Want to hike to Machu Picchu along the original Inca Trail and enter through the Sun Gate? Illa Kuntur Travel offers two official trekking options: the 4-Day Classic Inca Trail and the 2-Day Short Inca Trail. Both routes take you to Machu Picchu on foot through Inti Punku, but the experiences are completely different.
This guide explains the key differences using up-to-date information from our tours, helping you choose the best option based on your available time, fitness level, and travel preferences.
What Is Each Inca Trail Route Like?
The Classic Inca Trail is the full trekking experience. It starts at Kilometer 82 (Piscacucho) and follows approximately 43 kilometers of original Inca stone pathways. The route takes you through valleys, high mountain passes, and cloud forests. It includes three nights of camping, porters, a trekking chef, and visits to several archaeological sites.
The Short Inca Trail is a condensed version that covers the final section of the route. It begins at Kilometer 104 (Chachabamba) and covers approximately 8 to 10 kilometers in a single day of hiking. It also reaches Inti Punku, offering views of Machu Picchu in the late afternoon. You’ll spend the night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Both routes include a professional bilingual guide, official permits, and admission to Machu Picchu. Neither route operates in February due to maintenance.
Classic vs. Short Inca Trail: Main Comparison
| Feature | Classic Inca Trail (4 Days) | Short Inca Trail (2 Days) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days / 3 nights | 2 days / 1 night |
| Group tour price (starting at) | USD 699 | USD 529 |
| Private tour price (starting at) | USD 1,299 | USD 629 |
| Hiking distance | Approx. 41 km total | Approx. 9 km total |
| Starting point | Km 82 (Piscacucho) | Km 104 (Chachabamba) |
| Maximum elevation | 4,212 m (Dead Woman’s Pass) | 2,724 m |
| Accommodation | 3 nights camping | 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Strenuous single-day hike |
| Porters | Yes | No |
| Arrival at Inti Punku | Early morning on Day 4 | Late afternoon on Day 1 |
Archaeological Sites Along Each Route
| Archaeological Site | Classic Inca Trail | Short Inca Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Llactapata / Patallacta | Yes | No |
| Runkuracay | Yes | No |
| Sayacmarca | Yes | No |
| Phuyupatamarca | Yes | No |
| Wiñay Wayna | Yes | Yes |
| Inti Punku (Sun Gate) | Yes (early morning) | Yes (late afternoon) |
| Machu Picchu | Yes | Yes |
Inca Trail Itinerary Overview
Classic Inca Trail (4 Days)
Day 1: Km 82 to Wayllabamba (approx. 12 km).
Day 2: Wayllabamba to Pacaymayu, crossing Dead Woman’s Pass (approx. 15 km).
Day 3: Pacaymayu to Wiñay Wayna (approx. 9 km).
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna to Inti Punku and Machu Picchu (approx. 5 km).
Short Inca Trail (2 Days)
Day 1: Km 104 to Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku, followed by a transfer down to Aguas Calientes (approx. 8 km of hiking, 5 to 6 hours).
Day 2: Early morning guided tour of Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.
What’s Included in Each Inca Trail Tour?
| Included Service | Classic Inca Trail | Short Inca Trail |
|---|---|---|
| Professional guide | Yes | Yes |
| Official permits | Yes | Yes |
| Transportation from Cusco to the starting point | Yes | Yes |
| Return train | Yes | Yes |
| Meals | 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners | 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner |
| Camping equipment and porters | Yes | No |
| Hotel in Aguas Calientes | No | Yes (with breakfast) |
| First-aid kit and oxygen | Yes | Yes |
Which Inca Trail Should You Choose?
Choose the Classic Inca Trail if you have at least 5 or 6 days available, enjoy hiking and camping, want the full trekking experience with visits to multiple archaeological sites, and have a good fitness level. We recommend spending at least 2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.
Choose the Short Inca Trail if you’re short on time, prefer staying in a hotel, are traveling with family, or want a shorter trekking experience without missing the opportunity to enter Machu Picchu on foot through Inti Punku.
Both options offer incredible experiences. The main differences are the duration, altitude, and level of comfort. Many travelers who choose the Short Inca Trail find the experience just as exciting and memorable.
Practical Tips for Hiking the Inca Trail
Spend time acclimatizing in Cusco before starting either route. Pack layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, trekking poles, and sturdy hiking footwear. Inform your guide of any health conditions. Book well in advance, as Inca Trail permits are limited.
Book Your Inca Trail Adventure
At Illa Kuntur Travel, we operate both routes with small groups and a commitment to responsible tourism.
Check availability and current prices:
Contact us and make your dream of reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate a reality.
