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- Duration 2 days / 1 night
- Difficulty Moderate
- Group size 8 to 12 people
- Max. altitude 2,700 m (8,860 ft)
- Travel style Adventure, trekking
- Departure Cusco
Our Short Inca Trail leaves Cusco very early for Ollantaytambo, where we take the train to Km 104. From there we hike about 12 km (7.5 miles) to Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate, sleep in a hotel in Aguas Calientes and tour Machu Picchu the next morning. It takes 2 days and 1 night, from US$450 per person.
It is the way to reach Machu Picchu on foot without camping: one day of hiking on the final section of the Inca Trail and one night in a tourist-class hotel. We travel in groups of 8 to 12 people with a professional guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese.
Where does the Short Inca Trail start?
The hike starts at Km 104 of the railway to Machu Picchu, in the Urubamba River valley. From Cusco we drive by private vehicle to Ollantaytambo station, then ride the train (standard or Vistadome, depending on your option) to the trailhead. The round-trip train, private transport and the bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu are all included.
Short Inca Trail altitude
This route is much lower than Cusco. You start at about 7,050 ft (2,150 m) at Km 104, the highest point stays below 8,860 ft (2,700 m), and Machu Picchu sits at 7,970 ft (2,430 m). Even so, we recommend spending at least one day in Cusco, at around 11,150 ft (3,400 m), before the hike so you arrive acclimatized.
Short Inca Trail step by step
| Day | Stage | What we do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cusco – Km 104 | Very early private transfer to Ollantaytambo and train to Km 104 |
| 1 | Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna | Hike with river and Andean flora views; visit the Inca site and lunch (box lunch included) |
| 1 | Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes | First view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku in the afternoon, then down to the hotel |
| 2 | Machu Picchu | Bus up at sunrise, 2 to 3-hour guided tour and free time |
| 2 | Aguas Calientes – Cusco | Lunch on your own, train to Ollantaytambo and arrival in Cusco around 7:00–8:00 p.m. |
Is the Short Inca Trail hard? Who is it for?
It is moderate: about 6 hours of hiking with ups, downs and stone steps, but no high mountain pass and no nights in a tent. It suits travelers with only a few days in Cusco, first-time hikers in the Andes, or anyone who wants to walk part of the Inca Trail without committing four days. You need reasonable fitness; if you have any health concerns, check with your doctor before you travel. We recommend trekking shoes with good grip and a light daypack.
Best time for the Short Inca Trail
From April to October, the dry season, there is less rain and a better chance of clear skies at the Sun Gate. Because it uses the same trail network as the classic route, it requires an entry permit and closes every February for maintenance. Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking 4 to 6 months ahead.
Bring your original passport: your Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu ticket are issued in your name, and you will be asked for it at the checkpoints.
Short Inca Trail, Classic Inca Trail or Machu Picchu by train?
If you want the full experience, the 4-day Classic Inca Trail starts at Km 82, crosses Dead Woman’s Pass and camps for three nights. If you would rather not hike, the 2-day Machu Picchu tour also overnights in Aguas Calientes but arrives by train, and the Machu Picchu Full Day does it all in one day. The Short Inca Trail sits in between: you walk in through the Sun Gate and rest in a hotel. Learn more about Wiñay Wayna, the Inca site you visit halfway.
To plan your trip, read our guide: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Guide to Routes, Permits and Tips.
To plan your trip, read our guide: Huayna Picchu 2027: Tickets, the Climb, Circuits and Tips.
To plan your trip, read our guide: Machu Picchu Tickets 2027: Circuits, Routes and How to Buy.
Book with a local agency in Cusco
We are a Cusco-based agency and we take care of your permit, trains, hotel and Machu Picchu ticket. Book through the form on this page or contact us with your travel dates; if you would like to add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, let us know when you book.
Full itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
Early departure from Cusco
We leave Cusco very early in a private vehicle to the train station in Ollantaytambo. From there we take the train to Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Start of the hike at Km 104
At Km 104 we begin the trek towards Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Along the way you will enjoy panoramic views of mountains, rivers and Andean flora.
Wiñay Wayna, the most impressive archaeological site
We reach Wiñay Wayna, an Inca complex set on a mountainside. After exploring its terraces and buildings, we have lunch before continuing towards Machu Picchu.
Arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
In the afternoon we arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you get your first spectacular view of Machu Picchu. After a short rest and time for photos, we go down to Aguas Calientes, where dinner is included and you spend the night in a hotel.
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
After breakfast at the hotel (included), early in the morning we take the bus up to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of approximately 2 to 3 hours. You will visit the key areas of the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza and the agricultural terraces, while our guide shares the history and culture of the Incas.
Free time at Machu Picchu
After the guided tour you will have free time to explore Machu Picchu at your own pace. If you wish, you can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking and extra fee required).
Return to Aguas Calientes and train back
We take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch (not included) before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. At the station, a private vehicle takes you back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 or 8:00 p.m.
What is included
- Private transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and back
- Round-trip train tickets (standard or Vistadome, depending on the option booked)
- Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional guide in English, Spanish or Portuguese
- Accommodation in Aguas Calientes (1 night)
- Round-trip bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Box lunch on the first day
- Dinner on the first day in Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast on the second day at the hotel
Not included
- Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the second day
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, requires advance booking)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides or drivers (optional)
Frequently asked questions
1. Is acclimatization necessary for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. We recommend spending at least one day in Cusco to acclimatize before the hike, even though the trail stays below 2,700 m. Coca tea helps ease mild symptoms. Enjoy the Cusco City Tour while you adjust.
2. How much time will we spend at Machu Picchu?
About 4 to 5 hours on Day 2, including a 2 to 3-hour guided tour of places such as the Temple of the Sun and the terraces, plus free time. On Day 1 you also arrive through Inti Punku. Learn more in Sun Gate: A Gateway to Adventure and History.
3. Can I add the Huayna Picchu hike to the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, you can add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, but it requires advance booking and an additional fee. Contact us to arrange it. For a longer adventure, compare it with the Classic Inca Trail.
4. What type of accommodation is included in Aguas Calientes?
One night in a comfortable tourist-class hotel in Aguas Calientes, with the option to upgrade at an extra cost. For more travel advice, read 10 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cusco.
5. Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for older adults or people with limited mobility?
Yes, but the 12 km hike on Day 1 requires moderate effort. If you have health concerns, consult your doctor before the trip. If you are looking for a more challenging trek, try the Choquequirao Trek.
6. What is the shortest Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is the shortest hiking route to Machu Picchu: 2 days and 1 night, with a 12 km hike on Day 1. The Classic Inca Trail takes 4 days.
7. Is the Short Inca Trail difficult?
It is moderate: a 12 km hike on Day 1 with climbs and stone steps, and a highest point of about 2,700 m. It is less strenuous than longer treks but requires a steady pace. Read Wiñay Wayna: Always Young for more insights.
8. What is the difference between the Classic Inca Trail and the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek with 12 km of hiking, while the Classic Inca Trail is a 4-day, 43 km journey. The short route skips some ruins but still includes Wiñay Wayna. Explore the full experience with the Classic Inca Trail.
9. How long is the 2-day Inca Trail?
About 12 km, hiked on Day 1 from Km 104 to Machu Picchu via Wiñay Wayna. The hike takes about 6 hours.
10. What is the elevation gain on the Short Inca Trail?
It is modest: the trail starts at about 2,150 m at Km 104, passes Wiñay Wayna (about 2,650 m) and reaches its highest point at around 2,700 m before descending to Machu Picchu (2,430 m). The altitude is manageable with light preparation.
11. What permits are needed for the Short Inca Trail?
An Inca Trail permit is required. Permits are limited to about 500 per day, of which only about 200 are for travelers, and we handle the paperwork. We recommend booking 4 to 6 months in advance.
12. What is the history of the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail is part of the Inca road network built more than 500 years ago to connect Machu Picchu. You will learn about this history at sites such as Wiñay Wayna. Learn more in The Inca Empire: The Golden Age of the Andes.
13. What is the altitude of the Short Inca Trail?
The trail starts at about 2,150 m at Km 104, passes Wiñay Wayna at about 2,650 m and does not go above roughly 2,700 m. Machu Picchu is at 2,430 m, lower than Cusco. Acclimatize in Cusco to feel comfortable.
14. What should I pack for the Short Inca Trail?
Light clothing, a jacket, sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, your passport and comfortable hiking shoes. See 10 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable Trip to Cusco for more tips.
15. How do you find your way on the Short Inca Trail?
Our guide leads you along the 12 km route from Km 104 to Machu Picchu, so you do not need a map, and makes sure you do not miss highlights such as Wiñay Wayna. Read Wiñay Wayna: Always Young for details.
16. Can I take photos on the Short Inca Trail?
Yes. You can photograph ruins such as Wiñay Wayna and the views of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku. For more scenic shots, add the Rainbow Mountain Tour.
17. What meals are provided on the Short Inca Trail?
Three meals are included: a box lunch on Day 1, dinner on Day 1 in Aguas Calientes and breakfast on Day 2 at the hotel. Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 2 are not included. Please tell us about any dietary needs when you book. Learn about local cuisine in Andean Food: Authentic Flavors not to be Missed.
18. What is the weather like on the Short Inca Trail?
Days are mild (10–20 °C) and nights cooler (5–10 °C); the best months are April to October. The trail closes in February because of the rains. Pack layers for the hike.
19. How many days is the Short Inca Trail?
2 days and 1 night: a 12 km hike on Day 1 and the Machu Picchu visit on Day 2. It is a good option if you are short on time.
20. What is the Short Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu?
The route covers about 12 km from Km 104 to Inti Punku, passing ruins such as Wiñay Wayna, and you arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Learn more in Sun Gate: A Gateway to Adventure and History.
21. What time do we get back to Cusco on Day 2?
After lunch in Aguas Calientes you take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our private vehicle picks you up. You arrive in Cusco around 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
22. Which train is included on the Short Inca Trail?
Round-trip train tickets are included, in standard or Vistadome class depending on the option you book. The outbound train drops you at Km 104 and the return train leaves from Aguas Calientes.
23. Should I hike the Short Inca Trail or take the train all the way to Machu Picchu?
If you can walk about 6 hours, the Short Inca Trail lets you arrive through the Sun Gate and visit Wiñay Wayna on the way. If you prefer not to hike, our 2-day Machu Picchu tour by train follows a similar plan with a night in Aguas Calientes.
Recommendations and what to bring
What to bring
- Your original passport, the same one used to book the permit: it is checked at Km 104, on the train and at Machu Picchu
- Light, comfortable clothing and a warm layer for the early start and the evening
- A rain poncho or light rain jacket, as showers are possible on the trail
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent
- A small backpack with water and light snacks for the hike (there are no porters on this trek, so you carry your own daypack)
- A small overnight bag for Aguas Calientes; leave your large luggage at your hotel in Cusco, as trains to Machu Picchu have hand-luggage limits
- Cash in soles for lunch on Day 2, restrooms and small purchases in Aguas Calientes
Recommended footwear
- Hiking boots or comfortable shoes with good grip for the stone steps and uneven terrain
Local remedies
- Coca tea: helps prevent altitude discomfort before and during the hike
- Coca or muña candies: good for keeping your energy up during the trek
Medication
- Pain relievers for headaches or minor discomfort
- Your personal medication and something for an upset stomach
Possible issues during the tour
- Altitude sickness: the hike is lower than Cusco, but some people may feel mild symptoms. Coca tea and coca candies can help.
- Fatigue: Day 1 includes about 6 hours of hiking, so keep a steady pace and rest when needed.
- Dehydration: even with mild temperatures, drink water regularly throughout the day.
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