- Itinerary
Itinerary: Your 1 Day Machu Picchu Hike
Prepare for an authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Your inca trail 1 day hike starts early to ensure you make the most of every incredible moment.
Morning: Scenic Trains and Ancient Trails
- Early Departure: We begin with a 4:00 a.m. pickup from your Cusco hotel, followed by a comfortable drive to Ollantaytambo.
- Train to the Trailhead: Board the train to KM 104, the official starting point of your trek.
- Chachabamba & Wiñay Wayna: Begin your ascent traversing original Inca stone steps. You will explore Chachabamba, an ancient pilgrim shelter, before hiking up to the exquisite Wiñay Wayna ruins. Take a moment to rest, enjoy a well-deserved box lunch, and connect with the incredible surrounding flora and fauna.
Afternoon: The Sun Gate and the Citadel
- Inti Punku (The Sun Gate): Continue your trek until you reach the famous Sun Gate. Here, you will be rewarded with your very first breathtaking, panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel.
- The Classic Viewpoint: Descend toward the ancient city to capture that iconic postcard photo. (Note: Your ticket includes Circuit 1, providing access to the upper scenic sector of Machu Picchu).
- Return to Cusco: Board the bus down to Aguas Calientes, take a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo, and relax in our private transport as we bring you safely back to your hotel in Cusco.
Note: You have the flexibility to choose your preferred entrance time (contact us) and we’ll assist you in creating the best itinerary.
- Included
We handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying your once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Here is everything included in your trek to the spectacular Inca Citadel:
- Official Permits & Entry Tickets: We secure your personalized Inca Trail permits and Circuit 1 entry to Machu Picchu, allowing you to capture that iconic postcard photo.
- Expert Guides & Top-Tier Safety: Explore with our professional, bilingual guides. They are highly trained in first aid and always carry medical kits and oxygen to ensure a safe, worry-free journey.
- Pre-Departure Briefing: You will receive a quick, convenient check-in the day before your hike containing essential packing tips and pickup details.
- Meals & Eco-Friendly Gear: Enjoy a nutritious box lunch, snacks, and water. We also provide a reusable cloth snack bag to help keep the beautiful Andean environment clean!
- All-Inclusive Transportation: Experience seamless round-trip travel, including hotel pick-up and drop-off, scenic train rides from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 and Vistadome Train back, and the bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- First Aid: Our team is trained in first aid. In case of emergency we follow an emergency plan to provide the fastest possible attention.
- Extras: We believe that personalized attention is a plus for us, so small details are very important. We are committed to creating the most authentic experience towards Machu Picchu.
- Satellite Phones: For us security is very important, and keeping our customers safe is our priority. We have satellite phones for emergencies or any situations that may require them.
- Taxes and Fees: All taxes and permit fees associated with this trek are included in the listed price
- Not Included
- Backpacks for the Day: the agency does not provide backpacks, so you must bring your own. Note; Machu Picchu does not allow backpacks over 25 lb. Flashlights (lamps): it is recommended to bring flashlights for the campsites or headlamps.
- Flights: it is recommended to arrive one day before to Cusco or 2 days before. Flight delays are common in Cusco due to the frequent change of weather, therefore we recommend arrival to be a couple days before. Safe airline: Latam
- Tips: Tips are always welcome, and should be based on your travel satisfaction (not mandatory).
- Travel insurance: Travel insurance is recommended, but not mandatory. Normally many people get sick with altitude sickness, so we recommend adapting 1 day or 2 days before starting a trek
- Prices
We would love to take everyone on the Inca Trail and guide you to Machu Picchu. We can leave any day of the week as long as permits remain with the government. Please remember, permits are only needed for your START DATE.
Small Group
USD 429
Only Tours
- FAQs
What is the difference between the 1-Day Inca Trail and the 2-Day Machu Picchu hike?
Both of these incredible treks follow the exact same breathtaking trail starting at KM 104! The main difference is simply the pacing of your adventure. On the 1-Day Inca Trail, you will hike the route, enter through the iconic Sun Gate, capture the classic postcard photo of the Inca Citadel, and return to Cusco all in a single, action-packed day. If you choose the 2-Day Short Inca Trail, you will enjoy a slower pace, resting in Aguas Calientes for the night before dedicating your entire second day to fully exploring Machu Picchu.
How difficult is the 1-Day Inca Trail hike?
Get ready for a thrilling and rewarding challenge! We rate the 1-Day Inca Trail hike as Moderate. You will be trekking approximately 9 km (5.6 miles) over about 5 hours, reaching a maximum altitude of 2,720 m (8,924 ft). To comfortably complete this unforgettable adventure and arrive at Machu Picchu on time, we recommend having a moderate to good level of physical fitness. Let’s conquer those original Inca stone steps together!
Do I need a permit for the short Inca Trail?
Yes, you absolutely do! The Ministry of Culture of Peru strictly regulates access to preserve this historic wonder. You will need an official Inca Trail permit that matches your passport details perfectly. But don’t worry—our expert local team takes care of all the logistics for you! Just be sure to reach out to our Inca Trail Permits early to secure your spot for this authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
What is included in the 1-Day Inca Trail tour?
We handle all the details so you can simply enjoy the magic of the Andes! Your one-day adventure includes:
- All necessary Inca Trail permits and your entry ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1).
- An experienced, bilingual, and passionate local tour guide.
- A delicious box lunch, energizing snacks, and water.
- All transportation, including scenic train rides through the Sacred Valley and bus transfers to and from the archaeological site.
- A comprehensive first aid kit and oxygen for your safety and peace of mind.
What essential items should I pack for my trek?
Packing smart is the key to a fantastic trek! You will want to bring a comfortable medium trekking backpack (15-25 liters) filled with your hiking essentials. You must bring your original valid passport (required for entry!), a reusable water bottle, sunblock, insect repellent, and a waterproof jacket or rain poncho. We also highly recommend sturdy, waterproof hiking boots to navigate the ancient trails with ease.
Still have questions? Let’s plan your dream trip to Machu Picchu! Chat with our local experts on WhatsApp today.
- One Day Inca Trail Map
Discover the highlights of the legendary Inca Trail with our One Day Inca Trail Map. This route showcases stunning landscapes, fascinating archaeological sites, and a memorable arrival at the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu. Ideal for those seeking a shorter yet unforgettable adventure!.
