Price: $ 479.00
Starting from
1 Day
2750 m / 9022 ft.
Driver Team + Local Guides
Adventure/Cultural
Demanding
Min 2 Persons
The 1 Day Inca Trail hike offers the ultimate Andean challenge condensed into a single, unforgettable day. Meticulously designed for the traveler short on time but unwilling to compromise on the iconic experience, this trek serves as an ideal and rigorous alternative to the Classic Inca Trail . Security and preparation are our highest priorities for this high-altitude journey. Your physical journey starts with an early departure (4:00 a.m.) and expert logistics to the starting point at Km. 104. Before you embark on this Machu Picchu one day trek, we strongly advise proper acclimatization. For those looking to acclimate further, the Sacred Valley offers perfect preparatory tours.
The emotional climax of this trek is earning your way to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and arriving at the New 7 Wonders of the World in the late afternoon. This timing is strategically chosen by Peru Hikers to avoid the crowds and allows you to experience the ancient citadel in a more serene and mystical setting. Our expert local guides enrich your Machu Picchu exploration with captivating insights about the Inca civilization. Join Peru Hikers for this authentic journey, where the mysteries of the past converge. You can see what past hikers thought about our expert guiding on TripAdvisor.
The 1 Day Inca Trail hike begins with an early hotel pickup and travel from Cusco through the scenic Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. We board an Expedition train to the Km 104 starting point. The short inca trail hike proceeds through diverse Andean terrain toward the ancient ruins of Wiñay Wayna. We then ascend directly to the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
At the Sun Gate, you get your first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu. After descending, your machu picchu guided tour begins. Expert guides lead you through the ancient citadel, sharing enriching Inca history. Afterwards, we take a bus to Aguas Calientes for the essential return journey to Cusco. You can enhance your trip with an upgrade, such as the Vistadome Train to Machu Picchu. Our local guides ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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).
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.
Peru Hikers promotes responsible and sustainable tourism in the Andes while benefiting local communities.
We provide unforgettable adventure and cultural destinations such as Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain.
Traveling in small groups offers genuine and unforgettable experiences, building personal relationships and forming cherished memories.
Our tour guides are passionate storytellers who love showcasing their hometowns and taking visitors beyond the obvious.
6 Days 5 Nights
00 M / 00 F
Moderate
2 Day
Min: 2 – Max: 8 (for a personalized experience)
Daily Departures
5 (Demanding) -
5 Days 4 Nights
4,800 meters/15,710ft
Trekking
Demanding
1 Day
2750 m / 9022 ft.
Adventure/Cultural
Moderate
