The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, is the perfect alternative for those who would like to approach Machu Picchu on foot and experience this Machu Picchu hiking tour without multiple days of camping. In two days you will hike one of the world’s most famous trails, explore the ruins Wiñay Wayna, which are accessible only via the Inca Trail, enjoy spectacular scenery, and visit Machu Picchu refreshed after a night’s rest in a hotel.
The itinerary below is a sample. Hiking times are an average and will vary depending on the group. Additionally, lunch and camp sites may change to meet the needs of the group and conditions.
We will take the early morning train to km 104 where we will cross the Rio Urubamba and begin a steady three hour hike uphill hike. We go past the archaeological site of Chachabamba and a waterfall before reaching Wiñay Wayna (2650m), the largest of the sites along this 2 day Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour complete with terraces, buildings, and a series of ritual baths. After a tour we join the Classic Inca Trail and hike along original Inca paving down through lush cloud forest to Intipunku, the Sun Gate.
From here we will be able to look down on Machu Picchu framed by the surrounding mountains–an unforgettable way to see the city. We will take photos, but instead of touring the city we travel down to Aguas Calientes (1900m) by bus where we will spend the night in a hotel. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, entertainments, and the hot springs to enjoy. 5 hours walking, 2050-2650-1900m
After getting plenty of rest, we will wake early and take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Your guide will take you on a two hour tour of the ruins, after which you will have plenty of free time to explore the city, climb Huayna Picchu, or visit the Moon Temple and Inca Bridge. In the afternoon, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes where we meet the train and head back to Cusco.
In order to secure a permit and entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, government regulations require full and current passport information for all trekkers. Permits are non-transferable and can sell out early, months in advance.
It is therefore important to arrange depature dates at the earliest opportunity. Climbing Huayna Picchu is an excellent addition to a trip to Machu Picchu. It offers superlative views, but is a steep climb that can take about three hours.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu is limited and at scheduled times; visitors must sign up for a spot in advance. If you would like to consider doing the climb, it is important to book it in advance. While not as physically demanding as the full Inca Trail, hikers should be in good physical condition.
US$590.00 per person
Discounts
Bookings of 4 people or more will get a US$20.00 discount per person or a free Day Apu Training Hike*.
*More details will be available if you are interested in talking advantage of this offer.
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