Complete Guide to Short Hike to Machu Picchu
What is the 2-Day Inca Trail?
The Short Hike to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular ways to get to Machu Picchu for those with no time to do the full 4-day trek to Machu Picchu. This shorter trek offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore the wonders of the Inca civilization while enjoying breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley and the mythical citadel of Machu Picchu in 2 days. With approximately 12 kilometers of distance, this hike is ideal for people with a moderate level of fitness.
How Difficult Is the 2-Day Inca Trail?
The 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a moderately difficult trek, designed for people in average physical condition. Although it is not as challenging as the 4-day Hike to Machu Picchu, it still requires effort. The trail includes steep climbs and descents, so it is important to have proper trekking shoes for this trip.
Altitude and Risk of Altitude Sickness on the Short Inca Trail
Altitude of the Inca Trail
The Machu Picchu Short Hike begins at Km 104, at 2,000 meters above sea level, and reaches a maximum altitude of approximately 2,400 meters at the citadel of Machu Picchu. Although the altitude is not as extreme as in other treks in the region, it is essential to be prepared to avoid problems related to altitude sickness.
Hiking distance
The Short Inca Trail starts at kilometer 104 and goes through impressive sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, before reaching the Sun Gate and finally Machu Picchu. The total distance is 13 kilometers (8 miles), and is generally completed in about 7 hours of hiking from kilometer 104.
Despite being shorter than the Classic Inca Trail, this Machu Picchu trek presents a moderate level of difficulty, with steep sections and numerous stairs. However, the effort is rewarded with spectacular views and the immense satisfaction of having completed this epic trek.
Flora
The flora along the Short Hike to Machu Picchu is surprisingly diverse. Some of the plants and flowers you can find are:
- Alstroemeria: Colorful flower, also known as Peruvian Lily, which decorates the trail with its vibrant hues.
- Aguaymanto: Small yellow fruit known for its sweet and sour taste, which grows along the side of the trail.
- Cattleya Orchids: Famous for their large and fragrant flowers, they represent the exotic beauty of the region.
- Bromeliads: Bright plants that grow on trees standing out for their striking colors and shapes.
- Hibiscus: A colorful flowering plant that grows near rivers or streams, adding color to the landscape.
These species further embellish the natural environment, offering a unique experience to travelers.
Fauna
Along the Short Hike to Machu Picchu, a great variety of animals live in the landscape, offering hikers the opportunity to observe interesting species in their natural environment. Some of the species you might encounter are:
- Spectacled Bear: The only bear in South America, easily recognizable by the white markings around their eyes. They are shy and hard to see, but are sometimes seen seeking food.
- Andean Cock-of-the-Rock: With its bright red feathers and distinctive fan-shaped crest, this bird is the national symbol of Peru.
- Andean Agouti: Small agile rodent, often seen moving quickly through vegetation in search of fruits, seeds and plants.
- Vizcacha: Similar to a chinchilla, this rodent with a long, furry tail lives in the rocks along the road, being most active in the early morning and at dusk.
- Andean Deer: Difficult to find, it usually hides in the wooded portions of the trail. It is a shy species that blends in with its surroundings.
- Butterflies: Various brightly colored butterflies perk up the air, adding beauty to the landscape.
- Spiders and Insects: They are part of the insectivorous life along the trail and play a vital role in the ecosystem.
- Snakes and Lizards: You can see these reptiles basking in the sun or slithering among the plants along the trail.
- Llamas: They can be seen grazing along the trail, at some ancient ruins and in Machu Picchu
Places You will Visit
- Chachabamba: The hike begins with a stop at Chachabamba, an archaeological site located in the begining of the trail, with stone buildings and ceremonial baths. It is believed that the Incas used it as checkpoint.
- Choquesuysuy: Although only visible from far away from the way, Choquesuysuy is notable for its terraces and buildings, offering a glimpse into the Inca agricultural system. These ruins are located near the river.
- Wiñaywayna: Known as “Forever Young”, this impressive site has agricultural terraces, ceremonial fountains and well-preserved buildings, showing Inca ingenuity in architecture and landscape design.
- Intipata: Located afar the the trail, Intipata is distinguished by its steep agricultural terraces, demonstrating how the Incas adapted their agriculture to the mountainous terrain.
- Sun Gate (Inti Punku): This is the last stop before Machu Picchu, this point was a checkpoint to enter the sacred city. From here, you will have your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
- Machu Picchu: The trip concludes at Machu Picchu, one of the most famous wonders of the world. Machu Picchu was a sacred place for worthip in Inca times.
Best Time to Hike the Short Inca Trail
We recommend to hike the Short Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, the weather is more comfortable, with less rain and nice temperatures for hiking.
June, July and August are the most popular months due to the good weather, but those are also the most crowded, so it is advisable to book in advance.
November to March, on the other hand, is the rainy season, so trails may be slippery. Consider that every February the Short Inca Trail is closed.
