Overview
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
- Complete the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu over two days.
- Begin hiking at Km 104 and follow historic Inca stone pathways through cloud forest.
- Explore the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
- Reach Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, before continuing toward Machu Picchu.
- Experience two visits to the Machu Picchu area across Days 1 and 2.
- Camp near the Urubamba River at Puente Ruinas.
- Enjoy meals prepared as part of the trekking experience.
- Return to Machu Picchu on Day 2 for a guided visit.
- Travel with official Inca Trail permits and professional local guides.
- Return from Aguas Calientes by train and continue by transportation to Cusco.
Journey Overview
01
Cusco – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Puente RuinasTravel to Km 104 and hike the Short Inca Trail through Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate and continuing toward Machu Picchu. Finish the day at the campsite near Puente Ruinas.
02
Puente Ruinas – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – CuscoReturn to Machu Picchu for the main guided visit before descending to Aguas Calientes and traveling by train and private transportation back to Cusco.
Itinerary
Cusco – KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Puente Ruinas
Your 2-Day Inca Trail adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:00 a.m. Pick-up time may vary depending on the location of your accommodation. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley near Ollantaytambo, pick-up is generally scheduled for approximately 5:30 a.m.
Travel to Ollantaytambo Train Station and board the Expedition train toward Km 104, the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Upon arrival, complete the checkpoint procedures using your original passport and Inca Trail permit. Before beginning the hike, enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast surrounded by the Andean landscape.
The trekking route begins with a visit to Chachabamba. Explore the archaeological site with your guide before continuing along the historic stone pathways of the Inca Trail.
From Chachabamba, the trail gradually ascends through cloud forest and the Urubamba Valley. Continue hiking for approximately four hours until reaching Wiñay Wayna, where you will explore its terraces, structures, and water channels with your guide.
Enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing along the final section of the Short Inca Trail. The route then leads toward Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, where you can enjoy panoramic views toward Machu Picchu when conditions are clear.
From Inti Punku, continue along the trail into the upper panoramic sector of Machu Picchu, following the route permitted by your Day 1 entrance ticket.
After completing the first visit, take the shuttle bus toward Puente Ruinas, where the campsite will be prepared by the trekking team. Enjoy dinner and spend the night camping near the Urubamba River.
- Hiking Distance10 km / 6.2 miles
- Duration6 to 7 hours
- Campsite Altitude2,000 m / 6,562 ft
- Highest Altitude2,700 m / 8,858 ft
- MealsBreakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, and snacks
- AccommodationCamping
- DifficultyModerate
Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Begin the morning at the campsite with a hot drink and breakfast before taking the shuttle bus back to Machu Picchu.
Explore Machu Picchu with your professional guide during an approximately 2 to 3-hour visit. Learn about the site’s history, architecture, terraces, ceremonial areas, and other important sectors while following the official route assigned to your entrance ticket.
Optional visits to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain require separate entrance tickets and advance reservations and are not included in the standard tour package.
After completing the Machu Picchu visit, take the shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time for lunch, which is not included, before beginning the return journey.
In the afternoon, board the return train toward Ollantaytambo or Poroy according to the scheduled service. Upon arrival, transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, with estimated arrival at approximately 7:30 p.m.
- Guided Tour Duration2 to 3 hours
- Machu Picchu Altitude2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- MealsBreakfast
- DifficultyEasy
Inclusions
We carefully organize every aspect of your experience from transportation and professional local guides to the services and activities included in your itinerary allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your adventure.
Because every tour is unique, included services may vary depending on the itinerary you choose. We encourage you to review each program carefully before booking to ensure you have all the information you need and can prepare for an unforgettable experience in Cusco and Peru.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
- Official permit and ticket for the Short Inca Trail. Permits are subject to availability and are issued for a specific date under the traveler’s name. Passport number changes are only permitted for passport renewal, in which case both the old and new passports must be provided.
- Machu Picchu Archaeological Site entrance ticket – Circuit 1, Route 1-C.
- Machu Picchu Archaeological Site entrance ticket – Circuit 3, Route 3-B.
Quality Service & Safety
- Pre-departure briefing with your guide before the tour.
- Experienced professional tour guide.
- Medical or first aid kit and emergency oxygen carried by the guide.
- Private camping equipment.
- Dining tent, tables, chairs, cooking equipment, and sleeping pads / foam mattresses.
- Trekking support team responsible for transporting the camping equipment.
- 24/7 customer service.
Meals
- Meals provided according to the daily itinerary.
- Day 1: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, and snacks.
- Day 2: Breakfast.
Accommodation
- 1 night of camping accommodation at Puente Ruinas.
Transportation
- Day 1: Transportation from Cusco to the departure train station.
- Day 1: Expedition train from Ollantaytambo or Poroy to Km 104, according to the scheduled service.
- Day 1: Bus transportation from Machu Picchu toward the Puente Ruinas / Aguas Calientes area.
- Day 2: Round-trip bus transportation between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
- Day 2: Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy, according to the scheduled service.
- Day 2: Transportation from the train arrival point to your hotel in Cusco.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
- Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
- Lunch and dinner on Day 2.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for our staff.
- Additional costs or delays beyond our control, including landslides, adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications required for safety, illness, changes in government regulations, political instability, strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Before you go
The information below will help you plan your trip, understand how our tours operate, and enjoy a smooth travel experience from the moment you arrive in Cusco until the end of your journey.
Preparing for Your Adventure
A little preparation can make a big difference. We recommend reviewing your itinerary, packing according to the season, and making sure you have all the required travel documents before your tour begins.
If you have any questions before your arrival, our team will be happy to assist you.
Acclimatization in Cusco
Many destinations in the Peruvian Andes are located above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), making altitude an important factor for travelers.
To help your body adjust, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before beginning any trekking adventure. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding intense physical activity during your first day are simple ways to improve acclimatization.
Briefing or Informative Meeting
One day before your departure, our operations team will contact you to confirm your pick-up time, meeting point, and any final details related to your tour.
Please make sure your contact information is available and active during your stay in Cusco.
Trek Balance Payment
If your reservation has an outstanding balance, the remaining payment must be completed before your tour departure according to the terms of your booking confirmation.
For your convenience, we accept payments in Peruvian soles (PEN) or US dollars (USD). You may also pay by credit or debit card or through other available online payment methods. Please note that electronic payments may be subject to a processing fee, depending on the payment platform used.
If you prefer to pay in cash, our team will provide the meeting location and payment instructions before your tour begins.
If you have any questions regarding your balance or payment options, our reservations team will be happy to assist you prior to your arrival.
Hotel Pick-Up
We provide hotel pick-up for most tours within the city of Cusco.
Because the historic center has narrow streets and some areas with limited vehicle access, certain accommodations may require a short walk to the nearest meeting point.
Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed before your tour.
During Your Experience
Our professional guides are committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and informative experience throughout your journey.
Whether you are joining a cultural excursion or a multi-day trek, we encourage you to travel at your own pace and communicate with your guide if you need assistance at any time.
Group Tours
Group tours bring together travelers from different countries, ages, and fitness levels.
Everyone is welcome to enjoy the experience at a comfortable pace while respecting the group’s schedule and the guide’s instructions. Any operational decisions during the tour will always prioritize safety and the overall experience of all participants.
Weather Conditions
Mountain weather in Peru can change quickly, even during the same day. We recommend wearing layered clothing and carrying rain protection regardless of the season.
Being prepared for changing conditions will help you enjoy every destination comfortably.
Sustainable Travel
We believe that responsible tourism helps preserve Peru’s extraordinary landscapes and cultural heritage.
We encourage our travelers to reduce plastic waste, respect local communities, stay on designated trails, and help protect the natural environment for future generations.
Every small action contributes to a more sustainable travel experience.
Personal Belongings
Please keep your personal belongings with you at all times.
Before leaving transportation, restaurants, campsites, or attractions, check that you have collected all your items.
Experience Colibri Peru cannot be held responsible for personal belongings that are lost, forgotten, or damaged during the tour.
Unexpected Situations
Occasionally, weather conditions, transportation delays, road closures, or circumstances beyond our control may require adjustments to an itinerary.
If this happens, our operations team will always work to provide the best possible alternative while prioritizing your safety and ensuring you continue to enjoy your experience.
We’re Here to Help
Your satisfaction is our priority. From your first inquiry until the end of your journey, the Experience Colibri Peru team is available to answer your questions and provide support whenever you need it.
We look forward to sharing the beauty, history, and culture of Peru with you.
Packing list
Essential
Valid Passport
Extra money (recommended soles)
Personal medication
Water bottle or CamelBak
Sunblock: factor 70 or more
Insect repellent
Personal Care Products
Clothing
Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
Light footwear or sandals
Trekking pants
Trekking socks
Pair of thermal pants
Long sleeve t-shirts
Warm jacket
Rain poncho
Sun hat
Equipment
Trekking poles
Medium trekking backpack (15 – 25 liter)
Sleeping bag
Headlamp
Recommended
Camera and charger
Power bank
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
Pricing
Short Inca Trail 2 Days Camping
Request a personalized quote for your group.
Enquire now
Our PledgeYour privacy is respected and protected. Experience Colibri will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
