Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 2 Days and 1 Night

The short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a popular 2-day, 1-night hiking adventure that allows travelers to experience the iconic UNESCO site in a compact yet immersive way. With small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, adventurers can expect personalized attention and historical insights during their journey. This highly recommended experience culminates in a guided tour of Machu Picchu, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s most captivating ancient wonders.

Key Points

• This 2-day hiking tour offers a compact and scenic experience to the iconic Machu Picchu UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The tour includes a guided trek from Chachabamba to Winay Wayna, followed by a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Traveler reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and overall organization of the tour.
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is noted as subpar by some, but the logistics and transportation are praised.
• With a price from $545 per person, the tour provides an abridged Inca adventure with essential services and permits included.

Overview and Highlights

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a compact, 2-day hiking experience that allows travelers with limited time or moderate fitness to explore the renowned Inca citadel.

This tour is highly recommended, with 298 reviews and a 100% approval rating from past participants. The small group size, up to 15 people, ensures personalized attention from knowledgeable guides throughout the trek and visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu.

The scenic trail and historical insights make this an ideal option for those seeking an abridged Inca adventure.

Itinerary and Experience

The two-day itinerary of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with a trek from Chachabamba to the picturesque Winay Wayna site, where travelers overnight at the base of the iconic Machu Picchu.

The following day, guests embark on a guided tour of the ancient Inca citadel, taking in the scenic views and historical insights provided by the knowledgeable guides.

Praised for their adaptability and support, the guides ensure a personalized experience, catering to the group’s pace throughout the trek and tour.

Inclusions and Costs

Priced from $545.00 per person, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu includes a range of essential services.

Travelers enjoy a guided tour, round-trip train tickets, bus transport, Inca Trail permits, and Machu Picchu entrance fees. Meals are provided, with dinner and lunch included during the trek.

For those needing extra support, rental hiking poles are available. The tour offers flexible cancellation, allowing guests to receive a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience.

While the overall costs are comprehensive, some travelers have noted the accommodation in Aguas Calientes could use improvement.

Accommodation and Logistics

Although the accommodation in Aguas Calientes has been reported as subpar by some guests, the overall logistics of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour have been highlighted as smooth.

Travelers praise the pre-printed tickets and timely pickups, which contribute to a well-organized experience. However, some have noted long wait times in Aguas Calientes after the tour before the train departure.

Despite this, the logistics of the tour, from transportation to tour coordination, have been widely commended, allowing guests to focus on the scenic hike and visit to Machu Picchu.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour.

Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour.

Guides are praised for their expertise, support, and ability to adapt to the group’s pace. The scenic hike and historical insights are highlights for many.

While some feedback notes room for improvement in accommodation quality and organization on the second day, the majority of travelers enthusiastically recommend the tour.

They encourage others to consider the hiking experience, emphasizing both the journey and the awe-inspiring destination of Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Machu Picchu, the grand Inca citadel perched high in the Andes Mountains, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of the World.

This remarkable ancient city captivates visitors with its architectural marvels, cultural significance, and breathtaking natural setting.

Some key facts about Machu Picchu:

• It was built in the 15th century as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti and abandoned after the Spanish conquest.

• The site features impressive stone structures, terraced landscapes, and intricate irrigation systems.

• Machu Picchu’s mystique and stunning vistas make it a bucket-list destination for travelers from around the world.

Small Group Size for Personalized Attention

The small group size of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour, with a maximum of 15 participants, allows for personalized attention from the guides.

This intimate setting enables the guides to tailor the experience to the group’s needs and pace. Travelers praise the guides’ knowledge, support, and adaptability, ensuring everyone gets the most out of the trek.

The small group size also fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants, creating an enjoyable and enriching shared experience.

This personalized approach sets the Short Inca Trail apart, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more intimate Machu Picchu adventure.

Ideal for Travelers With Limited Time or Moderate Fitness

Because the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu covers the trek in just 2 days and 1 night, it’s an ideal option for travelers with limited time or moderate fitness levels.

This abbreviated hike allows you to experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of the Inca Trail without the demanding physical requirements of the full 4-day trek.

The key benefits of this tour include:

• Accessibility for those with less experience or time constraints

• Opportunity to visit the iconic Machu Picchu in a shorter timeframe

• Suitable for a range of fitness levels, from novice to experienced hikers

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Short Inca Trail?

The short Inca Trail is considered moderately difficult, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. It involves a 2-day hike with an overnight stay before reaching the iconic Machu Picchu site, providing scenic views and historical insights along the way.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. It’s suitable for a wide range of ages, though participants should have a moderate fitness level to handle the hiking involved.

Can the Trek Be Done With a Child or Pet?

The trek is not recommended for children or pets. The trail’s moderate difficulty and high altitude make it unsuitable for young travelers or animals. The tour operator advises against bringing children or pets on this specific hiking experience.

How Much Additional Spending Money Is Recommended?

Travelers recommend bringing $100-$200 in additional spending money for the tour. This can cover any optional expenses, such as snacks, souvenirs, and tips for the guides and porters.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to Include More Sights?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour to include more sights. Many tour operators offer longer Inca Trail itineraries that visit additional archaeological sites and viewpoints along the way to Machu Picchu over 4-5 days.

The Sum Up

The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an immersive and exhilarating 2-day, 1-night experience. With a small group size and personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, travelers can explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu, even with limited time or moderate fitness. This compact adventure is highly recommended, boasting a 100% approval rating from previous participants.