A concentrated version of the classic Inca Trail, this two-day route threads cloud forest, Inca ruins and a sunrise at Machu Picchu. Ideal for travelers short on time but keen on walking the original path to the Sun Gate.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning air is thin and green as your minivan threads out of Cusco before dawn; by 6 a.m. you’re on a train slicing along the Urubamba, and at Km 104 the trail opens into cloud-tinged forest. The Short Inca Trail pushes you up through mossy stone stairways, orchid-lined slopes and the scattered ruins of Chachabamba before the walk tightens into the steep terraces leading to Winaywayna and, at last, the Sun Gate—your first angled view of Machu Picchu.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: regular walkers comfortable with sustained uphill sections and stone steps will manage well
Wildlife
History
The trail is a surviving fragment of the vast Inca road system that linked Cusco with sacred sites; Winaywayna and Chachabamba reflect imperial route planning and terrace agriculture.
Conservation
Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail are tightly regulated; stick to marked paths, respect capacity limits, and avoid single-use plastics to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - 2 Day Hike today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry your passport
You must bring the same passport used for booking to pass control points and enter Machu Picchu; keep it secure and accessible.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 1–2 days in Cusco to reduce altitude sickness risk—pacing your first full day will make the hike far more enjoyable.
Start early for Sun Gate
Begin the trail at the scheduled morning departure to reach Sun Gate before crowds and to capture the best light for photos.
Bring cash in small bills
Aguas Calientes has ATMs but limited options; carry small soles for snacks, hot springs, and tips.
Water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3 L)
Staying hydrated at altitude and through exertion is crucial for performance and altitude adjustment.
Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Good grip and ankle support help on wet stone steps and uneven Inca constructions.
Light waterproof jacket
Cloud forest weather changes quickly; a breathable shell keeps you dry without overheating.
rainy
Daypack with rain cover
Holds lunch, layers, passport, and camera while keeping gear protected from rain