Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 1 Day
- Cusco
- Ollantaytambo
- Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu
- Cusco
Moderate
Diary
Group/ private
All years
Bus
Overview
Walk in the footsteps of the ancient Incas on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day, a perfect option for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the Inca Trail. This condensed version of the classic route takes you through lush cloud forests, ancient archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna, and culminates with a breathtaking entrance to Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
4-Days Cusco Adventure – Explore the Best of the Inca Capital
The SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 1 DAY is an ideal adventure for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the magic of the ANCIENT INCA TRAIL. This route covers the last and most scenic stretch of the trail, starting at KM 104, and takes you through lush cloud forests, past incredible archaeological sites such as WIÑAY WAYNA, and finally through the SUN GATE (INTIPUNKU) for a breathtaking first view of the MAJESTIC MACHU PICCHU CITADEL. It’s the perfect way to blend hiking, history, and culture into a single unforgettable day.
Unlike the CLASSIC 4-DAY INCA TRAIL, this version doesn’t require camping and can be completed within one full day, making it accessible to a wider range of travelers. You’ll enjoy a scenic train ride, a moderately challenging hike led by a professional guide, and a full guided tour of MACHU PICCHU, all in one carefully organized experience. This trek is perfect for those looking to make the most of their trip to PERU with comfort, adventure, and historical insight packed into a single day.
Tour Details:
- Duration: Full day (approximately 16 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Altitude: From 2,100 m (KM 104) to 2,720 m (Sun Gate), then 2,430 m (Machu Picchu)
- Group size: Small groups for a personalized experience
- Starting point: Cusco (early morning pickup)
- Ending point: Cusco (evening return)
Highlights
- Experience the final stretch of the legendary Inca Trail in just one day.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just like the ancient Incas did.
- Visit the impressive Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful along the trail.
- Enjoy a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to the starting point at km 104.
- Explore Machu Picchu with a certified professional guide in the afternoon, avoiding the morning crowds.
- Perfect for travelers short on time who still want to hike a portion of the classic Inca Trail.
- No camping required – return to Cusco the same evening by comfortable train.
Itinerary at a Glance
- 04:00 am: Pick up from hotel and transfer to train station
- 06:00 am: Train ride to KM 104
- 08:00 am: Begin hiking – Visit Wiñay Wayna
- 01:00 pm: Arrival at the Sun Gate – First view of Machu Picchu
- 02:00 pm: Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- 05:00 pm: Bus to Aguas Calientes & train to Cusco
- 09:30 pm: Drop-off at hotel in Cusco
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 day
We begin the adventure very early with a pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 4:00 am. A private vehicle will take you on a 1 hour and 40-minute drive to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you’ll board the Expedition or Vistadome train toward km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail. Once there, you’ll meet your professional guide and begin the trek.
The first section of the trail takes you to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, nestled in the high jungle. After exploring this lesser-known Inca complex, you’ll ascend steadily for about 3 to 4 hours through lush Andean landscapes, arriving at the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins, one of the most beautiful sites along the Inca Trail. You’ll enjoy lunch and some rest while your guide explains the site’s fascinating history and importance.
After lunch, you’ll continue hiking for approximately 1.5 hours along a gentle path that leads you to the famous Inti Punku (Sun Gate). From this majestic viewpoint, you’ll catch your first panoramic glimpse of Machu Picchu, a moment that many travelers describe as unforgettable. From there, you’ll walk downhill for about 45 minutes to the citadel itself.
Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you’ll have time to take in the views and snap some photos before taking a bus down to Aguas Calientes. From the town, you’ll board your train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting to bring you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 9:00 pm. This one-day trek combines adventure, history, and iconic views for an extraordinary experience.
What’s Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in CUSCO
- Train tickets (round trip)
- Entrance to the INCA TRAIL and MACHU PICCHU
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Bus from MACHU PICCHU to AGUAS CALIENTES
- Box lunch and snacks
- First aid kit
What’s Not Included
- Breakfast and dinner
- Walking sticks (available to rent)
- Tips for the guide and staff
- Travel insurance
What to Bring for the Sacred Valley To Machu Picchu
- Passport (required for checkpoints)
- Daypack (20L recommended)
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks and energy bars
- Camera
- Personal medications
- Lightweight clothing layers
We recommend leaving large luggage in your hotel in Cusco. You’ll only need a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
We recommend leaving large luggage in your hotel in Cusco. You’ll only need a small bag for the overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.❓ Frequently Asked Questions – 4-Days Cusco Adventure
What is the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a one-day hike that covers the final section of the world-famous Classic Inca Trail. It starts at km 104 and includes visits to impressive archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna, as well as the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the essence of the Inca Trail without committing to a multi-day trek.
Do I need a permit for the Short Inca Trail?
Yes, just like the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail requires a government-issued permit. These permits are limited and must be booked in advance. We handle the entire permit process for you once your reservation is confirmed, so you don’t have to worry. It’s important to book early, especially during the high season, to secure your spot on this popular route.
Is this one-day trek to Machu Picchu difficult?
The Short Inca Trail hike is considered moderate. While it doesn’t reach extreme altitudes like the full 4-day trail, you will still be hiking for 6–7 hours, mostly uphill and on uneven Inca stone steps. Good physical condition is recommended, but you don’t need to be an expert hiker. The trail is well-maintained, and our guides ensure a comfortable pace suited to the group.
What do I need to bring for the Short Inca Trail?
You’ll need a small daypack with essentials such as a passport, sun protection, water, snacks, rain jacket, and a camera. Since you’ll be hiking most of the day, wearing comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing is key. We’ll provide a detailed packing list once your reservation is confirmed to make sure you’re well-prepared for the experience.
Will I have time to explore Machu Picchu after the hike?
Yes, absolutely. After arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate, you’ll have a guided tour of the citadel, exploring its most iconic temples, terraces, and sacred sites. The guided visit lasts around 2 hours. While you won’t have as much time as a full-day tour from Aguas Calientes, this is still a deeply rewarding and immersive experience at one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
What is the difference between the Short and Classic Inca Trail?
The Classic Inca Trail takes 4 days and involves camping, covering a total of 43 kilometers through a range of ecosystems and ancient ruins. In contrast, the Short Inca Trail is a 1-day hike that focuses on the final, most scenic section of the trail, with no camping required. It’s ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a less physically demanding option while still enjoying the magic of entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Can I do the Short Inca Trail year-round?
The trail is open most of the year but is closed every February for maintenance and conservation. The best months to hike are from April to October, when the weather is dry and the views are clearest. During the rainy season (November to March), the trail is still accessible, but conditions can be slippery, so proper gear and preparation are important.
💲Prices – Short inca trail to Machu Picchu 1 day
The cost of the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day depends on the number of travelers and optional services. We offer private and group departures with premium service.
- Group Tour: From $420 USD per person (minimum 2 people).
- Private Tour: From $490 USD per person (minimum 2 people).
- Student Discount: $20 USD off with valid ISIC or student card (under 25 years old).
Please note: Prices include Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu entry, transportation, lunch, and an expert guide. Train upgrades to Vistadome or Hiram Bingham available upon request.
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