Just imagine: walking over the same ancient rocks the Incas used, fog rolling over the mountains, and you’re in a real-life History Channel documentary, but with much more adventure and less crazy scenery. Maybe you want the unique Short Inca trail tour experience, but you’re not signing up for four days of sleeping on the ground and battling altitude. Dive into the Short Private Inca Trail: basically, all the best stuff in two days, without the fear of missing out, and without the blisters as big as Peru. Seriously, Andean Path Travel? It’s amazing. Emphasis on locally-driven, sustainable travel, and their guides really care; you’ll get it.
Why consider the Short Private Inca Trail?
Listen, not everyone has the time (or, frankly, the stamina) for the real Inca Trail. This version starts at 104 kilometers. Don’t ask me why Peruvians measure everything in kilometers, just guess. You’ll find a lush cloud forest, a waterfall or two, and some ruins that will make your phone’s memory tear up. Winne Wayna is the star here. It means “forever young” in Quechua, which… who wouldn’t want that? However, the real mic drop moment comes when you approach the Sun Gate, right when Machu Picchu is bathed in that golden glow. It’s a view that will make you forget you ever had a gym membership at your home.
And because it’s private, you’re not stuck on a bus full of strangers. Your guide? Basically, your new best friend/encyclopedia/cheerleader, who sets the pace based on your mood and maybe even lets you stop to take, I don’t know, 20 photos of the same orchid. No opinions.
What’s going on on the trail? Day one begins with a train ride in Cusco that, frankly, is worth it just for the views out the window. Getting off at kilometer 104, you’ll pass ancient sites like Chachabamba (say that three times fast), Winne Wayna, and then, on a whim, through the Sun Gate to reach Machu Picchu. What’s the route like? Imagine stone steps, jungle, and the occasional “is that a spectacled bear?” moment. If you like wildlife and spectacular views, you’re here.
You arrive in Machu Picchu in the afternoon, long after the crowds have started to come and go. That first glimpse? Surreal. It’s like the ruins are rolling out the red carpet for you.
Next, you head to Aguas Calientes, which is basically Machu Picchu’s party town, where you’ll take a hot bath after a long day of hiking and enjoy a delicious meal that tastes (believe it) heavenly.
Day two? You’ll return to Machu Picchu with your guide, visiting the temples and terraces. If you want to do more, you can also try Huayna Picchu; just remember that the permits are like gold there, so book in advance.
So… why travel with Andean Path Travel?
I’m not going to lie, there are a lot of operators here, but these do the best job. Their guides are locals, so they won’t just tell you “here’s another stone wall”: they’ll tell you real stories, add a little humor, and give real answers to your weirdest questions. They keep small groups (or just you and your team), so you don’t feel like you’re on a long hike.
Apart from that, Andean Path Travel is a master at doing the right thing: supporting locals, being less sensitive to the environment, and making sure you’re not just a tourist enjoying the sights. You’ll notice a difference, from the food to the flow of everything.
Are you ready for this?
Two days. Spectacular views. History you can touch. If you don’t like a sleeping bag, you don’t need one. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families; even your grumpy uncle who says he “doesn’t like hiking” can enjoy it.
So lace up your boots, pack your camera, and bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a raincoat, just saying). The Private Short Inca trail tour isn’t just a trip; it’s one of those “I can’t believe I did that” stories you’ll tell for years. Don’t overthink it, just get going.