2 days / 1 night | Start and End in Cusco | Max altitude: 2,730m | Max 8
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Camping
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Camping
Walk the last 12 km of the original Inca Trail and see Machu Picchu twice, once at sunset, and again at sunrise.
This is the classic Short Inca Trail, with one key difference: you don’t go down to a hotel. You arrive through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the quiet afternoon, after the morning trains have left, then sleep in the mountains at our private riverside camp at Puente Ruinas. The result is a calmer first view from the Guard House, with space for photos and no rush.
You start at KM 104 (Chachabamba, 2,000m), climb through cloud forest past waterfalls and original Inca staircases, and explore Wiñay Wayna, the most complete ruin on the entire trail outside Machu Picchu itself. It’s 12 km of real Inca paving, not a day-hike shortcut.
Day 2 you are first on the bus up from camp. While hotel groups are still having breakfast in Aguas Calientes, you’re already inside the citadel for a full private guided tour of Circuit 1 & 3. You get the lower terraces, the temples, and the classic postcard angles, then train back to Cusco by 7pm. No high passes, no 4am starts on the trail, just the best part of the Inca Trail with a night under stars.
Highlights
- Sun Gate Arrival at Golden Hour
Reach Inti Punku in the afternoon when the site empties. First views of Machu Picchu in soft light, with time to sit, photograph, and walk down slowly. - Wiñay Wayna Exploration
Climb the terraces of Wiñay Wayna (2,650m), the Forever Young city. Fountains, ceremonial baths, and agricultural terraces still hidden by jungle. - Chachabamba Trailhead – KM 104
Start where the real Inca Trail begins. Cross the Urubamba on the footbridge, show your permit at the official checkpoint, and walk original stonework through three microclimates in one morning. - Private Riverside Camp, Not a Hotel
Sleep at Puente Ruinas, 20 minutes walk from Aguas Calientes but completely in the forest. 4-season tents (2 people per 4-person tent), foam mats, pillows, hot chef dinner, and biochemical toilet. No town noise, no early check-out. - Gourmet Mountain Dining
Box lunch on the trail at Wiñay Wayna, three-course dinner at camp cooked by our trek chef, hot breakfast before Machu Picchu. - Dual Machu Picchu Access
Day 1: afternoon entry for photos from the Guard House platforms. Day 2: full 2-hour private guided tour of the lower citadel (Circuit 3). Two perspectives, one permit. - The Gringo Killers
The final Inca-carved staircase before the Sun Gate, steep, dramatic, and the exact path pilgrims used 500 years ago. - Small Groups, Direct Permits
Maximum 8 travelers (average 5). As a licensed operator, Orange Nation holds its own Inca Trail permit. Permits are capped at 250 people per day total and sell out 4–6 months ahead for 2026. - Moderate & Family-Friendly
12 km in ∼6 hours on Day 1, max altitude 2,730m at Sun Gate. No Dead Woman’s Pass. Perfect for active kids 12+, first-time trekkers, and anyone short on time. - Everything Handled from Cusco
4am hotel pick-up, private van to Ollantaytambo, 6:10am train to KM 104, all bus tickets, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entry, camping gear, first-aid with oxygen, and return train at 2:55pm or 3:20pm with private transfer to your Cusco hotel by 7pm.
Circuit 1: Panoramic Route (Upper Terraces Only)
Classic postcard views, no citadel interior
- Classic viewpoint from Upper Terrace for the postcard photo.
- Lower Terrace platform just below Guardian House for wider angle shots.
- Guardian House overlook, the stone hut in every Machu Picchu photo.
- Llama terraces on the upper agricultural platforms.
- Kallanka ruins, probable chicha beer hall outside the city walls.
- Inca Trail arrival path through cloud forest (entry walk).
- Optional side hike gates: Sun Gate (Intipunku), Inca Bridge, or Machu Picchu Mountain depending on ticket.
Circuit 3: Royalty Route (Lower Citadel)
Full access to lower temples and houses
- Temple of the Sun (Torreon) viewed from below with curved wall.
- Royal Tomb beneath the Torreon, carved altar and niches.
- Temple of the Condor, natural rock wings with head carving.
- Sacred Rock, massive carved boulder mirroring Yanantin mountain.
- Water Mirrors, ceremonial basins fed by original Inca channels.
- Temple of Three Windows viewpoint from lower plaza.
- House of the Inka and Royal Residence sector.
- Agricultural terraces on the lower east flank.
- Sacred Plaza access (limited) and Grand Staircase descent.
- Optional side-hike gates: Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, or Temple of the Moon depending on ticket.
Where You Sleep
Trail first, camp under stars, no town.
- Night 1 | Puente Ruinas Camp, 2,040m
Private riverside campsite 20 minutes from Aguas Calientes, inside the Machu Picchu sanctuary buffer zone. Spacious 4-season Eureka tent (2 people per 4-person tent), foam mattress, pillow, and warm sleeping bag rental available. Chef-prepared dinner and hot breakfast included. Private toilet tent, no town noise, no hotel check-in.
You leave your main luggage in Cusco or Ollantaytambo — we move your overnight duffel to camp by train.
Our Approach
Engineered for the Sun Gate
We designed this version in Cusco because the standard hotel option misses the magic. You arrive at Machu Picchu at 3-4pm via Inti Punku, when 80% of day visitors have left. You get the Guard House photos in afternoon light, then sleep in the forest instead of descending to a busy town.
Next morning you’re first on the bus up. While hotel groups queue at 6am, you’re already inside for your Circuit 3 guided tour of the lower citadel. It’s two entries on one permit, exactly how the Inca Trail was meant to be walked.
Dedicated to You, Permit to Permit
Book direct and we handle everything. Hotel pick-up at 4am, private van to Ollantaytambo, 6:10am train to KM 104, all Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tickets (Circuit 1 on Day 1, Circuit 3 on Day 2), 3 bus tickets, camping gear, meals, and return train at 2:55pm. You carry only a daypack with water and camera. Our guides are Cusco locals, fluent in English, Wilderness First Aid certified, and carry oxygen. Groups capped at 8, average 5.
Our People
Orange Nation is family-owned in Cusco. Our founder started as a porter on the Classic Trail, so we built this company differently. Porters are not needed on the Short Trail, but our chefs and camp crew receive the same living wage, health care, and full gear provided free. Women have guided Short Inca Trail departures since 2019. We pay park fees directly to the KM 104 communities you walk through.
Things To Know Before You Go
- Fitness
This is a moderate 12km hike, not a high pass. The challenge is getting a permit, only 250 Inca Trail permits exist per day (including guides/porters) and they sell out 4-6 months ahead for May-September. Book early, train lightly. - Altitude is easy here
Max altitude is 2,730m at the Sun Gate, lower than Cusco. You do not need extra acclimatization days, but arrive in Cusco the night before for the 4am pick-up. - Camping, not glamping
This is expedition camping: real tents, foam mats, chef-cooked meals, toilet tent. No showers at camp (you shower next day back in Cusco). Pack a headlamp, warm layer for night (can drop to 10°C), and earplugs for river sounds. - Weather changes fast
KM 104 is humid cloud forest, expect rain even in dry season. Pack rain jacket, sun hat, and layers. Trail can be slippery on the Gringo Killer - Trains run on time
Your permit is tied to your passport and train ticket. Bring your original passport for the KM 104 checkpoint. No passport = no trail. - Small group means small group
We cap at 8 hikers. You get a dedicated guide for both days, not a different guide in Machu Picchu.
At A Glance
The only Short Inca Trail that lets you sleep in the mountains and see Machu Picchu twice, sunset on Day 1, sunrise tour on Day 2.
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night.
- Walking: 12 km total, ∼6 hours Day 1, max 2,730m at Sun Gate. No steep climbs.
- Accommodation: 1 night private camping at Puente Ruinas. Dinner and breakfast included.
- Sites: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku (Sun Gate), Machu Picchu Circuit 1 (afternoon photos), Machu Picchu Circuit 3 (morning guided tour).
- Best for: Travelers short on time who want the real Inca Trail experience with a night under stars.
- Permits required: Yes, Inca Trail permit + Machu Picchu entry included. Must book with passport details.
Who It Is Perfect For
- Time-Limited Trekkers
Wanting the Sun Gate arrival and Wiñay Wayna in 2 days without the 4-day commitment. - Wilderness Travelers
Preferring a quiet riverside camp to a hotel in Aguas Calientes with traffic and bars. - Photographers
Wanting golden-hour light at the Guard House on Day 1 and empty morning terraces on Day 2. - First-Time Inca Trail Hikers
Needing a moderate distance, low altitude, and full support — ideal for families with teens 12+. - Efficient Explorers
Who want to hike the original stone trail, not just take the train and bus.
Other Expeditions to Consider
- Short Inca Trail + Hotel (2 Days)
Same KM 104 route with a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of camping. Best if you want a hot shower and bed. - Classic Inca Trail (4 Days)
Full pilgrimage from KM 82 over Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215m) with 3 nights camping. For experienced trekkers. - 1-Day Inca Trail Express
Hike KM 104 to Sun Gate and tour Machu Picchu same day, return to Cusco by train that night. No camping, fastest option.
How to Book the Short Inca Trail with Camping
Booking takes two quick steps and we secure your permit immediately.
Step 1: Complete your booking form
Click BOOK NOW and fill out details for each traveler exactly as on your passport:
- Full name.
- Passport number.
- Date of birth dd/mm/yyyy.
- Nationality.
Step 2: Confirm with your deposit
A deposit of $200 USD per person locks your Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu tickets. We confirm within 24 hours with your official permit code.
Paying the balance
Pay the remaining balance in cash at our Cusco office in USD or soles to avoid card fees. Online payment accepted with 5.5% fee.
Once we receive your deposit, we send your official confirmation, packing list, and meeting time within 24 hours. Your briefing is at 6pm the night before departure at our Cusco office on Calle Garcilaso, or by video call if you arrive late.
From
$537
/per person
Trip Details
Overview
Day 1: Cusco → KM 104 → Wiñay Wayna → Sun Gate → Machu Picchu → Camp
Early 4:00 am hotel pick-up, private transfer to Ollantaytambo and 6:10 am train to KM 104. Hike the original Inca Trail through cloud forest to Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, enjoy a chef box lunch at the ruins, then climb to the Sun Gate for your first afternoon view of Machu Picchu. Descend for photos from the Guard House platforms before taking the bus down to our private riverside camp at Puente Ruinas for dinner under stars.
∼6 hr hike / 12 km / 2,730 m max at Sun Gate / Camping at Puente Ruinas
Day 2: Camp → Machu Picchu → Cusco
Early breakfast at camp, 20-minute walk to Aguas Calientes and first bus up to Machu Picchu for sunrise. Private 2-hour guided tour of Circuit 3 lower citadel – Temple of the Sun, Royal Tomb, Temple of the Condor, Sacred Rock and Water Mirrors. Free time for photos, bus down to town, then afternoon Expedition train to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to Cusco.
2 hr guided tour / Train 1.5 hr / Return to Cusco ∼7:00 pm
Full Itinerary
Included
- Comprehensive Transport
Features door-to-door hotel pick-up and private van transfers throughout the itinerary. - Train Service
Includes Expedition Train service to KM 104, plus the full return journey to Cusco. - Bus Logistics
Covers all three shuttle transfers between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes. - Permits and Fees
Includes official Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu entrance fees, and all applicable local taxes. - Professional Staff
Includes a licensed English-speaking lead guide for both the trek and Citadel tour. - Expedition Camping
Provides high-quality tents and mattresses at a private Puente Ruinas campsite. - Culinary Experience
Includes a trekking lunch, hot chef-prepared dinner, and breakfast on Day 2. - Safety First
Includes a comprehensive first-aid kit and emergency oxygen carried by your guide throughout the expedition.
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Not Included
- Pre and Post Trek Accommodations
Accommodation in Cusco before and after your expedition is not included. - Select Meals
Such as breakfast on Day 1 and the final lunch on Day 2 are the traveler’s responsibility. - Optional Peaks
Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain require a $75 USD permit per person. - Equipment Rentals
Professional trekking poles ($10) and sleeping bags are available for rent. - Travel Insurance
Highly recommended for all participants to ensure comprehensive coverage and protection. - Gratuities
Tips for your guide and trekking staff are voluntary and based on your satisfaction. - Huayna Picchu Note
This is an unguided climb unless a guided ascent is specifically requested in advance.
Pricing
This expedition operates year-round except February. It is the only route that enters Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate following original Inca stone paths. The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Camping includes legendary cloud forest ruins and a night under the Andean skies.
Price Per Person
Camping
$537 USD
Upgrades
- Huayna Picchu Mountain ($75)
Secures a permit for the iconic peak and bird’s-eye views of Machu Picchu. - Machu Picchu Mountain ($75)
A higher panoramic alternative offering wide-angle views of the surrounding peaks. - Vistadome Observatory ($67)
Upgrades your return journey with panoramic windows and onboard cultural experience. - Hiram Bingham Luxury Rail
Premium Belmond service featuring gourmet dining and open bar (inquire for pricing). - Trekking Poles ($10)
High-quality collapsible poles for stability on steep Inca stairways. - Sleeping Bag ($15)
Professional cold-weather sleeping bag, fully sanitized for camp use. - Air Mattress ($15)
Insulated sleeping pad for added comfort during overnight camping. - Personal Tent ($30)
Guarantees a solo tent for single travelers throughout the trek. - Private Mountain Guide ($60)
Dedicated expert guide for optional peak ascents and personalized support.
Discounts
- 18–25 years old ($30 off)
Requires valid university ID with photo and expiry date. - Under 18 years old ($30 off)
Requires passport copy at time of booking. - Under 11 years old ($40 off)
Requires passport copy at time of booking. - Groups of 5 or more ($30 off)
Discount applies per person for the entire trekking group.
Added Value
- Airport Transfers
From the airport to your Cusco hotel included in your package. - Small Groups
Average 4–6 hikers, with a maximum of 12 for an intimate trekking experience.
Availability Calendar
Act quickly — spots sell out fast!
Packing List for 2-Day Short Inca Trail with Camping
The Short Inca Trail with Camping follows 12 km of original Inca pavement from KM 104 at 2,000m through humid cloud forest to the Sun Gate at 2,720m, then descends to Machu Picchu. You camp at Puente Ruinas (2,040m) beside the river. Temperatures range from 8°C at camp at night to 26°C in the forest by midday. You will carry a 20-25L daypack on the trail. Your overnight bag (up to 7kg) travels by train from Ollantaytambo and meets you at camp. Your main luggage stays free at our Cusco office.
Essentials (Carry in Your Daypack)
These must be with you both days. Machu Picchu limits daypacks to 25L.
Documents
- Original passport (must match the name used for your Inca Trail permit exactly).
- Valid student ID with photo and expiration date (if booked as student).
- Travel insurance details (recommended).
Water and Hydration
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (2L total). Bring full for the train to KM 104, we provide boiled water at camp only. No single-use plastic bottles.
Layers for Trekking
- 1-2 moisture-wicking t-shirts (synthetic or merino, no cotton).
- 1 long-sleeve shirt for sun and bugs in Wiñay Wayna.
- 1 fleece or light insulated jacket for Sun Gate wind and camp evenings.
- 1 pair quick-dry trekking pants (zip-offs ideal). Shorts optional. No jeans.
Rain Protection
- Waterproof jacket with hood (essential year-round for cloud forest).
- Rain poncho that covers you and your pack (strongly recommended November-March).
Warmth for Camp
- Puffy down jacket (camp gets cold after sunset).
- Warm hat/beanie and light gloves (nights can drop to 8-10°C).
- Warm socks for sleeping.
Sun and Jungle Protection
- Sun hat or cap with brim.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- High SPF 50+ sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
- Strong insect repellent (DEET 30%+) for Wiñay Wayna section.
Footwear
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support for Inca stone steps.
- 2-3 pairs hiking socks (wool or synthetic).
Trail Essentials
- Headlamp (essential for camp, no lights at Puente Ruinas).
- Trekking poles with rubber tips (highly recommended for descents).
- Toilet paper and small zip bag for waste.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Personal medications, blister kit (moleskin, band aids).
- Camera or phone in dry bag.
- Power bank (no charging at camp).
- Snacks, energy bars, chocolate.
- Small cash in soles (S/200-300) for drinks, tips.
What to Pack in Your Overnight Bag (Train Transfer to Camp)
Keep under 7kg. Bag travels by train from Ollantaytambo and meets you at Puente Ruinas.
- Sleeping bag rated to -5°C (available to rent $20 USD — clean and warm).
- Sleeping bag liner (optional, for hygiene).
- Change of clothes for camp and Day 2 (t-shirt, underwear, socks).
- Lightweight pants or thermal leggings for sleeping.
- Camp shoes/sandals or Crocs for evening.
- Small toiletry kit: toothbrush, toothpaste, face wipes (no shower at camp).
- Quick-dry towel.
- Phone charger and power bank.
- Plastic bag for wet or dirty clothes.
- Earplugs (river noise).
What NOT to Bring
- Large suitcases on the trail (store free in Cusco).
- Cotton jeans or heavy cotton t-shirts (stay wet in cloud forest).
- Drones (prohibited on Inca Trail and Machu Picchu).
- Disposable plastic water bottles.
- Walking poles without rubber tips (required by park).
- Valuables or jewelry you don’t need.
- Sleeping mat (we provide foam mattress and pillow).
Orange Nation Provides
- Pre-trek briefing and free luggage storage in Cusco.
- All private transport to Ollantaytambo and Expedition train to KM 104.
- Short Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu Circuit 1 (Day 1) + Circuit 3 (Day 2) entry.
- Professional English-speaking guide for both days.
- Box lunch on Day 1, three-course dinner at camp, hot breakfast Day 2.
- 1 night camping at Puente Ruinas: 4-season tent (2 per tent), foam mattress, pillow, dining tent, toilet tent.
- Boiled water at camp for refills.
- Bus tickets: Machu Picchu down Day 1, up and down Day 2.
- Expedition train Aguas Calientes-Ollantaytambo and private van to Cusco.
- First-aid kit with emergency oxygen.
- 24/7 Cusco office support.
Top 10 Short Inca Trail 2-Day Camping FAQs
What is the main difference between Short Inca Trail with camping vs hotel?
Same hike, different night. Both start at KM 104, visit Wiñay Wayna, and enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate. The hotel version buses down to Aguas Calientes for a hot shower and bed. The camping version stays in the mountains, you bus down to our private Puente Ruinas campsite by the river, have a chef-cooked dinner under stars, and you’re first on the bus up next morning. You get sunset photos on Day 1 and sunrise entry on Day 2, without the town noise.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, and it’s the hardest part to get. The government releases only 250 permits per day total (about 150 for trekkers, 100 for guides/porters). They are linked to your passport, non-transferable, and sell out 4-6 months ahead for May-September. Unlike the Classic 4-day, you don’t need to book a year out, but you cannot buy a permit last-minute. We include the permit + Machu Picchu Circuit 1 (Day 1 afternoon) + Circuit 3 (Day 2 morning).
How hard is the 2-day hike?
Moderate. It’s 12 km / 7.5 miles with 6-7 hours walking on Day 1, all on original Inca stone steps. The climb from KM 104 (2,100m) to Wiñay Wayna (2,650m) is steady uphill for 3 hours, then 1 hour to the Sun Gate (2,720m). No high passes like the 4-day trail. If you can walk 4 hours uphill with breaks and handle uneven steps, you can do it. Trekking poles with rubber tips are highly recommended for the descent.
What is the highest point and will I get altitude sickness?
Sun Gate at 2,720m / 8,924ft, lower than Cusco (3,400m). Most people feel fine because you start low and sleep lower at camp (2,040m). You do not need extra acclimatization days, but arrive in Cusco the night before for the 4am pick-up. We carry emergency oxygen on every departure.
How far do we walk each day?
Day 1: 12 km from KM 104 to Machu Picchu via Wiñay Wayna and Sun Gate, then bus to camp. Day 2: almost no hiking, 20-minute walk to Aguas Calientes, bus up, 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu on mostly flat paths. Total trekking is done in one day.
When is the best time to go?
Dry season: May to September for clearest Sun Gate views. April and October are great shoulder months with fewer crowds and green landscapes. The trail is closed every February for maintenance. Wet season (November-March) means more rain in the cloud forest, doable, but bring a good poncho.
What is camping like at Puente Ruinas?
Not a hotel, not roughing it. Private riverside site inside Machu Picchu sanctuary buffer zone. We provide 4-season Eureka tents (2 people per 4-person tent), foam mattress, pillow, dining tent with tables/chairs, and a toilet tent. Chef cooks a 3-course dinner and hot breakfast. No showers, no electricity, bring headlamp and power bank. Nights are 8-12°C, days are 20-26°C and humid.
What will the weather be like?
Everything in one day. KM 104 is hot and humid cloud forest (bring insect repellent). Wiñay Wayna can be misty. Sun Gate is windy and cooler. Afternoon at Machu Picchu is often sunny. Pack layers: t-shirt, fleece, puffy jacket, rain jacket. It can rain any month.
Is the Short Inca Trail crowded?
Less than the Classic, but it’s still a permit trail. You’ll see maybe 30-40 other trekkers on your day, not 200. The camping advantage: you arrive at Machu Picchu at 3-4pm when day-trippers are leaving, and you’re first in next morning at 6am before the trains arrive. It feels private.
What is included for food, water, and gear? Do I need a sleeping bag?
We provide: box lunch on Day 1, 3-course dinner at camp, hot breakfast Day 2, plus boiled water at camp for refills. Bring 2L water for the hike in. You must bring or rent a sleeping bag rated to -5°C ($20 USD rental). We provide tent, mattress, pillow, duffel bag. No porters carry your gear on this trail, your overnight bag (max 7kg) goes by train from Ollantaytambo to camp.
Orange Nation Practical FAQs
Where is your office in Cusco?
Historic center on Calle Garcilaso, 5 minutes from Plaza de Armas. We send exact address, WhatsApp pin, and briefing time (6pm night before) with your confirmation.
Can I leave my main luggage in Cusco?
Yes. Free secure storage at our office. Take only your daypack on the trail and your 7kg overnight bag for camp.
How difficult is this specific camping route?
Same as hotel version, moderate. The camping doesn’t make it harder, just adds a night outdoors. Train 2-3 weeks before with stairs.
How much should I acclimatize?
One night in Cusco or Sacred Valley before is enough, you sleep lower than Cusco. If coming from sea level, arrive 1 day early, hydrate, avoid alcohol.
What time do we get back to Cusco on Day 2?
Train leaves Aguas Calientes 2:55pm or 3:20pm, arrives Ollantaytambo ∼4:30pm, private van to Cusco hotel by 7:00-8:00pm.
How much time do we actually get inside Machu Picchu?
Twice: Day 1, 45-60 minutes at Guard House for sunset photos (Circuit 1). Day 2, 2-hour guided Circuit 3 tour plus 30 minutes free time. Total ∼3.5 hours in the citadel.
Do you provide the camping equipment?
Yes, tent, mattress, pillow, dining tent, toilet tent, duffel bag. You bring sleeping bag (or rent) and headlamp.
Can I rent a sleeping bag and poles?
Yes. Sleeping bag $20, poles $15 per pair for the trek. Reserve at booking so we bring to briefing.
How much should I tip the crew?
Tipping is customary but optional. For camping version: guide $10-15 USD pp total, chef $5-8 pp, camp assistant $3-5 pp. Give in cash soles at camp after dinner Day 1.
