Everything You Need To Know About The Short Inca Trail Altitude

What Is The Total Altitude And Elevation Gain Of The Short Inca Trail?

Quick Answer: Overall the highest point of the Short Inca Trail is the Sun Gate, which sits up at an altitude of 2720m.

Also known as Intipunku in the native Quechua language, this temple gives us an incredible view over Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andean mountains.

It’s also good to know that the lowest point of the Short Inca Trail is located at the archaeological site of Chachabamba, which lies an altitude of just 2050m. This means that along this shortened route you’ll only experience an altitude gain of just 670m.

Do People Get Altitude Sickness On The Short Inca Trail?

Whilst altitude sickness can be an issue around the Cusco region and along certain stretches of the standard Inca Trail, it’s rarely an issue on the Short Inca Trail trek.

This is because most people feel symptoms from 3000m and above, whilst this shorter 2 day trek only hovers between 2050-2720m. For this reason you don’t actually need to acclimate in Cusco for a few days before taking on this trek, like you would usually do for other higher altitude hikes such as with the Salkantay Trek and the hike up to Rainbow Mountain.

Now there is a slim chance you could get a few minor symptoms such as headaches, and especially so if you usually struggle with altitudes. However drinking Coca Leaf tea will help you avoid these, which is a usual anti-altitude sickness method for hiking in the region.

If you are worried about getting altitude sickness on the Short Inca Trail (or during your time within the Cusco region), then check out our Ultimate Altitude Sickness Guide for our very best tips and advice. 

Preparing For The Short Inca Trail Trek

Below we’ll now take a look at some of the very best tips for preparing for the Short Inca Trail trek. Be sure to follow these since they will help you have a more complete and satisfying experience.

Bring Waterproofs During The Wet Season

Aside from the month of February when the entire trail is closed for restoration efforts, the Short Inca Trail is also great to hike during the wet season for more vivid green scenery. This falls between the months of November and April, and if coming during this time then we suggest bringing a poncho as well as waterproof trousers.

Learn About The Ancient Ruins You Will See Prior To Hiking The Trail

Whilst you will learn lots about the different ruins during the hike with our knowledgeable tour leaders, it’s still worth getting to know the sites beforehand. This way you’ll appreciate what you see even more, and also understand the Inca and why they chose to live the way that they lived.

Invest In Good Hiking Equipment

Even though the majority of the hiking will be completed over the first day, it’s still worth bringing solid hiking equipment. This includes high quality trekking boots, a study daypack as well as trekking poles which will help you have both a more comfortable and enjoyable experience along the Short Inca Trail route.

Overview Of The Short Inca Trail Altitude

And that’s all for this guide on the Short Inca Trail altitude.

The perfect alternative for those who don’t have the time to hike the full route, you’ll also be glad to know that the Short Inca Trail is located at a much lower altitude – which makes it much easier to complete.

Are you ready to book your Short Inca Trail experience? Check out our popular 2 Day Inca Trail Trek now, and book your spot whilst spaces are still available!