Do you dream of exploring the ancient Inca trails to Machu Picchu, but don’t have several days to spare? The Short Inca Trail is the perfect option for you. In just two days, this optional version of the legendary Inca Trail allows you to experience an unforgettable adventure, traversing stunning landscapes and delving into Peru’s rich history, all while heading towards the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
Get ready to discover the magic of this route that combines the best of hiking and archaeological exploration in an accessible and exciting experience. Your adventure on the Short Inca Trail awaits!
Overview of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
What is the Short Inca Trail?
The Short Inca Trail, or the “Inca Express Trail” or the 2-Day Inca Trail, is an option for the famous 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour. It’s designed for travelers who don’t have much time or haven’t booked the 4-day Inca Trail tour but still want to experience this grand trekking option of two days, offering you an exciting adventure completed in just a few days.
General Facts:
- Duration: 2 days/1 night.
- Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers/6.3 miles.
- Highest Altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft ASL.
- Starting Point: The journey begins at kilometer 104 of the railway that connects Cusco with Aguas Calientes.

Nature and cobblestone paths will accompany you from start to finish
Difficulty of the Short Inca Trail
Considering factors like duration, distance, and highest altitude, the Short Inca Trail difficulty is considered as easy. However, the weather and your physical condition may make trekking feel more challenging, which is why we recommend hiking between May and October (the dry season) and hiking training.
Short Inca Trail Route
The trailhead is KM104 of the railway that connects Ollantaytambo with Aguas Calientes. From here, you must show the permits to the park rangers and then ascend toward the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca structure along the way. After exploring Wiñay Wayna, hikers continue toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where they will get their first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. There’s nothing like choosing the right version for an unparalleled experience on the Short Inca Trail.

Nothing like choosing the right version, to have an unparalleled experience on the Inca Trail.
Planning
Preparing for the Short Inca Trail Hike
While no extensive preparation is required since the trail isn’t considered as difficult, physical and mental preparation will positively impact your experience while you hike up on this journey. As a recommendation, we suggest engaging in muscular endurance and cardiovascular exercises about 2 to 3 months before coming to Peru.

Complement your physical preparation for the Inca Trail for better results.
Permits for the Short Inca Trail
Like the classic version, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu also requires exclusive permits, which must be reserved well in advance and can only be obtained through a legal travel agency.
Availability of the Short Inca Trail
Just like the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail permits are regulated by the government that must conserve the area. There is a daily limit of 250 permits, and unlike the classic route, these are exclusively for tourists and guides. Keep this in mind when booking your Short Inca Trail experience, they must be booked ahead.
Short Inca Trail Prices
Prices for Short Inca Trail tours depend on the season, group size, type of service (group or private), and any additional requests. Each agency sets its own price based on the service, transportations, quality of guides and hotels, so the range is typically between $450 and USD 600.
Short Inca Trail Itinerary Summary
Day 1: Start of the Tour from the Hotel
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and transferred to the checkpoint at Km 104 of the railway, where your adventure along the Inca Trail begins. In the morning, you’ll hike a trail that ascends to Chachabamba, a ceremonial archaeological site.
Second Stage (Arrival at Machu Picchu)
Upon arriving at Machu Picchu, you’ll witness the breathtaking view of the ancient city and the surrounding mountains, Huchuy Picchu and Wayna Picchu for a while because you will explore it deeper the next day. Be ready with your camera to capture this unforgettable moment.

Start this journey with a great mix of activities for a better experience.
Short Inca Trail Day 2
On the second day, you’ll take a bus to the Archaeological Complex of Machu Picchu in the morning, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Afterward, you’ll head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo, where you will catch a transfer back to Cusco.

Make the most of your day to capture the best photos before returning to Cusco and finishing the tour.
Experience and Value
Landscapes of the Short Inca Trail
Every step on this trail brings you closer to a world-famous final destination, but the true treasure lies in the landscapes you encounter along the way. From cloud forests to Andean highlands, each corner offers unique postcard photos, a story to tell, and a memory that will last forever for those who venture out to discover it.

Don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture these dreamlike settings.
Archaeological Complexes
- Chachabamba: An Inca archaeological site that marks the beginning of the hike and where park rangers control all the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permits.
- Wiñay Wayna: An impressive Inca citadel built in terraces, one of the highlights during the route.
- Inti Punku (Sun Gate): The ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu, offering your first breathtaking view of the Incan city.

The cultural part of these archaeological sites will enrich your adventure!
Meals on the Short Inca Trail
On the Short Inca Trail, meals are typically simple and practical due to the shorter duration of the trek. A box lunch is often provided, which includes basic and energy-rich items like a sandwich, fruit, a granola bar, and a drink. It’s a convenient option for hikers, as it allows you to eat anywhere without stopping for a long time.
If you’re looking for a more elaborate dining experience during the trek, some travel agencies offer premium services, including better food, with hot options prepared by a chef.
Key Differences – Classic Inca Trail vs Short Inca Trail
Talking about exploring Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail offers two main options: the 4-day Classic Inca Trail and the 2 day Inca Trail Express. Both are unique experiences, but each has distinct features suited to different types of travelers and budgets.
2 Day Inca Trail Express
- Duration: 2 days and 1 night.
- Route: Focuses on the final but spectacular stretch near Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: Requires good physical condition but, at a more relaxed pace.
Advantages:
- Ideal for those short on time.
- Includes highlights like Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate.
- Intense experience in less time.
Disadvantages:
- Less archaeological immersion than on the Classic Inca Trail.
- Not reach high altitudes on the hike.
4-Day Classic Inca Trail
- Duration: 4 days and 3 nights.
- Route: Covers a longer stretch, passing through various ecosystems and archaeological sites.
- Difficulty: Requires fit hikers due to steep climbs and altitude.
Advantages:
- Greater immersion in Inca culture.
- More time to acclimatize.
- Opportunity to connect with nature.
- More complete experience.
Disadvantages:
- Requires more time and planning.
- It is more expensive.
Additional Recommendations
Acclimatization for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Even though the Short Inca Trail is not as long or demanding as the 4-day version, acclimatization is still important for a safe and enjoyable experience. We recommend the following:
- Arrive early: Get to Cusco (3,400 m / 11,150 ft) at least 2 or 3 days before starting the Short Inca Trail.
- Do light activities: Take it easy during your first days in Cusco, with light walks around the city.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you. Coca tea or chewing coca leaves can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Get enough rest: Proper sleep is essential for your body to recover and adapt to the altitude.
- Eat well: Have light and healthy meals, avoiding heavy and greasy foods that are harder to digest at high altitudes.
- Consult your doctor: If you’ve had altitude issues before, see your doctor before traveling. Some travelers take medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent altitude sickness.
- Listen to your body: Be mindful of symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Seek medical help immediately if symptoms worsen.

Following these tips can help you avoid altitude sickness everywhere.
What to Bring for the Short Inca Trail
Clothing and Footwear
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
- Layered Clothing:
- Quick-Drying Shirts (2): To stay cool while hiking.
- Mid-Layer: A fleece or light jacket if it’s cold.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket for rain and wind protection.
- Hat or Cap: To protect yourself from the sun and UV radiations.
Gear
- Daypack: With enough capacity (25-30 liters) for your essentials during the hike.
- Trekking Poles: Optional, but useful for stability on uneven terrain and reduce the effort.
- Water Bottle: To stay hydrated along the way.
Protection
- Sunscreen: High SPF.
- Sunglasses: With UV protection.
- Lip Balm: With sun protection.
- Rain Poncho or Coat: To protect from sudden rain showers.
Personal Items
- Documents
- Passport: Required for entry to Machu Picchu and checkpoint verifications.
- Entry Tickets: For the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and other archaeological sites included in your package.
- Personal Medications: Including those for altitude sickness if necessary.
- Hygiene Essentials: Deodorant, toilet paper, wet wipes, and toothbrush.
- Snacks: Energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts.
- Camera and Extra Batteries: To capture memories.
Others
- Cash: For unforeseen expenses or tips.
- Zip-lock bag: To protect your belongings from rain.
- Quick-Dry Towel: Compact and lightweight.
- Change of Clothes: To use after the hike.
Tour Options for the Short Inca Trail
Short Inca Trail with Camping
The 2-day Inca Trail hike with camping is a lesser-known alternative offered by only a few agencies. It is perfect for travelers who want to fully immerse themselves in nature by camping on a campground less than one kilometer away from Aguas Calientes.
What sets it apart is the unique experience of spending the night camping in the wilderness, instead of staying in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, offering a deeper connection with nature.
Sacred Valley Tour with Short Inca Trail
This version differs from the standard 2 day Inca Trail hike tour, as it extends to 3 days. The first day is dedicated to exploring the Sacred Valley of the Incas, ending with a night in Ollantaytambo before embarking on the Short Inca Trail.
“Best 2 Day Inca Trail Express Tour”
To choose the best Short Inca Trail offer in the market, consider your personal preferences, budget, and required services. It’s also important to choose an agency with a great background. Here are some of the top-rated agencies that offer this incredible adventure.
Budget-Friendly Short Inca Trail
If you’re looking for the most economical option for the Short Inca Trail, we suggest doing thorough research, keeping in mind factors like what’s included in the package and potential extra fees. Here are some tips:
- Look for local agencies: Local agencies often offer lower prices than international ones.
- Compare packages: Check what’s included, such as entrance fees, transportation, accommodation, guides, and meals.
- Take advantage of deals and discounts: Many travel agencies offer discounts during certain seasons, so be sure to ask during your inquiries.
Is the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, the Short Inca Trail is the perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture. This condensed version allows you to experience the thrill of hiking part of the legendary “Qhapaq Ñan,” taking in the best section of the trail with warm weather, lush nature, and archaeological sites, culminating in Machu Picchu.
Short Inca Trail Review
While the 4-day Classic Inca Trail is unparalleled, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a fantastic, more condensed experience for travelers who wish to challenge themselves and enjoy incredible rewards in less time.
Conclusion
The Short Inca Trail tour is more than just an alternative hike; it’s a gateway to Incan history and culture, offering an experience that combines natural beauty with the mysteries of an ancient civilization. This 2-day journey is ideal for those seeking a rewarding adventure without sacrificing time or comfort. Here are the most common questions of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Prepare properly, compare prices, and select the tour that fits your travel goals and schedule. The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a key advantage—it’s less crowded than its classic counterpart.
Don’t wait any longer to embark on one of the most fascinating experiences in the world. Reserve your spot on the Short Inca Trail and dive into an adventure that connects you with history, nature, and yourself.