Packing List and Preparation Tips – Short 2 Day Inca Trail in 2024

Preparation Tips for the Short Inca Trail in 2 Days and 1 Night

The Short Inca Trail is part of the mystical network of ancient trails that lead to Machu Picchu, now one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. With the Short 2 day Inca Trail, now condensed into a one day walk along the trail and one in Machu Picchu, you get to enjoy all the best parts of the Classic 4-day Inca Trail. Covering a distance of just 10km/6.3 miles, the 2-day Inca Trail is slightly challenging which makes it perfect for families with children, friends, school mates, couples, for those who are not 100% fit, and/or those on a tight schedule.

It is highly recommended that you take time to acclimatise and prepare physically in order to have an enjoyable experience. Below are ways that you can prepare to hike the Short 2-Day Inca Trail for your next 2024 adventure to Machu Picchu!

Practical Information 

What is included in a Short Inca Trail Package?

Our package includes all you need in order for you to have the best experience on your Short 2-Day inca Trail; at TOUR IN PERU, we have professional, experienced and bilingual tour guides and also carry a first-aid kit and oxygen tank. This package also includes all transfers, bus rides and train journeys; three meals (1 breakfast, 1 box-lunch and 1 dinner), 1 night on day 1 at a hotel in Aguas Calientes (the village at the foot of Machu Picchu) and finally your Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance tickets. We also offer vegetarian food upon request at no extra cost.

Aguas Calientes – the town of Machu PIcchu, day 1 of your Short Inca Trail

Check the full package detailed itinerary, and book now for 2024!

What is not included in a Short 2-Day Inca Trail Package?

This Inca Trail package does not include travel insurance, bottled water supply, entrance ticket to the optional Huayna Picchu Mountain hike, tips and extra expenses and international or domestic flights. About meals, breakfast for the first day, second day lunch and dinner are not included.

What you need to bring for the 2024 Short 2 Day Inca Trail:

We carefully prepared the packing list which will save your preparation time and help you to get ready to enjoy the trek.

• Clothing: a hat or cap for protection from the sun and the wind, a t-shirt (not cotton, polyester is ideal), nylon pant (better reversible), soft socks to avoid blisters, good, waterproof hiking boots. A warm jacket and a rain poncho; gloves and a scarf; and finally, a small towel and a swimsuit in case you want to enjoy Aguas Calientes’ hot springs (recommended).
• Food and Drink: bottled water, varied snacks of your preference. Please read Peru’s new ban on disposable plastic. 
• Health: sunblock, insect repellent, personal first-aid items, and personal medicines
• Equipment: a walking pole is very helpful. Photographic camera
• Documents: do not forget your original passport and your ISIC card if you are a student eligible for the discount

Finally, don’t forget to bring some cash for tips, shopping, and other small expenses.

General Physical Preparation for the Short Inca Trail

Trekking shoes- one of the most important details for the trek.

The Short Inca Trail is considered easy, but we recommend preparing for a minimum level of fitness so you do not feel uncomfortable on a trek so have an enjoyable and pleasurable experience; you know the idea is to be worry-free, so it is useful to get used to this kind of hikes prior to your hiking tour to Machu Picchu. This is your vacation so you just have to enjoy and relax!

Before traveling to Peru prepare yourself,  do some cardio exercises, steps, instead of taking public transport, walk, etc.

If you have medical issues make sure you have consulted with your doctor before traveling, for those who have joint problems we strongly recommend walking poles or sticks which will make your walking easier. If walking poles are not on your preparation list, you can easily rent them with us.

Contact us

If you didn’t find all the information for this 2024 hiking adventure, please contact the TOUR IN PERU team for any further questions and requires. Of course, last but not least, check the official, real-time Short 2-Day Inca Trail availability!