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1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
For those with limited time but a deep desire to explore one of the world’s most famous trekking routes, the one-day Inca Trail offers a perfect solution. This shortened version of the legendary Inca Trail will take you through stunning landscapes, cloud forests, and ancient Incan ruins, culminating with your arrival at the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Get ready for a day filled with adventure, history, and awe-inspiring scenery.
Summary
The one-day Inca Trail adventure starts with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic train ride to Km 104, the trailhead. The hike begins at Chachabamba, passing through cloud forests and breathtaking views of the Andes. After reaching the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, you’ll take a lunch break before continuing the trek towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first view of Machu Picchu. After exploring the iconic citadel with a guided tour, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes and take the evening train back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel by night.
Complete Itinerary
Experience the Magic of the Inca Trail in Just One Day!
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (requires good physical condition)
- Distance: 8 miles (13 kilometers)
- Duration: Full day (approximately 16 hours)
5:00 a.m. – Early Morning Pick-Up and Train Ride
You’ll be picked up early from your hotel in Cusco and transferred to the train station in Ollantaytambo. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley, surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery. Arrive at the trailhead at Km 104, the starting point of the one-day trek.
Begin your hike at Chachabamba, an ancient Incan archaeological site. From here, you’ll follow a well-preserved path through stunning landscapes, including cloud forests, rivers, and breathtaking views of the Andes.
After a couple of hours of hiking, reach Wiñay Wayna, a magnificent Inca site with terraced ruins and panoramic views. Take time to explore this mystical site, where your guide will share fascinating insights into its history and importance.
12:00 p.m. – Lunch Break at Wiñay Wayna
Enjoy a packed lunch with the incredible backdrop of the Andes mountains and the Wiñay Wayna ruins. Recharge for the final part of the trek to Machu Picchu.
Continue your hike towards Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, the gateway to Machu Picchu. As you approach, you’ll be rewarded with your first glimpse of the awe-inspiring Lost City of the Incas. This view is one of the most spectacular and rewarding moments of the trek.
Descend from the Sun Gate into the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu. You’ll have time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with a guided tour, learning about the fascinating history and significance of the ruins. Marvel at the architecture and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient wonder.
5:30 p.m. – Bus to Aguas Calientes
After your exploration of Machu Picchu, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of the mountain.
7:00 p.m. – Train Ride Back to Cusco
Board the evening train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you can relax after an unforgettable day on the Inca Trail.
What does this Trek include?
Included
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
- Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and return from Aguas Calientes
- One-day Inca Trail permit
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide
- Packed lunch
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- All entrance fees and permits
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Not Included
- Breakfast and dinner
- Personal expenses and tips
- Hiking poles (available for rent if needed)
Discover Our Prices
At our agency, tour prices are calculated per person in double or matrimonial room – Minimum 02 People, and vary depending on the category and type of experience you choose. We aim to offer you flexible and affordable options tailored to your travel needs and preferences.
Note:All our prices are based on standard room accommodations, with train services in Expedition or Voyager class, and tours in regular high-quality service.
We also offer special discounts for large groups, families, and seasonal promotions.
Group Price
Optional Add-ons for Your Machu Picchu Trip
To enhance your Machu Picchu experience, we offer a variety of optional services that you can add to your tour, tailored to your interests and preferences. Below is a list of add-ons along with their prices:
- Private Tours
For those seeking a more personalized experience, we offer exclusive tours just for you and your group. These tours have special pricing, calculated based on the group size and level of customization. Contact us today for more details and to secure your spot for an unforgettable adventure. - Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike
Additional Price: Starting at $65 USD per person
Climb the famous mountain that rises behind Machu Picchu and enjoy stunning views of the citadel and surrounding valley. This challenging hike takes about 2 hours round trip and has limited availability each day. Advanced reservation is required. - Machu Picchu Mountain Hike
Additional Price: Starting at $60 USD per person
This hike is less crowded than Huayna Picchu but equally spectacular. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu from a higher altitude. The hike lasts 3 to 4 hours in total. Advanced reservation is required. - Vistadome or 360° Luxury Train (one way)
Additional Price: Starting at $60 USD per person (per trip)
Upgrade your train experience with the Vistadome service, which offers panoramic windows. You’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the mountains and Sacred Valley as you travel in greater comfort. - Vistadome Observatory Luxury Train (one way)
Additional Price: Starting at $80 USD per person (per trip)
Enhance your train experience with the Vistadome Observatory service, featuring panoramic windows and onboard entertainment. Enjoy stunning views of the mountains and Sacred Valley in a more luxurious setting. - Lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant in Machu Picchu
Additional Price: Starting at $45 USD per person
After your tour of Machu Picchu, enjoy a buffet lunch at the exclusive Tinkuy Restaurant, located at the Sanctuary Lodge hotel near the entrance to Machu Picchu. - Personal Backpack Porter for the Inca Trail
Additional Price: Starting at $90 USD per person
If you’re trekking the Inca Trail before reaching Machu Picchu, you can hire a personal porter to carry your backpack (up to 7 kg), allowing you to hike without the burden of extra weight.
How to Add Optional Services to Your Reservation
To add any of these optional services to your Machu Picchu tour, simply let us know when making your booking or contact us via email or WhatsApp. We will handle the arrangements and confirm your spot for the additional activities or services.
Note: Some add-ons, such as the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes, require advance booking due to limited availability. We recommend reserving these services well in advance to secure your spot.
To book, contact us with the tour, dates, and number of people. We will confirm and send the details along with the payment link via Wise or credit card.
- Deposit 40% of the total amount.
- Remaining 60% in cash before the start of the tour in Cusco or, if preferred, up to 10 days prior by credit card. Learn more
