Your Short Inca Trail adventure begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am. You’ll drive for approximately 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board the train to kilometer 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Upon arrival, you’ll pass through an official checkpoint, where you’ll need to present your original passport for verification. You’ll also have the option to get a stamp as a souvenir of your trek.
The first notable stop along the trail is the Chachabamba Inca site, located at the beginning of the hike. Here, your guide will take you on a guided tour, sharing the historical significance of the site. Afterward, you’ll continue on the trail, starting with a gradual ascent lasting approximately 3.5 hours. Along the way, you’ll have several opportunities to stop, rest, and enjoy the breathtaking views, as well as capture photographs. The trail passes through a cloud forest, where you’ll be able to see vibrant orchids and possibly spot hummingbirds.
The next major site you’ll encounter is Wiñay Wayna, often referred to as a miniature Machu Picchu due to its impressive ruins and scenic location. After a guided tour of Wiñay Wayna, you’ll take a break to enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
After lunch, there’s about one hour of hiking left to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). The Sun Gate offers an exclusive and panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You’ll arrive at the Sun Gate around 2:00 pm, where you’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning views and possibly even catch a beautiful sunset over the citadel. From here, it’s a short downhill walk of about one hour to reach the upper part of Machu Picchu, where you’ll enjoy some of the best views of the ancient site.
After exploring, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night. Upon arrival at your hotel, you can freshen up before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. It will be a memorable and fulfilling day, as you begin your journey to one of the most famous historical sites in the world: Machu Picchu.
Accomodation: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu *** or similar
Tickets: Included
Meals: lunch and dinner.