INKA TRAIL
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most iconic and sought-after treks, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a transformative adventure.
Introduction
INKA TRAIl
El Inca Trail Corto es la opción ideal para quienes desean experimentar la magia del Camino Inca sin el compromiso de un trekking de varios días. Esta aventura condensada de dos días te permite recorrer una de las secciones más hermosas del sendero original, ofreciendo paisajes espectaculares, sitios arqueológicos fascinantes y la incomparable experiencia de llegar a la ciudadela de Machu Picchu a través de la Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku). Es la combinación perfecta de historia, naturaleza y la recompensa de explorar una de las Siete Maravillas del Mundo
Difficulty and Preparation
- Difficulty: Moderate to high due to altitude and uneven terrain
- Preparation: It is essential to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
- Equipment: Thermal clothing, trekking boots, hiking poles, sunscreen and camping gear
2 DAYS
Day 1: From Cusco to Machu Picchu (Via the Inca Trail)
Your day begins with a very early morning hotel pickup in Cusco. A bus will take you to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board a scenic train that travels through the Sacred Valley. The train will stop at Km 104, the official starting point of your hike.
Start of the Trek: After crossing a suspension bridge over the Urubamba River and checking in at the control point, you’ll begin your ascent. The first part of the trail is a steady climb.
Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna: Along the way, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Chachabamba, a smaller Inca citadel. The most challenging part of the day is the approximately 3-hour climb to the ruins of Wiñay Wayna (meaning “Forever Young” in Quechua), one of the most stunning sites on the entire Inca Trail, with its agricultural terraces spilling down the mountainside.
The Climax: After exploring Wiñay Wayna, you’ll continue along a flatter trail. After about an hour, you’ll reach the Sun Gate (Intipunku)—the very same entry point used by the 4-day trekkers. Here, you’ll get your first epic view of Machu Picchu, a truly unforgettable moment.
Arrival and Transfer: From the Sun Gate, you’ll descend directly to Machu Picchu for photos and a brief visit. Afterward, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes (the town of Machu Picchu), where you’ll check into a hotel, have dinner, and rest for the big day ahead.
Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles).
Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours.
Day 2: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
This day is dedicated entirely to exploring the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Guided Tour: You’ll wake up early, have breakfast, and take one of the first buses up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. You’ll have a guided tour lasting about 2 to 3 hours, where your guide will explain the history, architecture, and mysteries of the citadel. You’ll visit all the key locations, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Condor, and the Temple of the Three Windows.
Free Time: After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the citadel on your own. You can walk the paths again, take more photos, or simply sit and soak in the magical atmosphere.
Departure: In the afternoon, you’ll take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch and a stroll around town before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo or directly to Cusco. From there, a private transfer will take you back to your hotel.
This 2-day itinerary offers the best of both worlds: the satisfaction of completing a portion of the famous Inca Trail and the chance to fully enjoy Machu Picchu without the exhaustion of a longer trek.
INCLUDES + ROUTE DETAILS
Transportation
Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
Transportation to the trek start.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
Snacks (tea, hot water, cookies).
Cook and assistants during the trek.
Safety
First aid kit.
Emergency oxygen.
Not included:
Admission (15-20 soles)
Tips
Before the Hike
Acclimatize: Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days early to acclimatize to the altitude.
Pre-training: Hiking, running, or light cardio to build endurance.
Sleep well: Avoid staying up late or drinking alcohol the day before.
Equipment and Clothing
Small backpack (30–40 L): To carry water, snacks, a camera, a coat, and daily essentials.
Large backpack (60–70 L): If you don’t hire additional porters (mules usually carry some of the weight).
Layered clothing:
Quick-drying t-shirts.
Fleece jackets or a mid-layered coat.
Waterproof and windproof jacket.
Thermal clothing for the evenings (it gets very cold in Soraypampa).
Trekking footwear: Sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots.
Sandals/light sneakers: For resting at camp.
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses (strong sun at high altitudes).
Gloves, hat, and scarf (it can get cold in the early morning).
Headlamp with extra batteries.
Sleeping bag with a temperature of -10°C (if not, rent one).
Food and Hydration
Bring a reusable bottle or camelback (minimum 1.5–2 L).
Water purification tablets or a personal filter.
Energy snacks: nuts, chocolate, cereal bars.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the trip.
Health and Safety Tips
Walk at your own pace, without rushing (especially on the climb to Salkantay Pass, 4,650 m).
Use coca leaves or sorojchi pills if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
Protect yourself from the cold at night and from the sun during the day (sudden changes in weather).
Bring a personal first-aid kit: pain relievers, band-aids, and your own medications.
Always follow the guide’s instructions.
Extras to Consider
Cash in soles (for swims, extra snacks, tips, and the Cocalmayo hot springs).
Swimsuit and a light towel if you plan to go to the hot springs.
Camera with extra battery (there’s not always electricity to charge).
