Inca Trail One Day Tour

12 to 13 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 5 more

This one-day Inca Trail experience is designed for travelers with limited time who still want to live the magic of the legendary trail and Machu Picchu. Instead of a multi-day trek, you’ll hike the most iconic section of the Inca Trail in a single day, following the footsteps of the ancient Incas through remarkable archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.

What makes this tour truly special is the combination of adventure and efficiency. You’ll arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as the Incas once did, and enjoy breathtaking views from the classic viewpoint. Along the way, you’ll walk through stunning Andean landscapes, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.

With transportation, logistics, and details fully organized, including a scenic panoramic train ride through the Sacred Valley, you can focus entirely on enjoying an unforgettable journey that blends history, nature, and adventure in just one incredible day.

What's Included

Experienced tour guide
Pre-departure briefing
Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (Trek starting point)
Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco
Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Box lunch, snacks and water
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1C)
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
Pick up from your hotel in the morning and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
Inca Trail permits and entrance tickets
Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation
Gear: Sleeping bag and trekking poles
Personal hiking clothing and gear.
Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
Travel Insurance

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco.
The pickup time is between 04:00 and 04:30 am.

Itinerary

Duration: 12 to 13 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Cusco

    Begin your adventure at 4:00 a.m. with a transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 2

    After a beautiful panoramic train ride, start your hike at Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • 3
    Winay Wayna

    Visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, surrounded by lush Andean nature, orchids, and waterfalls.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Intipuncu

    After a picnic lunch, continue ascending toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first magical view of Machu Picchu.

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Machu Picchu

    Walk to the classic viewpoint to capture the iconic photo of the citadel and soak in the energy of this sacred place as your guide shares its history.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 6
    Aguas Calientes

    Finally, descend to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Ollantaytambo

    In Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you to Cusco.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • Cusco (Pass by)

    We will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco, ending a day full of culture, nature, and wonder.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
  • It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
  • The Inca Trail is highly demanded, specially in high season (May to September). Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure a spot.
Supplied by Salkantay Trekking
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Tags

Day Trips
Hiking Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Audio Guides
Rail Tours
Archaeology Tours
Small Group
Adventure Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

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