INCA TRAIL PACKING LIST
April 6, 2025
Duration
2 Days / 1 Night
Short Inca Trail 2 Day With Camping
Discover the Short Inca Trail 2 Day Camping
Experience the unforgettable Short Inca Trail 2 Day Camping trek—a thrilling and time-efficient way to explore the wonders of the Andes and the ancient Inca civilization. This condensed Inca Trail 2 Day Camping journey packs breathtaking mountain landscapes, mystical archaeological sites, and immersive cultural encounters into just two days of adventure.
Follow the footsteps of the Incas as you hike through lush cloud forests, passing remarkable ruins like Chachabamba and the iconic Wiñay Wayna—hidden gems that few other routes offer. Along the way, be captivated by stunning waterfalls, diverse flora, and the serene beauty of the Sacred Valley.
With approximately six hours of hiking, the trek culminates in the awe-inspiring arrival at Machu Picchu, where panoramic views of this ancient citadel will leave you speechless. Spend a memorable night camping at a comfortable campsite nestled in the Sacred Valley, enjoying gourmet meals freshly prepared by our expert chefs and savoring moments under the starry Andean sky.
For those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort, there’s also an option to upgrade your overnight stay to a cozy 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to relax and recharge before or after your trek.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or new to hiking, the Short Inca Trail 2 Day Camping experience offers an authentic, intimate connection to Peru’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture—all within a compact and manageable itinerary. Perfect for travelers wanting to maximize their time without missing out on the magic of one of the world’s most iconic treks.
OVERVIEW Short Inca Trail 2 Day With Camping
Dia
1
1
Cusco – km 104 – Wiñay wayna – Sun gate – Machu picchu
- Walking Distance – 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Walking Time – 6 to 7 hours
- Hight Elevation – 2,720 m. / 8,923 ft.
- Starting Elevation – 2,170 m. / 7119 ft.
- Campsite Elevation – 2,000 mts / 6,561 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate 3/5
Dia
2
2
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Walking Distance – 3 km / 1.8 miles
- Walking Time – 1.5 hours
- Tour Duration – Approximately 2 hours
- Machu Picchu Elevation –2,430 meters (7,932 feet)
- Difficulty Level – Formidable 2/5
Start your unforgettable Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco between 4:00 and 4:30 AM. After a scenic private transfer, board the spectacular train at Ollantaytambo that winds along the Urubamba River, showcasing breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush cornfields, and vibrant jungle valleys. The train journey lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes, ending at Km 104, where your trek officially begins.
At the first checkpoint, be sure to have your original passport ready to enter the trail. Soon after, you’ll visit the first archaeological site, Chachabamba, an ancient Inca checkpoint used as a religious and administrative center. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights about its history and the surrounding flora and fauna.
The trail gradually ascends as you navigate Inca stone steps and traverse diverse microclimates, including cloud forests rich with orchids, bromeliads, and other native plants. After approximately three hours of trekking, you’ll arrive at the iconic Wiñay Wayna ruins—meaning “Forever Young” in Quechua. Perched on a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba River, Wiñay Wayna is a remarkable complex of temples, terraces, storehouses, and water channels that highlight the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.
Following a guided exploration of Wiñay Wayna, you’ll enjoy a hearty, organic lunch surrounded by tropical flowers. After some rest, the trek continues with a gentle 1.5-hour hike to the famous Sun Gate (Intipunku). This sacred vantage point offers your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean peaks, an awe-inspiring moment as the setting sun casts golden light over the ancient citadel.
From the Sun Gate, descend on a one-hour path down to Machu Picchu ruins, where you’ll have time to explore the site with fewer crowds, capturing postcard-worthy photos and absorbing the mystique of this wonder of the world.
To end the day, take a short bus ride down to Aguas Calientes (Puente Ruinas), where your comfortable campsite awaits. Your experienced porters will have already set up your tents, allowing you to relax with a warm tea and snacks. Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by your chef, then rest well to prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Start your day early with the comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea or coffee as your guides prepare a nourishing breakfast to energize you for an unforgettable day. After breakfast, start with the morning 1.5-hour hike from Aguas Calientes campsite up to the breathtaking Machu Picchu ruins. Arriving just in time to witness the magical sunrise over this ancient citadel makes this Inca trail 2 day camping adventure truly unforgettable.
Once inside Machu Picchu, your professional guide will lead you on an engaging two-hour tour along Circuit 3 or 2 (depending on availability), highlighting the most iconic and mysterious sections of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dive deep into the fascinating history and cultural legacy of the Lost City of the Incas, enriching your experience on the short Inca trail 2 day camping trek.
If you’ve opted for the optional Huayna Picchu hike, your ascent begins around 10:00 a.m., rewarding you with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If not, enjoy extra free time exploring Machu Picchu at your own pace—perfect for capturing photos and soaking in the stunning surroundings.
After your exploration, descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes where you can have lunch (not included) or browse local shops and relaxing hot springs if time permits. Later, board the comfortable Expedition train for a scenic journey along the spectacular Urubamba River to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private van will transport you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving in the early evening.
The return trip to Cusco typically takes about four hours. Since train schedules vary and tickets sell out fast, we highly recommend booking your train departure in advance—ideally between 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm—to ensure a smooth end to your Inca trail 2 day camping adventure.
Includes
- Professional English speaking guide
- Pre trek briefing
- Transportation from your hotel to Ollantaytambo
- Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to camp on day 1, the same the next day.
- Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transport by private van to Cusco
- Admission Ticket to the Inca trail and Machu Picchu Archeological site circuit 1.
- Over night camping at the bottom of Machu Picchu
- 1 Box lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Extra porter up to 5 kl (we provided duffle bag)
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
Not Included
- Breakfast on day 1 and lunch on day 2
- Huayna Picchu mountain
- Machu Pichu ticket circuit 2 or 3 on day 2.
- Hiking poles (can be rented from us)
- Tip for your staff
- Travel Insurance
- Original Passport ( the same you have used for booking your trek)
- Good daypack (25 to 30L)
- Water 1 to 2 liters of water in reusable bottles
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Polar or sweater for chilly mornings
- Rain jacket
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
- Plastic poncho
- Camera
- Valuables
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
- Toilet paper
- Hand sanitizer
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Waynapicchu | $75 USD |
| Walking Sticks (pair) | $10 USD |
| Machu Picchu ticket circuito 2 o 3 | $ 60 USD |
| Upgrade Vistadome Train | $35 USD |
Why book with Inca Trail Camping?
At Inca Trail Camping, we’re more than just a travel agency based in Cusco — we are your local gateway to authentic, unforgettable adventures on the legendary Inca Trail and beyond. As a 100% Peruvian-owned and operated company, our passionate local team is dedicated to sharing the magic of the Andes with every traveler who joins us.
We specialize in carefully crafted trekking experiences, from the classic Inca Trail to the short and extended versions, tailored to fit your unique needs and adventure style. Whether you’re an avid backpacker, a family exploring together, a VIP seeking comfort, or a retiree chasing lifelong dreams, our personalized tours guarantee memories that last forever.
Booking with us means more than just walking the trail—you’ll truly live it. Our comfortable campsites, freshly prepared organic meals, and expert local guides ensure you experience every step safely, deeply, and meaningfully.
We take pride in operating with integrity and care: our well-paid staff and porters enjoy fair working conditions and ongoing education, reflecting our commitment to equality and community empowerment. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, with environmentally friendly practices designed to preserve the breathtaking landscapes you’ll explore.
Your safety is paramount, with first aid kits, oxygen tanks, and experienced guides always ready to support you. From your hotel pickup in Cusco to the final goodbye in Machu Picchu, our seamless hotel-to-hotel service ensures your journey is smooth and worry-free.
Discover why travelers from around the world choose Inca Trail Camping — not just for the destination, but for an immersive cultural experience that connects you to Peru’s rich history, warm people, and stunning natural beauty.
Book with us today and prepare to embark on an adventure that goes far beyond the trail.
