliable transport
Authentic Experience: Walk the original Inca pathways, explore archaeological sites, and learn about local culture
Responsible Travel: We support local communities and help preserve the natural and cultural heritage

Booking with KB Adventures guarantees a well-organized, private, and unforgettable adventure along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Read what other guests say about us on Tripadvisor

Highlights Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful treks in Peru, perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to walk along the original Inca pathways. Over two days, you will experience:

Original Inca Trail – Walk along the paved paths used by the Incas centuries ago
Archaeological Sites – Explore Cochabamba ruins and the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins
Machu Picchu Views – Visit Machu Picchu twice: once in the afternoon after your trek, and again early the next morning for stunning sunrise views
Diverse Landscapes – Trek through dense forests, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna
Moderate Hike – Enjoy a 3-hour uphill hike to Wiñay Wayna, then 2 hours to the Lost City of the Incas

This trek offers the perfect balance of history, nature, and adventure, making it ideal for travelers who want a compact but unforgettable Inca experience.

Recommended For:

All Types of Hikers

Highest Altitude:

2,730m / 8,792ft

Hiking Distance:

10km / 6.3mi

Highlights

Recommended For: All Type of Hikers
Highest Altitude: 2,730m / 8,792ft
Hiking Distance: 10km / 6.3mi

Day 1:

CUSCO – KM 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA - AGUAS CALIENTES

Early in the morning at 3:30 am, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drive to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, we will board the train to the trailhead at Km. 104, where our local guide will be waiting to provide detailed information about the tour before we begin the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Our first stop will be the nearby archaeological site of Chachabamba, which is situated in a beautiful jungle setting, atop a hill, and surrounded by stunning landscapes. As we continue our hike, we will occasionally pause to enjoy expansive views of the Urubamba River.

After a slightly steeper climb, we will reach Wiñay Wayna (2,650m / 8,694 ft), meaning “forever young” in Quechua. Here, our guide will explain the fascinating history of this site, which includes an agricultural sector with terraces, as well as religious and urban centers.

We will then trek for an hour along a stone path on the edge of the highland jungle cliffs to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), the ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu. From this vantage point, we will get our first view of the majestic Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

Afterward, we will descend for 40 minutes to the Machu Picchu citadel, the “Lost City of the Incas.” They will visit Machu Picchu and on the second day will re-enter, doing only Circuit 1-B, which allows access exclusively to take the classic photo; entering the interior of the site will not be permitted, and was rediscovered in 1911 by US researcher Hiram Bingham.

We will then take a shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, and check in at our hotel.

Day 2:

MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO

Very early in the morning, we will head back to the World Wonder of Machu Picchu. Our professional guide will provide a comprehensive 2 hours, depending on the available circuit., sharing fascinating details about the history and significance of this remarkable site. After the tour, you will have ample time to explore the Inca citadel on your own.

For those who have opted to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will do so at your designated time.*

In the afternoon, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a local restaurant. Following lunch, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley during the journey. Upon arrival at the train station, we will transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.

*Please inquire in advance about availability. The cost is $60.00 per person for either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

📦 What’s included in the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

🏨 Accommodation

Overnight Stay: In Aguas Calientes in a standard hotel. This hotel will be clean, safe, and comfortable, with Wi-Fi, to-go breakfast, and a private bathroom with hot water. You can also upgrade to higher-quality hotels if you prefer.

🍽️ Meals

Included Meals: According to the itinerary (1x packed lunch, 1x dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes, 1x to-go breakfast).
Dietary Requirements: We can accommodate any dietary needs, including vegetarian or vegan options. Please inform us in advance about your specific preferences so we can plan accordingly.

🚗 Transportation

From Cusco: Transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the starting point at KM104.
Shuttle Bus: From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
Train: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo on Day 2.
Return to Cusco: Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco (Plaza Recojigo).

🧭 Local Guides and Equipment

Guides: Professional guide who speaks English/Spanish, plus an assistant guide for groups of more than 12 people.
Experience: All our trekking guides have a minimum of 3 years of experience and are certified. They carry a first-aid kit and an extra oxygen bottle for emergencies.

➕ Additional

Briefing: You will have a meeting with your guide at our office to review all the details of the tour. The orientation will be between 17:00, 18:00 or 19:00 at our Cusco office the day before departure.
Entrance Fees: Tickets to Machu Picchu and the 2-day Inca Trail are included.

❌ WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

🍽️ Meals

Breakfast on the First Day (you can bring your own snack).
Included Meals: Lunch and dinner on the last day.
Water: Water for the hikes is not included. Please bring enough water with you.

🛠️ Equipment

Trekking Poles

🚶‍♂️ Optional Activities

Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: You can add one of these options to your trekking itinerary for $60.00 per person. Please let us know in advance to verify availability.

🔄 Others

Tips: For your guide, cook, and porters.
Flights: Domestic or international flights are not included.
Travel Insurance: Not included.
Other Activities: Any other activities not mentioned in this itinerary.

FAQ Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Expand all

How can I get the Student Discount for the Machu Picchu Entrance?

If you are a student, you could get a discount of $20 USD on the Machu Picchu ticket, as long as you meet the requirements set by the Peruvian government. This discount is non-negotiable.

To apply, send us a photo of both sides of your student ID and another of your passport after making the reservation. The student ID must be original, issued by your university, and meet the following requirements:

You must also bring your original student ID for the control at the entrance of Machu Picchu.

Please check if your student card includes the following requirements:

Example of a student card meeting all the requirements.

What should I pack for the Short Inca Trail?

One personal daypack (a 30 to 50 L backpack is sufficient).
Reusable water bottle
Small coins in Peruvian Soles (Bathrooms are free at the campsites but cost 1 Sol along the route. Keep small change for water bottles, snacks, and toilet paper.)
Rain jacket or rain poncho
Sleeping bag (also available for rent)
Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
Clothes for the entire trek:
- Long-sleeve trekking shirts
- Short-sleeve shirts
- Leggings or trekking pants
- Shorts
- Three pairs of underwear
- Sweatpants for the night
- Two pairs of hiking socks
A rain poncho
An insulated jacket
Gloves
Beanie
A hat with a brim
Hiking boots
Sandals to rest your feet at the campsites
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Additional snacks (we supply plenty of food already)
Original passport (mandatory for entrance to Machu Picchu)

How can I prepare for the hike and prevent altitude sickness?

The best way to prepare yourself for this trekking experience is simple: spend at least 2 to 3 days at a high-altitude place like Cusco, so your body gets used to the high altitude. If you have already been to a high altitude destination before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend you spend at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recuperate from your trip, and enjoy the beautiful views of the city before your trek.

Additionally, taking good care of your body helps deal with the extra pressures that altitude creates. We recommend that you eat healthy food, drink lots of water, and stay away from alcohol. Chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea helps alleviate any discomfort associated with the altitude.

More Details about the Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain Add-On

The entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain are additional add-ons that you can choose to purchase besides the Machu Picchu visit already included in this trek. You can visit one of these mountains after your Machu Picchu visit to see the Inca Citadel from the top.

Please send us an email asking about availability. Then, if available, you can select which mountain you would like to climb when you make your reservation online. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are an additional 60 USD.

What is Huayna Picchu Mountain?

Huayna Picchu Mountain is home to the Temple of the Moon and is the famous mountain peak seen behind the ruins in all the classic photos of Machu Picchu. It’s an approximately 45-minute climb with more ruins at the top and offers an incredible view of the Machu Picchu ruins. The visit to Huayna Picchu takes approximately 2 hours. This hike is an additional 60 USD.

What is Machu Picchu Mountain?

Machu Picchu Mountain offers a much higher view of the ruins and overlooks the entire valley. It’s an additional hike within Machu Picchu and is also available for 60 USD.

I’ve made my reservation for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, now what?

Adventure awaits you! We have sent you a confirmation e-mail with more details about your trekking adventure.

The day before your departure, at 17:00, 18:00 or 19:00, please stop by our office located at Portal Espinar Nro 163 to receive the informative briefing. Our professional guide will go over everything you need to know about your trek and answer any final questions you may have.

Do I need hiking experience to complete this trek?

Previous hiking experience is recommended but not required. Our guides are trained to support hikers of all fitness levels and experience, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Most importantly, make sure to acclimate yourself to the altitude before your trek.

Can I leave extra luggage in your office?

Yes, you can leave extra luggage in our office free of charge. Just let us know if you have any fragile or technological items that require special care, and we’ll ensure they are handled appropriately.

What are the minimum and maximum group sizes for the Short Inca Trail?

The minimum group size is 4 people and the maximum group size is 15 people. There will be an assistant guide for groups over 12 people.

What are your cancellation and refund policies?

Please feel free to review our Terms & Conditions and let us know if you have any questions or requests regarding our cancellation policy, which is available on our website.