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The 2 days inca trail involves only 1 day of hiking, meeting the last part of the Inca Trail visiting the ancient archeological site of Wiñay wayna and to the Sun gate with the first glimpse of Machupicchu.
2730 M.S.N.M
10 person(s)
Group
Hike, Bus, Train
2 days - 1 nights
3
Pick up at your hotel at 4am in Cusco, take a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to catch our train from the Inca town of Ollantaytambo. We also offer pick-ups if you are already in the Sacred Valley, please request at booking. If you are already in Ollantaytambo, your guide will pick you up from your hotel lobby at 5:30am. Recommended hotel in Ollataytambo: Veronica View Hotel.
The journey from Cusco to Ollantaytambo in our private modern van takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. We recommend that you ask your hotel to prepare you boxed breakfast. In Ollantaytambo you have a few minutes to grab a quick coffee before catching the 6:10AM train to KM 104, the starting point for the Short Inca Trail. The train journey is a scenic and comfortable ride, passing through rugged mountains, vivid and vibrant flora and lush vegetation as you near the Amazon Jungle.
Disembarking the train, crossover the footbridge that goes over the magnificent Urubamba River to the checkpoint. On arrival, apply insect repellent and sunscreen, ready for the hike. The guide will hand over your box lunch to pack in your ruck sack, before helping you present your passport and entrance tickets to the park rangers. Purchase any last-minute items like water or chocolate bars here, there are no vendors or stalls along the trail.
The first Inca site awaits, just as you enter the trail. Chichabamba (2 171m/6 995ft) is an interesting site that was also a late discovery, only being discovered in 1940, at the same time as Wiñay Wayna. It’s surrounded by massive green mountains and lush vegetation typical in a subtropical Andean Forest. The stone work is sturdy and impeccable in its build and design. There are a number of water baths within the site, giving the impression that it could have been used as a religious site. The land around it is extremely fertile, meaning the water baths could have also been used for irrigation. The Incas planted potatoes, medical plants and herbs to be distributed throughout the empire.
After exploring this Inca site, we start our gradual hike to the second most famous Archeological site on the trail Wiñay Wayna. See incredible mountain views, the Urubamba River to your left and the extensive valley with its abundant terraces. Enjoy the flora and fauna are unique to this region. Some of the fauna includes the Cock-of-the-Rocks (Peru´s national bird), the Andean bear, the giant humming bird among to name a few. The most famous includes the orchid Wiñay Wayna, the Cendral Montana and the Molle shrub. There are many places to stop and enjoy the view.
Just before reaching the climb to Wiñay Wayna, stop at a serene waterfall with crystal clear waters. This presents a great opportunity to stop, refresh and reenergize for the upcoming steep hike to Wiñay Wayna archeological site.
Wiñay Wayna (2 650m/ 8 694ft) is an enigmatic Archelogical site. Get glimpses of the site from the footbridge, perched on the mountain hill, looking at though its floating on the clouds that surround it. The last part of the climbThe climb up its chiseled steps, but, your guide will be there with you to share information and stories about Winay Wayna. Once at the top, have lunch at the campsite. This campsite is where the Classic Inca Trail and Short Inca Trail come together.
Our final journey will take us around an hour. The climate here is a bit toasty, typical subtropical jungle weather. Enjoy this final section as the Andes mountains meets the Amazonia Jungle. The vegetation is lush and vibrant. Also, the walk is a gradual climb and very relaxing. Your journey nears the Sun Gate as soon as you come up to the gringo killer steps. These steps are narrow, steep and have been built into the bedrock. The climb is very short, but also very intense. However, once you reach the top, the Sun Gate awaits.
The Sun Gate (2 720m/ 8 924ft) also known as Inti Punku is famous because of its absolutely jaw dropping view of Machu Picchu. The site was said to be used as a control gate for people entering and leaving Machu Picchu. It was located there so the empire could welcome only the most elite of guests into the Citadel. From the top you get a fully comprehensive panoramic view of the city and the two famous mountains flanking it, Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain.
After enjoying the view, descend to Machu Picchu, to have your very first look of the Citadel. The best thing about this time of the day is that Machu Picchu is not crowded. The crowds have despersed and it´s a great time to take unobstructed pictures of Machu Picchu. Take some time to walk around and explore before catching the bus to Aguas Calientes to spend the night .
After breakfast at your hotel, get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu just in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical site place something you’ll want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a tour of Machu Picchu, which takes two hours. See many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel.
When you have had your fill of the incredible views of Machu Picchu, take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes lunch is waiting in one of the numerous restaurants (lunch not included). Depending on your train departure time, have time for sightseeing and perusing the flea markets in town.
The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. Back at Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel about 7:00pm.
***IMPORTANT:
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is almost always available year round except it is closed in February for maintenance — This trek takes you into Machu Picchu by walking through the SUN GATE like in the ancient times, you will explore some amazing Inca ruins. along the way like Wiñaywayna Inca City.
If you are a single traveler, check with our office if there are any groups already scheduled for the dates you require.
| Price per person | |
| Without Hotel | $427 USD |
| 2* Hotel | $447 USD |
| 3* Hotel | $467 USD |
| 4* Hotel | $557 USD |
**** Free backpack (small) transfer from Cusco to Aguas Calientes hotel.
CHECK YOUR SHORT INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU AVAILABILITY BY CLICKING ON MONTH OF YOUR CHOICE!
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Please read the following information to help answer any questions you may have about our Services and the 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments).
The Briefing will be the night before the trek at 6pm in our office which is located at Garcilaso Street 210, Office Nº:213 (2and Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.
ABSOLUTELY! During the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored at our office, or your hotel, both are free. Please pack anything you will need for your hike in your day pack for Machu Picchu.
FIRST, to book your 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our home page or click here – BOOK NOW.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase a Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu permit without the following information:
SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per person in order to purchase a permit for the 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You can make your deposit by clicking on the PAYPAL symbol on the top of our home page, or you can click on the PAYPAL symbol on our booking page.
It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge by PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account; use our email address of orangenationperu@gmail.com to pay.
Unfortunately, the answer is No. Once the tickets have been purchased, the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure date after the ticket has been bought. Tickets are also not transferrable nor refundable. If you cancel your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek, the deposit is not refundable at all!
DEFINITELY! You have to bring your original passport, and it must be the same passport number you sent to us to book your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit. In case you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us your old number to secure your permit, and we can change it when you get your new passport number. Please send the new passport number as soon as possible.
Remember to check your current passport to make sure it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your arrival to Peru!!! The Government of Peru is enforcing the existing law that requires all foreign travelers to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months past the time of entry into Peru. Peruvian authorities will deny entry into Peru for travelers not meeting this requirement.
The weather is very unpredictable, and it’s difficult to predict. The climate in Cusco has a temperature fluctuating between 14º – 16º C / 57º – 60º F, with warm days and cold nights. The best time to do the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is between April and October when the weather is warm.
The rainy season is from November through March, when doing the Inca Trail during these month, we advise that you bring rain gear and warm clathes. Also, be prepared for slippery steps in certain areas on the trek. The walk can be a bit more challenging, but you will enjoy the beautiful landscapes and colorful flowers.
The month of February, they close the the Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu for maintanance. The weather along the Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu:
We highly recommend you to bring some warm clothes and good rain gear in your day backpack.
The Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu is a 12km (7.5 miles) hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is 2700mt.
In preparation: try walking 15kms in a day or go to the fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important that become well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3350m/11,047ft) before starting the trek.
How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty. That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. It is recommended you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.
No one knows the effects of high altitude better than indigenous people. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. It was even considered sacred because of its curative powers and is still used in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2, and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. Instead of chewing leaves, another option is drinking coca tea, which can found in most hotel lobbies in Cusco.
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not required – is appreciated. While it may not be customary to you, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires excellent service and is an established feature of the tourism industry across many Orange Nation Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you feel, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, the staff does not require a tip, but fully appreciate and comes only with excellent service.
Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our staff to know, understand, and respect the local places and its people.
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu DOES NOT INCLUDE the extra porter, so you will need to carry all your things. Please try to pack as light as possible to enjoy this trek.
We can transfer small backpack from Cusco to Aguas Calientes Hotel for free!
Please fill in our BOOKING FORM carefully with your correct personal details.
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire called Tawantinsuyo and is a living museum overflowing with our country’s history and culture. You can see the different stages of History from ancient times to the Conquest until modern days. There are numerous archeological sites, Cathedrals, museums, and many shops to explore. Visit the most interesting sites in and around Cusco and the Sacred Valley with all of its ancient treasures and Inca ruins, plus a Tour of Machu Picchu followed by a visit to Rainbow Mountain! The Sacred Valley is vast and stretches for miles with many small indigenous towns, secluded weaving villages, outdoor handicraft markets and ancient Inca Ruins including Pisac, Ollantaytambo and Urubamba. Visiting the Salt Mines with thousands of ponds carved into the mountainside (amazing sight) and the Terraces of Moray, which are built in the form of an amphitheater and have different temperatures at each level to grow different crops. They were watered through a complex irrigation system and allowed the cultivation of the Incas to grow over 250 types of vegetables. We will explore interesting and incredible ruins and the world famous Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, which lies at the feet of the Huayna Picchu Mountain. Next, we will enjoy the radiant colors of the recently discovered Rainbow Mountain, hiking through some secluded communities, in which you may interact with the indigenous people who are still holding onto their traditional culture. You will appreciate snowcapped peaks, herds of llamas, glaciers and blue lakes, all set within a breathtaking colorful mountain range. The Rainbow Mountain trek provides a different types wildlife such as soaring condors and Cara Cara falcons. The colorful sandstone mountains in the Vinicunca area are probably the most unique and coolest thing you will ever see!
Our specialization is in trekking, “off the beaten track.” Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu Trek is a personally designed and unique trek taking you to remote and rarely visited Inca ruins. You’ll trek by beautiful waterfalls, view wild panoramic landscapes, ancient Inca aqueducts, and take yourself back in time to the Inca stonemason’s unmatched masterpieces. You will visit the old Inca quarry from where the Incas carved the rocks to build the important Ollantaytambo Inca city, the impressive gate to Machu Picchu. Take time to explore the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo and hike up to the dusted remnants of the old Inca hillside storehouses. Then enjoy true luxury at the exclusive Veronica View Hotel! On your final day, will be the long awaited tour to explore and experience the magical UNESCO World Heritage site: Machu Picchu!
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is voted one of the top 10 Treks in the World and this 5 day version covers 43 kilometers and visits mysterious Inca cities surrounded breath taking mountainous landscape and thriving cloud forest rich in Andean flora and fauna. The 5-day trek is an excellent alternative to avoid the crowds found on the 4-day classic trek and to reach quieter, more distant campsites. It is also recommended for families with children and mature adults, as the daily walking distance is shorter than the 4-day version. The legendary Inca Trail takes you through the diverse wilderness of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, passing numerous Inca ruins on the stone path before descending to the World Famous Machu Picchu. It starts from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, hiking from km 82 to Machu Picchu, and returns to Cusco with an overnight at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Please check the Inca Trail availability online to see if your desired starting date is available.
What is the 4 day Inca Trail ? It is an experience you don’t want to miss. It should inspire some excitement and stir a little sense of wonder in your soul. It is in the top 5 of the most popular excursions in South America and one of the world’s most famous hikes. The hike brings you along ancient paths into Peruvian villages through the Andean highlands. It’s a multi-day hike of 4 days 3 nights to the greatest endpoint in the iconic Machupicchu.
The 1 Day Inca trail is the fastest trek to Machupicchu and Yes! it is possible to hike part of the Inca trail and visit the archaeological site of Machupicchu in one day. It starts from the train route of KM 104. This route has more spaces available than the Classic Inca Trail with a moderate level climb. This trail features one of the most important archaeological sites, Wiñay Wayna ´Forever Young´. Stunning Inca ruins and beautiful mountainous landscape that enters through Sun Gate, where most classic photos of Machupicchu were taken. A 02 hour private guided tour takes you into the fascinating history of these spectacular ruins.
Trip to Rainbow mountain. First to the mountain thanks to Yair’s expert driving and special thanks to Cristian for being my guide. Highly recommend!
Our group of 8 did the 3-day Inca trail tour. From the very beginning Ray demonstrated his knowledge by answering all our questions thoroughly. Trekking the Inca trail was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life. I can say for certain that I would not have finished the trail, if not for Ray. I am not active at all, and hiking up and down a mountain, for 7 hours, seemed impossible. Within the first 10 minutes I was ready to be done. That sentiment was shared within most of my group.
Our tour guide Ray was excellent and very helpful. And we did the short inks trail to machupicchu thanks for the experience
Ray was absolutely amazing 😎 would definitely recommend him to anyone that wants to travel to Machu Picchu !!! Best experience of my life and off my bucket list🙏🏾
Vinimos desde Choquequirao para visitar Machu Picchu e incluso después de todos los momentos inolvidables del trekking con Jhony como nuestro guía Machu Picchu fue realmente memorable. Tener boletos para la entrada de las 6 a.m. fue fantástico, ya que nos permitió explorar con menos multitudes y presenciar la niebla que se elevaba sobre las ruinas.
Éramos un grupo de tres que decidimos realizar un recorrido de un día por el Valle Sagrado de Orange Nations, contemplando Ollyantaytambo y terminando en Cusco. La mejor decisión que tomamos fue que fuimos recibidos por nuestro increíble guía Miguel justo a tiempo, quien nos llevó a este increíble día lleno de diversión, risas y con un gran conocimiento sobre el área.
Gracias Jhony y Grober por sus recorridos entusiastas y conocedores. Definitivamente ambos guías turísticos del siguiente nivel con una compañía del siguiente nivel. Hicimos la caminata Laures y Machupichu con Sam Travels / Orange Nation y lo recomendamos encarecidamente :)
¡Los mejores guías turísticos del Perú para el sendero Machu Picchu! Nuestros guías turísticos Johny y David brindaron un servicio de la más alta calidad en mi experiencia viajando por Perú. Johnny enriqueció toda nuestra experiencia con humor, un conocimiento increíblemente detallado de la historia y cultura peruana, así como su entusiasmo y amabilidad. Durante los 2 días,
recommends Orange Nation Peru
This was my first time in Peru and I wanted to do something bigger and better than Machu Picchu. I was searching online and came across Orange Nation's "Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu" , which is three times larger than Machu Picchu. Since Peru is known for a Machu Picchu
recommends Orange Nation Peru
My girl and i did the Machu Pichu trek tour with Orange Nation. It was seriously the most amazing experience that we'll never forget. Gorgeous views! The long trek was worth the amazing view. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable.
recommends Orange Nation Peru
Wow, what a wonderful trekking experience! My trip to Peru was amazing thanks to this awesome tour that i took with Orange Nation. I did multiple tours with this company. I'm a solo traveler and everyone in my group was always still friendly and did not make me feel left out.
recommends Orange Nation Peru
Excelente Anghely una nueva oportunidades de trabajo me siento feliz por estos logros
