$430.00 USD

Inca Trail 1 Day Hike

Discover the magic of the Inca Trail in a condensed 2-day hike to Machu Picchu. This adventure takes you through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and culminates at the breathtaking Machu Picchu.

Star

Cuzco

End

Cuzco

Duration

Full Day

Languages

Spanish, English

Difficulty

Easy

Comments

1 day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

Are you a hiking lover?

Would you like to do the Inca Trail day tour and visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon? If so, this is your best option.

Enjoy a full-day hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This shorter and more complete version will allow you to explore the same route as the short 2-day Inca Trail and the last part of the famous 4-day Inca Trail. In addition, you can visit Machu Picchu in the afternoon and enjoy an enchanting sunset.

This one-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu is highly recommended for adventure lovers, couples, and families with children. It is ideal for those who do not have enough time to stay in Cusco.

Places you will visit

Highlights

Wiñay Wayna: Visit the impressive Inca ruins known as “Forever Young.” These well-preserved ruins showcase Inca architecture and provide a glimpse into the history of the civilization.
Inti Punku (Sun Gate): Hike to Inti Punku, the traditional entrance to Machu Picchu. Enjoy panoramic views of the ancient citadel, a rewarding end to your trek.
Machu Picchu: Explore the iconic archaeological site with expert guides, learning about its history and significance.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1

At 04:00 hrs: Pickup in Cusco and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
At 06:10 hrs: Train departs from Ollantaytambo to Km 104.
At 07:20 hrs: Arrival at Km 104 and start of the hike.
At 09:00 hrs: Arrival at Wiñay Wayna and short break.
At 11:00 hrs: Lunch at Wiñay Wayna.
At 12:00 hrs: Continue hike toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
At 14:00 hrs: Arrival at Inti Punku with the first view of Machu Picchu; descend toward the archaeological site.
At 15:30 hrs: Arrival at Machu Picchu and free time for photos.
At 16:20 hrs: Bus down to Aguas Calientes.
At 17:00 hrs: Free time to explore Aguas Calientes and optional dinner.

Return

At 18:20 hrs: Train departs from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
At 20:10 hrs: Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
At 22:30 hrs: Arrival in Cusco.

1 day Inca Trail hike: Itinerary

Day 1 Cusco - Ollantaytambo - Km 104 - Wiñaywayna - Sun Gate - Machu Picchu

Morning Departure from Cusco:

Your unforgettable one-day journey to Machu Picchu begins with an early departure from Cusco at 4:00 am. We’ll embark on a scenic drive that takes us through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

Kilometer 104 – The Start of Your Adventure:

After about an hour and a half, we arrive in Ollantaytambo, where we board a train bound for Kilometer 104, the launch point for your Inca Trail experience. This day-long trek offers a condensed but equally captivating version of the classic 4-day Inca Trail.

Exploration and Natural Beauty:

Our route leads us through captivating Inca sites, showcasing the rich history of this ancient civilization. Along the way, you’ll be enchanted by the diverse flora and fauna, as well as the breathtaking vistas of the Andes Mountains.

Winay Wayna and the Sun Gate:

We hike 10 kilometers, beginning in the Sacred Valley, and follow a well-preserved Inca trail to the remarkable Winay Wayna archaeological site. From here, we proceed to Machu Picchu via the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku). A delightful box lunch awaits you after exploring Winay Wayna.

Journey Through the Cloud Forest:

Our path takes us through the vibrant cloud forest that blankets the mountains, offering glimpses of a wide array of plants, flowers, orchids, and birds. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of larger wildlife, such as Viscachas and the elusive Spectacled Bear.

Sunset Views and Arrival at Machu Picchu:

In the late afternoon, we reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and are greeted with our first awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu, set gracefully against the mountain backdrop. The softer afternoon light creates the perfect conditions for photography, with fewer tourists around to share this moment.

Guided Tour and Exploration:

After passing through the Sun Gate, a 45-minute hike leads us to Machu Picchu itself. Your visit commences with a stop at the Guard House, offering an opportunity for an iconic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. This spot is blissfully uncrowded, enhancing your experience.

Exploration and Farewell to Machu Picchu:

You’ll exit Machu Picchu to use the facilities before re-entering at 15:00 for a 1.5-hour guided tour of this magnificent site, ensuring you don’t miss any of its most significant features. After your exploration, we catch the 16:30 bus to Aguas Calientes, where dinner awaits.

Homeward Journey:

Following dinner, you’ll board the 18:20 train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, our van will transport you back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 10:30 pm. This concludes your incredible one-day adventure to Machu Picchu, filled with history, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Inclusions

Hotel pick up and drop off included.
Private transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and back to Cusco
Inca Trail permits and entrance fees to Machu Picchu
Guided tour of Machu Picchu
English-speaking guide
Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Emergency oxygen bottle and first aid kit
Meals: 1 breakfast, 1 box lunch, 1 snack

What to Pack to Short Inca Trail 1 Day

Original Passport: Your passport is essential, so make sure you have it ready.
Student Cards (if applicable): Students should bring their student cards for potential discounts.
Hiking/Trekking Backpack (Minimum 21 liters capacity): A reliable backpack is a must for your journey.
Hiking Poles with Rubber Tips: You can either bring your own or rent them from Inca Trail Specialist for added stability.
Trekking Clothing: Prepare suitable clothing including hiking shoes, waterproof pants, waterproof shorts, two shirts, a light sweater, a rain jacket, and comfortable hotel attire. Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials are recommended for comfort.
Nightwear for Aguas Calientes: Pack a clean set of clothes for your evening stay in Aguas Calientes.
Anti-Blister Gel: Keep your feet comfortable and blister-free during the trek.
Digital Camera (Optional) with Extra Memory (2-4 Gb): Capture memories along the way.
Sunglasses with UV Protection: Protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
Sun Block SPF 60 (UVA-UVB) Waterproof: Choose a sporty, waterproof sunblock for outdoor adventures.
Waterproof Insect Repellent Lotion: Ensure it’s lotion-based, not spray, for effective protection.
Flexible Plastic Water Bottle: Opt for an environmentally friendly and easy-to-carry water bottle for hydration.

1 day Inca Trail Hike: Prices

Government regulations: The Peruvian government regulates the number of visitors and permit fees for the Inca Trail, as well as regulating the wages of porters and guides. Tour operators must comply with these regulations to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of permits and fees. That is why the prices we charge for the 1-day Inca Trail are fair and reasonable to cover all the needs of operating the 1-day Inca Trail.

How much is the 1 day Inca Trail?

PRICES: SHORT INCA TRAIL 1 DAY

ADULTS: 410 US dollars per person
STUDENTS: 360 US dollars per person

How To Apply For Student Pricing

The student price is available to students from all over the world, as long as they meet the requirements established by the Peruvian government. This discount is applicable when purchasing Machu Picchu tickets from the Peruvian government.

To qualify for the student price, you must meet the following requirements:

Your student ID must be an original ID issued by your university, made of PVC material.
The student ID must have the following information printed on it:
- University information.
- Student’s name.
- Student’s photo.
- The student ID must have a valid expiration date printed on it, which is valid for one year only. For example, if you visit Machu Picchu in 2024, the expiration date on your ID should be 2024 or 2024. If you visit Machu Picchu in 2024, the maximum expiration date allowed is 2024.
The student discount is only available for students under 25 years of age.
The International Student Identification Card (ISIC) is not valid for the discount, even if it meets the above requirements.
The only valid document for the student price is the original student ID that meets the requirements established by the Peruvian government. Other documents such as certifications or virtual cards are not accepted as proof of student status.
To apply for the student price, please send a photo of both sides of your student ID to info@incatrailspecialist.com when booking the tour. If you send it later, you will not be eligible for the student discount.

Additional Option You Can Add To Your Inca Trail Tour

- HUAYNA PICCHU MOUNTAIN: 65 USD dollars.
- MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN: 65 USD dollars.
- PAIR OF TREKKING POLES: 10 USD dollars
- UPGRADE TO VISTADOME TRAIN: 65 USD dollars

How To Book The One day Inca Trail With Inca Trail Specialist?

To secure your spot on the Inca Trail 1 Day with INCATRAILSPECIALIST, follow these simple steps:

Click the “BOOK NOW” Button: Visit our booking platform and click on the “BOOK NOW” button to initiate the reservation process.
Select Your Departure Date: Choose the day that best suits your schedule for the Inca Trail 1 Day adventure.
Provide Personal Information: Fill in the necessary details for each participant, ensuring accurate and complete information.
Payment: The final step is making your payment. You can conveniently pay using your credit card or debit card.

On our booking platform, you’ll also find optional extras, including Huayna Picchu Mountain, the Vistadome train, and Machu Picchu Mountain. We recommend booking these options along with your 1-day Inca Trail, as Inca Trail permits are in high demand and can sell out quickly. However, if needed, you can rent walking sticks in Cusco one day before your trip.

Once we have secured your Inca Trail permits, we will send you a confirmation to ensure that everything is well-organized. Rest assured that all confirmed start dates are guaranteed.

Faqs

Can you hike the Inca Trail in 1 day?

Yes, it is possible to hike a shortened version of the Inca Trail in just one day. This “1-Day Inca Trail” covers the last stretch of the traditional 4-day hike, beginning at Km 104 and taking you through scenic paths and archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna before reaching Machu Picchu.

What is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is a historic network of paths built by the Inca Empire, leading to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The classic 4-day route passes through breathtaking Andean landscapes, lush cloud forests, and several well-preserved Inca ruins. It’s one of the most famous trekking routes in South America.

Is a permit required for the Inca Trail?

Yes, a permit is required to hike any section of the Inca Trail, including the 1-day trek. These permits are limited in number and must be obtained through licensed tour operators, so it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally clear, providing optimal conditions for hiking and enjoying the scenic views. The trail is closed in February for maintenance.

What is the altitude of the Inca Trail 1 day?

The 1-day Inca Trail trek begins at around 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) above sea level at Km 104 and reaches approximately 2,720 meters (8,920 feet) at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) before descending to Machu Picchu, which sits at 2,430 meters (7,970 feet).

Price

Offer

410 USD

Full Day

Book at once, pay a deposit and complete later.