The Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an exhilarating 2-day adventure through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins. Starting with a scenic train ride, hikers explore fascinating Inca sites before reaching the iconic Inti Punku and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals, this journey provides an unforgettable experience steeped in rich history and natural beauty. For adventure seekers eager to discover the wonders of the Inca empire, this trail is a must-explore opportunity.

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Key Points

The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced at €454.01 per person and including transportation, guided hikes, and accommodation.
The itinerary covers the scenic Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna ruins, culminating in the stunning views of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku (Sungate).
The tour includes a train ride to km 104, professional English and Spanish-speaking guides, and entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Meals, hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, and bus transfers to Machu Picchu are provided, ensuring a comfortable and comprehensive experience.
Customers have praised the tour’s organization, the friendliness and cultural insights of the guide, and the overall exceptional adventure for exploring Machu Picchu.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Activity

The Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 2-day adventure that allows travelers to experience a portion of the renowned Inca Trail while visiting the iconic Machu Picchu.

A 2-day adventure that allows travelers to experience a portion of the renowned Inca Trail while visiting the iconic Machu Picchu.

Priced from €454.01 per person, this activity includes a scenic train ride, guided hikes, entrance tickets, meals, and hotel accommodation.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and ticket confirmation is provided within 48 hours.

To prepare, visitors are advised to arrive a day early for acclimatization and visit the main office in Cusco for an informative talk before the hike.

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Itinerary Highlights

The 2-day Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu itinerary highlights the scenic journey to this iconic Inca site.

On day one, travelers take a train to km 104 where the hike begins. They’ll explore Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna ruins before reaching Inti Punku (Sungate) for stunning Machu Picchu views.

After arriving at the citadel in the afternoon, they’ll descend to Aguas Calientes for hotel accommodation and dinner.

Day two starts with an early bus ride to Machu Picchu for sunrise, followed by a 2-hour guided tour and free time for independent exploration or hiking.

Inclusions

This tour includes a train ticket to km 104, where the hike begins. Travelers will be accompanied by a professional tour guide, fluent in English and Spanish, who will provide valuable insights into the Inca culture and history. Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are also included, ensuring seamless access. Meals consist of 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, and accommodations are provided in Aguas Calientes. Lastly, bus tickets between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes are part of the package.

| Inclusions |

| — | — |

| Train ticket to km 104 | Entrance tickets to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu |

| Professional tour guide (English, Spanish) | Meals: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner |

| Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes | Bus tickets between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes |

Preparation and Recommendations

To prepare for the Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu experience, it’s recommended to arrive in Cusco at least a day prior to allow for acclimatization.

Visitors should also visit the main office in Cusco City’s Historic Downtown for an informative talk before the hike.

During the tour, participants must carry valid personal documents to pass through checkpoints along the way.

Following these preparations ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the Inca Trail’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes on the way to the iconic Machu Picchu.

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Customer Feedback

Based on the available information, the Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu experience has received overwhelmingly positive customer feedback.

The activity boasts a perfect 5/5 rating based on a single review. Customers praise the friendliness and cultural insights of the tour guide, as well as the overall organization, food quality, and hotel accommodations.

The reviewer expressed a willingness to repeat the experience, indicating their satisfaction.

With high marks across the board, this Inca Trail tour appears to offer an exceptional adventure for those seeking to explore the wonders of Machu Picchu.

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Scenic Train Journey to Km 104

The experience begins with a scenic train ride to kilometer 104, where the hiking portion of the Inca Trail commences.

Travelers are treated to breathtaking views of the Andean highlands as the train winds its way through the countryside.

Upon arrival at the trailhead, hikers embark on their journey, exploring the well-preserved ruins of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna along the way.

This initial stage sets the tone for the adventure, immersing participants in the rich history and stunning landscapes that define the Inca Trail experience.

Exploring Inca Ruins and Reaching Machu Picchu

After the scenic train ride, hikers embark on the hiking portion of the Inca Trail.

They first explore the ruins of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, two significant Inca archaeological sites.

Lunch is served before continuing the trek to the Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, which offers stunning views of the iconic Machu Picchu.

Upon reaching the Inti Punku, hikers get their first glimpse of the ancient Inca citadel.

They then descend to the town of Aguas Calientes, where they spend the night before an early morning return to Machu Picchu for a guided tour and further independent exploration.

Experiencing Machu Picchu: A Guided Tour and Individual Exploration

On the second day, travelers embark on an early bus ride to Machu Picchu, arriving in time to witness the sunrise over the ancient Inca citadel.

They’re then treated to a 2-hour guided tour, exploring the site’s highlights:

Discovering the iconic Main Plaza and the Temple of the Sun
Climbing the steep stairs to the Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, for panoramic views
Venturing to the Terraces of the Caretakers and the Intihuatana, a ceremonial sundial
Opting to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for additional vistas

Afterward, guests have free time for individual exploration before the scenic train journey back to Cusco.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Hike?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and meals on the hike. However, the tour provides lunch each day, so bringing extra food is generally unnecessary. Check with the tour operator about any restrictions on outside food.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The activity doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for physically fit individuals aged 12 and above. Children under 12 may participate with parental supervision and should be able to complete the hike.

Is There an Option to Extend the Stay in Machu Picchu?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Machu Picchu. Many tour operators offer optional extra days at the site for independent exploration or hiking additional trails like Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour operators offer private tour options for Machu Picchu that allow for a more personalized experience and flexible itinerary.

How Fit Do I Need to Be to Complete the Hike?

To complete the hike, you’ll need a moderate level of fitness. The trail includes steep ascents and descents, but it’s designed for hikers of varying abilities. Proper preparation, like pre-acclimatization, can help ensure you have an enjoyable and successful trek.

The Sum Up

The Cusco: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled adventure. Travelers can enjoy rich Inca history, explore stunning landscapes, and witness the iconic Machu Picchu. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and delectable meals, this journey provides an unforgettable experience for adventurous spirits seeking to discover the wonders of Peru’s ancient past.

You can check availability for your dates here: