Rainbow Mountain Trek
Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Experience the breathtaking colors of the Andes...
The Short Inca Trail 2 Days is the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail without committing to the full 4-day trek. This carefully designed route offers stunning Andean landscapes, rich flora and fauna, and a visit to Wiñay Wayna, the most impressive archaeological site along the trail. With a hike of just 10 km (6.3 miles), you’ll enjoy the highlights of the classic Inca Trail in a single day, followed by two unforgettable visits to Machu Picchu one in the afternoon and another the next morning allowing you to capture the citadel in different light and at a more relaxed pace.
Your Short Inca Trail 2 Days adventure begins with an early transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, followed by a scenic train ride to Km 104, the starting point of the hike. From here, you’ll walk along original Inca stone paths through lush landscapes rich in flora and fauna, while your guide shares insights into Inca history and culture.
Along the trail, you’ll explore important archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and the stunning Wiñay Wayna, considered the most beautiful ruins on the Inca Trail. After lunch, the hike continues to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu from above.
You’ll then descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into your hotel and have the evening free to relax or visit the town’s hot springs.
Hiking summary:
After an early breakfast, you’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of approximately two hours, exploring its most important temples, terraces, and viewpoints. You’ll then have free time to explore on your own or choose an optional hike to Huayna Picchu (subject to availability).
Later, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will take you back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco: Start your adventure with a convenient pick-up from your hotel and private transfer to the train station.
Scenic Train to KM 104: Enjoy a breathtaking train ride through the Sacred Valley to Kilometer 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Professional English-Speaking Guide: A certified and highly experienced guide will lead the trek, sharing valuable insights into Inca history, culture, and the surrounding natural landscapes.
Assistant Guide for Larger Groups: For groups of 9 travelers or more, an assistant guide joins the tour to ensure personalized attention and safety throughout the hike.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes: One night of comfortable accommodation in Machu Picchu Pueblo, conveniently located near the bus station.
Boxed Lunch (Day 1): A nutritious boxed lunch including proteins, carbohydrates, fruits, and snacks—perfect for enjoying along the trail.
Breakfast (Day 2): Enjoy a fresh hotel breakfast with hot beverages, fruits, bread, and local specialties before visiting Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Entrance Fees: All required permits and entrance tickets are included and secured in advance.
Round-Trip Bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes: Comfortable shuttle service to and from the Machu Picchu citadel.
Return Transportation to Cusco: Scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo followed by private transport to your hotel in Cusco.
Safety Equipment: First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle carried by your guide for your peace of mind.
Breakfast on Day 1: Usually provided by your hotel in Cusco before departure and not included in the tour price.
Lunch & Dinner on Day 2: After the guided visit to Machu Picchu, meals are at your own expense. Aguas Calientes offers plenty of restaurants to choose from before returning to Cusco.
Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases such as drinks, snacks, souvenirs, or optional services (massages, laundry, or extra transportation).
Tips for Guides and Staff: Tipping is optional but greatly appreciated. The amount is entirely at your discretion and should reflect the quality of service provided by your guide and support team.
Passport
Bag
Bottle Water
Money Cash in Soles
Rain jacket or rain poncho
long-sleeve trekking shirts
short-sleeve shirts
Pants
Deport Pants
Rain Jacket
Hat
Sunglasses
Beanie
Gloves
Short
Shoes
Sunscreen
Insect Repelent
Access to the Short Inca Trail (Km 104) is strictly limited to 250 people per day, including guides and staff. Once permits sell out, no further reservations can be made for that date. Permits are limited and should be booked well in advance, especially during the high season.
⚠️ The Inca Trail is closed in February for annual maintenance.
Pack light: Porters are not included on this trek, so you will carry everything in a daypack.
Recommended items: comfortable hiking shoes, rain jacket, layers, reusable water bottle, sunscreen.
Not recommended for travelers with serious back problems.
Day 1 includes 6–8 hours of hiking, with uphill sections. Day 2 is easier and focused on Machu Picchu.
Daily departures with a minimum of 2 travelers.
Wheelchair access is not available.
Original passport is mandatory at the checkpoint.
Strikes and roadblocks may occur in Peru and can affect train or road services. If this happens, Salas Travel Peru will adapt the itinerary to ensure your experience continues safely:
Strike on Day 1: Transfer to Aguas Calientes the night before (hotel not included). The next day, you’ll hike an extra section to reach Km 104.
Strike on Day 2: Return via Hidroelectrica, including an additional 2-hour hike and a van transfer back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance. In case of illness, injury, or last-minute cancellation, insurance may reimburse non-refundable costs such as permits and medical expenses.
The Short Inca Trail is considered moderately difficult. While it is only one day of hiking, it includes stone steps, steep ascents, and altitude. Most travelers with a basic fitness level complete it comfortably.
The Andes are unpredictable.
Dry season: April to October
Rainy season: November to March
Rain can occur at any time of year. Bring rain gear and warm layers—temperatures can change quickly, and you may experience multiple climates in one day.
The highest point is the Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,924 ft). To reduce altitude discomfort, we recommend spending 1–2 days in Cusco before the trek.
All return logistics are organized by us:
Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (30 minutes)
Train to Ollantaytambo or Poroy
Private transfer back to your hotel in Cusco
Estimated travel times:
Ollantaytambo → Cusco: 1.5 hours
Poroy → Cusco: 40 minutes
Solo travelers share a hotel room with another traveler of the same sex.
Couples receive a private room.
A mandatory briefing takes place one day before departure at 7:00 PM at our Cusco office. You’ll meet your guide, review the itinerary, receive packing advice, and resolve any final questions.
📞 +51 992 881 899
📧 info@salastravelperu.com
To secure your spot, simply click BOOK NOW, choose your departure date, complete the traveler information, and pay the USD 150 deposit using a credit or debit card. Once permits are confirmed, your date is fully guaranteed.
You may add Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain, Vistadome Train, and walking sticks. Mountain tickets and train upgrades must be booked together with your Inca Trail permit due to limited availability. Walking sticks can also be rented in Cusco one day before departure.
This trek includes two different circuits:
Upper Terrace (Circuit 1) on Day 1 for the classic panoramic photo.
Royal Circuit (Circuit 3) on Day 2, covering the most important temples and structures of Machu Picchu.
Yes. You may safely store extra luggage either at our office or at your hotel in Cusco. We recommend carrying only what you need for the hike.
The balance can be paid:
In cash (USD or soles) one day before departure
By credit card (5% fee)
Via PayPal at least one week in advance (7% fee)
Yes.
Travelers under 18 years old receive a discount automatically.
Travelers 18+ must present a valid physical student ID.
A copy of the passport and student card must be sent at the time of booking.
No. Once Short Inca Trail permits are issued, dates cannot be changed, transferred, or refunded. Only passport numbers can be updated if renewed.
If added, Huayna Picchu is scheduled between 9:00 and 10:00 am on Day 2. You’ll enjoy an early guided tour of Machu Picchu first, then hike Huayna Picchu, finishing around midday before returning to Aguas Calientes.
⚠️ Huayna Picchu tickets sell out quickly and must be booked in advance.
Machu Picchu Mountain is scheduled between 8:00 and 9:00 am. After an early guided tour, you’ll exit and re-enter the site for the mountain hike, which takes approximately 3 hours.
Yes. Your Machu Picchu entrance ticket is included with the Short Inca Trail 2 Days.
Inca Trail permits allow flexible entry. We usually enter early in the morning to avoid crowds, but timing can be adjusted depending on the group.
The Short Inca Trail is rated moderate to challenging. It includes stone steps, uphill sections, and altitude. A reasonable fitness level is recommended.
Yes. Your original passport is mandatory and will be checked at:
Km 104 checkpoint
Machu Picchu entrance
Train boarding
You may book using your old passport or any official ID (same name). Once you receive your new passport, send us a copy immediately so we can update your permit.
Typically:
Day 1: Early morning train to Km 104
Day 2: Afternoon return train, arriving in Cusco early evening
Schedules may vary depending on upgrades or add-ons.
Yes. Staying in Ollantaytambo or Urubamba allows for a later pick-up and more rest before departure.
Yes. Booking your own hotel reduces the tour price by USD 40 per person. Please inform us of your hotel details in advance.
No. Pets are not permitted on the Inca Trail or in Machu Picchu. Only certified guide dogs are allowed with special permits.
Reusable bottles or hydration bladders are required. Single-use plastic bottles are prohibited on the Inca Trail.
There is no official age limit, but we recommend a minimum age of 7 years due to steep sections.
There is no official limit for hikers. However, porters are restricted to a maximum load of 20 kg.
Groups usually reach the Sun Gate around mid-afternoon, arriving at Machu Picchu shortly after for photos before descending to Aguas Calientes.
We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before departure, especially if coming from sea level.
Cusco: ~3,500 m (11,251 ft)
Km 104: ~2,170 m (7,120 ft)
Highest point (Sun Gate): ~2,720 m (8,924 ft)
Machu Picchu: ~2,430 m (7,972 ft)
The best months are April to October, with peak demand from May to August. The trail is closed in February for maintenance.
Breakfast in Ollantaytambo (Day 1)
Picnic lunch on the trail (Day 1)
Dinner in Aguas Calientes (Day 1)
Breakfast at the hotel (Day 2)
Final lunch is not included.
Porters assist with logistics and meals but do not carry personal belongings. A personal porter can be hired for an additional fee.
No. The Peruvian government requires all Short Inca Trail hikers to be accompanied by a licensed tour operator and certified guide.
Absolutely incredible experience! The guide was so knowledgeable about the Inca history. The train ride through the Sacred Valley was breathtaking. Highly recommend Salas Travel.
Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. We didn't have to worry about a single ticket or transfer. Machu Picchu is stunning!
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