Short Inka Trail

This day begins very early in the morning with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:20 AM. We then head to the train station to board the 6:10 AM train to Aguas Calientes. The train journey follows the Urubamba River and offers spectacular views of farmland, snow-capped mountains, and the impressive Urubamba Valley. The train ride lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes and takes us directly to the starting point of the hike, known as KM 104 (2,150 m / 7,052 ft). Upon arrival, you will have time to prepare for the hike and meet your porters, who will provide you with snacks and water throughout the day. You must present your original passport at the first checkpoint of the Short Inca Trail. We then visit Chachabamba, the first Inca archaeological site along the trail, where you will enjoy a guided explanation and take a group photo. After Chachabamba, the trail ascends gradually until it joins the Classic Inca Trail. Along the way, you will enjoy beautiful views of Machu Picchu Mountain, the Urubamba River, surrounding Inca sites, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The trail includes flat sections as well as short uphill and downhill segments, with narrow stone steps that are not dangerous. After approximately three hours of hiking, we arrive at the impressive Inca site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,692 ft). Here, you will explore its terraces, fountains, temples, and agricultural areas, all set dramatically on a cliff surrounded by stunning mountains. We then continue for about 10 minutes to the Wiñay Wayna campsite, where our porter will bring lunch and you can relax and recharge. After a short rest, we resume the hike through a lush cloud forest toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will enjoy your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu. One of the highlights of this day is arriving at Machu Picchu in the late afternoon, when most visitors have already left, allowing you to enjoy the views in a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere. From Machu Picchu, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, check into the hotel, and later enjoy a group dinner at one of the town’s best restaurants. We recommend going to bed early to prepare for the next day.

This is the most important day of your journey. To make the most of your visit, we recommend an early breakfast at the hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, starting from 5:30 AM. Your hotel will store your luggage, so you will only need to carry your daypack with essential items. The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, your professional guide will welcome you to the iconic Inca citadel, where you will enjoy the magical sunrise and the mysterious atmosphere surrounding Machu Picchu. You will then enjoy a guided tour lasting about 2.5 hours, visiting the main sectors of the citadel while learning about the history, architecture, and culture of the Inca Empire. Your guide will ensure you have plenty of time for photos and explanations. At the end of the guided tour, if you have pre-arranged an optional hike such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your guide will direct you to the appropriate entrance. These optional hikes must be booked in advance, are subject to availability, and have an additional cost of USD $75 per person. We recommend starting your return to Aguas Calientes at least two hours before your scheduled train departure. The train journey to Ollantaytambo takes approximately two hours. Upon arrival, our staff will be waiting at the station to take you back to Cusco in a private vehicle. The drive back to Cusco lasts about two hours and concludes with drop-off at your hotel.