Best 1 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu with Circuit 2 or 3
Duration
1 Day
Type of Tour
Adventure, hike
Difficulty
Moderate
Gruop size
2 min. - 8 max.
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with 69 Explorer. We will guide you on the Full Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This one-day excursion, also known as the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike, is a condensed version of the classic Inca Trail. It offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
The journey begins early in the morning at Km 104, which is easily accessible from the Sacred Valley. From here, we will start our hike. The hike totals approximately 13 km (about 8 mi) from start to finish. Immerse yourselves in the stunning beauty of the Andean mountains.
As your dedicated tour operator, we ensure a memorable experience. Awe-inspiring views will greet us at every ridgeline and mountain pass of the Inca Trail Trek.
The hike, being moderately challenging, will lead us to significant Inca sites, including the fascinating Wiñay Wayna. Meaning “Forever Young” in Quechua. This is not a well known site. However, its surprisingly well preserved stone structures are a sight to behold. Wiñay Wayna offers a glimpse into the sophisticated Inca architecture and agricultural practices. Our experienced guides will share stories and facts, bringing these ancient ruins to life.
As we approach the Sun Gate or Inti Punku, prepare for the climax of our hike: the first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu! The majestic citadel unfolding before your eyes, is a highlight for many on the Short Inca Trail. The panoramic vistas from here are unmatched, providing a perfect opportunity for memorable photographs.
Discover the Hidden Treasures of Machu Picchu on the Short Inca Trail
Descending from the Sun Gate, you’ll enter Machu Picchu in the afternoon for our guided tour. By this time the crowds have thinned allowing for a more peaceful tour.
The guide will take you through the main areas of this iconic site explaining the purpose and history. As we walk through Machu Picchu take the time to appreciate the intricate stonework. Ask your guide any questions you may have as they are a great resource of Incan knowledge and history.
Before our journey concludes, we will descend to the town of Aguas Calientes. Here, the return to the train station marks the end of our Full Day Inca Trail Tour.
Throughout this 1 Day Inca Trail, 69 Explorer will take care of every detail. This includes everything from Inca Trail permits to comfortable transportation. Our commitment to excellence makes hiking the Inca Trail with 69 Explorer experience to cherish.
Join us for this magnificent Full Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Itinerary
69 Explorer Machu Pichu Guaranty :
We promise your entry to Machu Picchu Citadel or we’ll refund your money.
Note: Bookings made with 8 or less weeks in prior to the trip, may require adjustments in the itinerary to ensure validity of the ticket including earlier start or rescheduling of certain activities. In order to guarantee your whole experience.
Time to start your exciting Full Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with 69 Explorer!
This is a journey that combines history, stunning landscapes, and an unforgettable trekking experience. Perfect for those seeking the essence of the Inca Trail in a single day. It’s an adventure you don’t want to miss.
Cusco to KM104.
You will be pick up at your hotel in Cusco at 4 am, for a drive to the Ollantaytambo train station. Our comfortable, private transport ensures a smooth start to your day. If you’re staying in Ollantaytambo, we will meet you at your hotel at 5:30 am.
Before boarding the train in Ollantaytambo, we will provide you a box lunch to carry in your daypack. The scenic train ride in the Sacred Valley will take about one hour and fifteen minutes. Then, we will disembark at the renowned Km 104 (2,000m/6,560ft). From here, we will start our hike.
Time to start the hike.
After crossing a picturesque footbridge over the Urubamba River, you will have to show your passport at the checkpoint. The first hour and a half will be a gentle upward hike.
On the hike, you will have expansive views of the Urubamba River and pass through various microclimates, including a cloud forest. Bring your rain gear! In the cloud forest rain can come at any time.
Wiñay Wayna.
The trail becomes slightly steeper for the next hour and a half, culminating in a beautiful waterfall. Here, we will stop to take photos and to admire the breathtaking Wiñay Wayna ruins (2,600m/8,500ft), which translates to “Forever Young” in Quechua. Wiñay Wayna is remarkably well preserved making it the most impressive ruin on the Inca Trail. Lush sub-tropical jungle surrounds this site, shrouding it in mystery.
After exploring Wiñay Wayna, enjoy our box lunch at a sheltered area near the Wiñay Wayna campground. With nearby facilities for convenience, take your time to savor your meal in the surrounding tropical beauty.
Sun Gate (Intipunku).
After lunch, we will continue on the trail for one hour. Then to a steep section of stone steps leading us directly to the Sun Gate. The Sun Gate, or “Inti Punku”, is a significant structure as it was the original entrance to Machu Picchu during the times of the Inca Empire. Upon reaching the Sun Gate, the first stunning view of Machu Picchu awaits – It’ll be a moment to cherish and capture in photos.
Machu Picchu Citadel.
After admiring the views from the Sun gate, its time to descend to Machu Picchu. Take every chance to snap more photos from this unique angle of the citadel.
On reaching Machu Picchu, we will pass next the Guard House, this is where the famous pictures are taken, due to the iconic views of the site. Arriving in the afternoon has its perks. You will enjoy a quieter exploration as the crowds diminish. Our guide will take you on a 2-hour tour. Covering the agricultural, residential, and religious sectors of Machu Picchu.
Circuits to visit:
- Upon Arrival 1B (Best viewpoint of The Citadel, The classic Postcard Picture spot)
- 3B or 2B (depending on availability) for the guided tour in the citadel
After our 2-hour tour of the majestic of Machu Picchu, we will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. At 6:20 pm we will board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo. Once in Ollantaytambo our private van will take you directly to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 10:00 pm. If you opt for the Vistadome Train, you will depart Aguas Calientes at 6:10 pm.
Key Statistics of the Full Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:
- Distance Covered: 13 kilometers (8 miles)
- Highest Altitude: 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) at the Sun Gate
- Lowest Altitude: 2,040 meters (6,692 feet) at Machu Picchu
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Join 69 Explorer for this memorable Full Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Here, wonders and natural splendor create an unparalleled trekking experience.
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What’s included?
Hotel Pickup
Private transportation is provided from your hotel in Cusco or Ollantaytambo to the trailhead and back to your hotel.
Train Tickets
Round-trip train tickets, from Ollantaytambo to the Km 104 trailhead.
Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Entry Permits
All necessary permits for hiking the Inca Trail and entering Machu Picchu.
Professional Guide
An experienced, English-speaking guide to lead the hike and provide historical and cultural insights.
Meals
Includes a box lunch.
Bus Tickets
Bus transportation from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and back.
First Aid and Emergency Equipment
Basic first aid kit for emergencies, carried by the guide.
Excludes
- Hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Due to time constraints on the one-day hike, it is not possible to include climbs. Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain cannot be accommodated.
- Energy Snacks: Additional energy snacks like chocolate bars and dried fruits are not included. Hikers should bring their own snacks.
- First Breakfast and Dinner at Aguas Calientes: Meals other than the provided lunch, specifically the first breakfast and dinner at Aguas Calientes, are not included.
- Tips for the Staff: While not mandatory, tips are not included in the package price. Though the staff receives fair payment, tips are optional and greatly appreciated by them.
- Upgrade to Vistadome Train: The upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the return journey is available at an additional cost of USD 57 per person and is not included in the standard package.
Recommend to carry
Valid Passport:
Required for entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Comfortable Backpack
A small daypack to carry personal items.
Water Bottle
To stay hydrated throughout the hike. Water purification tablets or a filter can be useful.
Snacks
Energy bars, fruits, or nuts to keep your energy up during the hike.
Rain Gear
A rain jacket or poncho, especially important as weather can be unpredictable.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect against sun exposure.
Insect Repellent
To protect against mosquito bites.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Good quality, well-fitting hiking boots or shoes with adequate tread.
Layered Clothing
Layered clothing is recommended as the weather can change in a instant. This includes moisture-wicking shirts, fleece, and breathable pants.
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing photos of the stunning scenery and historic sites.
Personal Medications
Any necessary personal medications, along with a basic first aid kit.
Extra Money
For tips, souvenirs, or unexpected expenses.
Walking Sticks
If you’re used to hiking with them (make sure they have rubber tips as required by the trail regulations).
Frequently asked questions
The 1 Day Inca Trail Hike is a condensed version of the classic Inca Trail, allowing you to experience a part of the trail and visit Machu Picchu in just one day.
A moderate to challenging hike, there are several hours of walking, including some steep sections and uneven terrain.
The hiking distance is approximately 13 km (about 8 mi).
Essential items include a valid passport, comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, rain gear, sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera.
Yes, a permit is required for the Inca Trail, even for the 1-day hike. 69 Explorer will handle the permit arrangements.
The highest point is at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which is around 2,720 m (8,924 ft) above sea level.
No, hiking the Inca Trail without a registered guide is not permitted.
Our recomendation is a combination of #1 & #3.
Concluding the Inca Trail we will join Circuit 1B, then Circuit 3B.
On our 1 Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu with Circuit 2 the groups go from minimum 2 persons to 8 persons.
Client Cancellation:
To cancel, send a written notice to “69 Explorer.” The initial deposit is not refundable. Check your insurance for potential coverage for cancellation reasons.
Cancellations more than 15 days before departure result in a 50% deposit forfeiture. For cancellations between 7 and 15 days before departure, if full payment has been made, 50% of the total cost will be refunded. No refunds are given for cancellations less than 48 hours before departure or for partial tour cancellations.
Alterations/Cancellations by Us:
In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as technical issues, adverse weather, strikes, government actions, or civil disturbances, “69 Explorer” will try to provide alternative arrangements or equivalent trips, without offering refunds. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary, but we will aim to maintain the agreed services.
Significant changes will be communicated before your trip, with comparable alternative plans offered. Any additional costs from these changes are the client’s responsibility. We cannot compensate for expenses like international flights, visas, vaccinations, etc.
If “69 Explorer” cancels a tour, a full refund will be provided.
All 69 Explorer trips are guided by Local Experienced, English-speaking guides familiar with the trail and Incan history.
For our Group Experiences we recommend 18 – 45 years old.
Families with kids or seniors can opt for a Private Trip Experience.
Yes, we can arrange customized trips in Peru.
We offer an extensive range of experiences in Cusco, like hikes or treks, Salkantay & Humantay, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail & Alternative Inca Trail, South Valley & Sacred Valley, Ausangate & Vilcanota Range experiences and recently we added E-biking to our brochure.
Contact us for tailored experiences, we can arrange the perfect plan for your Peru Vacation.
Yes, we count with all the legal permits and the experience to make your dream trip to Peru a reality.
Plus, all of our local guides have degrees in tourism and a minimum of 2 years experience. They all speak English and Spanish and many also speak Quechua, the native language of Peru.
