Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km. 104 – Machu Picchu
We will pick you up from your hotel and then drive to the Ollantaytambo train station. From here we will take the train to Km. 104, where we will begin our walk by crossing the Urubamba (Vilcanota) River, and visit the archaeological complex of Chachabamba. After a brief visit, we will start a four-hour climb to Wiñay Wayna (2,700m / 8,858ft). At this point, the trek will join the main Inca Trail route.
Finally, we will arrive at the Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the entrance gate overlooking Machu Picchu. From here, we will wind our way 40 minutes down a sinuous path to reach Machu Picchu citadel (2,450m / 8,038ft). Then, we will take a bus to Aguas Calientes, and our hotel. At night we will visit the hot springs at the north end of town (optional).
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Our day begins with a private guided tour of Machu Picchu, one of the modern Wonders of the World. Built by Inca Emperor Pachacuteq, this spectacular city has houses, temples, storage buildings and a huge main plaza, all connected with tight streets and stairways. The steep slopes around Machu Picchu are covered in terraces once used for agriculture, possibly to grow the corn used to make the chicha (corn beer) used in sacred rituals and ceremonies.
After the two-hour guided visit, you will have free time to enjoy this spiritual Inca citadel. We’ll return to Ollantaytambo, and then to your Cusco hotel.
What is the best time to do the Short Inca Trail?
Inkas Destination recommends doing the Short Inca Trail during the dry season, which begins in April through November. During these it does not rain and it is appropriate to get the best photographs of the high jungle, archaeological sites and especially of Machu Picchu, it not mean that in rainy season is not good in this season we can see more vegetation like orchides and other flowers and the landscape is more green and colorful.
Important: see the availability of spaces before making your reservation, we recommend separating your space at least 4 months in advance, especially for the months of May, June, July and August, which is high season.
Is there an age limit for the short Inca Trail and do you need physical preparation?
There is no age restriction, so all visitors of any age are suitable for the Short Inca Trail. Families, groups of friends, professionals, school children, university students.
It is not necessary to be a regular athlete or sportsperson, nor to be in shape, it is only recommended to take frequent short walks and have a lot of desire to explore.
How is the food during the short Inca Trail?
In the short Inca trail tour a delicious and consistent boxlunch is provided, it can be Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free or meat, if you have some food restrictions just send what they are and we will take care of sending the best boxlunch option. In Machu Pichcu town you will receive dinner in a restaurant and breakfast on the second day will be taken at the hotel.
Will the altitude sickness affect me on the short Inca Trail?
The tour begins in Chachabamba, which is at 1950 meters above sea level. In the high jungle this means that there are no altitude problems in this area, our guides have a first aid kit and an oxygen bottle in case at any time our visitors suffer any symptoms of altitude sickness, another preventive remedy is so Soon you arrive in Cusco to drink coca tea frequently, which is very helpful to regulate the body for height.
