The Short Inca Trail is a great way to hike to Machu Picchu in a short amount of time.
On day 1, you’ll join the Inca Trail at Km 104 and hike up towards Winay Wayna. Visit these Incredible Inca ruins – the most impressive on the entire Inca Trail! – before continuing on to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). You’ll have your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from here. There is a lot of uphill walking on this trek, over the stone steps first laid by the ancient Inca. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular vistas and a wealth of flora and fauna all along the Short Inca Trail. Bypassing Machu Picchu itself, you will walk or take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, to spend the night in a hotel.
On Day 2, take the bus back up to Machu Picchu to explore this fascinating site. You’ll have a guided tour and possibly time to visit some of the alternative attractions, like the Inca Bridge. You may also want to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes require an extra permit which must be requested at the time of booking.
Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary:
* Stopover in the cultural Cusco and stay at some of the beautiful boutique hotels we have to offer. Ask us about our 3 night Pre and Post Cusco Package which includes a comprehensive Cusco City Tour and more
* Choose from our range of comfort to luxury hotels and cruises to the Galapagos Islands
* Extend your stay in Peru and explore some of its other highlights including Arequipa, the Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca
* Add in a 3 or 4 day trip to an Amazon lodge or upgrade to an Amazon Luxury Cruise.
Our Small Group Short Inca Trail starts only on Monday, Wednesday and Saturdays. If you wish to experience the Short Inca Trail on a private basis and start any day of the week, please contact us. The Short Inca Trail does not operate in February.