Short Inca Trail Vs Classic Inca Trail: Which one to choose for your Peru Adventure?

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If you are planning your visit to Peru and want to discover the wonder of Machu Picchu, you will probably find two very famous options to get there: the Short Inca Trail (2 days/1 night) and the Classic Inca Trail (4 days/3 nights). While both routes offer memorable experiences, full of history, adventure and spectacular scenery, you should keep in mind that each is designed for different types of travelers.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the main differences between these two routes to help you choose the one that best suits your time, budget and level of adventure.

1.Short Inca Trail (2 days/1 night): A Short but Intense Experience

The Short Inca Trail is an abbreviated version of the popular Inca Trail. It is perfect for people who have limited time, but want to experience the thrill of trekking this ancient route.

Trail Details:

  • Duration: 2 days and 1 night.
  • Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) on the first day.
  • Starting point: Km 104 of the train to Machu Picchu.
  • Highlights: Archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna and arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate.
  • Lodging: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.

You will start with a train ride from Cusco or the Sacred Valley to Km 104. From there, you will ascend gradually through a jungle environment, with amazing and unique landscapes of the Andean mountains. A key point is the archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna, this point is little crowded and will impress you with its terraces and Inca architecture.

The highlight of the day is the arrival at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), from this point you will have your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. You will then descend to the town of Aguas Calientes to relax in a hotel and prepare for the second day.

The next day begins early, with a full guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you will explore the temples, plazas and terraces of this wonder of the world.

Advantages of the Short Inca Trail

  • Ideal if you have little time available.
  • Affordable trekking with an intermediate effort.
  • Extra comfort to relax in a hotel.
  • Unforgettable experience when arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

2. Classic Inca Trail (4 days/3 nights): A Complete Adventure

The Classic Inca Trail is one of the most famous routes to reach the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This is a very challenging and immersive experience, perfect for people looking for an adventure they will never forget, through spectacular landscapes and Inca archaeological remains.

Tour Details:

  • Duration: 4 days and 3 nights.
  • Distance: 42 km (26 miles).
  • Starting point: Km 82 of the train to Machu Picchu.
  • Highlights: Archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca.
  • Difficulty Level: High.
  • Lodging: Campsites along the route.

The total trek is four days, during which time you will walk along a historic trail through cloud forests, mountains and valleys. The hike includes challenging passes, such as the famous Warmiwañusca (“Dead Woman's Pass”), whose altitude reaches 4,215 meters above sea level.

Each of the four days is a combination of nature and archaeology, with wonderful visits to sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, where you can marvel at the Inca architecture and panoramic views along the route. Finally, on the last day, at dawn, you will arrive at the Sun Gate (Intipunku) to admire and contemplate Machu Picchu in all its splendor.

Advantages of the Classic Inca Trail

  • A complete and immersive experience for 4 days.
  • Deep connection with history, culture and nature.
  • Personal reward by completing a significant and demanding physical challenge.
  • Exploration of different archaeological sites throughout the four days.

3. Key Differences between the Short Inca Trail and Classic Inca Trail

4. Recommendations for your hike

If you are planning to do any of these routes, you should take into account some of the following recommendations to guarantee an unforgettable and, above all, safe experience:

  • Book in advance: Quite often the quotas are sold out quickly as these are usually limited, especially in high season (May to September).
  • Acclimatization: Upon arrival you should stay at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. This will help prevent altitude sickness.
  • Prepare your equipment: Use appropriate trekking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent and a light backpack.
  • Physical condition: Prepare yourself by exercising and hiking beforehand to condition yourself physically, especially if you choose the Classic Inca Trail.
  • Choose a certified agency: Make sure you hire an authorized operator to guarantee safety and respect for the environment.
  • Hydrate and eat well: Take enough water, energy snacks and exclude heavy meals before the hike.
  • Respect the environment: Do not leave garbage and always obey the guide's instructions to take care of the natural and cultural heritage and your integrity.

5. Which route is best for you?

Deciding between the Short Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail will depend on your preferences, especially your time and physical condition:

Choose the Short Inca Trail if:

  • You have little time available.
  • You want a less demanding hike.
  • You want to relax in a hotel and not camp.
  • You want an authentic and unforgettable but short experience.

Choose the Classic Inca Trail if:

  • You have 4 days available for a full adventure.
  • You enjoy physical challenges and contact with nature.
  • You want to explore and connect with more archaeological sites along the way.
  • You want to live the full Inca Trail experience.

Altitude Program

Our statistics for altitude problems are increasing to 40% (Altitude Sickness) , for those who are just exploring hight cities like Cusco, Titikaka Lake, or Bolivia. In the case of trekking routes that take you to Machu Picchu , the statistics go up to 75%,
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