Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

For the Short Inca Trail we will pick you up from your hotel at approximately 4am (depending on the location) and drive to Ollantaytambo. From here its a 1 hour 30 minute train ride along the Urubamba river from Ollantaytambo (in the highlands) to km 104 at Chachabamba (in the cloud forest). We will head straight to the checkpoint at Chachabamba to start your Short Inca Trail Trek.  Please note, you will need your original passport in order to pass through the checkpoint. Our first stop is a beautiful Inca ruin also called Chachabamba. We will then hike along an ancient Inca trail, that was abandoned in the 16th century, and leads to Machu Picchu.

The first section of the trail is a gradual uphill hike for 4 hours until we arrive at Wiñay Huayna (the place that never gets old). At this point we will take some time to explore this stunning archaeological site while enjoying spectacular views of the Andes. A packed lunch and refreshments will be provided. Once fed and energised we will continue our hike to the Sungate to catch your first glimpse of the Lost City of the Incas – a truly unforgettable sight. From the Sungate its a one hour down hill walk to the city, with breathtaking views along the way.  We will arrive into Macchu Picchu in the afternoon and will therefore have the unique opportunity of experiencing the city almost empty. This is the perfect photograph taking opportunity! We will then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes where we will have dinner and spend the night in a hotel.

• Average altitud: 2000m / 6561ft

• Highest altitude: 2700m / 8858ft

• Distance: 15km / 8 miles

• Duration: 8 hours

After the short Inca trail, we have to get up very early to prepare for the highlight of your Short Inca Trail Trek; visiting Machu Picchu – the Lost City of the Incas. We will go straight to the line to wait for the first bus going up to Machu Picchu at 5:30 am. Arriving as the sky brightens, we will walk for an hour back up to the Sungate, with incredible views of the city along the way. On a clear day you can watch the spectacular sun rise over Machu Picchu. This is truly an unforgettable sight. Your guide will take you on a 2 to 3 hour comprehensive tour of the city before leaving you in Machu Picchu to explore on your own or climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked as far in advance as possible). Your guide will explain how to take the bus from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) and then take the train and bus back to Cusco. The Trexperience Team will meet you off the train and return you safely to your hotel.