The short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a captivating journey that combines the breathtaking natural beauty of the Andes with the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization. Though it’s a more manageable trek than the classic Inca Trail, the short version still offers adventure-seekers an unforgettable experience. From the stunning mountain vistas to the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, this guided tour promises an immersive exploration that leaves a lasting impression. What makes this trek truly remarkable, however, is the opportunity to witness the seamless blending of past and present.
Key Points

- The Inca Trail tour is priced at $670 per person and includes meals, transportation, professional guides, and overnight accommodation.
- The tour is highly rated with a 5.0 review score based on 3 reviews, indicating a quality experience.
- The trek starts at Km 104 and is followed by a train to Machu Picchu, requiring a moderate fitness level.
- The tour includes complimentary meals, hotel pickup and drop-off, a safety briefing, and a multilingual professional guide.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for certain medical conditions, so travelers should consider their fitness level.
Tour Overview

This "Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu" tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing travelers to explore the iconic Inca ruins of Machu Picchu.
Located in Cusco, Peru, the tour is priced from $670 per person. With an impressive 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, the tour includes meals, transportation, professional guides, and overnight accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
Hikers will take the Inca Trail to Km 104 then continue by train to Machu Picchu. While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t recommended for certain medical conditions.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available.
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Inclusions
The tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities to enhance the experience.
Travelers enjoy complimentary meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They receive hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience. A safety briefing is provided before the tour, and a professional guide accompanies the group, offering expertise in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
All transportation during the tour is covered, including the train to Km 104 and the return journey by Expedition or Voyager train. Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are included, as well as a night’s stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Meeting and Pickup

Travelers are picked up at the Cusco airport with assistance for their luggage, making for a hassle-free arrival.
From there, they’ll be privately transferred to their hotel. This convenient service ensures a smooth start to the adventure.
The meeting and pickup process includes:
- Airport pickup with luggage assistance
- Private transfer to the hotel
- Straightforward arrival without any hassle
This personalized attention allows guests to focus on the excitement of the upcoming Inca Trail trek and visit to Machu Picchu.
Health and Safety Information

Although this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness.
Expectant mothers should avoid this trek, as it isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals. Similarly, those with heart problems or other serious medical conditions are advised against joining the tour, as the physical demands may be too strenuous.
Confirmation of booking is received at the time of reservation, and travelers are encouraged to consider travel insurance for added peace of mind.
The tour provider emphasizes safety throughout the experience, ensuring a secure and enjoyable journey for all participants.
Booking Information

This tour is available as a private activity, meaning travelers will be the only group participating.
The booking process is simple and flexible. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, which allows for more planning time.
On top of that, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing peace of mind.
The key booking details are:
- Private tour/activity for your group only
- Reserve Now and Pay Later option available
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Itinerary Day 1
The tour kicks off with a pickup from the Cusco airport, where the group will receive assistance with their luggage.
From there, they’ll head to their hotel for a hassle-free arrival. After getting settled, the group will enjoy a safety briefing to prepare for the adventure ahead.
They’ll then travel by bus to Km 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail. The group will hike along this scenic route, taking in the stunning Andean landscapes before reaching Machu Picchu.
At the end of the day, they’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where they’ll spend the night in a 3-star hotel.
Itinerary Day 2

On the second day, the group wakes up early to catch the bus that’ll take them back up to Machu Picchu.
They’ll have ample time to explore the ancient citadel in-depth, snapping photos and soaking in the breathtaking vistas.
The guided tour will cover the site’s highlights, including:
- The iconic Temple of the Sun
- The impressive stone structures of the Main Plaza
- The serene, mystical energy of the Intihuatana Stone
After the tour, they can wander freely, before descending back to Aguas Calientes for the return train journey to Cusco, concluding their Short Inca Trail adventure.
Highlights
Traversing the iconic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour offers a remarkable glimpse into the ancient Inca civilization.
Travelers can marvel at the stunning views of snow-capped Andean peaks and lush cloud forests. Along the way, they’ll discover well-preserved Inca ruins, such as the impressive Inca site of Winay Wayna.
The tour culminates at the legendary lost city of Machu Picchu, where visitors can explore the intricate stonework and learn about the Inca’s advanced engineering and urban planning.
With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this unforgettable journey promises an authentic Inca experience.
Sum Up
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure. Travelers can explore breathtaking scenery, enjoy rich cultural heritage, and reach the iconic Machu Picchu, all while enjoying hassle-free logistics and personalized attention from professional guides. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a cultural enthusiast, this guided tour provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the wonders of Peru.
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