CAN I WALK THE SHORT INCA TRAIL WITHOUT A GUIDE?

No, you cannot hike the Short Inca Trail without a guide. According to Peruvian law, all treks on the Inca Trail, whether the short or long version, must be done with an authorized tour guide. This is done to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the area, ensure the safety of visitors, and provide educational information about the history and culture of the region.

So, if you are thinking of doing the Short Inca Trail, you will need to book the trek with a travel agency that has authorized guides. The guides will provide you with valuable information during the trek and help you have a safe and educational experience.

Tour guide and your hikers on the Short Inca Trail

A tour guide plays an essential role in the safety, education and experience of hikers on the Short Inca Trail.

WHERE TO LEAVE MY LUGGAGE BEFORE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?

During the Short Inca Trail trek, you can leave your main luggage at our office free of charge. To arrange this, simply inform us during the pre-trip briefing or via email.

Another option is to leave your luggage at your hotel, although it is important to mention that some hotels may charge an additional cost for this service. Therefore, we recommend that you check the rates and conditions of your hotel in this regard.

Storing your luggage at the hotel

Most hotels offer a free luggage storage service.

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT FOR THE PICCHU SHORT INCA TRAIL?

Yes, it is essential that you carry your original passport with you, and it is of utmost importance that it matches the one you provided when you booked your permit for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The authenticity of the passports will be verified upon entering Machu Picchu, accessing the Inca Trail at KM 104 and boarding the train.

In case you are in the process of renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your previous passport to secure your permits and you will be able to update it when you get the new passport.

Please send the copy of the new passport as soon as possible. Don’t forget that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Note: At the checkpoint before starting the Short Inca Trail, you will be asked to present your identity document (passport, foreigner’s card or ID card), so don’t forget to bring them with you!

Is it possible to do the short Inca Trail with children?

If you have the desire to experience the Short Inca Trail with your family, including the little ones, it is important to take into account what has been mentioned throughout this blog. This version of the classic Inca Trail lasts only 2 days, so it is less demanding in terms of physical effort. Therefore, it is an accessible option for children, especially those who are not used to long hikes on uneven terrain.

The maximum altitude reached on the Short Inca Trail is 2,730 meters (Inti Punku), compared to the maximum altitude of the Classic Inca Trail, which climbs to 4,200 meters at the Dead Woman’s Pass. So concerns related to altitude sickness or “soroche” are less significant on the Short Inca Trail.

Walk the Short Inca Trail with your family and create unforgettable memories.

 WHAT IS THE AGE RANGE FOR HIKING THE SHORT INCA TRAIL?

Although there is no specific age restriction for hiking the Short Inca Trail, it is recommended that children be in good physical shape to complete the trek comfortably. Generally, the minimum suggested age is 8 years old. If you have a child under the age of 8 and wish to have them participate in the Short Inca Trail, please note that you will need to provide additional support, such as carrying or assisting them on certain parts of the trek.

In summary, the Short Inca Trail is a recommended option for people between the ages of 8 and 60, and offers an accessible and enriching experience for families wishing to explore this route.

Short Inca Trail with children

The minimum recommended age for the Short Inca Trail is 8 years old.

 IS THE SHORT INCA TRAIL WORTH IT?

Definitely! The Short Inca Trail is a worthwhile experience. This version offers you a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty, history and culture of the region.

This shorter trek is ideal for those who wish to enjoy the Inca Trail, but have time constraints or prefer a less strenuous hike. The reward of reaching Machu Picchu AND exploring this impressive Inca city.

In addition, along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit archaeological sites such as Chachabamba, Wiñay Huayna and Inti Punku, making the experience unforgettable. You will not regret undertaking this exciting adventure!