Travel Guide Short Inca Trail 2 Days: all you need to know

This hiking trail route has a total of 12 kilometers or 6 miles of cobbled and authentic Inca Trail road. Through this adventure, we will visit more archaeological sites like Chachabamba, Wiñayhuayna, Intipata, and Inti Punku or Sungate.

The Inca Trail is a world-renowned trek that leads hikers through breathtaking Andean scenery and ancient Incan ruins to the iconic Machu Picchu. While the classic 4-day Inca Trail is a popular choice, for those with limited time or looking for a slightly less strenuous option, the 2-day Inca Trail is a great alternative. Here’s everything you need to know about the Inca Trail 2 Days, including recommendations for a successful trek.

Overview of the Inca Trail 2 Days

The Inca Trail 2 Days covers approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) and includes a moderate amount of hiking over two days. The first day covers about 6 km and includes a visit to the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna before arriving at the Sun Gate to see Machu Picchu from afar. On the second day, hikers trek the final 6 km to reach Machu Picchu, where they will have a guided tour of the ruins before returning to Cusco.

Tips for a Successful Trek

Book in advance: The Inca Trail is a popular trek and permits are limited, so it’s important to book well in advance. Be sure to book through a reputable tour company to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Train before the trek: While the Inca Trail 2 Days is less strenuous than the classic 4-day trek, it still involves some uphill climbs and uneven terrain. Be sure to train before the trek to build up endurance and avoid injury.
Pack appropriately: Be sure to pack light and bring essential items such as comfortable hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Acclimatize to the altitude: Cusco is located at a high altitude, so it’s important to take time to acclimatize before the trek. Consider arriving in Cusco a few days before the trek to allow your body time to adjust.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: The Inca Trail is a fragile ecosystem, so it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and minimizing its impact on the environment.

Recommendations for Accommodation

While some hikers opt for camping on the Inca Trail, others prefer to stay in accommodations in nearby towns. For those choosing the latter option, there are a few recommended options.

El MaPi Hotel: Located in Aguas Calientes, El MaPi Hotel offers modern and comfortable accommodations, as well as amenities such as a spa, restaurant, and bar.
Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel: This luxury hotel in Aguas Calientes offers spacious and elegant rooms, as well as a restaurant specializing in Andean cuisine and a spa.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel: For a more secluded experience, this rustic and cozy hotel is situated in the lush cloud forest and features an on-site restaurant that uses ingredients sourced from its own organic farm.

In conclusion, the Inca Trail 2 Days is an excellent option for those with limited time or looking for a slightly less strenuous trek to Machu Picchu. By following the above tips and recommendations for accommodation, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trek through the stunning Andean landscape.

Restrictions About 2-Day Inca Trail

As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Peru, the Inca Trail is subject to a number of restrictions to protect the environment and preserve the historical significance of the trail. These restrictions apply to both the classic 4 day Inca Trail and the shorter 2-day Inca Trail. Here are some of the main restrictions to keep in mind when planning a trek on the 2-day Inca Trail:

Short Inca Trail permits: The Peruvian government limits the number of permits available for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu each day, and this includes the 2-day Inca Trail. Only 250 permits are available per day, with approximately half allocated to hikers and the other half to support staff. It’s important to book well in advance to secure a permit, especially during peak tourist season (June to August).
No independent hiking: All hikers on the Inca Trail, including the 2-day route, must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Independent hiking is not allowed. This is to ensure the safety of hikers and to minimize the impact on the environment.
Restricted camping Short Inca Trail: Camping on the Inca Trail is only allowed at designated campsites, and hikers are not allowed to camp at any other locations. Campsites must be pre-booked as part of a tour package, and there are no facilities for independent camping.
No smoking or littering: Smoking is not allowed on the Inca Trail, and hikers are required to pack out all trash and waste. This includes toilet paper, which must be placed in designated waste bags.
No drones or other aircraft in the Short Inca Trail: The use of drones or other aircraft, including helicopters, is not allowed on the Inca Trail. This is to protect the fragile ecosystem and to preserve the peaceful nature of the trail.

By following these restrictions, hikers can help preserve the natural beauty and historical significance of the Inca Trail for future generations. It’s important to be aware of these regulations when planning a trek on the 2-day Inca Trail and to book with a reputable tour company that is committed to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.