1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Cusco, PE
66% of travellers recommend this
Good (6 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

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    Secure luggage storage in Cusco office (you only carry a small daypack on the trek).
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    First aid kit and oxygen supply carried by guide.
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    Hotel pickup in Cusco and private transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
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    Pre-departure briefing (the evening before the trek in Cusco).
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    Box lunch during the trek (vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options available).
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    Round-trip train tickets: Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (Expedition)
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    Dinner in Aguas Calientes (unless specified in upgraded packages).
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    Entry permits: Inca Trail (Km 104) and Machu Picchu (circuit 1).
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    Professional licensed tour guide (English/Spanish).
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    24/7 assistance during the tour.
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    Shuttle bus: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.

Excluded

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    Trekking poles (available for rent).
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    Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs, etc.).
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    Tips for guides and drivers (optional).

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
DM Hoteles Cusco
Fuente de Agua Hotel
Hotel Dorado Inka Gold
Hotel El Alamo Ejecutivo & Spa
Hotel Royal Inca Inn
Hotel Wanakawri
Luxury Home San Jeronimo Cusco
Pickup is available from centrally located hotels in Cusco. Please wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Our team will confirm the exact pickup time one day before the tour during your briefing. If your hotel is located outside the historic center or in areas with limited vehicle access, we will provide a nearby meeting point.

What to expect

1

Cusco

04:00 – 04:30 AM | Hotel Pickup in Cusco – Transfer to Ollantaytambo Your adventure begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cusco. We’ll drive through the Sacred Valley in a private tourist transport to the Ollantaytambo train station (approx. 2 hours).

2

Ollantaytambo

06:10 AM | Scenic Train to Km 104 (Chachabamba) Board the tourist train (Expedition, Vistadome, or 360° depending on service booked) for a panoramic 1.5-hour journey along the Urubamba River. We’ll arrive at Km 104, the official starting point of the Inca Trail.

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short Inca Trail

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07:30 AM | Starting Point – Chachabamba Archaeological Site (2,100 m / 6,927 ft) After passing the checkpoint, we’ll begin the trek with a guided visit to Chachabamba, an Incan ceremonial and agricultural site that once supplied food to Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain its importance before we continue.

4

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

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08:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Ascent to Wiñayhuayna (2,650 m / 8,747 ft) We’ll climb the original Inca stone steps for about 3 hours, surrounded by lush cloud forest full of orchids, bromeliads, exotic birds, and perhaps even the rare spectacled bear. Our destination is the stunning Wiñayhuayna, “Forever Young,” one of the most beautiful and well-preserved archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Explore its terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas with your guide.

Duration 30 minutes
5

Winay Wayna

12:00 PM | Box Lunch in Nature Enjoy a nutritious box lunch in the middle of this unique environment while resting and taking in the surrounding scenery.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6

Intipuncu

01:00 PM – 02:00 PM | Trek to Inti Punku (Sun Gate – 2,730 m / 8,956 ft) We continue walking on the ancient stone path for about 1.5 hours until we reach the legendary Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the original entrance to Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll witness your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu—a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

7
Machu Picchu

02:00 PM – 04:00 PM | Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) Descending from the Sun Gate, we’ll officially enter Machu Picchu through the upper trail (circuit 1B). Here you can take your first photos of the citadel. If you booked a guided tour inside Machu Picchu, we’ll continue with one of the available circuits (2A, 2B, or 3B depending on availability). During this 2-hour guided tour, your guide will explain the history, architecture, and mysteries of the Inca civilization.

Duration 180 minutes
8

Aguas Calientes

04:00 PM – 05:00 PM | Descent to Aguas Calientes Take the shuttle bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). Depending on your service, you may enjoy a dinner in a local restaurant before boarding your train.

Duration 60 minutes
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Ollantaytambo

06:00 PM – 08:00 PM | Train Back to Ollantaytambo Board your return train to Ollantaytambo. Relax and enjoy the scenic ride after an unforgettable day.

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Cusco

08:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Return to Cusco At Ollantaytambo, private tourist transport will be waiting to drive you back to Cusco. You’ll arrive at your hotel between 9:30 and 10:00 PM, completing your 1-day Inca Trail experience.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
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    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
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    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
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    Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Provided by Haku Travel E.I.R.L

What our experts say

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    Stay hydrated; bring water bottles.
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    Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfort.
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    Consider exploring Aguas Calientes after.
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    Try local dishes at Aguas Calientes.
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    Bring a camera for stunning views.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is not just a trek; it's a life-changing adventure that immerses you in the heart of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history. This journey begins in the early hours, with a convenient hotel pickup from Cusco, followed by a scenic train ride to Km 104, the official starting point of your trek. As you ascend the original Inca stone steps, you’ll walk through lush cloud forests and past ancient Incan sites, each step drawing you closer to the majestic Machu Picchu. The experience is designed for those who crave exploration and connection with history, offering not only stunning views but also a guided tour of the iconic citadel. With a focus on small group dynamics and personalized service, this tour promises an unforgettable day filled with beauty, culture, and adventure.

What to expect?

On this exhilarating one-day trek, adventurers can expect a whirlwind of stunning vistas and profound historical insights. You’ll start your day early, making your way to the starting point where the adventure truly begins. As you trek through the lush landscapes, you will ascend to Wiñayhuayna, an Incan archaeological marvel, where you can pause for a nutritious box lunch amidst nature’s splendor. The highlight of your journey will be reaching the Sun Gate, where you’ll be greeted with your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu, a moment that will be etched in your memory forever. After soaking in the grandeur of the citadel, a guided tour will deepen your understanding of its fascinating history and architecture. The day wraps up with a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo, ensuring you leave with not just memories, but stories to tell.

Who is this for?

The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is tailored for anyone with a spirit of adventure and a passion for history, making it suitable for various types of travelers. Whether you’re a solo explorer seeking a personal connection with the ancient world, a couple wanting to share an unforgettable experience, or a family looking to bond over a day of exploration, this trek has something to offer. It caters to those with a moderate fitness level who are eager to embrace the outdoors and witness one of the Seven Wonders of the World. However, it is recommended for travelers in good health due to the physical demands of the trek. So, if you're ready to lace up your hiking boots and embark on a journey that blends nature, culture, and history, this tour may just be the perfect fit.

Why book this?

Booking the 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is not just about securing a spot on a tour; it’s about investing in an extraordinary experience that you will treasure for a lifetime. This adventure stands out due to its unique combination of breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the ancient Inca civilization. With professional, licensed guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge, travelers can expect a personalized and immersive experience. The small group setting enhances the journey, allowing for deeper interactions and the opportunity to forge connections with fellow adventurers. Plus, the convenience of a seamless itinerary, which includes hotel pickups, train rides, and meals, ensures that you can focus on the awe-inspiring landscapes and historical wonders without any hassle. This adventure is not just a trek; it’s a chance to create lasting memories while discovering one of the most iconic destinations in the world.

Good to know

Before embarking on this incredible journey, there are a few essential details to keep in mind. While the trek is designed for those with a moderate level of fitness, it’s important to be aware of your own health conditions, especially if you have cardiovascular issues or spinal injuries. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, but it is accessible to a diverse range of adventurers willing to embrace the challenge. Although trekking poles can enhance your experience, they are not included in the tour package but are available for rent. Be sure to pack appropriately for a day of exploration, including comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, and a small daypack to carry your essentials. With everything organized for you, all you need to do is immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history that await you.

Reviews

Feedback from those who have experienced the 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu paints a picture of sheer exhilaration and satisfaction. Many travelers rave about the stunning scenery, noting how each step unveils new breathtaking views that simply take your breath away. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the history of the Inca civilization come alive. Participants appreciate the well-organized itinerary, which allows them to fully enjoy the trek without feeling rushed. The box lunch amidst the natural beauty is also a highlight, offering a moment of rest and reflection. Overall, the positive reviews reflect a shared sentiment of awe and gratitude for the incredible experience that combines adventure, culture, and the unforgettable magic of Machu Picchu.

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