Season
We really appreciated that this trek started a little later in the day, and we had the pleasure of the Vinikunka peak and walk back, nearly entirely to ourselves. What a privilege! This also speaks to an appreciation of the local challenges of overtourism, and their conscientious approach. William, our guide, was also extraordinarily patient with us, given that one of our group struggled with the altitude more than the rest. He was attentive and encouraging, while managing us in a quiet and confident manner. His knowledge and interest was apparent and we enjoyed his company very much. The Apus Peru team's communication was also excellent, and we appreciated the tailored offering they put together for us. We would highly recommend the company and tour to others!
KM104 – Short Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
Hike the two day Inca Trail trek
For many people the KM 104 hike (also known as the Short Inca Trail or the Two Day Inca Trail) is the answer to all the common downsides to the classic Four Day Inca Trail. As the name suggests, it's shorter and easier going, it's less crowded so the permits rarely sell out, and you spend the night in a hotel bed rather than a tent. What's more – you get the full Inca Trail experience by arriving at Machu Picchu on foot via the Sun Gate – something that is unique to the Inca Trail.
For those who are feeling more adventurous but don't really fancy the full Inca Trail, we can combine the KM 104 trek with another of Peru's excellent treks. We highly recommend pairing this route with the Lares Trail to give you a longer hike, but still with the grand Machu Picchu finale.
Elevation map
Good to know
- Leaders in sustainable tourism
- Slow, authentic travel
- Top rated on Trip Advisor
What's included
-
![Included]()
Accommodation
-
![Included]()
Guided excursions
-
![Included]()
Ground transfers
-
![Included]()
All meals
-
![Included]()
Support
Days
2
Starting from
$799 pp
Activity
Adventure, Backpacking, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Walking, Camping, Nature & Wildlife, Culture, Responsible Travel, Slow TravelTour Type
Private guided tourPhysical Level
Mild
![Season]()
Season
March - January
Detailed itinerary
What you'll see and do
Day 1
Cusco - Km 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Machu Picchu
KM 104
- Total Walking Distance: 13 km (8 mi)
- Total Walking Time: 7 hours
- Minimum Altitude: 2050m (6725 ft) / Maximum Altitude: 2700m (8858 ft)
Our day begins with an early 5:00 AM departure from Cusco, traveling by car to Ollantaytambo train station. Arrange a box breakfast with your hotel for the journey, or consider staying in Ollantaytambo the night before for a later start. From Ollantaytambo, we take a scenic 1.5-hour train ride to kilometer 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Crossing the Vilcanota River, we visit Chachabamba (2050m / 6725 ft), an archaeological site with charming water channels and fountains. From here, we begin a 5km (3 mi) uphill hike, taking about 3.5 hours. The trail is well-maintained but features steep stairs and sharp drop-offs, requiring a good level of fitness. The heat of the sun can also add to the challenge.
After a steady climb, we reach Wiñay Wayna (2700m / 8858 ft), an impressive Inca site with terraces, religious structures, and an urban sector. Many consider it the most stunning site on the Inca Trail.
Following lunch, we hike for 1.5 hours across rolling terrain to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate (2730m / 8956 ft). A steep final ascent rewards us with breathtaking first views of Machu Picchu (2400m / 7874 ft). After capturing photos, we descend toward the citadel but take a side trail to the bus stop instead, as we’ll explore Machu Picchu fully on Day 2.
In Aguas Calientes, we’ll check into our hotel, enjoy a celebratory dinner, and rest up for the next day’s early start.
Day 2
Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
Machu Picchu
After a good night’s sleep in your hotel, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to the bus stop at 7:15 AM. At Apus Peru, we prioritize rest and a proper meal to ensure you’re refreshed and ready to fully enjoy your visit to Machu Picchu.
Expect a short wait in line before boarding the bus to the site, aiming for an 8 AM entry. This time is ideal as any morning fog or clouds will likely have cleared, offering unobstructed views and a quieter experience before crowds from day trippers and Classic Inca Trail hikers arrive later in the morning. Should your booking require a different time, we’ll adjust accordingly.
Upon arrival, your guide will lead a 2-hour walking tour of the historic citadel. Afterward, savor a buffet lunch at the Tinkuy Restaurant inside the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge while reflecting on your incredible journey.
Following lunch, we’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, though you’re welcome to hike down if you prefer (a bus ticket is included). In town, browse the local markets while waiting for the train.
From Aguas Calientes, enjoy a scenic 2-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to Cusco. The total travel time is about 4 hours, with stunning views of the Urubamba Valley and Sacred Valley mountains along the way.
Customise this trip!
Want more? The KM104 hike pairs wonderfully with the Lares Trail, or any of the other excellent treks in the region. Contact us now to tailor this itinerary to your preferences!
-
KM 104
-
Machu Picchu
Peru's archaeological rock star
Machu Picchu is the top attraction in Peru and, in 2007, was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World...
Speak to a Peru specialist about this trip
What's included
|
Accommodation |
All camping accommodation while trekking: Tents, toilet tents, foam mattress, etc. Standard-class hotels as specified in the itinerary. Hotels can be upgraded on request. |
|
|
Guided excursions |
English/Quechua/Spanish speaking professional guide, plus an assistant guide for groups over 8 Porters, who carry camping equipment, food and kitchen utensils. We provide duffel bags at your briefing for your personal items (up to 7kg/15lbs per person). If you wish to take more, you can hire a personal porter. Please contact us for costs. Tents, sleeping bags and mattresses for our staff to sleep in, plus a budget for their meals All permits & entry fees as required by the itinerary. |
|
|
Ground transfers |
All hotel/airport collections and ground transfers as required. |
|
|
All meals |
Dining tent with camp tables and chairs, and kitchen tent for the cook to prepare meals Cook and cooking equipment, plus assistants for larger groups. Meals as indicated in the itinerary. Our professional cooks prepare a combination of traditional Peruvian and Western cuisine. Talk to your Travel Consultant during the booking process if you have certain preferences! Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. When served, salads are washed in boiled water. Boiled water to drink on the hike (which you can carry in your own reusable water bottle) |
|
|
Support |
First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle, 24/7 emergency support while travelling. |
How to book
Prices are per person in USD, based on group size. Apus Peru exclusively operates private groups, except by special request. Hiking the Inca Trail as a private group allows us to offer you a highly personalized experience, with more one-on-one time with your guide and a more tailored, off-the-beaten-path experience on the trail. We do not have fixed-date group departures.
Reviews
What people are saying about Apus Peru
Christelle
01/08/2023
Ole
19/11/2024
The trek around the Ausangate massive proved to be even better than expected. Apus has a very professional organisation which shows quality in all aspects. Sustainability and fair payment to its employees. We fully enjoyed the trek and was treated as king and queen by the guide Herbert, the chef Mauro and the two horsemen. Fantastic meals and even cake at the last breakfast !
Herbert could tell a lot of what we saw under ways and had allways an answer. Super flexible and constantly high spirits.
Dana
01/06/2023
We had an amazing 5-day, 4-night Inca trail trek with Apus Peru and their guide Mario (and their porters). I’d give 10 stars if possible. They are great with kids (our son is 9), and truly were caring, knowledgeable, and provided the best experience possible. A++ in every way.
Other tours you might like
Sacred Valley Tour with extended Machu Picchu
The ideal, relaxed-pace Machu Picchu itinerary
7 daysFrom $3,390
Lares & The Two Day Inca Trail
A classic alternative to the Inca Trail
4 daysFrom $1,035
Five Day Inca Trail Tour
The more relaxed, less-crowded version
5 daysFrom $1,530
Apus Peru
Locally-owned Peru trekking specialists
Why choose Apus Peru?
- Leaders in sustainable tourism
- Slow, authentic travel
- Top rated on Trip Advisor
Apus Peru customer reviews
How this service works
Horizon Guides makes money by charging carefully-screened travel specialists to list their businesses on our website. Our advertisers have no influence over our editorial content.
By booking a trip via Horizon Guides you are supporting indepedent local businesses and helping to fund our free, high quality, professional travel journalism.
We plant 50 trees for every trip booked via Horizon Guides!
Your details are safe and wi ll not be used for any other purpose. By using this service you agree for us to share your details with your chosen tour operator according to our Privacy Policy.
