Embark on an unforgettable journey where history whispers from every stone. The Short Inca Trail is a carefully planned experience that offers the essence of the classic trek in just two days of total immersion. Your adventure begins at Km 104, crossing a bridge over the Urubamba River and ascending into a world where the modern fades away. You will explore the hidden archaeological complex of Chachabamba before climbing through the cloud forest, an effort rewarded by the imposing sight of Wiñay Wayna, the archaeological site whose name means ‘Forever Young,’ clinging to the mountainside. The final ascent leads you to the Intipunku (Sun Gate). Here, as the Andean mist parts, you will earn your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu spread at your feet, a silent and powerful moment of triumph.
After spending a night in Aguas Calientes, you will return with your tour guide to uncover the secrets of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, from the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Rock, the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Three Windows, and much more. Only with Kaypi Perú Tours will this profound connection with wonder become an truly unforgettable experience.
Short Inca trail to Machu Picchu Itinerary
Day 1: Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
Our day begins with pickup from your Cusco hotel for a scenic transfer to Ollantaytambo. We’ll board the expedition train to Km 104, our starting point. After checking in at the control point, we’ll explore the Chachabamba archaeological complex, an ancient ceremonial center hidden in the vegetation. We’ll then begin our ascent through the cloud forest, pausing to hydrate at a natural waterfall viewpoint. The trail leads us to the impressive Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, where our guide will reveal the history of its terraced complexes and sacred structures.
After regaining energy with our box lunch, we’ll begin the final stone staircase ascent to Intipunku (Sun Gate). Upon crossing this ceremonial portal, we’ll be rewarded with the first and most iconic panoramic view of Machu Picchu. After capturing this unique moment, we’ll descend to take the bus to Aguas Calientes. The day concludes with hotel check-in, a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, and final instructions for the next day’s guided tour.
Technical Data: Distance: 12 km | Duration: 7-8 hours | Difficulty: Moderate | Maximum Altitude: 8,923 feet.
Day 2: Guided tour of Machu Picchu – Train back to Cusco – Hotel night in Cusco
The day will begin early with the excitement of visiting the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Aguas Calientes (you must have breakfast before the pickup time) and then head to the bus station. You will take a 25-minute bus ride to the impressive citadel of Machu Picchu, where you will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2.5 hours. After the tour, you will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch before boarding the train back to Cusco. Upon arrival at the station, a Kaypi Peru Tours representative will be waiting for your transfer to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of our services.
