One of the main options when the 4-day Inca Trail is not available is to take the shorter route that lasts only 2 days. On both routes, you can visit the archaeological site of Wiñay Huayna.
| Traditional Inca Trail | Short Inca Trail | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days | 2 days |
| Distance | 48 km | 52 km |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,215 m | 4,650 m |
| Minimum Altitude | 2,160 m | 2,160 m |
We start early with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco to take you to the Ollantaytambo train station, from where we travel to KM 104 to start the Short Inca Trail. We will visit the Phuyuwachi waterfall and, after about 4 hours of walking, we will reach Wiñayhuayna to explore its platforms and terraces. Then, we continue to Intipunku, where we enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu before descending to the citadel to capture the classic postcard photo. We end the Inca Trail route and spend the night in Aguas Calientes.
Early in the morning, we return to visit the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, this day we will not get the classic postcard photo, but will visit the interior of the citadel. After the visit, you will return to Cusco by train to Ollantaytambo, where transportation will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Cusco.
Another popular alternative to the Inca Trail is the Salkantay Trekking. This trail is also part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the network of paths that connected the entire Tahuantinsuyo. Throughout the journey, you will be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, from snow-covered mountains to the high jungle where Machu Picchu is located. The Salkantay Trek is ranked in the TOP 20 of the world's best hikes.
Here we present the main differences between these two hikes:
| Inca Trail | Salkantay Trek | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days | 4 days |
| Distance | 48 km | 52 km |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,215 m | 4,650 m |
| Minimum Altitude | 2,160 m | 2,160 m |
The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and a 4-hour drive to Challacancha, with a stop in Mollepata. From Challacancha, where the support team is organized, we start a 3-hour hike to Soraypampa, our first campsite. After lunch, we visit Humantay Lake and return to the camp to rest.
After breakfast, we begin a 7 km hike to the Salkantay Pass, followed by a descent to Huayracmachay for lunch. In the afternoon, we trek 10 km through the jungle to Chaullay Village, our base camp towards Machu Picchu.
We start the hike to the village of La Playa through the Santa Teresa Valley, passing by Colpapampa, where we observe waterfalls, birds, hot springs, and diverse flora and fauna. After lunch in La Playa, we continue to our camp in Lucmabamba to spend the night.
We begin with a 2-hour ascent to Llactapata Inca, facing Machu Picchu, admiring the Santa Teresa Valley. We explore the ruins and descend 2 hours to the Hydroelectric Station for lunch. We visit Intiwatana and continue towards Aguas Calientes along the train tracks.
Today we explore Machu Picchu with a 2-hour guided tour, viewing temples and terraces. Additional options include climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, walking to the Sun Gate, or viewing the Inca Bridge, enjoying the city for over 7 hours.
If you are looking for more than just hiking, this tour is for you. Here, not only will you trek, but you will also take a bike ride through the entire jungle of Cusco to reach Machu Picchu.
Here we present the main differences between these two routes:
| Inca Trail | Bicycle to Machu Picchu | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days | 4 days |
| Distance | 48 km | 55.5 km |
| Maximum Altitude | 4,215 m | 4,450 m |
| Minimum Altitude | 2,160 m | 2,950 m |
We pick you up at 5:00 AM from your hotel in Cusco and travel 2 hours by car, passing through Ollantaytambo towards Yanamayo pass. At 10:00 AM, we begin a 32 km bike descent to Ocobamba. Finally, we move to Quillabamba to spend the night.
At 8:30 AM, we leave Quillabamba towards the Santa Rosa pass, traveling by car for approximately 1 hour. From there, we descend 15 km through jungle trails to Santa Teresa. After settling in, we head to the Cocalmayo hot springs, ending the day around 8:00 PM.
We transfer by car to the hydroelectric station in about 45 minutes, starting point to walk to Aguas Calientes. The walk will last about 2 hours and 45 minutes, varying according to physical condition. We visit the Mandor waterfalls and have a free afternoon in Aguas Calientes.
After breakfast, we pick you up at 6:00 AM to drive up to Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes. You will enjoy a 2-hour guided tour. At noon, we descend to Aguas Calientes and return by train to Ollantaytambo, then take you to your hotel in Cusco around 6:30 PM.
Hiring a travel agency to undertake some of the treks we present is the best option. Certified travel agencies have all the permits to operate these routes, ensuring a smooth trip. This also guarantees assistance and support throughout the journey, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience.
Travel agencies also offer travel packages that combine adventure with history, accompanied by an experienced and knowledgeable guide. Additionally, travel agencies have all the necessary logistics to undertake the journey.
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