One-Day Inca Trail Hike – Express Route to Machu Picchu

Starting From US$ 420 Per Person

Duration

1 Day

Group Size

Min 2 People

Difficulty

Moderate

Max Altitude

2,720 m

Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu Visit – Cusco

The Seamless Experience By Peru Culture Horizons

The One-Day Inca Trail Hike is the fastest way to experience the world-famous Inca Trail and still enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This express version is perfect for travelers short on time who still want to walk the original Inca paths, visit hidden ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and enjoy breathtaking views before arriving at Machu Picchu.

The One-Day Inca Trail Hike is the fastest way to experience the world-famous Inca Trail and still enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This express version is perfect for travelers short on time who still want to walk the original Inca paths, visit hidden ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and enjoy breathtaking views before arriving at Machu Picchu.

With Peru Culture Horizons, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience including permits, professional guides, train tickets, bus transfers, and entry to Machu Picchu — all in a single day.

  • Duration: 1 Day (Cusco – Machu Picchu – Cusco)
  • Difficulty: Moderate (high altitude, approx. 10 km hike)
  • Best For: Time-limited travelers, adventure seekers, families with older kids

👉 Walk the Inca Trail and enter Machu Picchu in just one unforgettable day.

Itinerary – One-Day Inca Trail Hike

  • Early Morning: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM 104

    • Pick-up from hotel in Cusco.
    • Train ride to KM 104, the starting point of the trek.

  • Morning Hike: KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate

    • Begin a 10 km hike (6–7 hours) on the Inca Trail.
    • Visit Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, impressive Inca archaeological sites.
    • Trek through cloud forest and stone paths to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
    • First panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunset light.

  • Afternoon: Machu Picchu Visit – Return to Cusco

    • Walk down to Machu Picchu for photos (guided tour next day optional).
    • Take bus to Aguas Calientes and evening train back to Ollantaytambo.
    • Private transfer to Cusco, arriving at night.
    • Afternoon return to Cusco.

What is Included?

  • Pick-up and drop-off at Cusco hotel

  • Train tickets Cusco/Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Aguas Calientes – Cusco/Ollantaytambo

  • Inca Trail permit + Machu Picchu entry ticket

  • Professional English/Spanish-speaking guide

  • Bus tickets Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

  • Box lunch & snacks

  • Oxygen & first aid kit

What is not Included?

  • Dinner in Aguas Calientes

  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (optional)

  • Travel insurance & personal expenses

  • Tips for guides

Passport (mandatory for checkpoints & Machu Picchu entry)

Lightweight clothing + warm layer for morning/evening

Comfortable trekking shoes

Warm clothing (layers, hat, gloves)

Rain jacket & poncho

Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

Camera for colorful landscapes

Small backpack (water, snacks, camera)

Walking poles (optional, with rubber tips)

With Peru Culture Horizons, you can extend this to a 2-day Short Inca Trail with overnight in Aguas Calientes for a more relaxed pace.

Why Travel With Us

Licensed Inca Trail operator with expert guides.

Seamless logistics — permits, trains, and tickets all included.

Small groups & private options for personalized service.

Commitment to authentic, cultural, and safe trekking experiences.

FAQ – One-Day Inca Trail

1. How long is the hike?

 It’s about 10 km (6 miles), taking 6–7 hours with breaks.

2. Do I still enter through the Sun Gate?

 Yes, just like on the Classic Inca Trail, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu via Inti Punku.

3. Is this tour suitable for beginners?

 Yes, if you are in reasonable physical shape. It’s shorter than the Classic Trail but still requires stamina.

booking

One-Day Inca Trail Hike
Starting from $420

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Let us arrange everything for you properly. Contact us, and one of our travel specialists will provide you with everything you need to make this an unforgettable experience.

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