1-Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

1 day

Moderate

1-Day tour to Machu Picchu

1-Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

Experience the legendary 1-Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu, the fastest way to reach the Sun Gate and witness the Lost City of the Incas. Perfect for travelers short on time, this express hike covers the final 13 km of the Classic Inca Trail, including archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna. Hike through breathtaking Andean scenery with expert guides, Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu entrance, and train return included. Ideal for active adventurers seeking a one-day trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Book your 1-day Inca Trail tour today and hike to Machu Picchu in just one day!


Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Begin your adventure with a 4:30 a.m. pickup from your Cusco hotel. Travel in private transport to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board a scenic 90-minute train journey along the Urubamba River to KM104, the official starting point of your 1-day Inca Trail trek (2,050 m / 6,725 ft).

Cross the picturesque footbridge and check in at the trailhead before exploring Chachabamba, your first Inca archaeological site. Then, begin a moderate uphill hike offering panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley. A bit further along, you'll be rewarded with a lush waterfall and the breathtaking site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft), nestled in the cloud forest and rich with flora and fauna.

From Wiñay Wayna, follow a gentle trail through the rainforest to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at 2,720 m (8,923 ft), where you’ll enjoy your first magical view of Machu Picchu. After a short descent (approx. 40 minutes), arrive at the classic lookout for a postcard-perfect photo of the citadel.

Enjoy Machu Picchu during the quieter afternoon hours with a 2-hour guided tour of its most iconic view point, and terraces. Afterward, take the shuttle down to Aguas Calientes, then board the 6:20 p.m. train to Ollantaytambo. Our team will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco by approximately 9:40 p.m.


Trek Details:

Distance: 13 km / 8.07 miles

Highest Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft (Sun Gate)

Duration: 6–7 hours total

Included Sites: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, Machu Picchu

Perfect For: Active travelers visiting Peru, adventure seekers, bucket-list hikers


What's included?

    Trek Briefing: Enjoy a thorough trek briefing at your accommodation two days before you depart. You'll receive important information from our experienced guide, so you'll be ready for the exciting journey ahead.

    Professional Guides: Enjoy the knowledge of our multilingual (Spanish and English) guides. Passionate residents, knowledgeable about the history of Peru and the Incas, as well as the local flora and fauna, will be your passionate travel companions, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience rich in cultural diversity and insights.

    Permits and Entrance Fees: You can take it easy knowing that we handle obtaining your permissions because we are an authorized Inca Trail trip operator. Only approved operators are able to handle this detail, which is handled smoothly once your request and deposit are received.

    Transportation: Enjoy the ease of private transportation, which guarantees a hassle-free and comfortable ride from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station.

    Train Tickets: Take a lovely train ride from Ollantaytambo to Km104 and return to take in the amazing views of the Inca Trail. To complete your journey, we also offer a transfer from the train station to your Cusco hotel.

    Bus Tickets: From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, take the bus with comfort. This will remove your mind from worrying about transportation and let you enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.

    Meals: Have an enjoyable box lunch along the path that accommodates vegetarians and other dietary needs. If there are any special needs, please let us know during the booking process or at the briefing.

    First Aid Kit: Our top priority is keeping you secure. Any medical emergencies that may occur during the hike can be quickly attended to with a full first-aid pack that comes equipped with an emergency oxygen bottle.

    Taxes and Fees: All taxes and permit fees are included in our upfront pricing, so there are no unanticipated costs. You can travel with confidence, knowing that all required expenses will be met.

    Exclusions

      Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for your trip's safety. This gives you piece of mind during your journey by guaranteeing you are protected for any unanticipated events.

      Meals: The first breakfast at Ollantaytambo on day one and dinner at Aguas Calientes following a visit to Machu Picchu are not included.

      Tips for the Crew and Personal Expenses: Thank you is encouraged for the hardworking workforce. Tipping is optional and usually goes toward supporting staff and the guide. Furthermore, the plan excludes any personal expenses you may have throughout the trip.

      Please note

        We also provide a 4 or 5 day trip that includes hotels, tours, and a 4 or 5 day trek on the Inca Trail. Everything is handled by us.

        We guarantee perform the tour with small groups. Our minimum group size is only 2 people, with the maximum of 12 people.

        Customized hikes, exclusive trips, packages, solo hikers, big groups accepted. For customization and to receive special offers when making a reservation for a group of six or more, please email us to info@incatrekkers.com.

        In order to give your body the opportunity to get used to the altitude before the hike, we strongly advise coming at least two days before the tour. Most people can usually acclimate to Cusco (3400m/11,154 ft) in a full day of leisurely walking and heavy drinking of water.

        What to bring

          What to Bring: Essential Items for Your Trekking Adventure

          Prepare for your trekking experience by ensuring you have the following vital items:

          Daypack: Ensure you have a suitable backpack to meet your daypack requirements.

          Passport: Don't forget your original passport for mandatory identification purposes.

          Student Card: If you qualify for a student discount, remember to bring your International Student Identity Card (ISIC).

          First Aid Kit: Pack a personal first-aid kit containing any necessary medications.

          Rain Gear: Be ready for rain with essential gear like a jacket and pants. Alternatively, you can purchase a rain poncho in Cusco.

          Hiking Boots: Opt for sturdy footwear, preferably walking boots with ankle support.

          Water Bottle: Carry metal or Nalgene-type water bottles to stay hydrated.

          Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's rays. Pack after-sun or hydrating cream for your face and body.

          Hats: Bring a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun, rain, and cold.

          Insect Repellent: Ward off bugs with insect repellent.

          Snacks: Consider bringing dried fruit, biscuits, chocolate, and energy bars for specific snack preferences not included in our meal services.

          Toilet Paper: Remember to bring toilet paper and handkerchiefs for convenience.

          Camera: Capture the journey with a camera, extra films, and batteries. Note that batteries may deplete more quickly in cold conditions.

          Extra Money: Carry some additional Peruvian soles for purchasing drinks or emergencies.

          Hiking Poles: While optional, walking poles can be beneficial. If using poles with metal spikes on the Inca Trail, bring rubber protection for them.

          Ensure a seamless and enjoyable trekking experience by being well-equipped with these essential items.