2-Day Short Inca Trail Trek and Machu Picchu Wellness Hike in Peru

The Short Inca Trail is the perfect compromise for those who want to experience the magic of Machu Picchu without the time or physical demands of the classic four-day trek. Over two days, you'll walk the final and most scenic stretch of the original Inca Trail, beginning at the trailhead at Km 104. This route takes you through dramatically changing landscapes, from the high Andean plains down into the lush, orchid-filled cloud forest. You'll follow the original stone paths laid by the Incas over 500 years ago, passing the impressive archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna along the way. The final stretch brings you to the Sun Gate, where you'll get your first unforgettable panoramic view of the Lost City of the Incas.

The trek is led by Alfredo Huari, a local Quechua guide who was born in a small mountain community and has a deep, personal knowledge of the region. Unlike large, impersonal tour groups, this is a private and personalized experience. Alfredo will tailor the pace and the information to your group's interests, whether you're a couple, a family, or a group of friends. He's not just there to point out landmarks—he brings the history and culture of his ancestors to life, sharing stories and insights you just won't get from a scripted tour.

What truly sets this experience apart is the food. Your trek is fueled by box lunches and dinners prepared by a chef who specializes in regional cuisine, using organic ingredients grown on Wari Tours' own farm. From quinoa salads to hearty stews, the meals are fresh, nutritious, and full of authentic Andean flavor. You'll also have the chance to explore Machu Picchu not once, but twice. On day one, you'll arrive via the Sun Gate in time to soak in the late-afternoon atmosphere as the crowds thin. The following morning, you'll return for a comprehensive guided tour of the temples, terraces, and sacred sites, giving you a much more complete experience than a single visit ever could.

Aguas Calientes, your base for the night, is a lively town nestled in the valley below the citadel. It's touristy, yes, but it's also the only way to stay this close to Machu Picchu. You'll have a comfortable 3-star hotel room, hot showers, and the chance to relax at the natural hot springs (which the town is named after) before your big day at the ruins. The whole experience is designed to be both an incredible adventure and a deeply restorative escape from your daily routine, leaving you with memories that will last long after you've returned home.

What's included

- 1 Night Accommodation at 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes - Box lunch & Dinner (Day 1) - Breakfast (Day 2) - Nature hikes with a trusted guide - Briefing session - Permits and tickets for the Inca trail trek - Entrance to the archaeological site of Machu Picchu - Private van transfer to the start of the Short Inca Trail (Ollantaytambo) - Morning train departure from Ollantaytambo (Day 1) - Bus transfer from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Day 1) - Afternoon train departure from Aguas Calientes (Day 2) - Round-trip bus transfer (Day 2) - Safety & emergency gear - Transfer from the train station to your hotel in Cusco or Urubamba

What's not included

- Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional climb) - Lunch (Day 2) - Tips