Frequently Asked Questions: Machu Picchu tour by train 1 day from
How difficult is the 2-day Short Inca Trail hike, and what kind of physical condition should I be in to do this hike?
The Short Inca Trail is a moderately challenging hike of approximately 12 km that we covered in two days. The trail’s altitude is quite high, with some sections exceeding 2,700 meters above sea level, but this hike is not as strenuous as the Classic 4-day Inca Trail. However, it is recommended that you be in good general physical shape. If you can already hike 4 to 6 hours without difficulty, then you will certainly feel comfortable on this trail.
Recommendation: Do some longer hikes or other types of cardio exercise a couple of weeks before setting out on the trail. Also, if you’re not used to the altitude, you can spend a few days in Cusco to acclimatize before starting your trip.
What to bring for the Short Inca Trail? – What alternative gear should you bring, considering the often unpredictable weather and terrain?
Here’s a simple list of things to bring with you:
- Hiking clothes: Lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying clothing, as you’ll sweat a lot in the heat during the day, and something warmer for cool nights, especially at higher altitudes.
- Trekking shoes: Comfortable, durable (and ideally waterproof) trekking shoes due to rain and rough trails.
- Small backpack: To carry daily essentials, such as water, a camera, sunscreen, a hat or cap, some snacks, and an extra layer of clothing.
- Rain Poncho: You never know when to expect rain in this area, better safe than sorry.
- Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, even on cloudy days and especially in the mountains.
- Trekking poles (optional, but recommended): These can relieve stress on your knees while descending.
If you’re hiking with an organized tour group, they’ll usually provide backpacks and other gear, but always check what they offer and what you should bring.
What are the most notable sites we’ll visit along the Short Inca Trail, besides Machu Picchu, and what is their history or culture?
Machu Picchu is the culmination of the Short Inca Trail, but you’ll also visit several other important archaeological sites along the way:
- Q’ente: A very small archaeological site located not far from the trailhead. There you’ll see some terraces and ruins from the Inca era. The fact that it’s located on the Urubamba River adds to its scenic appeal.
- Phuyupatamarca: “The City above the Clouds.” From here, see the spectacular funerary houses, platforms, and an irrigation fountain that showcase the Inca’s extraordinary hydraulic engineering.
- Wiñay Wayna: One of the most beautiful sites on the Short Inca Trail, home to well-preserved agricultural terraces and stone structures. The name “Wiñay Wayna” means “Forever Young,” alluding to the fact that it’s one of the last stops on the trail to Machu Picchu.
These sites offer an opportunity to understand the history of the Incas and their connection to nature, agriculture, and architecture. The panoramic views at these locations enrich the trail experience.
Can I hike the 2-day Short Inca Trail without a guide?
Do I need to hire a licensed guide to access the trail?
You must book with a licensed guide to hike the Short Inca Trail. The Peruvian Ministry of Culture controls the Inca Trail system, issuing a limited number of permits for hikers and providing a limited number of licenses available to tour operators who wish to organize a guided tour. There is no way to hike the trail independently.
Guides share information about the various archaeological sites, Inca culture, and trail conditions, as well as provide assistance to keep hikers safe. Many organized tours vary in what they offer, such as transportation, entry permits, and all logistical support.
Where do you stay during the Short Inca Trail, and what’s camping like if you choose this option?
During these days of trekking on the Short Inca Trail, you will spend the night camping or staying at a local lodge before arriving in Aguas Calientes. Camping is standard practice on most tours and includes quality tents, sleeping mats, and cooked meals.
But unlike the 4-day Classic Inca Trail, not all trekking companies opt for camping, and most prefer to accommodate hikers in basic hostels in Aguas Calientes on the second night to be closer to Machu Picchu: it’s supposed to be more comfortable!
For camping, accommodations are generally comfortable, although quite basic. Nature will be at your doorstep, but amenities are limited, as the facilities are more basic than those of a hotel. It can also get cold at night, so don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing.
Can you walk to Machu Picchu?
There are several ways to get there Walking, you can do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu , Inca Jungle hike to Machu Picchu.
The most popular route is the traditional Inca Trail 4 days and also the short Inca Trail 2 days 1 night, and the famous Salkantay trek, a walk from the Andean mountain range to the citadel Machu Picchu.
Keep in mind that to hike to Machu Picchu you have to book in advance: Availability of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
