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 (part of circuit 1), you'll have time to marvel at this ancient wonder while your guide shares fascinating historical insights about the Incan citadel.
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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Sarah M
December 5, 2025
Percy was a fantastic guide, and the whole hike to Choquequirao was magical. The route was very varied and Percy timed everything perfectly so that we had the best hiking and time to explore the site when we got there. We will be back again!
Arthur S
December 5, 2024
Our hike to Choquequirao was a beautiful experience. Our guide Percy was well informed, kind and very knowledgable. We felt well looked after the entire time (the cups of tea delivered to our tents in the morning were a particular highlight). Even after four days I wasn’t ready to leave.
Miguel A
November 25, 2024
Nos gusto mucho esta agencia de viaje, nos la recomendaron y nos quedamos con una buena experiencia, muy profesionales, todo en tiempo y cumpliendo con lo contratado. Sin duda los recomendamos y volvemos con ellos.
marialaina p
November 23, 2024
We initially tried booking with one of the more popular companies, but they were fully booked. So, we decided to give this smaller company a try—and it turned out to be the best decision! Smaller groups made the experience more intimate, and the guides were incredibly attentive. Here are some examples of why it was a great experience: Percy and Iza, our tour guides, went above and beyond to make us feel welcomed and cared for. They paid close attention to our needs, making the entire journey enjoyable and safe. On top of that, the cooks provided by the company were outstanding—creative, skilled, and very considerate. I have a gluten intolerance, and I felt very special because they would make an effort to prepare separate dishes for me. It made me feel truly valued. Despite not exercising much before the Salkantay trek, I was able to complete it thanks to Percy and Iza’s support. They motivated me every step of the way, and I felt safe and cared for throughout. I’m so grateful for their kindness, humor, history about the trek and professionalism. When we go back to Cusco we’re definitely wanting to book here and have Iza/Percy as our guides… if we can . Thanks for making our trip so memorable
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