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The 1-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Our One-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect adventure for those short on time but eager to experience one of the Wonders of the World. This exciting route offers a taste of the legendary Inca Trail, combining stunning archaeological sites, breathtaking mountain landscapes, lush vegetation, and a remarkable range of ecosystems.
Along the way, you’ll visit Wiñay Wayna, the most beautiful and significant Inca site on the trail, before entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — a truly unforgettable entrance. From there, explore the upper sector of the citadel and capture the classic postcard photo of this mystical site before heading back to Cusco — all in just one day!
1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Map
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Before You Go
- Packing List
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
Are you short on time but want to enjoy the incredible Inca Trail and Machu Picchu? Don’t worry! You can enjoy the wonderful Inca Trail and enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) all in one day! That’s right! This trek is for those who want the best of both worlds but only have a day to do it all.
This Trek has a variety of flora and fauna and is rich in history. This 1-day hike is 9 km / 5.59 mi long and goes up to 2,720 m / 8.924 ft. It’s classified as a moderate trek with a slightly high altitude gain. We recommend a couple of days to acclimate in Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas before you set off.
On the Inca Trail section of your day trip, you’ll pass through some truly stunning landscapes and be in awe of the natural beauty of the Andes in this region. You’ll stop at the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site and see other amazing feats of the ancient culture that was the Incas.
You’ll end this epic day by entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, where breathtaking panoramic views await. From there, we’ll access the classic viewpoint for that iconic photo of the citadel before descending to Aguas Calientes.
There’s no need to worry about a thing — we handle every detail, from meals to transportation, so you can fully enjoy the experience.
Excited? You should be!
Highlights
- Explore the iconic Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in just one day.
- Walk in ancient footsteps through archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.
- Hike the stunning Andes, rich in unique flora and fauna.
- Admire breathtaking views on a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley.
- Enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for a memorable arrival.
- Capture the classic photo of the Inca Citadel, a UNESCO site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Detailed Itinerary
Cusco - KM 104 - Chachabamba - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
Highlight of the day: Retracing ancient steps on the Inca Trail and entering the incredible Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Hike Ancient Trails and Travel Back in Time at Historic Sites
Begin with a 4:00 a.m. pickup from your hotel. We’ll take you to Ollantaytambo to board the train to KM 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail hike. We’ll start by visiting the Chachabamba archaeological site and continue hiking up the original Inca stone steps to the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. You’ll have an epic exploration and have time to relax, learn about history, and enjoy your box lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue hiking until we reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the iconic entrance to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking views of the citadel. We’ll then walk the final stretch to the classic photo spot overlooking Machu Picchu.
Afterward, we’ll board the bus down to Aguas Calientes, followed by a scenic train ride back to Ollantaytambo. There, our private transport will be waiting to take you to your accommodation in Cusco for a well-earned rest.
Note: Please be aware that with your current ticket, you will not have access to the lower sector of Machu Picchu.
Kickstart this epic day trip with a pickup from your hotel at around 4:00 a.m. We’ll drive to the Ollantaytambo Train Station and take the train for an hour-and-a-half trip to the starting point of this one-day Inca Trail, the KM 104.
After passing the checkpoint, we´ll go to the first archaeological site, Chachabamba. This was one of the last shelters used by the Inca pilgrims before reaching Machu Picchu. It features several buildings, so this will be the perfect place to hear the guide’s first intro to the fascinating Inca history.
Then, the real hike begins with a 3-hour ascent across the stone steps of the original Inca Trail. The ecosystem in this area is truly unique; you’ll identify different types of flora and fauna: orchids, flowers, trees, and other local species, and even a waterfall in the middle of the trail. We’ll arrive at the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, the most significant along the Inca Trail. Here’s where everyone is amazed by its exquisite architecture!
You’ll see its many water sources for rituals, impressive agricultural platforms, and sacred places dedicated to the natural deities like the Rainbow Temple. Take this time to chill out, rest your legs, be silent, and connect with Mother Nature through birdsong or the refreshing breeze. Then is a little further walk to enjoy lunch at one of the Classic Inca Trail campsites. You’ll have enough time here to recharge energies while looking down at the edgy valleys below before the next leg.
We’ll keep hiking until the famous Inti Punku or Sun Gate, where every Inca Trail hiker accesses Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll stare at the breathtaking views and architecture of this majestic Inca City for the first time. This is also where the Incas would get their first sight of their magnificent Citadel. It’s hard to describe the impact of watching this ancient, sacred, and world-famous site. You’ll feel goosebumps wash over you.
After enjoying the panoramic views and photo opportunities from the Sun Gate, we’ll begin our descent toward Machu Picchu, heading specifically to the classic viewpoint for that iconic photo of the citadel. You’ll have a bit more time to take in the stunning scenery and the majestic setting in which this ancient city was built. Your guide will provide a brief historical explanation as you soak in the atmosphere of this sacred site. Don’t forget to take plenty of memorable photos and allow the energy of the Andes to fill your spirit.
Note: Please be aware that with your current ticket, you will not have access to the lower sector of Machu Picchu.
Later, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. From there, we’ll board the 18:20 train (subject to availability) back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting to take you to Cusco and drop you off at your accommodation. Time to relax and reflect on this unforgettable journey.
Important information about the One Day Inca Trail
The Ministry of Culture of Peru regulates the Inca Trail’s use and issuing entry permits. Please note:
- To access the Inca Trail, you must have a permit from the Ministry of Culture that matches your passport information exactly: name, passport number, nationality, and age.
- Only officially licensed tourism agencies can secure these permits, which are not transferable.
- If you want to change your excursion date, you must ensure that spaces are available on the new date and buy a new permit.
These are the rules of the Government of Peru. If no permits are available for your desired date, there are other incredible options to walk to Machu Picchu. We’ll be happy to find the perfect excursion for you.
Physical Preparation for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in One Day
Please be aware that the 1-Day Inca Trail follows the same trail as the 2-Day Inca Trail. The only difference is that if you book the 1-day version, you tour Machu Picchu that same day and return to Cusco that night. If you book the 2-day Short Inca Trail, you will see Machu Picchu and return by train and bus on the second day.
To complete this walk and arrive in Machu Picchu on time, travelers must be in moderate to good physical condition. If you fear the trip would be too difficult, you can take the 2-day Inca Trail, which gets you to Machu Picchu in one day but at a slower pace.
Why Travel with us
At Salkantay Trekking, we specify the included and non-included services under all the tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but please pay attention to the details to avoid missing anything. Some items may be different for specific programs, so please read carefully before booking with us.
What Is Included?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Permits and Ticket for the Inca Trail
We will process all necessary permits once we receive your complete information and reservation deposit. Permits are subject to availability and are issued for a specific date under your name. They cannot be modified under any circumstances. Passport number changes are only allowed for renewal purposes, in which case you must provide both your old and new passports.
Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Site (Circuit 1)
Your Inca Trail ticket includes access to Circuit 1, which allows you to visit the upper section of the citadel and take the iconic postcard photo of Machu Picchu. After this brief visit, we’ll go directly to the main gate to board the bus back to Aguas Calientes.
Circuit 1
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing
The day before your excursion, your guide will send you a WhatsApp message or give you a call with key information for your upcoming experience — such as packing suggestions, confirmed pick-up time, and hotel address check — everything you need to be fully prepared for the adventure ahead.
Experienced Tour Guide - All our guides have professionalism, experience, responsibility, seriousness and passion, which will make your trip safe and comfortable.
Our official tour guides speak English and Spanish and are professionally trained and certified. We choose them for their experience, responsibility, unbridled passion for exploring, and pride in sharing our culture and history. In every experience, they will keep you safe and comfortable so you can enjoy your time worry-free!
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
All Salkantay Trekking guides have specialized first aid training and attend mandatory training sessions every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit and oxygen to handle basic emergencies (altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.). If needed, we will evacuate you from the trail as quickly as possible and ensure you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
Meals
Box Lunch, Snacks and Water
One cloth snack bag per person
We’ll provide you with a cloth bag for your snacks—perfect for storing wrappers and keeping the environment clean. Feel free to use it throughout your journey!
Transportation
Transfers and bus tickets
- Pick up from your hotel in the morning and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Bus Ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Train Tickets
- Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (Trek starting point).
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
What Is Not Included?
Breakfast & Dinner
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff
While our team receives fair salaries, tips are always appreciated as a gesture of recognition for their well-done work, dedication, and their passion for sharing cultural knowledge.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Landslides, adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, pandemics, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, acts of God, etc.
Here we leave you with a brief list of extras that you can enjoy during this package.
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Huayna Picchu is the mountain behind Machu Picchu and which can be climbed in 45 minutes. Although this excursion is up to you, our guide will take you to the place of entry. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can assure for you if we have enough time in advance.
Your entry ticket will be purchased to coincide with the dates of your excursion on the Inca Trail. The entry can be done in two shifts: from 7:00 am to 8:00 am or from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. We buy the tickets in the second shift so that our clients can fully enjoy their guided tour of Machu Picchu. Remember, the shifts only indicate the time of entry. You can go up and down Huayna Picchu without haste.
The ticket for Huayna Picchu costs US$ 60.00 per person.
Machu Picchu Mountain
Machu Picchu Mountain is another of the mountains that surround the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It offers even more incredible views than Huayna Picchu, but it takes 1.5 hours to reach the top. This walk requires an entrance ticket which we can assure for you if we have time in advance.
The excursion entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain is open in two shifts as well, the first from 7:00 am to 8:00 am, and the second from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.
The ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain costs US$ 60.00 per person.
Vistadome Train
All our tours include the PeruRail Expedition train. This train leaves Aguas Calientes at 2:55 pm. The Vistadome train is a higher category service that offers more comfortable seats, a panoramic design that will allow you to see through the roof, as well as an entertainment show on board. The Vistadome train leaves Aguas Calientes at 2:55 pm as well (subject to availability), and goes to Ollantaytambo train station. From there, we’ll take you on our transport to your hotel in Cusco.
You can access this service for an additional payment of US$ 70.00 per person.
We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as carefree as possible. In this section, you’ll find the answers to all the questions you have about traveling with Salkantay Trekking in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.
The Inca Trail Without Plastics
Join us on this journey towards a plastic-free Inca Trail, where the beauty of the landscape is matched only by our commitment to environmental stewardship. Together, let's pave the way for a more sustainable and responsible adventure through the heart of history.
Briefing or Informative Meeting
All information meetings and briefings are held in our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one night before the tour begins. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you’re unable to attend, you must coordinate another time by email, by phone or at the Salkantay Trekking office.
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it 2 days before your hike/tour. Otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed.
If possible, it would be greatly appreciated if you could settle the remaining balance for the trek/tour in cash, either in US dollars or the local currency, at our office in Cusco. You can withdraw funds from various ATMs located along Avenida Sol, offering both US dollars and Peruvian Soles. Alternatively, you have the option to pay using a credit/debit card or PAYPAL, either online or in person, but please note that a 5% service charge will be applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz) and PAYPAL. We regret to inform you that we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler's checks as forms of payment for the balance.
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office (you can organize it with us on the briefing day or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.
Any equipment that you won’t need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags; put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (in the unlikely case of theft, many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing everything). It’s best to put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
Pick up of guests
Please note:
- All pickups are within Cusco City, but we recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for its convenient location.
- Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time the day before the tour.
- Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes.
- Cusco is an old city and has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located on streets without car access or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. For such reasons, we strongly advise you to book accommodation with good access.
Return to Cusco
Returning from Machu Picchu requires quite a bit of logistics, but don’t worry. Everything is included in your tour!
- In Machu Picchu, you’ll board a bus that’ll take you for 25 minutes to the small city of Aguas Calientes. The buses are boarded according to arrival.
- In Aguas Calientes, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will give you the train tickets where the boarding time will be shown. Make sure you’re on the platform 30 minutes early. The train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes 1:45 hours.
- Once you arrive at the station, our representative, identified with the Salkantay Trekking clothing, will be waiting to transfer you to Cusco or directly to your hotel. The trip from Ollantaytambo to Cusco takes 1:30 hours.
- In Cusco, depending on your hotel’s location, we’ll take you to a smaller car from our company (Hyundai H1) to transfer you faster to your hotel.
Group Tours
Group tours are made up of different types of people, then physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route.
It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, the guide will be the one who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if such modifications are possible.
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes and demonstrations are common in Peru, and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked, and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your trip as originally planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date.
Under these circumstances, tours may also be canceled. In case of changes or cancellations, everything will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority, and our decisions will be made to protect it.
Lost objects
Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our transport, tents or restaurants. You’re the only one responsible for your objects during the tour.
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
ESSENTIAL
CLOTHING
EQUIPMENT
RECOMMENDED
"ONE DAY INCA TRAIL HIKE" can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.
Price 2025
Group Price: US$ 400.00 per person
Required Pre-payment: US$ 200.00 per person
Balance (Cusco): US$ 200.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Notice that PayPal and Niubiz charge a 5% fee for the use of their secure payment gateway. This tax is just for online and card payments. You can also pay the remaining balance in cash (the briefing day) without charges.
Extra Equipment
Additional items you can rent for this trip:
- Trekking poles (pair): US$ 10.00
Add-ons & Upgrades
Complementary services and upgrades you can include in this trip:
- Vistadome Train (Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo): US$ 70.00
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the price won’t increase, whatever the circumstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Salkantay Trekking. 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 Salkantay Trekking Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 958 191 179 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
Note | Due to the rainy season and trail maintenance, we don't offer this trek during the whole month of february. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you, we are working to provide you a better service!
Feel free to reach us via email at info@salkantaytrekking.com or by calling us directly at (+51) 958 191 179
Every Day: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Triunfo Street 392, Office 212 (2nd Floor), Cusco, Peru
