Trek
Machu Picchu One Day Hike:
Machu Picchu, often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas,” is an enduring testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the ancient Inca civilization. Hidden high in the Peruvian Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has captured the imagination of travelers and historians for centuries. While the classic multi-day Inca Trail trek is a popular choice for those looking for a more immersive experience, the Inca Trail One Day Hike offers a condensed but equally impressive journey into the heart of this archaeological wonder.
The Inca Trail One Day Hike is an exciting adventure that packs the essence of the longer trek (4 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu), into a more manageable time, making it an ideal option for time-poor travelers or those looking for a less strenuous alternative. The trip usually begins in the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, where hikers board a scenic train that winds through the stunning Urubamba Valley. The train ride itself is a spectacle, offering views of lush landscapes and glimpses of the towering peaks surrounding Machu Picchu.
Book this tour with us now, and don’t miss an authentic experience with experienced tour guides. Contact us or email us at info@kunturperu.com
Machu Picchu One Day Hike Trip Details:
Find out more about our 1 day inca trail tour to Machu Picchu, we know you want to be well informed so here we have more information about this fantastic 1 day trek to Machu Picchu. If you have any questions please get in touch with us.
One Day Inca Trail Hike Highlights:
What are the highlights of this 1 day adventure to Machu Picchu? Check out what this tour offers you in addition to offering you a safe, personalized trip and the best price. Here’s a glimpse of the extraordinary offerings that set this tour apart:
- Enjoy the scenic train ride to Chachambamba (km 104) the trail head of our adventure.
- Explore and learn about the history of the Andean culture at the most impressive archaeological sites along the Inca Trail.
- Delight yourself with the captivating views along the Vilcanota Valley.
- Enjoy Wiñayhuayna one of the best archaeological remains of the classic Inca Trail.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate and get the first views of the citadel.
- Enjoy the tour in Machu Picchu exploring the sites escorted by your personal trekking guide.
Route Map
Your Epic Journey Awaits, Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit on the Inca Trail in a Day.
Uncover the ancient mysteries, majestic landscapes, and the incredible energy of Machu Picchu - all in just one unforgettable day. Make your dreams of this iconic wonder come true! Don't miss the chance to explore and live a life time experience with Kuntur Peru Travel.
Trip Overview
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 1 Day
The Inca trail to Machu Picchu one-day trek is an extraordinary hiking experience that takes you along the Vilcanota Valley starting at Km 104 railway to Machu Picchu Pueblo, this Journey combines a train ride through Urubamba Valley, hike in the mountains, exploration of the archeological monuments on Inca Trail, as well as entering Machu Picchu citadel through the Famous Sun Gate. Explore Machu Picchu citadel as few people do it in the afternoon, an adventure where will get the best part of the Inca trail and Machu Picchu in a single day of hiking tour.
Travelers who don’t get permits to hike the Classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu often look for alternative options, such as the Ancascocha trek to Machu Picchu 5 days and the Inca Quarry trek 4 days to Machu Picchu are some of the best options to explore.
A glimpse of our Itinerary
Day 1 Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Train to Chachabamba – Aguas Calientes town – Machu Picchu – Back to Cusco City.
Begin the magic Adventure from Cusco City or the Sacred Valley of the Incas, driving toward Ollantaytambo town to board the train that will take you to Chachabamba at km 104, from where the hike will begin, it is 12 km/ 7.4 miles distance and about 6 hours of hiking to reach Machu Picchu citadel passing through Inti Punku, the Sun Gate.
Enjoy one of the world’s wonders exploring Machu Picchu citadel, a unique and enigmatic experience, guided tour all accompanied by your privet trekking guide who will provide you the first-hand information about the Anden Culture.
All our outdoor activities, as well as the one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, are aimed to provide a unique and authentic experience from the beginning to the end of the trip, guaranteeing all the safety and professionalism to all our Adventures.
What to expect on our Machu Picchu One Day Hike:
- Early pick-up from Hotel Cusco City
- A two-hour drive from Cusco to Ollantaytambo town
- Expedition train service to Chachabamba, Km 104, the trailhead
- Six hours hike on average in the day
- Bus tickets total for the service
- Private guided tour at Machu Picchu.
- Box breakfast and lunch.
- Train ticket back to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation to your hotel Cusco or Sacred Valley
One Day Inca Trail Difficulty
The day Inca Trail or the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is rated as a moderate to demanding activity; considering the high altitudes and the length of walk it is placed between 4 to 5 strenuous summits difficulty; it is suggested to be acclimated at least two days before any hiking activity in the Andes. This trekking experience can be done year-round except in February because of trail maintenance and heavy rain season. However, you will have a better experience during the dry season. (May – November)
Why you should go with us
- Kuntur Peru Travel is a fully locally owned tour operator and certified travel company with all licenses to operate Inca trail tours and alternative treks.
- Experience is the key! Long tracking record tour guides, graduated from the university and recognized institutes of Cusco city.
- We deliver our tour services with safety standards, ethics, and responsibility; we rely on the opinions of our travelers.
- Book and travel! Your trip is confirmed once you book the tour service; we don’t transfer the service to other tour groups. So that you book with us, you go with us.
- Quality of services is our personal motto, so we provide both as small groups, no more than 8 pp. and private tour services.
- No hidden charges! You pay the cost of your trip with all services included as mentioned in the itineraries.
- Tailor-made tours and customizable experiences to the needs of our travelers.
- Our guides are natives of Cusco city, fluent English speaking, friendly and great storytellers.
- Our management center is located in Cusco city. Therefore, we have everything in control nearby.
Itinerary
The itinerary below has been designed according to technical criteria based on the experiences of expert trekking guides who have hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for years; the timings are average to a regular trekker under favorable conditions. However, this may vary depending on physical preparation, health, age, weather conditions during the hike, and the number of participants in the group. In addition, lunch spots and campsites may change consequently to adapt to the circumstances and needs of the group.
Full Itinerary of the 1-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
Day 1 Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Chachabamba – Machu Picchu town.
Our epic one days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley towards Ollantaytambo train station to board the expedition train service bound to Chachabamba (Km 104) 2,150 m / 7,053 ft. The trailhead of the adventure, once we pass the checkpoint, go to explore the Chachabamba site, a lesser-known yet archeological remain made up of enclosures and stone altars, as most Inca sites were built primarily for both military and religious purposes. Our expert guide will give you detailed information about the Inca site.
After touring the Chachabamba, the path begins on a gradual uphill surrounding the mountain for about 3 hours to Winayhuayna ruins (2,650 m / 8,694 ft.) Arguably this is the most astounding Inca site along the Inca Trail. After a guided tour, enjoy the box lunch at the campsite near the Wiñayhuayna Inca site.
In the afternoon, it’s about 2 hours of hiking to Inti Punku (The Sun gate) you will have the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from a long distance; this is undoubtedly the highlight of our Short Inca Trail Journey. After contemplating the views of the citadel, we will continue for 40 more minutes to the exit to take the bus down to Aguas Calientes town. The Short Inca Trail trekking tour includes an overnight stay at a 3* hotel lodging.
Machu Picchu guided tour
Today will be exclusively dedicated to unlocking the mysteries of one of Peru’s most emblematic sites, Machu Picchu citadel. Get first-hand information from someone who has visited Machu Picchu hundreds of times. Machu Picchu is not a simple citadel, but a whole complex full of stories, mysteries, and enigmas, and to us, it is the heart of all our adventures.
For today, your trekking guide will pick you up early from the hotel, and together you will take the 25 minutes bus ride up to the citadel; please note it is crucial to carry your passport, as it must be shown before you enter the citadel, once is done your guide will take you upwards the lookout point to get the panoramic views of Machu Picchu citadel with the enclosures, Huaynapicchu mountain, you will see the entire site surrounded by Vilcanota river, if you go in the early mornings, you will witness seeing the mist rises as the sun’s rays hit the cold and wet environment a unique phenomenon that can only be seen in the mornings, once you have done taking your amazing photos, the guide will start with a background introduction, and a two-plus hours guided tour, within the citadel exploring the residences, enclosures, temples, altars, and more. After the tour, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes town, where you will have enough time for lunch; in the afternoon, board the expedition train service back to Ollantaytambo town then, carry on in our private transport back to your hotel in Cusco city.
- Meals Included
Box Lunch & snacks. - Hiking Distance
12 km / 7.46 miles. - Difficulty
Mod – Dem - Hike Duration
6 hrs. approx. - Highest elevation
2,650 m / 8,692 ft. - Transportation
Train / Private Bus.
Including
One day Short Inca trail Includes
- Pick up from the hotel
- English-speaking local Tour Guide.
- Private Transportation to Ollantaytambo station.
- Expedition train service to km 104, the trailhead.
- Inca Trail entrance tickets.
- Box Lunch to carry.
- Extra water bottle for the trek.
- Snacks consist of a pack of fruit, and cookies.
- First Aid Kit.
- Bus ticket to Aguas Calientes town.
- Dinner at Aguas Calientes town.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Expedition train service back to Ollantaytambo station.
- Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco or Saccred Valley
The One Day trek does not include
- Trekking poles
- Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Machu Picchu Mountain
- Lunch & dinner
- Tour Guide gratitudes.
Pricing
Inca Trail One Day Hike Price
The price of our 1 day Inca Trail varies according to the number of participants, the more participants the lower the price. When considering embarking on this extraordinary expedition, our commitment to competitive and scalable pricing ensures that the magic of Machu Picchu can be shared with friends, family or fellow explorers, creating memories that are not only profound, but also economically feasible for all who seek the wonders of this ancient wonder.
$430.00 per person Price based on 8 people in the group
- Price for 7-8 trekkers: 380.00 USD per person
- Price for 5-6 trekkers: 410.00 USD per person
- Price for 3-4 trekkers: 430.00 USD per person
- Price for 2 trekkers: 450.00 USD per person
Discounts
Students have benefits traveling in Peru! Museums, tourist tickets, archaeological sites, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, and more. Get discounts by presenting your International Student Identity Card (ISIC); students under the age of 17 and children do not need the ISIC. To apply for a discount, email us with a copy of the ISIC and passport at the time of booking for a trek or tour to info@kunturperu.com
We will be glad to help you.
- Student discount (only with active green ISIC card): US$ 25.00
- Students from 12 to 17 years. US$ 30.00 Discount
- Children from 5 to 12 years. US$ 30.00 Discount
Rentals
- Set of pro trekking poles – US$10.00
- Sleeping bag – US$15.00 Only camping option
- Inflatable mattress – US$ 15.00 Only camping option
- Single Tent – US$50.00 Only camping option
- Foam mattress – included in the tour service Only camping option
Upgrades
The Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu mountains are additional hikes within the Machu Picchu citadel; these admission tickets are subject to availability since they are usually sold out quickly.
- Huaynapicchu Mt. entrance fee: USD 75.00 extra per person.
- Machu Picchu Mt. entrance fee: USD 75.00 extra per person.
- Vistadome Train service (one-way trip): USD 75.00 additional per person
- 4 Stars Hotel at Macchu Picchu town: USD 70.00 additional per person
- Cusco City tour: USD 150 per group (2 – 6), if booked together with this tour
- Sacred Valley tour: USD 240 per group (2 – 6), if booked together with this tour
Groups booking
We reward your preference! More details will be available if you are interested in taking advantage of this offer, such as walking tours in Cusco City, discounts on items for camping activities, and personal discounts. Contact us at info@kunturperu.com
GO ON GROUP SERVICE:
From USD 360.00 per person. 8+ up to 12 participants in the group. Please note booking in advance.
Trip Info
Weather on trek
Hiking through the Quarry trek is a very high-altitude activity, therefore, the weather may be cold and unpredictable. The nights on this trek are usually around 14 F. / -10 C. In the early mornings of the dry season, during the day, it can get quite warm if the sun is out, anywhere from 60-75F/15-24C. Keep in mind that if the weather is rainy or cloudy, it will be windy and colder, and it may change instantaneously, particularly when going up at the high-altitude passes; as with any high-altitude hike, you should bring plenty of layers to adjust to the fluctuating temperatures and conditions as well as appropriate sun/rain protection.
Pre-departure notes
It is highly recommended to spend at least two days before any trekking activity acclimating to the altitude in the Andes; drinking enough water and avoiding heavy meals also help you to adapt quickly to the environment. Cusco is an Andean city located at 3,399 m. / 11,151 ft. We suggest doing short day tours in and around the city.
It is imperative to attend the pre-trek briefing a day before the scheduled date of the trip, usually set at 17:00 hrs. See the itinerary instructions section of the tour and its details. For additional information, speak directly to your trekking guide.
Note on Itinerary
The current itinerary described accurately expresses the trekking activities we offer. However, please, notice that due to some circumstances occasionally turns beyond our control, such as natural disasters, weather conditions, strikes, and others that may force us to deviate from our original plan, in which case, we will provide you with the best alternative option available, so then you won’t miss the wonderful experience.
Note on Price
Please note. All our trekking tours, and the Inca trail tours, include a duffle bag, which means you can take additional clothing with your sleeping bag and mattress for the trek; these must be 7 kg/14 pounds max weight.
All Inca trail trekking tours are run with a pack of a trekking team (our porters), who are appointed to carry all camping equipment during the hike; the number of porters in the group is accordingly to the number of travelers booked for the tour; for more details see Inca Trail FAQs.
Camping accommodation on the trek is based on double occupancy per tent.
Accommodation in towns is at 3* hotels; Twin-bed room (matrimonial if requested), triple occupancy in case of families or friends; the single rooms are subject to a single supplement fee.
Trip Payment Schedule
At the time of booking, you must be paid 30% of the total cost of the tour; this will allow us to make the corresponding reservation and purchase some tickets that may be sold out rapidly. A month before the departure date, the balance must be paid or upon your arrival in Cusco city, the 70% left of the final balance must be paid fully.
Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule
- Minimum fee (hike permit fee): $130 per person
- 61-90 days prior to departure: 30% of trip cost
- 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
- 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost.
Gratuities for the trekking crew
One of the greatest ways to express your gratitude to your trekking crew for everything they do to help you to make your adventure trip is by tipping. This is a tradition of years since the beginning of the tourism industry in our region, a personal appreciation based on the team’s effort during your adventure experience. Giving gratuities might not be customary in your country, however, it’s of the utmost importance to those who will be taking care of you during the trip. Tipping inspires excellent service and is an ingrained feature in the tourism industry on many Kuntur Peru Travel destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you wish, depending on your perception of the quality and length of your trip. Remember, tipping is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Usually, participants in a group gather the tipping money for the guides, porters, and cooks; you can either do it individually, or your trekking guide will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Tipping your tour guide is more personal and should be decided based on your relationship, quality, and length of service with them and is done separately from the group or could be done individually, this generally happens once you end the tour at Machu Picchu Citadel or Machu Picchu town.
Porters: Each porter $20 – $40 USD or the equivalent in Soles (from all the group or participants)
Trekking Chef: $35 – $70 USD or the equivalent in Soles (from all groups or participants)
Trekking guide: The amount is an entirely more personal preference, however, as a guideline, $40 -80 USD per person can be used.
Faqs
How long is the day hike on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The Inca Trail day hike usually takes between 6 and 7 hours, from the trailhead at kilometer 104 to Machu Picchu.
What is the starting point of the Inca Trail day hike?
A: The hike starts at Kilometer 104, accessible by train from Ollantaytambo, offering breathtaking views of the Urubamba Valley.
What are the highlights of the Inca Trail day hike?
A: Highlights include the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, diverse ecosystems and well-preserved Inca stone paths.
Are there guided tours available for the Inca Trail day hike?
A: Yes, guided tours are usually included in the Inca Trail day packages, offering information about the history and significance of Machu Picchu.
Is a permit required for the Inca Trail day hike?
A: Yes, a special permit is required for the day hike, and must be arranged in advance as the number of permits is limited.
What is the level of difficulty of the Inca Trail day hike?
A: The day hike is considered moderately difficult, suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness, as it involves ascents and descents on well-maintained trails.
Are there any age or fitness restrictions for the Inca Trail day hike?
Although there are no strict age limits, participants should be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness due to the uphill and downhill sections of the trail. It is advisable to consult with a health professional before undertaking the trek.
Booking
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Kuntur Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. The Kuntur Peru Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Payment methods
Full Terms and Conditions please see the policy
please see the policy linked at the bottom of our website in the footer. It is also available to read during the checkout
REASONS TO HIKE THE SHORT INCA TRAIL
- Come across and feel safe exploring the 1 days Inca to Machu Picchu with us with experienced trekking guides.
- Experience one of the ten top trekking worldwide recognized with Kuntur Peru Travel, a direct & official local tour operator in Cusco.
- Enjoy the natural and scenic beauty of the inter-Andean valleys and highland landscapes.
- Immerse yourself in the history of the Incas interpreted by your expert tour guide, and explore the most unbelievable archeological sites throughout the trail.
- The One Days Inca Trail service is a unique experience; ideally for adventurers and history lovers, a pathway with astounding views and landscapes
- Spot Andean wildlife in its natural habitat and diverse ecosystems. As well as Llamas and Alpacas wandering at Machu Picchu.
TRIP Checklist
The trip check list may vary per trip according to the number of days you are traveling and the type of activity you are going to make. Kuntur Peru includes duffle bags to carry extra clothing for eah hike we offer as part of the payment for the tour. Here we show a basic list for multi days trekking activities we offer.
DAY PACK
For the Inca Trail one-day trek, you must carry at most a 25L capacity trekking day backpack to carry your items and your box lunch for the day, additionally, trekking poles can be tied to it. It is not allowed to take larger capacity backpacks into Machu Picchu citadel. Here we show a basic list of essential items you should carry in your day pack.
- Valid Passport. Verify your passport won’t expire at the time of the trip.
- Sunscreen; at least 35+ fps protection is recommended.
- Sun hat. Prevents sunburn even on cloudy days.
- Rain jacket. Weather in the mountains turns unpredictable
- Extra water bottle.
- Insect repellant
- Bandana
- Sunglasses
- Cameras, make sure to charge the batteries.
- Personal First Aid kid
- Roll paper/ Toiletries
- Personal Snacks
- Power bank, there is no electricity on our adventures.
- Trekking poles
DUFFEL BAG
This Info is for short Inca trail overnight hotel or camping option only! please, ignore this info if it is not the case. Duffle bags will be given to you at the pre-trek briefing a day before the departure. Please, note that 7 Kg / 14 pounds is the maximum weight to take. Both the sleeping bag and the foam mattress are 3 kg / 6.5 pounds in weight, which means the 4 kg left must be your clothing and personal items. The duffel bags will go straight to the hotel or to the campsite in case the service is with a camping option. For the short Inca trail to Machu Picchu 2 days, we have a checklist of items you should take in your duffle bag.
- Sleeping back (available for rent)
- Extra clothing (trekking pants)
- At least 2 extra pairs of socks
- Extra T-shirts at least 2
- Thermal pant
- Warm jacket
- Extra wool socks
- Small personal towel
- Dry bag
- Sandals
- Warm clothes.
- Sweater or flees