Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Cusco Hotel Pick-Up → Ollantaytambo → Km 104 → Inca Trail Hike → Sun Gate → Machu Picchu → Cusco
Pickup and transfer to Ollantaytambo
To start the Inca Trail 1 Day Tour to Machu Picchu, we’ll pick you up at your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am and travel by private transport for 1 hour and 45 minutes to the Ollantaytambo train station.
Train to km 104
There, you’ll board the 6:10 am or 6:40 am train, which will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach km 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail.
Start of the trek and visit to Chachabamba
At km 104, you’ll meet your guide, pass through the Inca Trail checkpoint, and begin your adventure by exploring Chachabamba, an important Inca archaeological site located along this route.
Ascent to Wiñaywayna
After the visit, you’ll begin an uphill trek of 2:30 to 3 hours along the original Inca trail, with stone stairways built by the Incas, until reaching the archaeological site of Wiñaywayna, one of the largest along the entire Inca Trail circuit. Your guide will explain the historical significance of this site.
Lunch
After the visit, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch and rest. This stop lasts approximately 1:30 hours.
Toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
You’ll continue hiking the next 6 km, from Wiñaywayna to the Sun Gate, in approximately 2 hours. From there, you’ll get your first views of Machu Picchu and have plenty of time to take in the scenery and photographs.
Arrival at Machu Picchu
You’ll continue hiking for about 45 more minutes until reaching Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail ends within the sanctuary itself, exactly at the point offering the classic panoramic view of Machu Picchu — the perfect spot for the site’s iconic postcard photos. Here, your guide will provide a full explanation of the history and significance of Machu Picchu, and you’ll spend approximately 1 hour at this point.
Descent to Aguas Calientes
You’ll then head to the bus station to catch transportation down to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo), a ride of about 30 minutes, arriving around 5:30 to 6:00 pm.
Dinner and train return
You’ll head to a restaurant for dinner, and afterward to the train station to board the 7:00 pm train bound for Ollantaytambo (approximately 1:30 hours of travel).
Final transfer to Cusco
In Ollantaytambo, your driver will pick you up for the return trip to Cusco, a journey of approximately 2 hours, arriving at your hotel around 10:00 to 10:30 pm, marking the end of the Inca Trail 1 Day Tour to Machu Picchu.
Trip Summary
- Tour Highlight: Hike the Short Inca Trail, visit impressive archaeological sites, enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the citadel.
- Walking Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles), from Km 104 to Machu Picchu.
- Starting Altitude: 2,200 m (6,562 ft) at Km 104.
- Maximum Altitude: 2,620 m (8,924 ft) at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
- Weather: Generally warm and humid, with the possibility of rain and changing conditions along the trail.
- Tour Type: Guided hiking tour with a professional Inca Trail guide.
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco
Your adventure begins with a convenient 4:00 AM hotel pick-up from your accommodation or Airbnb in Cusco. Our early morning transfer ensures a smooth, stress-free start to your journey, allowing you to relax while we take care of all the logistics.
Tourist Transportation to Ollantaytambo
After pick-up, you’ll travel in comfortable tourist transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo Train Station. This scenic drive through the Sacred Valley is fully organized by our team and connects seamlessly with your train departure to the Inca Trail.
Professional Inca Trail Guide
Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by a certified professional guide with extensive experience on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Your guide is highly knowledgeable about Inca history, archaeology, local flora and fauna, and is also trained in first aid to ensure a safe, informative, and enjoyable experience.
Expedition Train to Km 104
Your package includes the train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the official starting point of the 1-Day Inca Trail. This beautiful train journey follows the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley before reaching the trailhead.
Official Inca Trail Permit
Your tour includes the official 1-Day Inca Trail permit, issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. These permits are strictly limited each day and are required for all hikers entering this protected section of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket
The package includes your official entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1B), allowing access to the upper terraces and the world-famous panoramic viewpoint. From here, you’ll enjoy the classic postcard view of the Lost City of the Incas and receive a brief introduction from your guide.
Bus Ticket to Aguas Calientes
After your visit to Machu Picchu, your official shuttle bus ticket from the citadel down to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) is included, providing a comfortable descent after completing the hike.
Meals Included
To keep you energized throughout the day, the tour includes a freshly prepared box lunch during the hike and dinner at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes before boarding your return train. Vegetarian, vegan, and other special dietary requirements can be accommodated at no additional cost with advance notice.
Return Train to Ollantaytambo
After dinner, you’ll board the return tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, with departure generally scheduled around 7:00 PM, depending on train availability and your confirmed reservation.
Transfer Back to Cusco
Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo Train Station, our transportation will be waiting to transfer you comfortably back to Cusco. At the end of the tour, we’ll drop you off directly at your hotel, completing a seamless experience from start to finish.
Free Luggage Storage
Travel light by leaving any luggage you don’t need for the hike at our secure office in Cusco, located just one block from the Plaza de Armas. You may store your bags the day before or on the morning of your tour, and they will be safely kept until you return to Cusco.
Safety Equipment
Your safety is our highest priority. Every guide carries a fully equipped first-aid kit and supplemental oxygen throughout the hike, ensuring immediate assistance whenever necessary and providing extra peace of mind while trekking at high altitude.
End of the Tour
The tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel in Cusco. If you stored luggage at our office, we will stop there first so you can collect your belongings before taking you to your accommodation. Our luggage storage facility is open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM, providing a secure and convenient place to leave your bags during the trek.
A Fully Organized Experience
Every service included in the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has been carefully planned to provide a safe, comfortable, and hassle-free adventure. From your early morning hotel pick-up to your return to Cusco in the evening, we take care of every detail so you can simply enjoy one of the world’s most iconic hikes.
Not Included
Breakfast
Breakfast is not included in this tour. Since the day begins very early in the morning, we recommend having breakfast at your hotel before departure or bringing a light snack for the early part of the trip.
Tips
Tips are not included in the tour price. Gratuities for your guide, driver, and any support staff are entirely optional, but they’re always appreciated if you’re happy with the service provided.
Travel Insurance
Personal travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip, especially for coverage related to medical assistance, accidents, travel delays, cancellations, or other unexpected events.
What to Pack
What to Pack
1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Packing List
For the Inca Trail 1 Day Tour to Machu Picchu, we recommend packing only the essentials. You will need to carry all your personal belongings during the hike, as there is no porter service included for this tour option.
What to Pack in Your Daypack
- Rain protection: A waterproof rain jacket or reliable poncho, as Andean weather can change quickly.
- Sun protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.
- Insect repellent: Useful for protection against mosquitoes and insects along the trail.
- Reusable water bottle: Bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike.
- Energy snacks: Energy bars, nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit.
- Personal medication: Any prescription medicine or personal health items you may need.
- Camera or phone: To capture the beautiful scenery and unforgettable views.
- Original passport: Required to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Original student ID: Required only if you booked with a student discount. You must present your original student card and passport at the checkpoint located at Km 104, the official starting point of the 1-Day Inca Trail.
What to Wear for the Hike
- Comfortable T-shirt.
- Sweater, fleece, or light jacket.
- Comfortable hiking pants.
- Hiking socks.
- Comfortable hiking shoes or good-quality tennis shoes.
- Sun hat or cap for sun protection.
Important Recommendation
Pack light and bring only what you really need. Since you will carry your own backpack throughout the hike, a small and comfortable daypack is the best option.
Prices
Pricing
1 DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU PRICES | 2026 & 2027 SEASONSO
Prices for the 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu vary according to the traveler category, including adults, students, and children. Machu Picchu Team offers fair and highly competitive rates in the local market while maintaining high-quality service and including all the essential arrangements required for the tour. We encourage you to compare our prices and inclusions with those of other operators offering the same experience, as some companies may charge significantly higher rates for similar services.
OFFICIAL TOUR PRICES ✅
| Traveler Category | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| Adult | $400 USD |
| Student (under 25) | $370 USD |
| Child | $370 USD |
Optional Rental | Price |
|---|---|
| Professional Trekking Poles | $10 USD |
Group Size
For the Inca Trail 1 day to Machu Picchu, our groups usually consist of 6 to 8 travelers, with a maximum of 10 participants. Groups are formed with travelers from different countries who book the same available departure date. You may reserve whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, with friends, or as part of a larger party, and you will join the group organized for that day. Small group sizes allow for a more personalized experience, better interaction with your guide, and a more comfortable journey along the Short Inca Trail.
Student Price +info
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
How to Book the Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu
Booking the Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu through our website is quick and simple. Our online calendar displays real-time availability for each departure date. However, we strongly recommend booking 2 to 3 months in advance to secure your spot, as space is limited. During high season (April to October), we recommend booking up to 3 months ahead.
Two Ways to Book
Book Online: Use our secure booking platform to reserve your spot anytime, from anywhere. Payment can be made by credit or debit card (a 3.99% processing fee applies, covered by the client) or by direct bank transfer at no extra cost. Simply click the “Book Now” button below, and our platform will guide you step by step through the reservation process for your Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu.
Book In Person: If you are already in Cusco, visit our office at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, in the heart of the city, where our team will guide you through the booking process personally and professionally. Please note that in-person bookings must also be made several months in advance. Booking just days or weeks before departure is not recommended, as the Inca Trail sells out 2 to 3 months ahead of each date.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
- Step 1 Choose Your Date and Package: Click “Book Now” to access our availability calendar and select your preferred start date for the Inca Trail 2 Days to Machu Picchu. Next, select your traveler category (adult, student, or child), each priced accordingly. Then choose whether to pay a $250 USD per person deposit to secure your booking or pay the full amount upfront. Click “Continue.”
- Step 2 Fill In Your Details: Enter the booking holder’s information along with the required details for each participant. Review and accept the terms and conditions, sign digitally, and click “Continue.”
- Step 3 Add Optional Extras: Customize your trek with optional add-ons: sleeping bag rental, trekking pole rental, or an additional ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, confirmed immediately upon request). Note that only one mountain hike may be booked per date — Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, not both on the same day. You may also upgrade from the Expedition train to the Vistadome. Once selected, click “Continue.”
- Step 4 Travel Insurance (Optional) Review available travel insurance options and add one if desired, or click “Continue” to proceed without it.
Step 5 Payment and Confirmation Enter your payment details — credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or digital wallet — and click “Confirm Booking.” Your reservation is confirmed immediately, and a payment confirmation email will be sent to the address provided. Our team will then contact you via WhatsApp or email to verify your booking, confirm all trek details, and notify you of the availability of any optional mountain hikes. If a selected mountain (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain) is unavailable, the corresponding amount will be fully refunded. A final confirmation with all reservation details will follow.
Booking Policy & Terms and Conditions – Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu
We believe in full transparency from the outset. Please read the following terms carefully before making your reservation, so you can book with complete confidence and peace of mind.
1. Booking Deposit A non-refundable deposit of $250 USD per person is required to confirm your reservation. This deposit secures your spot on the Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu and is used immediately to purchase your Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entrance ticket, and, where applicable, your train tickets. Once paid, the deposit is strictly non-refundable and non-transferable under any circumstances, regardless of how far in advance you cancel.
2. Payment of Remaining Balance If only the deposit was paid at booking, the remaining balance must be paid no later than 48 hours before the tour start date. Failure to complete payment within this window may result in automatic cancellation of the reservation, with no refund.
The remaining balance can be paid:
- In person at our Cusco office, by credit card, debit card, or cash (Peruvian soles or US dollars)
- Online through our booking platform
If the balance is not settled within the 48-hour window, our booking platform is authorized to charge the outstanding amount to the same card or account used for the initial deposit.
3. Inca Trail Permits, Machu Picchu Tickets & Additional Mountain Tickets Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets are issued directly by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and are strictly non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-modifiable. No date or name changes are permitted once tickets are issued — this is a regulation set by the Peruvian government, not by Machu Picchu Team. The same policy applies to optional mountain tickets (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain), which are subject to limited availability and an additional cost. All tickets are purchased immediately upon booking confirmation and sent by email; for this reason, these costs cannot be reimbursed under any circumstances.
Important: only one mountain hike may be added per date — either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, not both on the same day.
4. Cancellation Policy All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to our official email address. The following penalties apply:
- Cancellation more than 48 hours before departure: loss of the $250 USD non-refundable deposit per person
- Cancellation within 48 hours of departure: loss of 100% of the total amount paid, with no refund
If the full tour amount was paid and the client cancels, a partial refund of the remaining balance will be issued after deducting the non-refundable deposit ($250 USD per person), the cost of any entrance tickets already purchased (Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain), any non-refundable additional services confirmed in the booking (such as the Vistadome train upgrade), and bank processing fees, which are also non-refundable.
If only the deposit was paid and the client cancels, no refund will be issued.
Any tickets already purchased under a participant’s name remain valid for personal use on their original date, should the client choose to visit Machu Picchu independently, since all tickets are issued by name and cannot be transferred.
5. Train Tickets When a package includes train service, tickets are subject to the policies of PeruRail or IncaRail. These tickets are non-refundable, and date changes are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.
6. Passenger Responsibilities Clients are responsible for providing accurate personal information exactly as it appears on their passport. Errors in names, passport numbers, or other details may result in denied entry to Machu Picchu, additional costs, or loss of services, without right to a refund. All required documents — particularly passports and, for students, a valid university ID — must be submitted immediately after booking. Delays in submitting these documents may result in ticket unavailability, for which no refund will be provided.
7. Itinerary Changes and Force Majeure Machu Picchu Team reserves the right to modify, suspend, or cancel any part of the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control, including severe weather, strikes, road closures, government restrictions, or train service disruptions. In such cases, no refund or compensation is guaranteed, though we will always make every effort to offer a suitable alternative.
8. Risk Assumption By booking this tour, clients voluntarily acknowledge that high-altitude trekking involves inherent risks, including altitude sickness, sudden weather changes, physical exhaustion, and limited access to immediate medical services. Machu Picchu Team’s liability is limited except in cases of proven negligence or willful misconduct on our part.
9. Travel Insurance We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip, covering medical emergencies, evacuation, cancellations, lost luggage, and repatriation. This is best arranged in your home country prior to traveling to Peru.
10. Passenger Conduct All participants are expected to behave respectfully toward fellow travelers, staff, and the natural and cultural heritage along the route. Machu Picchu Team reserves the right to remove any participant whose conduct endangers the group, staff, or the environment. In such cases, no refund will be issued for any amount paid.
11. Claims and Complaints Any complaints or claims must be raised during the tour itself or within a maximum of 3 calendar days after its completion. After this period, the service will be considered accepted as satisfactory.
12. Legal Jurisdiction This agreement is governed by the laws of Peru. In the event of any dispute, both parties agree to first attempt resolution through conciliation in the city of Cusco. If no agreement is reached, the matter will be submitted to the competent courts of Cusco, Peru.
Gallery
Photo Gallery
WHY BOOK THE 1-DAY INCA TRAIL WITH MACHU PICCHU TEAM?
1. All-Inclusive Tour from Start to Finish
Our 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is designed to include everything you need for a smooth and unforgettable experience. The tour includes transportation, meals, official Inca Trail permits, Machu Picchu entry tickets, professional guiding, and all the necessary logistics. This allows you to focus only on enjoying the hike, the incredible landscapes, and the magic of Machu Picchu.
2. Door-to-Door Service
We offer a convenient door-to-door service for your comfort. We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drop you off at your hotel again at the end of the tour. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, we can also arrange pickup and drop-off there. This means you do not need to worry about booking extra transportation or figuring out how to get to the train station or back to your accommodation after the tour.
3. Perfect Itinerary for Travelers with Limited Time
This tour is ideal for travelers who have only a short time in Cusco but still want to experience part of the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. In just one day, you will enjoy a beautiful hike along an original section of the Inca Trail, visit impressive archaeological sites, walk through stunning Andean landscapes, and arrive at Machu Picchu through one of its most iconic panoramic viewpoints. It is the perfect option for those who want a real hiking experience without committing to the full Inca Trail.
4. Daily Departures
As a local tour operator, we offer daily departures, depending on official permit availability from the Peruvian government. This gives you more flexibility when planning your trip. Even if you are only passing through Cusco for a short stay, you may still have the opportunity to hike the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu in one unforgettable day. We recommend booking in advance, especially during high season, because permits are limited and can sell out quickly.
5. Professional and Experienced Guides
Your 1-Day Inca Trail tour will be led by professional, experienced, and English-speaking guides. Our guides are trained in safety, history, culture, and responsible tourism. They will explain the importance of the Inca Trail, the archaeological sites along the route, the natural environment, and the fascinating history of Machu Picchu. Their knowledge and experience will make your adventure more meaningful, safe, and enjoyable from beginning to end.
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