Our One-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is perfect for travelers who can't commit to the full Classic Inca Trail experience. This world-renowned hike offers an incredible journey through Incan history and culture, featuring ancient archaeological sites rich in Incan history, breathtaking panoramic views, key landmarks including Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, and Intipunku (Sun Gate), culminating in unforgettable views of majestic Machu Picchu.
This condensed version delivers the essence of the Inca Trail's magic in just one day, making it an ideal choice for time-conscious travelers who don't want to miss out on this historic experience.
Your day begins with an early morning pickup (around 4:00 AM) as your guide meets you at your Cusco hotel or agreed meeting point. Together, you'll make your way to the Ollantaytambo train station to catch the 6:10 AM departure.
Aboard the Expedition train, you'll experience a scenic 1.5-hour journey through the Sacred Valley, winding your way to Kilometer 104 – the starting point of your Inca Trail adventure. After clearing the checkpoint, you'll visit your first archaeological wonder, Chachabamba (2,100 m / 6,927 ft), an ancient Incan refuge that once sheltered travelers on their way to Machu Picchu.
The heart of your journey involves a breathtaking three-hour climb up original Incan stone steps. As you ascend, you'll be surrounded by an enchanting ecosystem teeming with life-colorful orchids dot the landscape, diverse tree species reach toward the sky, and you may also see some larger mammals such as Vizcachas (rabbit-like Chinchillas) and Spectacled Bears (if we are very lucky), and rushing waterfalls provide a stunning backdrop. Your destination? The magnificent Wiñay Wayna, or "Forever Young" (2,650 m / 8,747 ft). After a well-deserved rest, you'll continue to the legendary Inti Punku, the "Sun Gate" (2,730 m / 9,007 ft), where you'll catch your first awe-inspiring panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
With cameras ready and spirits high, you'll make the final descent to Machu Picchu itself. Entering through the upper section (circuit 1), you'll have time to marvel at this ancient wonder while your guide shares fascinating historical insights about the Incan citadel.
For an additional USD $50, you can extend your exploration by choosing Circuit 2 or Circuit 3, which offer alternative routes and unique perspectives of the archaeological site.
As your adventure draws to a close, you'll take a bus down to the charming town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), before boarding your train back to Ollantaytambo and final transfer to Cusco. (Please note that train schedules may vary based on availability.)
Meals: Box Lunch.
Distance: 12 km/ 7.5 mi
Difficulty: Moderate.
Walking Time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours (including picnic / lunch in route)
Walk and Terrain: Walk, canter, on open roads, some steep ascending trails.
Note: Visiting Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain(*) is not possible due to time constraints.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu ful day | USD 399.00 |
Wiñay Wayna means 'forever young' and is considered a sacred site along the Inca Trail before reaching Machu Picchu.
The 'Sun Gate', also known as "Inti Punku," leads to Machu Picchu. It provides a breathtaking vantage point, offering the first view of Machu Picchu. The Incas utilized it for ceremonies during the summer solstice in December.
Chachabamba is an archeological site left behind by the Incas believed to be dedicated to water.
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Mirta Elena B
July 14, 2025
El camino del Inca (1 día) requiere de un buen estado físico para subir un tramo de sendero escalonado rocoso de 3 km aproximadamente. Siempre bien hidratados y alimentación apropiada. Calzado con grip o de trekking. Indumentaria en capas dado que se inicia temprano con temperaturas bajas y aumenta a medida que pasa el día.
freddynqn
July 13, 2025
Una experiencia que generó un recuerdo imborrable. Johan fue un guía estupendo, profesional, empático y humano, Inka Trail no solo nos brindó un servicio sino también la posibilidad de conocer gente asombrosa como los extraordinarios portadores. El experimentado cocinero. Todo bajo la coordinación de Johan Muñoz. Super recomendable para quieren turismo aventura. No es para tibios, no es fácil, pero al final de la travesía no somos los del comienzo. Gracias.
Cristina
July 12, 2025
Hice el camino inca de 2 días y fue más de lo que imaginaba, una noche antes estaba tan emocionada que no podía dormir pensando en como sería mi aventura, Amilcar mi guía hizo mi aventura mejor de lo que me lo imaginaba siempre atento caminando a mi ritmo y preguntándome si estaba bien en cada momento. Inicialmente mi aventura era el famoso camino inca de 4 días pero no lo pude realizar por motivos de salud y que no estaba preparada para ello, pero Flor de la agencia me ayudó para que ese sueño no se Heche a perder y busco solución rápida a ese problema y me ofreció está ruta de dos días, gracias por todo Flor y Amilcar.
Pbl H
July 7, 2025
Realizar el camino Inka de dos días con esta empresa ha sido una experiencia difícilmente olvidable y totalmente recomendable. La gestión de traslados, reserva de alojamiento, desayunos y comidas ha sido inmejorable. Tuvimos la suerte de contar con un guía llamado Javier que mostró amplísimos conocimientos sobre todos los lugares que visitamos, así como sobre animales, pájaros, mariposas, flores y plantas que observamos, lo cual enriqueció enormemente la experiencia. Además organizó anticipadamente todas las gestiones relacionadas con la ruta para despreocuparnos de todo. Tuvimos mucha suerte de que Javier fuera nuestro guía, así que recomiendo sin duda vivir la experiencia con esta empresa y si tenéis suerte Javier quizás os pueda acompañar.
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