Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day Description

Introduction

The Inca Trail excursion to Machu Picchu in 1 day is an excellent option for those who want to experience the beauty and mystery of this ancient path in a short period. This Short Inca Trail is perfect for those who prefer a shorter but equally enriching hike without compromising the quality of the experience.

Set out on an exciting full-day adventure along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu from Cusco, exploring the ancient and authentic Inca path. The day begins with a visit to Chachabamba, a fascinating archaeological site. From there, you will hike toward Wiñaywayna, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and a rich variety of orchids along the way.

After a picnic lunch, the hike continues to Machu Picchu, with an exciting preview from Inti Punku (Sun Gate) before the guided exploration of this archaeological wonder. The day concludes with a scenic train journey back to Cusco, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this adventure.

The package includes transportation, a professional guide, entrance tickets, and a remarkable experience at one of the world's most iconic destinations. Adventure, history, and nature in a single day! Explore the Short Inca Trail and book your Machu Picchu tour now.

Extraordinary landscapes, diverse ecological zones, and a variety of flora and fauna—the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu features original stone paths and visits the most important Inca complex along the route, Wiñay Wayna ("Forever Young"). The hike takes approximately 5 to 6 hours and ends at the majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu.

If you are looking to complete the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you can visit the following link: Inca Trail in 4 Days / 3 Nights. This version of the Inca Trail allows you to visit the Wiñay Wayna ruins, one of the most beautiful in the region. You will also have the chance to visit Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and enjoy the unforgettable moment of seeing Machu Picchu from there.

Unlike the Inca Trail in 4 Days / 3 Nights, this tour does not include camping but instead offers accommodation in a hostel in Aguas Calientes.

The Inca Trail Tour also has a limit of 120 spaces, which is managed by the National Institute of Culture of Cusco. Therefore, it is necessary to book 3 to 4 months in advance.

If there are no available spots for the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

NOTE: In case there are no available spots for the Inca Trail, we recommend taking the Inca Trail to Salkantay – 5 Days / 4 Nights. Click the link for more information and reservations.

Important

To receive all the information on how to make a reservation, please write to us at:

info@viajesmachupicchu.com

Our team will get back to you promptly with all the necessary details and assistance.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day Summary

04:00 hrs – Pick-up from Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
06:10 hrs – Train journey through the Sacred Valley to Km 104 (Chachabamba).
07:00 hrs – Begin the trek along the Short Inca Trail, passing through Wiñayhuayna and Inti Punku.
14:00 hrs – Guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its iconic sites.
16:30 hrs – Bus descent to Aguas Calientes.
18:20 hrs – Train back to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to Cusco

Detailed Itinerary: Short Inca Trail Full Day

Day 1: Short Inca Trail Full Day

We start our day very early (around 04:00 hrs) when the guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco (or at a previously agreed meeting point). We will head to the Ollantaytambo train station, departing at approximately 06:10 hrs.

We board the train and travel through the Sacred Valley on the "Expeditions" train until we reach the starting point of the Inca Trail, known as "Chachabamba" or Km 104 (2,100 m / 6,927 ft).

Around 07:00 hrs, we arrive at the "INRENA Machu Picchu" checkpoint, where we must present our original passports to begin the half-day hike along the Inca Trail towards Machu Picchu.

Along the way, we visit the archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna "Forever Young" (2,650 m / 8,747 ft) and the famous Inti Punku "Sun Gate" (2,730 m / 9,007 ft), offering a first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

Around 14:00 hrs, we explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. The guide will provide detailed information about the history and mysteries of this incredible Inca city, and you will have the opportunity to take photos at Machu Picchu’s most iconic spots (Upper Plaza, Guardian’s House, etc.).

Later, we take the bus down to Machu Picchu Pueblo, Aguas Calientes. We board the train at 18:20 hrs to return to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation to Cusco. (Train schedule may vary depending on availability.)

Experience the 1-day Short Inca Trail and book your tour to Machu Picchu now for an unforgettable adventure.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day Includes:

  • Pre-tour information: Meet your Inca Trail guide at our offices (or another agreed location) around 18:00 hrs for a briefing about the tour.
  • Round-trip tourist transport: Cusco - Ollantaytambo.
  • "Expeditions" tourist train: Ollantaytambo - Km 104, Chachabamba.
  • "Expeditions" tourist train: Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo.
  • Consettur bus: for the return trip from the Machu Picchu citadel.
  • Highly qualified professional guide: in English and Spanish.
  • Inca Trail entrance ticket.
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
  • 1 picnic lunch: Options available: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.
  • First aid kit and oxygen tank: Our guides are highly trained in first aid and mountain rescue, with a comprehensive plan for care, ground, and air evacuations.
  • 24-hour customer service: We offer a 24-hour phone service to facilitate communication with our agents before your hike.
  • Free luggage storage: We provide free luggage storage at our offices in Cusco. You can leave your luggage before starting your tour (exclusive for our passengers).

Not Includes:

  • Trekking poles.
  • Additional costs or delays beyond our control, such as natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to passenger health issues (illness or medical problems), pandemics, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, etc.

We recommend you to bring

  • Hiking boots (Preferably waterproof with ankle support)
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
  • Wool jacket for warmth, hat, and gloves
  • T-shirts
  • Comfortable pants
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (SPF 35 recommended)
  • Insect repellent
  • Toiletries
  • Personal medications
  • Camera or camcorder
  • Flashlight with spare batteries

Something Extra:

  • Shorts
  • Trekking pole (with rubber tip)
  • Bandages
  • Sandals
  • Extra money
  • Swimsuit (for the hot springs in Aguas Calientes) – Entrance fee: $4 US

Available Discounts

Students aged 18 to 24

We offer a $20 discount per student. To qualify as a student, you must have a valid student ID and be under 25 years old at the time of your trip. Scan and send us a copy when booking.

Minors under 18

We offer a $20 discount per child. You must scan and send us a copy of their passports to qualify.

Wiñaywayna

Wiñaywayna, meaning "forever young" in Quechua, is a crucial archaeological site along the Inca Trail before reaching Machu Picchu. Known for its agricultural terraces and water fountains, this site was vital to the Incas.

Inti Punku or "Sun Gate"

Inti Punku, also called the "Sun Gate," marks the end of the Inca Trail and offers the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. The Incas used it for ceremonies during the summer solstice, highlighting its astronomical and ceremonial significance.

Chachabamba

Chachabamba is an archaeological site left by the Incas, dedicated to water worship and considered strategic for travelers.