Embark on the legendary 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. This short but iconic trek is ideal for those who want to experience the magic of the Andes without committing to the full 4-day hike.
* All times are referential and will depend on the speed of the group.
Embark on a mystical two-day voyage to the legendary Machu Picchu with XTreme Tourbulencia, where the whispers of the past meet the thrill of adventure. This expedition is not merely a hike; it’s a passage through the storied landscape of the Inca empire, woven into the highlands of Peru.
Your odyssey starts in the storied city of Cusco, from where you’ll venture by van to Ollantaytambo, cradled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Board a train to KM 104—so named for its marker of miles from the ancient capital. Here, the trail calls.
You’ll first tread upon the sacred grounds of Chachabamba, a site of storied stones and echoes of Inca rites. Journey onward to Wiñay Wayna, or “Forever Young” a place where time pauses in the embrace of ancient terraces and ethereal orchids. Amid these ruins, lunch becomes an affair to remember.
As the sun traces its arc, you’ll ascend to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, where your first awe-filled sight of Machu Picchu unfolds—a tableau of cloud-wreathed majesty that enchants the soul. A gentle descent leads you to Aguas Calientes; your sanctuary in a cozy hotel beckons for a night of restful anticipation.
Dawn heralds day two with promises of grandeur. A guided exploration of Machu Picchu awaits, where every stone tells a story, every vista captivates the heart. For the spirited, an ascent of either Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu Mountain offers a higher perspective, literally and figuratively. Beware, though—the altitude demands respect, but our vigilant team ensures your voyage is as safe as it is breathtaking.
Your return to Aguas Calientes marks the closing of your trek. A train whisks you back to Ollantaytambo, with a final drive returning you to Cusco, your heart full of memories, your spirit enriched.
Why XTreme Tourbulencia?
Because here, we craft journeys, not just itineraries. Our local insight crafts a tapestry of experiences that resonate deeply and personally. With guides who are custodians of history and masters of hospitality, every step is an unfolding story, every moment an indelible memory.
Book early—Huayna Picchu beckons, but space is as coveted as the views are stunning. With XTreme Tourbulencia, embark on more than a hike; start a journey of discovery, challenge, and fulfillment on the Short Inca Trail, a path that invites you to not just see, but to experience.
Also, don’t forget to check our reviews on Tripadvisor.
Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Cusco. You’ll be picked up from your hotel by your professional guide and travel comfortably through the scenic Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, a charming Andean town surrounded by ancient Inca terraces. From here, you’ll board the train and head toward the official starting point of the Short Inca Trail, located at KM 104.
Once you disembark at KM 104, your trek officially begins. After crossing a wooden bridge over the Urubamba River, you’ll stop at the first checkpoint, where you’ll show your passport and trail permit. Nearby, you’ll explore the Chachabamba archaeological site, a small but fascinating ruin used as a ceremonial and agricultural center.
From here, the trail begins to ascend gently. The first segment of the hike passes through lush subtropical vegetation, offering incredible views of the Urubamba Valley below. Along the way, you’ll walk through varied microclimates, including humid cloud forest rich in biodiversity. Your guide will point out native orchids, hummingbirds, and butterflies that call this region home.
After a couple of hours on the trail, the reward for your efforts appears: the spectacular Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), perched dramatically on a steep mountainside. These terraces and ceremonial baths are among the most beautiful along the trail and remain remarkably well preserved. Take time to explore the site while your guide shares its historical and spiritual significance.
You’ll enjoy a hearty lunch near the Wiñay Wayna campsite, surrounded by vibrant tropical flowers and ancient stonework. After lunch, continue your trek on a mostly flat, scenic trail that leads toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. This final stretch includes a famous series of steep steps known humorously as the “Gringo Killers,” which were carved into the rock by the Inca more than 500 years ago.
As you reach the Sun Gate, the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu unfolds before your eyes—an awe-inspiring moment that words can hardly describe. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the citadel, and the crowds have thinned out, making it a perfect time for photos. This perspective of the Lost City of the Incas, framed by towering green peaks and misty cliffs, is one of the highlights of the entire journey.
Descend from the Sun Gate along a gentle path, stopping at various viewpoints for additional photo opportunities. Along the way, your guide may show you lesser-known Inca sites between the gate and the citadel. Once at the upper terraces of Machu Picchu, you’ll have time to take those classic postcard-perfect shots from the Guard House.
After soaking in the views and atmosphere, you’ll board a shuttle bus for the 30-minute ride down to Aguas Calientes, a lively town at the base of the mountain. Once checked into your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Afterward, you can explore the town, relax in the thermal hot springs, or simply rest after a full day of adventure.
Meals Included: Box lunch, dinner in Aguas Calientes
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
The Full Machu Picchu Experience
After a restful night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, rise early to enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Today is the moment you’ve been waiting for—your full-day experience at the majestic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the crown jewel of any Peru adventure tour.
You’ll take one of the first buses up the winding mountain road to the Machu Picchu citadel, arriving just as the mist lifts and the sun rises over the iconic peaks. This is a magical moment—watching the golden light slowly illuminate the ancient stone city perched between the clouds and the jungle. Be sure to have your camera ready, as sunrise over Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.
Upon entering the site, your expert guide will lead you on a comprehensive 2-hour tour of the Inca sanctuary. Learn about the mysterious architecture, ingenious engineering, and rich spiritual traditions of the Inca civilization. You’ll visit important locations within the citadel, including the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Intihuatana sundial, and the Royal Quarters.
As you walk through the sacred site, you’ll understand why Machu Picchu is considered one of the most significant cultural and archaeological sites in the world. Your guide will share fascinating stories and historical insights, helping you connect more deeply to this ancient wonder.
After the guided tour, you’ll have a bit of free time to explore on your own. If you wish, you can climb up to one of the nearby viewpoints for a final panoramic shot or simply pause to reflect on your incredible journey along the Short Inca Trail.
When you’re ready, take the shuttle bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included). Depending on your train schedule, there may be time to explore the artisan markets, visit the local museum, or unwind at the Aguas Calientes hot springs.
In the afternoon, board the Expedition train for a scenic ride along the Urubamba River, retracing part of your trail through the Andes. As the train glides past towering canyon walls and dense jungle, you might even spot Wiñay Wayna perched high above the valley—a reminder of your hike the day before.
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo station, your private driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco, where your unforgettable 2-day Machu Picchu journey comes to an end.
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel
Accommodation: Not included (return to your Cusco hotel)
Includes
Excludes
All briefings are done at our office at 5:00 PM one or two nights before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Xtreme Tourbulencia office team. Briefings are approximately 40 minutes long.
Xtreme Tourbulencia is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.
Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through. They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage.
We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off.
Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.
Huaynapicchu is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 1 hour to the top, and another 45 minutes back down.
Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike. The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM. Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin.
Machu Picchu Mountain is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 2 hours to the top and another 1 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day treks, the Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.
Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.
| Entry time to Machupicchu (*) | Grace period during months of regular visitor demand (**) | Grace period during months of high visitor demand (from June 1 to October 15 and December 30 and 31) (**) |
|---|---|---|
| 06:00 am | Until 06:30 am | Until 06:45 am |
| 07:00 am | Until 07:30 am | Until 07:45 am |
| 08:00 am | Until 08:30 am | Until 08:45 am |
| 09:00 am | Until 09:30 am | Until 09:45 am |
| 10:00 am | Until 10:30 am | Until 10:45 am |
| 11:00 am | Until 11:30 am | Until 11:45 am |
| 12:00 pm | Until 12:30 pm | Until 12:45 pm |
| 01:00 pm | Until 01:30 pm | Until 01:45 pm |
| 02:00 pm | Until 02:30 pm | Until 02:45 pm |
| 03:00 pm | Until 03:30 pm | Until 03:45 pm |
* Entry time at the main gate of the Inca city of Machupicchu.
** Entry at the control points of Machupicchu, Waynapicchu, and
Huchuypicchu mountains does not have a grace period.
You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first-aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. We recommend you should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities.
You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. Xtreme TourBulencia will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.
If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.
If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.
Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are.
Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.
Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date.
Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.
You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc. Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.
Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.
Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below. For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card.
Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen. Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip.
Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.
Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared.
No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.
Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.
It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.
As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.
With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.
Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness.
Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.
You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Xtreme Tourbulencia guides are trained to help you get through it.
The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.
The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic.
Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.
Our Breakfast
Our Snacks
After our daily breakfast, our chefs prepare small snacks to take with us on our afternoon snack. This snack is useful when we need energy to continue the hike.
Our Lunch
After walking for 4 hours before a full meal, our lunches always had a great balance of enough protein and controlled amounts (I never wanted to be so full that I wanted to sleep). Our cooks presented some excellent dishes, including:
Our Tea Time
After lunch, we continued our hike along the trail for another 4 hours before reaching camp. After settling into our tents (and cleaning up), we enjoyed the traditional tea time, which took place at 5 p.m. and instantly put us in a relaxing mood. These tea sessions included:
Our Dinner
Our final culinary experience of the day would come at dinnertime with several wonderful three-course meals. Enclosed in their tent, our talented team of chefs compiled the following dishes with only a flashlight and a minimalist propane torch.
NOTE: This is only a sample menu for your hike. Exact food selections are subject to change.
At Xtreme Tourbulencia, we understand that a trip isn’t complete without experiencing the essence of its culture, and gastronomy is at the heart of that experience. That’s why we’ve created an exclusive network of partner restaurants in each destination, carefully selected to ensure your meals are as memorable as the journey.
???? Equipment and Apparel
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01 Sleeping bag + sheet
$ 20.00
The North Face or Feather Doite (-15°)
Walking sticks
$ 15.00
They are made of aluminum, so they are lightweight, durable and comfortable, with a rubber toe cap.
Inflatable mattresses
$ 20.00
Thermarest
Tent with shower for the Inca Trail
$ 90.00
Tent with hot shower
Bathroom tent for the Inca Trail
$ 90.00
Simple tent for the Inca Trail
$ 30.00
Doite Kailas or Eureka – 4-day Inca Trail
Chemical Bath
$ 90.00
Camping pillow
$ 20.00
Compressible and lightweight – Foam filling
Portable Chargers
$ 15.00
Tent with hot shower
35L and 60L backpack
$ 15.00
Lightweight camping backpack
Bathroom tent for the Inca Trail
$ 90.00
Entrance to Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu Mountain
$ 70.00
University student ID – $20.00
Upgrade to Vistadome train (round trip)
$ 80.00
Vistadome Train Upgrade (One Way)
$ 40.00
To begin, we’d like to suggest some accommodation options throughout Cusco. Although it’s a small city, more and more streets are becoming traffic-free pedestrian zones.
Therefore, we’ve selected comfortable and well-located hotels that also allow us easy access to pick you up. These are just ideas; you’re free to choose your accommodation.
The Short Inca Trail is a condensed 2-day, 1-night trekking experience that covers the final section of the famous Classic Inca Trail. This hiking tour combines ancient Inca ruins, cloud forest landscapes, and culminates with a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu citadel. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this alternative trek covers approximately 16 kilometers and includes stops at Wiñay Wayna ruins before reaching the iconic Sun Gate entrance to Machu Picchu.
The Short Inca Trail spans 2 days and covers roughly 16 kilometers (10 miles) of ancient stone pathways. Day one involves 6-7 hours of hiking from Km 104 to Aguas Calientes, while day two includes an early morning bus ride and guided tour of Machu Picchu lasting 2-3 hours.
The Short Inca Trail is a 2-day trek covering the final portion of the Classic 4-day Inca Trail route. While the Classic Inca Trail requires 4 days of camping and covers 43 kilometers, the Short Trail offers hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes and focuses on the most scenic final section. Both routes require advance permits and end at Machu Picchu, but the Short Trail is ideal for those seeking the Inca Trail experience with greater comfort and less time commitment.
Book your Short Inca Trail trek at least 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season (May-September). Inca Trail permits are limited to 500 people daily and sell out quickly. Booking early ensures availability and better tour operator selection for your preferred dates.
The optimal time for the Short Inca Trail is during Peru’s dry season from May to September, offering clear skies and minimal rainfall. June through August provides the best weather conditions but attracts more crowds. Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer fewer tourists with acceptable weather conditions.
Short Inca Trail prices typically range from $400-800 USD per person, depending on tour operator, group size, and included services. Premium operators charge $600-800 for smaller groups and superior accommodations, while budget options start around $400-500. Prices include permits, guide, meals, accommodation, and transportation.
Yes, the Short Inca Trail requires official government permits that must be purchased through licensed tour operators. Individual permits cannot be obtained independently. These permits include your full name and passport number, so bring the same passport used during booking.
The Short Inca Trail requires moderate fitness levels suitable for 6-7 hours of hiking over varied terrain. Regular cardio exercise, stair climbing, and hiking practice 6-8 weeks before your trip are recommended. The trail includes stone steps, uphill sections, and altitude considerations at 2,400-2,700 meters elevation.
The Short Inca Trail difficulty is considered moderate, easier than the Classic 4-day Inca Trail or challenging treks like Salkantay or Choquequirao. The trek suits reasonably fit individuals who can handle day-long hiking with backpack weight of 5-8 kilograms. Altitude acclimatization in Cusco for 2-3 days beforehand is highly recommended.
Yes, beginners with basic fitness can complete the Short Inca Trail successfully. However, prior hiking experience and physical preparation are beneficial. Start training 6-8 weeks early with regular walks, stair climbing, and cardio exercises. The trail’s moderate difficulty makes it accessible for first-time trekkers who prepare adequately.
We know how important it is for you to travel light and with peace of mind, which is why we offer our left-luggage service. You can bring and leave your luggage in safekeeping after coordinating with our guide.
During your expedition, your luggage will be kept in a very secure location.
After you finish your hike or other activity, you can arrange for us to transfer your gear to your hotel, or you can stop by our office.
We want you to enjoy your experience without worry.
The Short Inca Trail showcases spectacular cloud forest scenery, ancient Inca ruins including Wiñay Wayna, terraced agricultural sites, and diverse flora and fauna. The highlight is reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu citadel. You’ll also experience authentic Inca stone pathways and architectural marvels along the sacred valley route.
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail camping experience, the Short Inca Trail includes hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Most tours provide 3-star hotels with private bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds. This makes the trek more accessible for travelers preferring hotel comfort over camping.
Typical Short Inca Trail packages include lunch on day one, dinner and breakfast in Aguas Calientes, and lunch on day two. Meals feature local Peruvian cuisine with options for dietary restrictions when specified during booking. Many operators accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requirements with advance notice.
Essential Short Inca Trail packing list includes sturdy hiking boots, rain jacket, warm layers, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottles, camera, headlamp, and personal medications. Pack light as you’ll carry your daypack throughout the hike. Most operators provide detailed packing lists upon booking confirmation.
Short Inca Trail weather varies significantly due to cloud forest microclimate and elevation changes. Expect temperatures ranging from 5-20°C (41-68°F), with possible rain showers year-round. Layer clothing for temperature variations, and always pack rain gear regardless of season.
Altitude acclimatization in Cusco (3,400m) for 2-3 days before attempting the Short Inca Trail is crucial. The trek itself occurs at lower elevations (2,400-2,700m), making altitude sickness less likely than Cusco. However, individuals sensitive to altitude should consult physicians and consider altitude sickness medication.
The Short Inca Trail can accommodate children over 8 years and active seniors, depending on individual fitness levels. The moderate difficulty and hotel accommodation make it more family-friendly than camping alternatives. However, the 6-7 hour hiking duration requires good physical condition regardless of age.
Popular Short Inca Trail alternatives include the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Choquequirao Trek, and Sacred Valley day tours combined with train visits to Machu Picchu. For those unable to secure Inca Trail permits, the Salkantay Trek offers similar mountain scenery, while train options provide comfortable Machu Picchu access without hiking requirements.
Yes, you can reach Machu Picchu via scenic train from Cusco or Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, followed by bus transport to the citadel entrance. This comfortable option takes 3-4 hours total travel time and allows full-day Machu Picchu exploration without trekking requirements.
Select licensed Short Inca Trail operators with good safety records, experienced guides, and positive reviews. Verify their permit authorization, group sizes, accommodation standards, and emergency procedures. Compare included services, meal quality, and guide expertise rather than focusing solely on price.
The Inca Trail closes annually during February for maintenance. If weather or other circumstances cause closures, reputable operators offer alternative treks like Salkantay or full refunds. Travel insurance covering trip cancellations is recommended for added protection.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip cancellation is strongly recommended for the Short Inca Trail. Policies should include coverage for adventure activities and high-altitude hiking. Some operators require insurance proof before trek participation.
Required documents include valid passport (same one used for permit booking), Inca Trail permits (provided by tour operator), and travel insurance policy. Students under 25 can receive discounts with valid international student ID cards. Keep document copies separate from originals during the trek.
Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before your Short Inca Trail departure for proper altitude acclimatization. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat light meals, and consider coca tea for natural altitude adjustment. Consult your physician about altitude sickness medication if you’re particularly sensitive to elevation changes.
