Short Inca Trail To Machupicchu With Hotel 2D/1N

The Short Inca Trail is a more accessible version of the classic Inca Trail, designed for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a less physically demanding hike. The trek begins at kilometer 104 on the railway to Aguas Calientes and includes a 6 to 7-hour hike through stunning archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. The highlight is arriving at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), with unforgettable panoramic views. This tour is perfect for all ages with a moderate fitness level.
A great option for families, couples, or solo travelers who want the full Inca Trail experience without camping or multi-day hiking.

Each route offers a unique experience leading to Machu Picchu. The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day hike focused on cultural and historical immersion. The Salkantay Trek takes 4 to 5 days, crossing snowy mountains and cloud forests—a more adventurous, nature-focused journey. The Classic Inca Trail spans 4 days/3 nights, covering 42 km with overnight camping and more archaeological sites. It’s the most iconic and physically demanding option.

This tour is fully organized so you can simply enjoy the adventure. It includes pickup from your hotel in Cusco, transfer to the train station, train to km 104, permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, a professional guide, box lunch on day one, one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, and return train tickets to Cusco. We take care of all the logistics.
Traveling light is key. Just bring a small daypack with essentials we’ll handle the rest.

After the first day’s hike, you’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes, the town located at the base of Machu Picchu. We provide accommodation in charming 2–3 star hotels like La Cabaña Machu Picchu, offering comfort, cleanliness, and an ideal location. Luxury upgrades are also available upon request.
Ali Peru Treks Tip: Celebrating a special occasion? Let us know—we can help personalize your hotel stay with a romantic setup or a relaxing spa treatment.

The best time to do the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October. The peak season is June to August, and permits for the trail sell out quickly. We recommend booking 4–6 months in advance to ensure availability. Only 250 permits are issued per day by the Peruvian government.
Ali Peru Treks Tip: Planning for 2025? Secure your spot between November and January, when permit sales open. We’ll assist with permits and train tickets as soon as the dates are released.

When should I travel to Peru for the Inca Trail?
This is one of our most common questions! Deciding when to travel depends on your tolerance for rain and crowds. We’ve created a complete guide explaining the breakdown of the Inca Trail’s climate to help you decide.

The Short Inca Trail is considered of moderate difficulty. It is 12 kilometers (6 miles) long and has an elevation gain of 2,000 feet (600 meters). The trail includes several uphill sections and some stairs, but is generally well maintained and not too strenuous. Most people find that they can complete the hike without significant problems.

Of course, as with any hike, there are always risks involved. Be prepared for the hike by carrying plenty of water and food and wear proper walking shoes. Also, be aware of your surroundings and don’t take unnecessary risks.

No, the Short Inca Trail can only be hiked with an authorized agency and an official guide. The Peruvian government regulates access to the trail, and all treks must be accompanied by certified guides.

During the tour you can only take the necessary luggage. The rest of your luggage must remain in Cusco. You can store it at:

The hotel: If you return to the same hotel after the trek, we recommend that you store your luggage at the hotel. Most hotels in Cusco offer this service free of charge.
At aliperutreks office: You can leave your luggage in our office, we have a secure storage room to keep all your luggage. We will deliver it to you after the trek.

Yes, you can stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. Pick up will be 1 hour after pick up from Cusco.

No, you must book a tour with an authorized operator such as Aliperutreks.

Both tours are very similar; they follow the same route and visit the same places. The main difference is that during the Inca Trail with Camping you will sleep in comfortable tents under a sky of stars.

We recommend arriving in Cuzco at least 1 or 2 days before the trek. If arriving from higher altitudes, only one day is required for acclimatization.

The ideal season is from April to October, which is the dry season. The driest months are May to August.

in the two day Inca Trail tour you will only have to carry what you need as this tour does not include porters so you will carry your own backpack.

The Short Inca Trail is located in the cloud forest region where the climate is warm and humid. The weather on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu can be very unpredictable; it can be sunny during the day, be cloudy or even rain early in the morning and late in the afternoon.

We have 2 seasons in the Andes; the dry season (April to October) and the wet season (November to March). No matter what season you travel in, it is best to be prepared for all types of weather.