1 Day Inca Trail Hike – Inca Trail Machu Picchu

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1 Day Inca Trail Hike – Inca Trail Machu Picchu

Starting from $ 375.00

Per person in group Service

Duration:

1 Day

Max. Altitude:

2750 m / 9022 ft.

Team:

Driver Team + Local Guides

Style:

Adventure/Cultural

Physical Level:

Demanding

Group Size:

Min 2 Persons

1 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

Embark on an unforgettable journey with our 1 Day Inca Trail hike. This trek is designed for those short on time. It offers a perfect taste of the famous Andean trail. It is an ideal alternative to the Inca Trail Classic 4 Day trek. This adventure immerses you in the heart of the Andes. It is a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich history.

This journey is more than just a hike. It is an immersive cultural and historical experience. Our expert guides ensure your inca trail express tour is safe and memorable. They share captivating stories about the Inca civilization. They bring the stones of Machu Picchu to life. We strongly advise reading our guide on How to Avoid Altitude Sickness in Peru?. This preparation is key for your machu picchu exploration.

Essential Insights for Your Journey: As we approach Aguas Calientes, the final leg of our single day Inca Trail trek, the anticipation builds. This small town serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu. It offers a glimpse into local life, amidst towering mountains and flowing rivers.

Our journey concludes with our ascent to Machu Picchu. We enter through the Sun Gate in the late afternoon. At this time, the light casts a golden hue over the ancient city. This timing allows us to avoid the crowds. It also presents a unique opportunity to experience the site in a more serene and mystical setting.

With Peru Hikers, your 1-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu will be more than just a trek. It will be an immersive cultural and historical experience. Our expert guides ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable. They enrich your Machu Picchu exploration with captivating stories and insights about the Inca civilization. Additionally, they will share information about the majestic trail to Machu Picchu. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime. The mysteries of the past and the beauty of the present converge. Together, we will create memories that will last forever. These memories will be set against the backdrop of the Andean mountains and the timeless splendor of Machu Picchu.

Trip Summary:

Departure Times: 4:00 a.m.
Departure Point: Pick up from your hotel
Arrival Point: Machu Picchu citadel.
Arrival Time: 12:30 – 01:00 pm
Instructions: It is advised to be prepared at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Highlights: Your journey on the short Inca Trail and to the New 7 Wonders of the World begins and ends at your hotel. Do not miss the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring views of Machu Picchu. This happens during a 1-day hike and a train ride, all within a single unforgettable day. Enjoy this experience with Peru Hikers’ expert guides.

Note: The itinerary may change unexpectedly. This can be due to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or events beyond our control. Please do not worry. We will stick to the itinerary as closely as possible.

DAY1:Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km.104 – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes – Cusco:

Your day starts with a transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo. This route crosses the stunning Sacred Valley. Many guests enjoy a Sacred Valley + Maras Salt Mines tour on a separate day. From Ollantaytambo, you board a train to KM 104. This is the starting point of your short inca trail hike. Knowing what to bring is crucial. Please review our guide on Packing Essentials . The train ride offers amazing views of the Andean mountains.

DAY 1

Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km.104 – Wiñay Wayna – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

Your 1 Day Inca Trail adventure begins with an early hotel pickup. We will travel from Cusco through the scenic Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. There, we board a train to the km 104 start point. This short inca trail hike is an amazing journey. Our path leads us through the diverse terrain of the Andean mountains. We will trek towards the ancient ruins of Wiñay Wayna. The views of the valley are stunning along this route. Finally, we ascend to the iconic Sun Gate. Here you will get your first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu. This trek is a fantastic alternative to the longer Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5D/4N .

Machu Picchu Tour:

After descending from the Sun Gate, your machu picchu guided tour begins. You will have time for photos and to soak in the views. Our expert guides will lead you through the ancient citadel. They will share enriching stories about the Inca civilization. This makes your machu picchu exploration truly memorable. Afterwards, we take a bus to Aguas Calientes. From this town, you will start your return journey to Cusco. You can enhance your trip with an upgrade. Consider the amazing views from the Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu.

Key Statistics of the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike:

Distance Covered: Approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) in one day, making it a manageable yet rewarding trek.
Highest Altitude: The trail reaches its highest point at the Sun Gate. It is approximately 2,720 meters (8,923 feet) above sea level, offering unmatched views of Machu Picchu.
Lowest Altitude: Our journey begins at 2,040 meters (6,692 feet) above sea level, at Km 104, where the hike to Machu Picchu starts.
Level of Difficulty: This trek is considered moderate, suitable for avid hikers. It is also fitting for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Especially for those eager to experience the beauty of the Inca Trail in a single day.
Our guides ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable. Their insights make this inca trail express tour an experience to cherish forever. To prepare, read our blog on Accessible Adventure: Mastering the Short Inca Trail .

1 Day Inca Trail Hike Includes

Professional Guides Knowledgeable in both the Inca history and the natural surroundings. Your guide will enhance your trek with fascinating insights and ensure you don’t miss any hidden wonders.
Transportation Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trailhead. This includes a train ride to Km. 104 (the starting point of the hike). It also includes a bus from Machu Picchu back to Aguas Calientes. This will be followed by a train back to Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
Entrance Fees All necessary entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are covered. We will ensure hassle-free access to these ancient sites.
Meals The tour includes one meal, which is lunch.
First Aid Equipment Safety is a priority. First aid equipment and a portable oxygen tank are provided for emergencies.
Train Tickets Return train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Cusco. We will be ensuring a comfortable journey back after a long day of hiking.

1 Day Inca Trail Hike Does Not Include

Rentals We offer walking sticks for rent for $15.
Travel insurance This is optional but always recommended. Landing in Cusco will take an adjustment period for those who live at sea level. Most people need one or two days to adjust. If you have difficulty adjusting to the altitude, it is suggested to have protection for missed tours.
Gratuities Acknowledging the hard work and dedication of those who help you during your travels is crucial. While not everyone may practice tipping, it holds immense value for those who provide exceptional service. By tipping according to your level of satisfaction, you can express gratitude and bring joy to someone’s day.

What to Bring

Your Original passport. (University student card if you’ve booked as a student).
Water to drink (2 liters, no plastic bottles).
Camera, binoculars.
Rain jacket in rainy season -Dec to Jan.
Basic personal toiletries: Deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, small towel, handky, Anti-bacterial wet wipes.
Change of clothes.
Hat or cap for the sun is essential, Sunscrean with sun protection.
Insect repellent for mosquitoes (Malaria or Yellow fever have not been reported).
Comfortable hiking boots, sneakers or sturdy shoes.
Money in soles or dollars. (ATM´s or cash machines and travelers cheques in Aguas Calientes are more.

Price per person:

$ 429 USD

Group service without hotels(booked by yourself)

Price per person:

$ 629 USD

Group service with 3*hotels 2 nights(1 night Cusco and 1 at Aguas Callientes)

Price per person:

$ 759 USD

Group service with 4* hotels 2 nights(1 night 4* Cusco, and 1 at Aguas Callientes 4*

Price per person:

$ 769 USD

Private service from 2 travelers with 3* hotels 2 nights (1 in Cusco, and 1 at Aguas Calientes)

Price per person:

$ 429 USD

Group service without hotels(booked by yourself)

$ 629 USD

Group service with 3*hotels 2 nights(1 night Cusco and 1 at Aguas Callientes)

$ 759 USD

Group service with 4* hotels 2 nights(1 night 4* Cusco, and 1 at Aguas Callientes 4*

$ 769 USD

Private service from 2 travelers with 3* hotels 2 nights (1 in Cusco, and 1 at Aguas Calientes)

1. What is the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike?

The Short Inca Trail Full Day is a one-day trek that offers a condensed version of the classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. It’s designed for those who have limited time but still want to experience the beauty of the trail and reach the iconic Machu Picchu.

2. How long is the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike?

The trail typically covers around 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and takes approximately 6 to 7 hours to complete, depending on the pace of the group.

3. Do I need a permit for the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike?

Yes, even for the one-day hike, you’ll need a permit to access the trail, as it’s a part of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary. These permits have limited availability and must be obtained in advance.

4. How difficult is the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike?

The hike is considered moderate in difficulty. While it’s not as challenging as the full-length Inca Trail, it still involves uphill and downhill sections, uneven terrain, and altitude changes. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

5. Do I need to be acclimatized to the altitude?

Yes, spending a couple of days in Cusco or a similar high-altitude location is recommended before attempting the hike. This helps your body acclimatize to the higher elevation and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

6. What should I bring with me?

Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, snacks, a camera, and any personal medications you might need. A small daypack is sufficient for this hike.

7. Is a guide required for the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike?

Yes, the Peruvian government requires that all visitors to the Inca Trail, including the short version, be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.

8. Is there a maximum group size for the hike?

Group sizes are limited to minimize the impact on the trail and the environment. The exact group size may vary depending on the tour operator, but it’s generally small with PERRU HIKERS

9. Are meals provided during the hike?

If you’re planning a trekking adventure to Machu Picchu, you’ll be happy to know that Peru Hikers has got you covered with a boxed lunch, refreshing water bottle, and delicious snacks to keep you fueled and energized throughout your journey.

10. Can I see Machu Picchu on the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike?

Yes, the hike ends at the Inti Punku (Sun Gate), which offers stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu. However, you won’t have as much time to explore the site as you would on the full Inca Trail.

11. Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, due to limited permits and high demand, it’s recommended to book your Short Inca Trail Full Day experience well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the peak tourist season (May to September).

12. Are there restrooms along the trail?

Please be aware that restroom facilities are available at the starting point and Wiñay Wayna, an important archaeological site along the trail. It is worth noting that while these facilities are available, they may be modest. Additionally, please be aware that a restroom at Machu Picchu costs two soles.

Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail 6 Days

Duration:

6 Days 5 Nights

Max. Altitude:

00 M / 00 F

Style:

Physical Level:

Moderate

$1000.00

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Day Inca Trail Hike

Duration:

2 Day

Max. Altitude:

Min: 2 – Max: 8 (for a personalized experience)

Style:

Daily Departures

Physical Level:

5 (Demanding) -

$475.00

Lares Trek – Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

Duration:

5 Days 4 Nights

Max. Altitude:

4,800 meters/15,710ft

Style:

Trekking

Physical Level:

Demanding

$950.00