1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Short and Spectacular Adventure

Physical Level

Moderate

Trip Style

Hiking, Trekking, Adventure

Max Altitude

2750 msnm (9022 ft)

Group Size

Max 8 people

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an exciting adventure departing from Cusco that explores the ancient and authentic Inca Trail, culminating at the majestic Machu Picchu. The day begins with a visit to Chachabamba, a fascinating archaeological site, followed by a trek to Wiñaywayna, where views of the Urubamba River and a lush orchid family adorn the path. After enjoying a box lunch, the hike continues to Machu Picchu, featuring a breathtaking preview from Inti Punku (Sun Gate) before a guided tour of the Machu Picchu archaeological city. The day concludes with a picturesque train journey back to Cusco, leaving you with unforgettable memories from this journey. The package includes transportation, a professional guide, entry tickets, and a culminating experience at one of the world’s most iconic destinations. Adventure, history, and nature all in one day!

Highlights

Short but Intense Route: The 1-Day Inca Trail offers a shorter version of the classic trek without compromising the experience. This single-day hike takes you through some of the most significant points of the Inca Trail, allowing travelers to capture the essence of this historic route without spending multiple days.
Starting at Km 104 – History at Every Step: The journey begins at Km 104, leading to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, an ancient Inca agricultural center. This site features terraces and stone structures that showcase the advanced engineering of the Inca civilization, making it a perfect starting point for history enthusiasts.
Exploration of Wiñay Wayna: A major highlight of the 1-Day Inca Trail is the visit to Wiñay Wayna, meaning “Forever Young.” This spectacular archaeological complex is renowned for its impressive agricultural terraces, finely carved stone constructions, and its prime location on a mountainside. Unlike Machu Picchu, Wiñay Wayna is less frequented, allowing for a more serene and nature-connected experience.
Arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): One of the most memorable moments of the 1-Day Inca Trail is reaching Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, mirroring the ancient Incas’ entry into the sacred site. As you descend into Machu Picchu, you’ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views, offering a unique perspective different from the typical bus or train arrivals.
Stunning Views of the Sacred Valley: Throughout the trek, hikers enjoy unparalleled views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas and the Urubamba River. The trail traverses diverse landscapes, from cloud forests rich with orchids and bromeliads to clear vistas of snow-capped mountains, providing a visually diverse and rich experience.
One-Day Adventure – Perfect for Limited Time: If you don’t have the time for the traditional 4-day trek, the 1-Day Inca Trail is an ideal option. In just a few hours, you can experience the hike, pass by Inca ruins, enjoy the cloud forest, and arrive at Machu Picchu by the end of the day.
Less Physically Demanding: Compared to multi-day treks, the 1-Day Inca Trail is more accessible in terms of difficulty. While it includes some challenging ascents, it is suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness, making it a rewarding yet manageable adventure.
Trek with Fewer People: Being a less popular route than the longer Inca Trails, the 1-Day trek typically has fewer hikers. This allows for a more intimate experience with nature and the archaeological sites, ensuring that spots like Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate are less crowded and more enjoyable.

Trip Details

Activities: Trekking Adventure
Difficulty Level: 3 out of 5 (Moderate)
Departure Days: Daily Departures
Main Sites to Visit: Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna, Inti Punku (Sun Gate), Machu Picchu
Hike Distance: Approximately 1 km (7.5 miles)
Minimum Altitude: 2,100 meters above sea level (6,890 ft)
Maximum Altitude: 2,720 meters above sea level (8,923 ft)
Age Recommended: 10 years and up
Altitude Acclimatization: Recommended to spend 1-2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the hike
Recommended Season: March to December

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Cusco – 104 km - Chachabamba – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We begin our day very early (around 4:00 a.m.) with your guide picking you up from your hotel in Cusco (or at an agreed meeting point) and heading to the Ollantaytambo train station for departure at approximately 6:10 a.m. Traveling through the Sacred Valley, we arrive at the starting point of the Inca Trail, known as “Chachabamba” or Km 104 (2,100 m / 6,927 ft).

Around 8:00 a.m., we will reach the “INRENA INCA TRAIL” checkpoint, where we must present our original passport and immediately begin the one day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. after passing the check point, we’ll go to the firts archaeological site of Chachabamba, then, the real hike begins with a 3 hours ascent acrros the stone steps of the original inca trail. the ecosystem in this part is unique you’ll identify different types of flora and fauna, you’ll arrive at the Wiñayhuayna “Forever Young” archaeological site (2,650 m / 8,747 ft.) nestled in a lush cloud forest, you’ll see many impresiv agricultural terraces, water fountains, temples and houses. A few minutes of walking from there and you’ll arrive at the camping site used by hikers who have chosen to do the classic inca trail. Here you’ll enjoy your lunch and a little rest after you’ve eaten. from Wiñaywayna you’ll keep walking to the famous Inti Punku “Sun Gate” (2,730 m / 9,007 ft.), where you will get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

At approximately 2:00 p.m., we will explore the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Your guide will delve into the history and mysteries of this incredible Inca city, allowing you to capture the most important and famous photos, such as the Upper Terrace and the Guardian’s House.

Afterwards, we will take a bus to the town of Machu Picchu or Aguas Calientes the small town at the base of the ruins then we’ll catch the train there at 18:20 ( subject to availability) back to ollantaytambo. Our transport wait for you to take you to Cusco and drop you off in your hotel.

Meals: Box Lunch
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
Estimated Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft.
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Town

Inclusions

Pre-Tour Information: Meet your Inca Trail guide at our offices (or another agreed location) around 6:00 p.m. for an informative session about your trip.
Round-Trip Tourist Transport, Cusco – Ollantaytambo.
“Expeditions” Tourist Train Round-Trip, Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
1 Consettur Buses to Machu Picchu Citadel (to descent).
Highly Qualified Professional Guide Fluent in English and Spanish on the Inca Trail.
Entry Ticket to the Short Inca Trail.
Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu Citadel.
1 Box Lunch (Options: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, etc.).
First Aid Kit and Oxygen Tank. (Our guides are highly trained in first aid and mountain rescue, with comprehensive care plans, ground evacuations, and air evacuations.)
24-Hour Customer Service: We offer a phone service available 24 hours a day.
Free Luggage Storage: We provide luggage storage at our offices in Cusco. You can leave your luggage before starting your trek (exclusive to our passengers).

Trekking Poles.
Additional Costs or Delays Beyond Our Control, Such as Natural Disasters, Adverse Weather Conditions, Itinerary Modifications Due to Passenger Health Issues (suffering from an illness or health problems), Pandemics, Changes in Government Policies, Political Instability, Strikes, etc.

Note: Visiting Wiñay Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain is not possible due to time constraints.

Upgrades

Additional Services

Trekking Poles: ($15.00 USD)
Upgrade to Vistadome Train: ($50.00 USD)
We Can Help You Book Hotels (Standard and Luxury) Throughout Peru.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Illapa Peru Trip”?

“Illapa Peru Trip” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Illapa Peru Trip,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Illapa Peru Trip,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Illapa Peru Trip” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Illapa Peru Trip” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Illapa Peru Trip” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Pricing

Prices

CLASSIC
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1D – 2025 $400.00 USD

Discounts:

18 – 24 years: $20 discount for students; must carry a valid student ID and be under 25 years old at the time of the trek. Must scan and send your passport at the time of booking.
Under 17 years: $20 discount for minors; must be under 18 years old at the time of the trek. Must scan and send your passport at the time of booking.

Faqs

How long does the 1-Day Inca Trail take?

The 1-Day Inca Trail lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours of hiking, depending on the group’s pace. It starts at Km 104 and ends at Machu Picchu, with a total tour duration of around 10 hours, including transfers.

Do I need a permit for the 1-Day Inca Trail

Yes, like the longer routes, the 1-Day Inca Trail requires an official permit issued by the Peruvian government. It is recommended to book in advance, as spots are limited.

What level of physical fitness is required for the 1-Day Inca Trail?

Moderate physical fitness is necessary. Although the route is shorter than the classic Inca Trail, it includes some steep ascents and challenging sections, so being in good physical condition is recommended.

Which archaeological sites are visited during the 1-Day Inca Trail?

During the 1-Day Inca Trail, you will visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will have your first view of Machu Picchu.

Is it possible to do the 1-Day Inca Trail year-round?

The Inca Trail is closed in February due to rains and maintenance. However, it is available the rest of the year, with the dry season from March to December being the best time to hike.

What should I bring for the 1-Day Inca Trail?

It is recommended to wear lightweight and comfortable clothing in layers, as the weather can change. Additionally, bring trekking footwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and energy snacks.

Does the 1-Day Inca Trail include a guided tour of Machu Picchu?

Yes, at the end of the hike, you will have a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where an expert guide will explain the history and architectural details of the Inca citadel.

Is acclimatization necessary before doing the 1-Day Inca Trail?

Yes, it is advisable to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize to the altitude, as the hike takes place at significant elevations that can cause altitude sickness.

Is the 1-Day Inca Trail suitable for children?

The minimum recommended age for the 1-Day Inca Trail is 12 years old, as the hike, while shorter than the classic trek, still requires physical endurance and can be challenging for younger children.

How do you return to Cusco after completing the 1-Day Inca Trail?

After the hike and tour of Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes, where you will take a train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, transportation will take you back to Cusco, typically arriving in the evening.

Travel Guide

Travel Guide for the 1-Day Inca Trail

Proper planning is essential to fully enjoy the 1-Day Inca Trail experience. This short trek requires adequate preparation to maximize your adventure and avoid any inconveniences. Here are key tips to ensure a successful and memorable journey.

Weather on the 1-Day Inca Trail

Keyword: weather

The weather on this route can vary significantly. During the dry season, from March to December, days are usually sunny with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). However, due to the altitude, nights and early mornings can be cold, dropping to around 10°C (50°F). In the rainy season, from January to March, frequent rains can make the trail slippery and more challenging.

Tips for a Successful Hike

Keyword: tips

Book in Advance: Similar to longer routes, the 1-Day Inca Trail requires a permit that must be obtained months in advance due to limited availability.
Stay Hydrated: Even though the hike is only one day, it’s important to drink water regularly to avoid the effects of altitude sickness and fatigue.
Acclimatization: Spend 1-2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the hike to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.

How to Dress for the 1-Day Inca Trail

Keyword: dress

Dressing in layers is crucial as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains:

Base Layer: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that wicks moisture to keep you dry and comfortable during the hike.
Mid Layer: Bring a wool or fleece jacket to keep warm during the cooler parts of the day.
Outer Layer: A waterproof jacket or windbreaker is essential to protect you from rain and wind.
Footwear: Comfortable trekking boots that have been worn in before, providing good ankle support. Avoid new footwear to prevent blisters.
Accessories: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against high-altitude sun exposure, and insect repellent for the cloud forest area.

Restrictions on the 1-Day Inca Trail

Keyword: restrictions

Limited Permits: Only a specific number of hikers are allowed each day, so it’s essential to book in advance.
Single-Use Plastic Ban: Carrying single-use plastics, such as bottles and plastic bags, is prohibited to protect the natural environment and historical ruins.
No Camping Allowed: Unlike longer treks, camping is not permitted on the 1-Day Inca Trail. The route ends in Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a hotel.

Physical Preparation for the 1-Day Inca Trail

Keyword: physical preparation

While it is a shorter hike, the altitude and steep sections can be challenging. It is recommended to:

Endurance Training: Engage in hiking or jogging on inclined terrain in the weeks leading up to your trip to improve your cardiovascular capacity.
Leg Strengthening: Strengthen your legs with exercises such as squats, stair climbs, and lunges to prepare for the ascents and descents on the trail.

Health Recommendations

Keyword: health

Altitude Sickness: Even though the hike doesn’t reach extreme altitudes, symptoms of altitude sickness can still occur. Acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the hike and staying hydrated is important.
Food and Snacks: Bring energy-rich snacks like nuts or energy bars to maintain your energy levels throughout the hike.
Sun Protection: The sun is stronger at high altitudes, so use high-factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection.
Medical Consultation: If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart or respiratory issues, consult your doctor before undertaking the trek.

By following these recommendations, you will be well-prepared to fully enjoy the 1-Day Inca Trail safely, experiencing an unforgettable adventure in the Andes.