Short Inca Trail one day trek

Duration 1 days

Group size Max 10

Tour Overview

Inca Trail Trek 1 Day

Our Inca Trail One Day is perfect for travelers. It lets you enjoy the best of the famous Inca Trail in a shorter and easier way.

In just 10 km (6.3 miles), this route offers beautiful Andean views, green cloud forests, and many plants and animals. You will also get a guided visit to Wiñay Wayna, the most amazing archaeological site on the trail.

It’s a great way to see the best parts of the classic Inca Trail 4-day trek in one amazing day. You will end with a stunning view of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just like the original Inca pilgrims.

Highlights of the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

Fast-Track Access to Machu Picchu

The one-day Inca Trail hike is perfect for travelers short on time who still want the authentic trekking experience. Skip the 4-day route and reach Machu Picchu in just one day via the historic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

Scenic and Historical Route

The trail is shorter, but it goes through lush cloud forests and original Inca stone paths. You can see famous ruins like Wiñay Wayna, which show both nature and history.

Ideal for Active Travelers or Hikers

This moderate hike to Machu Picchu is perfect for fit travelers. It offers a rewarding day hike without the need for multi-day camping.

Includes Train and Guided Tour

Most one-day Inca Trail tours include a scenic train ride from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. They also provide a professional guide for the full Machu Picchu experience.

Permits Required — Book Early

Limited permits make the 1-day Inca Trail highly sought after. Early booking is essential for this unforgettable short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

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Starting from

$450 USD / person

Max 10 pax

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Local expert guides

Itinerary — 1 Day

Early in the morning, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. Then, in our private transport, we will drive you through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the Ollantaytambo train station.

Here, we will board a tourist train bound for Aguas Calientes at 6:10 AM. We will be getting off at Km 104. The trail begins amidst the cloud forest, where you can see a diverse array of flora and fauna.

On this 10-kilometre stretch, we will visit many Inca ruins. Then, we will reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most prominent Inca sites in the area. After a guided tour of the complex, we will visit Sungate (Intipunku). From here, you will get the first sight of the Machu Picchu citadel.

Once inside the Machu Picchu citadel, you will receive a two-hour guided tour. After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the citadel on your own. If you have booked to hike Huayna Picchu or the Machu Picchu mountains, our guide will direct you to the trailhead.

Alternatively, you can hike to Sun Gate or Intipunku. This is the entrance to the citadel for those on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

After exploring Machu Picchu, you will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes. Here, we will have lunch at a local restaurant. At around 04:00 PM, we will take a train back to Ollantaytambo.

Our representative will meet you on arrival and transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. We will return to Cusco around 09:30 PM.

Trekking the Inca Trail is a highlight of the trip.
You can enjoy the views from the Sun Gate, similar to those from the Great Wall of China.
Watching the sunset at Machu Picchu is a must.
The journey ends at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Walking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles

Meals: A Box lunch is carried by the travelers

Elevations of the Trekking: Trek starting point 2,000 m, the highest point is Sun Gate 2,720 m, the trek ends at 1,900 m

Weather: Hot and humid

Train time for the way there: Vogayer train at 6:40 / Expedition train at 6:10 (depending on availability).

Included

Includes

Tourist transfer from Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station: Enjoy a safe, comfortable ride in a tourist vehicle. We will take you from your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo station. The journey takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley, offering a smooth, stress-free start to your adventure.
Hotel pick-up in Cusco: Your adventure begins right at your door. We will pick you up directly from your hotel in Cusco at the scheduled time, ensuring a punctual and easy start to the day.
Transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Travel in a clean, modern vehicle. Your driver is experienced and knows the route well. Sit back and enjoy the Andean scenery as we transport you comfortably to the train station.
Professional tour guide: A certified, bilingual guide will accompany you throughout the experience. All our guides are trained in first aid, knowledgeable about Inca history, and experienced along the Short Inca Trail. They ensure your safety while sharing fascinating stories, culture, and insights.
Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (trailhead): Take a scenic Expedition or Voyager train. It will take you along the Urubamba River to the famous Km 104 starting point. The ride offers stunning mountain views, cloud forests, and glimpses of Inca ruins along the way.
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu: Your official ticket to Machu Picchu is included. This ensures a smooth arrival with no worries about availability or booking.
Entrance ticket for the ancient Inca Trail: Walk along one of the most iconic ancient paths in South America. Your Inca Trail permit lets you hike the special route from Km 104 to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This route takes you into Machu Picchu through the traditional Inca entrance.
First aid kit and oxygen bottle: For your safety, your guide has a full first aid kit and an oxygen tank. This is for altitude problems or emergencies. You will always be in good hands.
Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (18:20 or 19:00): After visiting Machu Picchu, you can take an evening train back to Ollantaytambo. The schedule allows you to enjoy the archaeological site without rushing, and travel back comfortably after your guided tour.
Box lunch included: A fresh and nutritious box lunch is provided for the trail. It typically includes fruits, snacks, sandwiches, and energy-rich items designed to keep you fueled throughout the hike.
Transfer from Ollantaytambo station to your hotel in Cusco: When you arrive in Ollantaytambo, your private ride will be waiting. It will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. This ensures a smooth ending to your journey after a long and rewarding day.

Not included

Excludes

Breakfast
Tips for your guide
Dinner

Packing List

Equipment

Backpack

Essential

Cash

Passaport

Clothes

Jacket

Recommended

Sun cream

Gallery 7 photos

inti-punku-the-sun-gate-of-machu-picchu-inca-trail-2-days.webp

Frequently Asked Questions

Booking your One Day Inca Trail hike with Happy Gringo Tours is simple and secure. Just follow these steps:

You can pay the remaining balance in the following ways:

Peruvian regulations allow discounts for travelers who meet the following conditions:

Yes. During your Short Inca Trail adventure, you can leave your luggage safely at:

Unfortunately, no.
Once the government issues your Short Inca Trail permit, the date cannot be changed, and the permit cannot be transferred or refunded.

This route is considered moderately challenging to difficult due to its steep stone steps and continuous ascent.
We recommend being in good physical condition and having experience walking on uneven terrain.

Of course — this is very important.
Your original passport is required at:

If you are renewing your passport:

Train schedules depend on availability.
We generally book:

Absolutely.
Staying in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo is a great option, and it offers an extra benefit: