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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Nerea I
October 16, 2025
Mi pareja y yo hicimos el inca trail durante 4 días con Percy y Luis Miguel como guías. Fue una experiencia increíble, no fue solo caminar sino que nos enseñaron muchísimo acerca de la cultura inca. El equipo de porteadores hacen una labor increíble, cargando con todo el campamento y las cosas necesarias para tener una estancia cómoda. La comida muy abundante y riquísima, es impresionante lo bien que comimos cada día. En general, una experiencia inolvidable, con un grupo de 11 personas que pudimos conocer y compartir muchas vivencias y anécdotas.
Mikel R
October 16, 2025
Una experiencia espectacular y muy agradable, que gracias a los guías Percy y Luis Miguel tuvimos la oportunidad de tener una conexión mágica con la naturaleza de la ruta. Nos cuidaron muy bien tanto Percy como Luis Miguel junto con el equipo de porteadores y chefs que ellos disponen. Recomendable 200%
Facundo F
October 16, 2025
Hemos tenido una experiencia inolvidable de principio a fin, gracias a unos guias excelentes Percy y Luis Miguel, y todo su equipo de porteadores y cocineros
Vic95
October 16, 2025
Soñé con visitar machupichu durante mucho tiempo y sabía que si lo hacía tenía que ser a través del camino del inca.. Gracias a Percy y Luis Miguel por contestar a todas y cada una de nuestras preguntas! Gracias a todo el equipo de porteadores de Vicente con especial mención para el Chef Ignacio que cocinó excelente! Gracias a todos por haber hecho que esta experiencia sea maravillosa y un recuerdo para toda la vida!!
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