Frequently Asked Questions about the Short Inca Trail

When in doubt about the Short Inca Trail, the best thing is to consult a travel expert. Kondor Path Tours has assembled its team to assemble the Frequently Asked Questions about the Short Inca Trail, which includes information about the route, the itinerary, material to bring, details of the previous preparation, and many other details.

If your question is not on the list, do not hesitate to contact our experts; they will answer it immediately.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SHORT INCA TRAIL

Why is it called the Short Inca Trail?

The Short Inca Trail is the fastest route to Machu Picchu in the Inca Trail network. Unlike the Traditional Inca Trail, this route lasts two days and is a private tour.

This route is ideal for passengers who have less time to visit Machu Picchu or do not have the necessary physical condition to face the other ways of the Inca trails.

What are the differences with the 4-Day Classic Inca Trail?

The Classic Inca Trail lasts 04 days. It is of medium difficulty and includes camps along the route. We will visit around 6 Inca archaeological remains, and on the last day, we visit the citadel of Machu Picchu. The trip is usually done in groups of several passengers.

The Short Inca Trail lasts 02 days. Being a private tour, the groups are small. In addition, the difficulty of this route is much less and does not include outdoor camping when you spend the night in the town of Aguas Calientes. The archaeological sites of Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and IntiPunku are visited. Finally, we will end on the guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel.

What should I bring to this tour?

The climates you will experience are not as extreme as the traditional route; however, we always recommend packing warm clothing such as jackets, gloves, warm pants, etc. Our travel experts prepared a list of items for the Short Inca Trail. We recommend that you follow it and have no problems packing your backpack.

How many days is this adventure? What is the itinerary?

The Short Inca Trail lasts 02 days.

On the first day, we will travel the route from Chachabamba, Wayllabamba, and Intipunku. You will be able to appreciate the wonder of Machu Picchu from the first day. You will spend the night in Aguas Calientes.

On the second day, you will visit the wonder of Machu Picchu with a professional guide. You will learn all the secrets of the citadel and have free time to explore at your leisure before returning to Cusco.

You can review the detailed itinerary on the Short Inca Trail tour page.

What places will I visit?

A few minutes from the starting point, you will be able to appreciate the ruins of Chachabamba. Then, we will pass through Wayllabamba. Finally, we will arrive at the entrance door to Machu Picchu: Inti Punku, or the door of the sun, from where you can appreciate the first views of the Inca citadel.

What is the best time to go to the Short Inca Trail?

We recommend making the Short Inca Trail during the dry season, from April to November. During these months, sunlight is appropriate for the best photographs of Andean landscapes.

Do not forget to check the availability of spaces before making your reservation. We recommend that you separate your room at least four months in advance.

Is there an age limit for the short Inca Trail?

No. People of any age are suitable to make the Short Inca Trail. Happy families or groups of friends walk this adventure step by step without problems.

What documents do I need?

Our guide on documents necessary to enter Peru outlines what papers you need to visit the Inca Trail.

Is physical preparation or acclimatization necessary?

Yes. If you live in a low-altitude place, we recommend doing previous training to complete the route without complications. We suggest you walk for half an hour or more to increase your endurance and workouts with cardiovascular exercises.

Remember to ask your doctor about particular indications for the Short Inca Trail and review more suggestions for your health on the Inca Trail for two days.

Will we spend the night in the camps?

No. During the 2-day Short Inca Trail, on the first day, you will spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. On the second day, you will return to Cusco.

How is the food?

On the first day, you will receive a box lunch. You will eat with your travel companions with a view of the Wiñaywayna ruins. In Aguas Calientes, you will have a delicious dinner. Finally, you will receive breakfast on the second day before the Grand Tour of Machu Picchu.

Is there drinking water and electricity on the route?

We recommend bringing a water bottle to hydrate yourself during the walk. At the end of the first day, you can find drinking water and electricity in Aguas Calientes.

Why trust your agency for this tour?

Kondor Path Tour is an agency authorized to operate the routes of the Inca Trail.