Peru — Cusco
Walk a condensed section of the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. This moderate, 12km, two-day route follows ancient stone pathways, offering a glimpse into Incan history without the extensive camping. Ascend through varied terrain, culminating in breathtaking panoramas as you approach the iconic citadel. A perfect introduction to this historic pilgrimage.
Distance: 12.0 km
Elevation Gain: 720 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2 days
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Short Route), often referred to as the "KM 104" trek or the two-day Inca Trail, is a condensed yet profoundly impactful version of the world's most famous pilgrimage. Spanning approximately 12 kilometres of ancient stone pathways, this route offers a sophisticated alternative for those who wish to experience the historical majesty of the Incan road system without the four days of high-altitude camping required by the classic trek. Starting at a point known as KM 104 on the railway line from Ollantaytambo, the trail ascends through lush cloud forests, past remarkably preserved archaeological sites, and culminates in the breathtaking entrance to Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Unlike the longer route, this journey allows walkers to witness the sunset over the citadel on their first day and return for a comprehensive guided tour on the second, providing a dual perspective of the "Lost City of the Incas" that few other visitors experience.
The Short Inca Trail is a masterclass in archaeological pacing and ecological diversity. While the classic four-day trek is a test of endurance and high-altitude resilience, the two-day route focuses on the most scenic and historically significant final stretch of the Qhapaq Ñan (the Great Incan Road). The journey begins at the Urubamba River, at an elevation of approximately 2,100 metres, and climbs steadily through a landscape that transitions from semi-arid valley floor to humid, orchid-rich cloud forest. This route is particularly favoured by those with limited time, families with older children, or travellers who prefer the comfort of a hotel bed in Aguas Calientes over a tent in the Andean wilderness.
The primary allure of this route lies in its exclusive access to the Winay Wayna archaeological site—arguably the most beautiful Incan ruin outside of Machu Picchu itself. Because the site is only accessible by foot, walkers on the Short Inca Trail enjoy a level of solitude and intimacy with the ruins that the thousands of daily train-bound tourists never experience. The trail's climax occurs at the Sun Gate, where the first glimpse of Machu Picchu is revealed, framed by the peaks of Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. This approach, walking into the citadel from above, remains the most authentic way to arrive, mirroring the path taken by Incan royalty and priests five centuries ago.
Physically, the trail is classified as moderate. While the distance is relatively short at 12 kilometres, the ascent is significant, involving hundreds of original Incan stone steps that can be taxing on the knees and lungs. However, because the maximum altitude reached is significantly lower than the 4,200-metre Dead Woman's Pass on the classic route, the risk of severe altitude sickness is reduced, though proper acclimatisation in Cusco remains essential. The path is well-maintained, but its narrow sections and steep drop-offs require a steady foot and a respect for the mountain environment.
The Inca Trail is not merely a hiking path; it is a surviving segment of the Qhapaq Ñan, a vast network of over 30,000 kilometres of roads that once unified the Tahuantinsuyo (the Incan Empire). This specific branch served as a sacred ceremonial route leading to the religious and political heart of the empire's mountain sanctuary. Built during the height of Incan power in the 15th century, the trail was designed with extraordinary engineering precision, featuring drainage systems, retaining walls, and stone paving that have withstood five centuries of Andean weather and seismic activity.
The Short Route introduces walkers to two major archaeological complexes before reaching the main citadel. The first, Chachabamba, located at the very start of the trek, was likely a religious water shrine and a checkpoint for those entering the sacred precinct. Its fine stonework and ritual baths suggest it was a place of purification. Further up the mountain lies Winay Wayna ("Forever Young" in Quechua), a spectacular complex of agricultural terraces, urban sectors, and a series of ten ritual fountains. Its name refers to a variety of orchid that blooms year-round in the area, symbolising the eternal vitality of the site. Winay Wayna served as a "tambo" or waystation, providing food and shelter for travellers on their way to Machu Picchu.
When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, the Inca Trail was largely abandoned and eventually reclaimed by the dense cloud forest. It remained hidden from the Western world until the early 20th century. While Hiram Bingham is credited with "discovering" Machu Picchu in 1911, the trail itself was mapped and cleared in subsequent decades, revealing the sophisticated logistical network that supported the citadel. Today, the trail is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its preservation is a matter of national pride for Peru. For the modern walker, every step on these stones is a connection to the Quechua people, whose descendants still live in the surrounding valleys and serve as the expert guides and porters who make these journeys possible.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The Andean climate is defined by two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Understanding these cycles is crucial for a successful trek on the Short Inca Trail.
The Dry Season (April to October): This is the peak trekking window. Days are typically characterised by clear blue skies and intense solar radiation, making for spectacular photography and comfortable walking conditions. However, the lack of cloud cover means that temperatures can drop significantly at night, often reaching near freezing in Cusco and Ollantaytambo. June, July, and August are the busiest months; permits for these times often sell out six months in advance. During this period, the views from the Sun Gate are most reliable, though the landscape can appear more brown and arid than in the shoulder months.
The Wet Season (November to March): Rainfall increases significantly during these months, often manifesting as heavy afternoon downpours. The trail becomes lush, green, and vibrant with blooming orchids, but the stone steps can become slippery and treacherous. Clouds frequently shroud the mountains, which can create a mystical atmosphere but may also obscure the iconic views of Machu Picchu. Crucially, the Inca Trail (both Short and Classic routes) is closed for the entire month of February for essential maintenance and to allow the ecosystem to recover during the peak of the rains.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May and September-October): Many experienced trekkers consider these the "sweet spots." The weather is generally stable, the crowds are thinner than in mid-summer, and the landscape retains the lush greenery of the rainy season without the constant threat of a deluge. May is particularly beautiful as the wildflowers are in full bloom and the air is exceptionally clear.
Regardless of the season, weather in the cloud forest is notoriously unpredictable. It is not uncommon to experience "four seasons in one day," where a morning of intense heat is followed by a sudden hailstorm or a thick mist that rolls in from the Amazon basin. Layers and high-quality waterproof gear are non-negotiable requirements for any month of the year.
Day 1: Cusco to Aguas Calientes via KM 104
Day 2: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return to Cusco
Important Notes:
The most critical aspect of planning the Short Inca Trail is the lead time. Permits are strictly limited and often sell out months in advance, particularly for the dry season. You cannot hike this trail independently; you must book through a licensed tour operator who will secure the permits, train tickets, and guide on your behalf. When booking, you will need to provide your full name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth exactly as they appear on your passport.
Physical preparation is equally important. While 12 kilometres may sound short, the 720-metre ascent on uneven stone steps at altitude is physically demanding. It is highly recommended to spend at least two full days in Cusco (3,400 m) or the Sacred Valley (2,800 m) prior to the trek to acclimatise. Engaging in cardiovascular exercise, such as hiking, running, or stair-climbing, in the weeks leading up to your trip will significantly enhance your enjoyment of the trail. Additionally, ensure your footwear is well broken-in to avoid blisters on the steep descents.
Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Short Route does not involve camping. Instead, walkers spend the night in the town of Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo). This town is entirely geared towards tourism and offers a wide range of accommodation options.
Accommodation Details:
The permit system for the Inca Trail is managed by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and is designed to prevent overcrowding and environmental degradation. For the Short Inca Trail (KM 104), there is a daily limit of 250 permits. This quota includes not only the trekkers but also the guides and support staff. Because of this limited capacity, permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Booking Process and Strategy:
Costs:
The cost of the Short Inca Trail varies depending on the tour operator and the level of service (private vs. group). Generally, prices range from $450 to $650 USD per person. This typically includes the permit, train tickets (Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo), bus tickets to/from Machu Picchu, entrance fees to the citadel, a licensed guide, one night's hotel, and most meals. If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on Day 2, this requires an additional permit (approx. $75 USD) which must be requested at the time of the initial booking.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu Short Route (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu Short Route, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding Cusco and the Sacred Valley is rich with cultural and natural attractions that complement the Inca Trail experience:
Altitude Sickness (Soroche): This is the primary safety concern for any trekker in the Andes. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. The best prevention is gradual acclimatisation. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals upon arrival in Cusco, and consider drinking coca tea, a traditional local remedy. If symptoms persist or worsen, descend immediately and seek medical attention.
Trail Conditions: The Short Inca Trail consists largely of original Incan stonework. These stones can be uneven and, when wet, extremely slippery. Moss growth in the cloud forest sections adds to the hazard. Use walking poles to maintain balance, especially on the steep descent from the Sun Gate. The "Gringo Killer" stairs near the end of the hike are nearly vertical; take your time and use your hands if necessary.
Hydration and Sun: At high altitudes, the air is thin and dry, leading to rapid dehydration. The tropical sun at this latitude is exceptionally fierce. Drink at least 3 litres of water per day and reapply high-SPF sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days. Heatstroke and severe sunburn can occur quickly.
Insects: While not a direct safety threat, the biting midges (locally known as "mosquitos") can cause significant discomfort and allergic reactions. They are most active in the humid sections near Winay Wayna and in Aguas Calientes. Wear long sleeves and trousers where possible and use a strong repellent.
Emergency Procedures: Your guide is trained in first aid and carries a basic medical kit. In the event of a serious injury or illness on the trail, evacuation is typically conducted by foot or stretcher to the nearest railway point, from where a train can transport the patient to a clinic in Ollantaytambo or Cusco. There are no helicopter evacuation services available directly on the trail.
Winay Wayna: Often described as a "miniature Machu Picchu," this site is a highlight of the Short Route. It is built into a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba River and features a sophisticated series of agricultural terraces that follow the natural contours of the mountain. The urban sector contains houses with classic Incan trapezoidal doors and windows, and a "religious" sector with fine masonry and ritual fountains. Because it is only accessible to those on the Inca Trail, it remains peaceful and evocative.
Inti Punku (The Sun Gate): This was once the main control point for entering Machu Picchu. Standing at 2,720 metres, it offers the first and most iconic view of the citadel. For trekkers on the Short Route, arriving here in the mid-to-late afternoon often means seeing the ruins bathed in the golden light of the setting sun, with far fewer crowds than during the morning rush.
Chachabamba: Located at KM 104, this is the first site you will encounter. It features a large central altar and several water channels. It is believed to have been a site dedicated to the worship of water and the mountains (Apus), where travellers would stop to perform rituals before continuing their ascent toward the sacred city.
The Cloud Forest Flora: The section of trail between Chachabamba and Winay Wayna is a botanical paradise. Keep an eye out for the "Waqanki" orchid (Masdevallia veitchiana), a vibrant orange flower with a poignant legend of a weeping princess attached to it. The forest is also home to bromeliads, tree ferns, and various species of hummingbirds and the elusive Andean Cock-of-the-rock.
Huayna Picchu: For those with extra energy on Day 2, the climb up the "Young Peak" (the iconic mountain behind the ruins) offers a bird's-eye view of the citadel. The path is incredibly steep and features the "Death Stairs," but the perspective from the top is unparalleled. This requires a separate permit and should only be attempted by those with a good head for heights.
The Inca Trail is a fragile ecosystem and a priceless archaeological treasure. With thousands of people walking these paths every year, the "Leave No Trace" principles are essential for its survival. The Peruvian government has strict regulations in place, and violations can result in heavy fines for both the trekker and the tour operator.
Core Principles for the Inca Trail:
By following these guidelines, you ensure that the "Sacred Path" remains as majestic for future generations as it was for the Incas who built it.
