Ever wondered what it would be like to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas on a thrilling two-day tour of the Short Inca Trail from Cusco? Is it possible to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Machu Picchu while also immersing oneself in the rugged charm of the Inca Trail?
Well, prepare to be captivated as we embark on a journey that promises to be both adventurous and enlightening. From the moment you set foot in Cusco, a world of history, culture, and natural wonders awaits, and this tour is just the beginning.
So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to uncover the secrets of the Inca Empire as we explore this unforgettable expedition.
Good To Know

- Combination of all-inclusive tour to Machu Picchu and rugged hike on the Inca Trail
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu upon arrival
- Overnight accommodations, meals, and round-trip transportation included
- Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station and accommodation at a standard hotel
Overview and Itinerary

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the heart of the Andes with our Short Inca Trail Tour, a perfect combination of all-inclusive exploration of Machu Picchu and a rugged hike along the iconic Inca Trail. This tour offers a unique alternative to the traditional routes, allowing you to experience the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of this ancient trail in a condensed timeframe.
The itinerary begins with a bus and train transportation from Cusco to the ruin site, followed by a three-hour trek on the Inca Trail. Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, a guided tour will take you through the ruins, providing insight into the rich history and cultural significance of this remarkable site.
Overnight accommodations, meals, and round-trip transportation are included in the tour, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the charming towns of Ollantaytambo and Chachabamba along the way.
Don’t miss this chance to embark on a remarkable adventure, enjoying the beauty and history of the Andes.
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Inclusions
The Short Inca Trail Tour includes a range of exciting inclusions to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. From delicious meals to comfortable accommodations, everything is taken care of for the travelers. Here is a breakdown of the inclusions:
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Meal options | The tour includes both dinner and lunch, providing travelers with nourishing and tasty meals along the journey. |
| Accommodation details | Accommodation is provided at a standard hotel, such as Ferre Boulevard or Hotel Chakana, ensuring a restful night. |
With these inclusions, participants can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and seeing the rich history of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. The tour also includes a professional bilingual guide and assistant guide for larger groups, ensuring that travelers have access to expert knowledge throughout their adventure. The Short Inca Trail Tour truly provides a hassle-free and memorable experience.
Meeting and Pickup

After enjoying the inclusions of delicious meals and comfortable accommodations, travelers can look forward to the exciting aspect of meeting and pickup for their Short Inca Trail Tour.
For those who prefer convenience, there are pickup options available. Alternatively, travelers can head directly to the meeting point at Plaza Kusipata in Cusco. Once at the meeting point, they can wait at the water fountain in the square.
It’s important to note that pickup service is also available for hotels within the historic center of Cusco. However, the pickup time may vary as multiple hotels are serviced, so it’s crucial to be ready and waiting in the lobby.
With these pickup options and a designated meeting point, travelers can easily start their adventure on the Short Inca Trail Tour.
Start and End Details

To kick off the Short Inca Trail Tour, adventurers will set off bright and early at 6:00 AM from the meeting point at Plaza Kusipata in Cusco. This early start time allows for a full day of exploration and adventure along the iconic Inca Trail. Timing and logistics are carefully planned to ensure a seamless experience.
Participants have the option to head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup from their hotel within the historic center of Cusco. Those choosing pickup should be ready and waiting in the lobby as the pickup time may vary due to multiple hotels being serviced.
The tour concludes back at the meeting point, allowing participants to reflect on their incredible journey through the ancient Inca civilization.
To prepare for the early start, it’s recommended to get a good night’s sleep and have a light breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead.
Cancellation Policy

As adventurers prepare for their early start on the Short Inca Trail Tour, it’s important to familiarize themselves with the cancellation policy to ensure a worry-free and exhilarating journey through the ancient Inca civilization. The cancellation policy for the tour is as follows:
| Refund Options | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Non-refundable and non-changeable experience |
| 2 | No refund for cancellations or amendments |
| 3 | Weather-related cancellations offer alternative date or full refund |
| 4 | Minimum number of travelers required for the experience; full refund or alternative date/experience if minimum isn’t met |
Adventurers should be aware that the tour is non-refundable and non-changeable, meaning that once booked, there are no options for cancellation or amendments. However, in the event of weather-related cancellations, an alternative date or full refund will be offered. Plus, the tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If this minimum isn’t met, you will be given the option of a full refund or an alternative date/experience. By understanding the cancellation policy, adventurers can proceed with confidence, knowing their refund options and the importance of meeting the minimum number of travelers.
Directions

Once adventurers have familiarized themselves with the cancellation policy, they can now focus on the exciting part of their journey – following the directions to embark on the Short Inca Trail Tour.
The trail difficulty of the Short Inca Trail is moderate, making it suitable for hikers of various fitness levels. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to wear sturdy hiking boots, breathable clothing, and layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Other essential gear includes a daypack, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.
The adventure begins at Plaza Kusipata in Cusco, where adventurers will meet their guide and fellow hikers. From there, they’ll be transported to the trailhead to commence their trek along the ancient Inca path.
Following the well-marked trail, adventurers will journey through breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and lush forests, ultimately reaching the magnificent Machu Picchu.
Common Questions

What Should I Wear and Pack for the Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail?
When embarking on the day tour of the Short Inca Trail, it is important to wear comfortable and sturdy clothing, including hiking boots, layered clothing for changing weather, and a hat. Essential items to pack include sunscreen, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail?
There are no age restrictions for the day tour of the Short Inca Trail, but participants should be in good physical condition. The trail involves a three-hour trek and requires a moderate level of fitness.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the day tour of the Short Inca Trail. However, it is important to consider dietary restrictions, food safety precautions, and adhere to Inca Trail regulations. Hydration options and trying local cuisine are also recommended.
Is It Possible to Book a Private Tour for the Day Tour of the Short Inca Trail?
Private tour availability allows for a more personalized experience on the day tour of the Short Inca Trail. Benefits of a private tour include flexibility in itinerary, exclusive attention from guides, and the opportunity to tailor the experience to personal preferences.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Short Inca Trail Route?
Restroom facilities are available along the Short Inca Trail route. Trail facilities include designated areas with restrooms for hikers to use during the trek. So, adventurers can rest assured knowing there are convenient facilities along the way.
The Sum Up

In just two days, the short Inca Trail tour from Cusco offers an exhilarating adventure through history and nature. With transportation, accommodations, and meals provided, this all-inclusive experience takes you on a thrilling trek along the Inca Trail, leading to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu ruins.
Enjoy the beauty of the Andes, guided by professional bilingual guides, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to explore one of the world’s most iconic historical sites.
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