This short version of the Inca Trail trek is the perfect alternative for those on a tight schedule or looking for a less arduous option. The hike may be shorter, but it still comes with an all the excitement of following the footsteps of the Incas, on one of the most emblematic sections of the Qhapaq Nan (Great Inca Trail). Starting out at what is arguably the most thrilling part of the route, you will walk the last 12km (7.5 miles) before arriving at Machu Picchu just as the Incas did, through the Inti Punku (Sun Gate).

Day 1: KM. 104/WINAY WAYNA/MACHU PICCHU

You will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll take the train to Km 104. There you’ll begin the first part of your trek, enjoying the outstanding landscapes of the Sacred Valley on your way to the ruins of Winay Wayna. When you arrive, you’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of this archaeological complex, with its impressive agricultural terraces. You will have time to rest and enjoy a re-energizing lunch, before returning to the trail, hiking through highland jungle scenery towards the Intipunku or Sun Gate, which announces arrival at Machu Picchu. And from here you’ll be able to see the famous Inca sanctuary from a truly unique angle: a fitting reward at the end of the hike. You will then walk down to the complex itself and board the bus that will take you to the town of Aguas Calientes (the town at the foot of Machu Picchu), where you can make yourself comfortable in your selected hotel, have lunch, and rest for the afternoon. 

Day 2: MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO

After a healthy, energizing breakfast, you‘ll board a bus for the short journey up to Machu Picchu and the start of your guided tour. This is one the Seven Wonders of the World, a truly unforgettable sight, and once inside your guide will tell you about the history, organization, and mysteries of this unique Inca sanctuary. We will explore the area with its incredible ruins and terraces – an incredible example of Inca engineering skills – together with its photogenic alpacas, all of this again at the stunning backdrop of Huayna Picchu Mountain. From the area’s high point, we will be able to take in Machu Picchu from above: quite a spectacle. Afterwards, you ‘ll have free time to return and take pictures of the places that impressed you most. After soaking up the magical energy, you will head back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch in a local restaurant, or a tour around the streets of this picturesque town, before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo station and the journey back to Cusco in our private vehicle. 

HOTELS OPTIONS

 El Mapi: 

Smart and contemporary are the defining elements of this hotel, amidst the commercial village of Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes), from where you can admire and interact with the quaint folksy town and get a different perspective. The hotel is efficient, playful and people friendly; it welcomes a wide range of guests expecting an uncomplicated visit.

Casa del Sol Machu Picchu:

The hotel is located five minutes from the train station and opposite the bus station in the privileged and revered sacred lands in the village of Machu Picchu, which gives visitors a true luxury experience. It is surrounded by nature and splendor, in the middle of beautiful, stunning, and majestic landscapes in which you breath an air of relaxation and tranquility.

Your package includes:

- Briefing lecture before the tour.

- A licensed, well-trained, English-speaking guide.

- Train service.

- Bus transportation to/from Machu Picchu.

- Permit fees to the Inca trail.

- Entrance tickets to archaeological sites along the Inca Trail.

- Hotel accommodation at Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes area.

- Lunch and other meals according to hotel selected.

Not Included:

Alcoholic beverages, extras, tips, airport taxes, additional tours, laundry, entrance to Huayna Picchu and insurance and air tickets. Dinner at Machu Picchu.

Recommendations:

- Although the trek is rated as moderate, we strongly suggest spending at least two nights in Cuzco or Sacred Valley before the start of the trek to totally adjust to the altitude.

- Do some exercise before you go.

- Passengers interested in climbing HuaynaPicchu,we strongly suggest to book your entrance ticket in advance.

- Altitude at the Inca Trail: Minimum 2430m/Maximum 4200m.

- Keep hydrated. Drink Plenty of water that also helps to acclimatize to the altitude.

- The paving on the trail is irregular. Please watch your step.

- Inca Trail luggage/bag allowance: maximum 15.43 pounds/7 kilograms per person, which you have to store in the provided duffle bag.

Weather:

The Andean weather can be unpredictable, despite the sharp divide between dry and wet seasons. The dry season runs from May to October or November (the best time for this amazing trek); the rainy season goes from December through April. Nevertheless, in the forested fringes of the Amazon basin where Machu Picchu lies, showers are not uncommon at any time of the year. Therefore rain pants and jacket are essential gear that should always be in your daypack.

On boarding, an ID (identification) and the train ticket will be required. If the passengers will overnight in the Machu Picchu area, they must take the original passport or ID, along with the Andean Immigration Card, so that the hotel may exonerate the sales tax of the overnight. The Andean Immigration Card is handed by the plane crew upon arrival in Peru. Only carry on or backpacks will be allowed with the following characteristics: Not more than 11 pounds, not more than 62 inches (157 centimeters) (height+length+width). Backpacks or Carry On will go with the passenger, and by no means should block the access gates or the corridors.

This package is recommended from April to October, not recommended from November to March due to rainy seasons.