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1 Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu – Conquer the Inca Trail in Just One Day
Go on an amazing journey along the Inca Trail and explore Machu Picchu like never before - all within one epic day! Join us for an unforgettable experience in Peru
Likely to Sell Out
DURATION:
Full Day Tour
MAX ALTITUDE:
2,720 m / 8.924 ft.
STARTING POINT:
LEVEL:
Moderate
The One Day Inca Trail trek, also known as Machu Picchu One Day Hike from KM 104, stands out as the optimal route for reaching the ancient sacred city of Machu Picchu swiftly.
you will witness the stunning views and ancient ruins that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site truly legendary. Our expert guides, knowledgeable about Inca history and culture, will accompany you at all times, enriching your journey with captivating stories and fascinating insights. Our expert crew ensures a smooth and safe trekking experience, taking care of all the logistics and providing the necessary amenities. Just focus on immersing yourself in the wonder of Machu Picchu, capturing unforgettable moments and creating lifelong memories.
Maximize your time while experiencing the best of Machu Picchu in One day. Book now and embark on a life-changing journey to the heart of the ancient Inca civilization.
Customizable Itinerary
If you'd like to customize this trip, our travel specialists will create the perfect tour for you.
Overview
Overview
1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our exclusive day hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an extraordinary adventure meticulously designed for those seeking an immersive experience with limited time. This remarkable One Day Hike to Machu Picchu from KM 104 presents the optimal solution, ensuring that you do not miss the awe-inspiring wonders of the ancient sacred city of Machu Picchu.
While the 4-day Machu Picchu Inca Trail trek is undoubtedly a must-do experience in Peru, it requires a considerable time commitment, with several days of hiking and camping. However, for those with limited time and looking for a more condensed adventure, the one-day Inca Trail trek offers the best option. This short version of the famous Inca trail hike provides a memorable glimpse of the Classical Inca Trail, offering breathtaking views and cultural insights without the camping and hiking requirements of its longer version.
Choose our 1-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu for a lifetime experience, designed to maximize your time, providing an efficient and exhilarating exploration of the highlights of the Inca Trail. Take the opportunity to make your travel dreams come true with this captivating one-day adventure.
What you should know about our 1 Day Inca Trail:
- When choosing the 1-day Inca Trail, it is essential to know that you will cover the same route as the 2-day Inca Trail, but at a slightly faster pace.
- Keep in mind that the One Day Inca Trail gives you the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu the same day after the trek, (You will return to Cusco on the evening of the same day).
- To successfully complete this hike and arrive on time to the Machu Picchu Citadel, it is essential that hikers are in moderate to excellent physical condition.
- During the one-day Inca Trail tour, you will pass through the final camp of the classic 4-day trek, eventually arriving at the Puerta del Sol, (Sun Gate).
- The One Day Inca trail covers a distance of 12 km (7.45 mi), the hike starts at an altitude of 2,000 m (6,560 ft), ascending to 2,720 m (8,924 ft). This trek is classified as moderate.
How difficult is the 1-Day Inca Trail?
The difficulty of the 1-day Inca Trail can be classified as moderate. Although the hike is demanding, it is generally considered accessible for people with a reasonable level of fitness.
IMPORTANT: “The most demanding section of the 1-day Inca Trail begins approximately 20 minutes after passing the checkpoint. A 35-minute ascent takes you to the first viewpoint, providing a panoramic view, and a well-deserved 10-minute break. The climb continues for another 40 minutes, until you reach the captivating waterfall. A 15-minute break at this point offers the opportunity to relax, with the option to soak your feet in the bracingly cool water. The difficult part concludes as you reach the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. You will go up stairs for 10 minutes until you reach the top of the ruins.”
Why you will love the One-Day Inca Trail
- Experience the iconic Inca Trail in a single day, optimizing your time in Peru.
- Enjoy breathtaking scenery, including archaeological wonders and panoramic views.
- Explore Machu Picchu in the same day, without spending the night.
- This itinerary is designed for time-conscious travelers.
One Day Inca Trail Permit
The 1 Day Inca Trail also requires a permit, as it is part of the overall Inca Trail network leading to Machu Picchu. The permit controls the flow of travelers, limiting the number of visitors each day to preserve the historical and natural integrity of the Inca Trail. Obtaining a one-day Inca Trail permit is a crucial step for travelers wishing to embark on this memorable adventure.
This Short Inca Trail offers the best of this legendary trail with no long high altitude hikes or campings. It takes you to Machu Picchu through some of the prominent Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the major highlights of the 4 days trial. It is strongly recommended to book the One-day Inca Trail at least two months in advance. Waiting for the last minute can result in limited availability and the risk of not getting spaces for this popular trek. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on your Inca Trail trek.
1 Day Inca Trail Hike at a Glance:
- Our guide will be at your hotel in Cusco to pick you up at 4:00 AM. Alternatively, if you prefer to start from Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, the pick-up time is 5:30 AM. We will arrange private transportation to transfer you to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you will board the Expedition train around 6:00 AM. As you embark on this scenic journey, you will enjoy the breathtaking views heading to the starting point of the Inca Trail ( Km 104).
- Between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, you will pass through the Inca Trail checkpoint, beginning your hike with your guide. You will then walk along the Inca Trail, following the footprints of the Incas until you reach Inti Punku, also known as the “Gateway to the Sun”. The exact time of arrival depends on the pace of the hike, which will allow you to soak in the sweeping mountain vistas, lush subtropical vegetation and diverse ecological wonders.
- En route, explore remarkable Inca cities, including the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. After exploring this fascinating place, usually around noon, you will enjoy a lunch that will sustain you for the rest of your extraordinary journey.
- Approximately 1 hour after lunch, you will arrive at Inti Punku, famous as the Sun Gate, which offers your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. At 2:00 pm, you will embark on an exploration of the ancient Inca citadel. Accompanied by an expert guide, delve into the rich history and mysteries of this extraordinary Inca city.
- In the late afternoon, enjoy the sunset at Machu Picchu and capture the iconic photo of Machu Picchu without the crowds before preparing to depart. At 17:00, board the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have the option of a quick dinner at a restaurant or purchase a take-away dinner for the train ride (dinner not included).
- The Expeditionary Train departs at 6:20 pm, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the scenic ride back to Cusco. Once you arrive, our private van will be ready to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco.
What to expect on your 1-Day Inca Trail Tour
A one day Inca Trail tour is a condensed version of the classic 4-day trek, designed for those with limited time or physical ability. The trail is shorter and less challenging than the full trek, but still offers stunning views and a chance to experience the magic of the Andes.
This route offers pectacular views of the Andes Mountain Range.
You will discover Inca archaeological sites along the way.
The opportunity to see the native flora and fauna of Machu Picchu.
Physical challenge and satisfaction of completing the route in one day.
Opportunities for breathtaking photographs at every turn.
Arrival at Sun Gate, for an impressive first view of Machu Picchu.
Enjoy Machu Picchu in the afternoon, when the crowds have already left.
Exploration of lesser-known Inca ruins, such as the Wiñaywayna site.
On Day Inca Trail Map
About this activity
Languages
Our 1-Day Inca Trail Tour is exclusively conducted in English.
Free Cancellation
Free cancellation is not available for this particular experience.
Service
Our One day Inca Trail hike is exclusively available as a private experience
Pickup Included
This tour offers a convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Duration
The duration of this experience spans an entire day. The full-day duration ensures a comprehensive exploration.
Food
Your 1 day Inca Trail tour comes with a complimentary box lunch for your convenience.
Physical Level
The level of physical intensity is moderate. This allows for a pleasant and accessible exploration, adapted to people with different levels of fitness.
Max Altitude
Along the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the highest point reached is 2,720 m / 8.924 ft.
Good to Know
Important Information for 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Not quite sure yet? let us provide you with some important information that will help you make sure this tour is right for you.
- Longitud: 10.5 km / 6.5 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Pick up location: Hotel in Cusco or Sacred Valley area.
- Pick up Schedule: At 4 am from Cusco or at 6am from the Sacred Valley.
- Physical Grading: ★★★☆☆ The difficulty is moderate. Note: the 1 day Inca Trail is the same as the 2 day Inca Trail but for the 1 day Inca Trail you hike more quickly.
- Booking in Advance: Yes! It is necessary to book well in advance. However, not as much as for the 4-day Inca Trail.
- Extra Considerations: Feeling that you are not fully acclimatized yet? Don’t worry, for the 1 day Inca Trail you don’t need to be acclimatized, you can do it even the day after you arrive in Cusco.
Trip Summary
This is the plan
Certainly, here’s the summary of your 1-day Inca Trail Trek. For any inquiries about this itinerary, feel free to reach out to us at info@comeseeperutours.com.
Convenient hotel pick-up
We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba or Ollantaytambo. From there, we will take our private transportation to the Ollantaytambo train station, where we will board the Expedition train to kilometer 104. (The train ride takes approximately one hour, following the picturesque route along the Urubamba River).
Kilometer 104
Upon reaching kilometer 104, we'll disembark from the train and head to the Inca Trail checkpoint. Here, we will present our passports and permits for authorization. After passing through the checkpoint, there will be restrooms available for our use. Following this, we will have a few minutes to get ready for the adventure ahead.
Inca Ruins: Chachabamba
A short 10-minute walk from the checkpoint leads us to the ruins of Chachabamba, an interesting Inca site, strategically located to protect access to Machu Picchu. Here, we will discover liturgical fountains, sacred rocks, and other intriguing features as our local guide shares fascinating insights.
Waterfall Section
After almost three hours of climbing, we will arrive at the waterfall place, a picturesque place enveloped in lush vegetation, where a waterfall cascades down from the snow-capped peaks. Here, we will pause for our third rest before continuing on to the ruins of WiñayHuayna.
Inca Ruins: Wiñay Wayna
After a 25-minute climb, we will reach the captivating ruins of WiñayWayna, a place brimming with historical significance and architectural wonders. With our expert guide at your side, you will explore this impresive ancient site, you will enjoy also of the breathtaking vistas of the Sacred Valley.
Wiñay Wayna (Lunch)
After exploring the enigmatic ruins of Wiñay Wayna, our journey continues to WiñayWayna campsite. Here, we will enjoy a delicious lunch, surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views that add to the charm of this immersive experience. As we savor our meal amidst the beauty of the surroundings, the historical echoes of Wiñay Wayna will linger, creating a moment of tranquility and connection with the ancient wonders that have graced these lands.
SunGate (Inti Punku)
At last, our path leads us to the Sun Gate, which offers an amazing view of Machu Picchu nestled below, cradled by majestic mountains and adorned by the serene beauty of snow-capped peaks. Here, in the midst of this breathtaking panorama, we will take a moment to pause, allowing the magnificence of the scene to wash over us. With a sense of awe and wonder, we will rest and enjoy the splendor of this unique perspective, appreciating the culmination of our journey.
Machu Picchu (Guided Tour)
We will tour the intricate network of terraces, plazas and temples, delving into the fascinating stories etched in stone. Panoramic views and architectural wonders will weave a narrative of Inca civilization that resonates through time. Upon concluding our exploration of Machu Picchu, we'll transition to the next leg of our journey. With hearts still brimming with the echoes of ancient history and the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu, we'll embark on a scenic drive to the charming town of Aguas Calientes.
Return trip to Cusco
At the end of the day, we will leave Aguas Calientes town and board the afternoon train. On the way to Ollantaytambo, we will enjoy breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. From there, a smooth transfer will put you on you way to Cusco.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Experience the Most Popular 1 Day Hike on the Inca Trail
Explore majestic Inca ruins, stunning nature, and more on an unforgettable day-hike along the iconic Inca Trail. Take in the breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley of Peru as you traverse one of the world’s most spectacular trails, and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
FULL ITINERARY OF THE 1-DAY INCA TRAIL TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
Highlight of the day: The highlight of a one-day Inca Trail experience is undoubtedly reaching Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate. This iconic spot offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu nestled below.
Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
At 4:00 AM, we will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco. Then in our private transport, we will be driving you through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Ollantaytambo train station.
Here we board the early train from Ollantaytambo towards the town nestled below Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes, but we get off before Aguas Calientes, at the Kilometer 104 stop, to start this one-day hike to Machu Picchu. Just as soon as we get off the train we will cross a footbridge over the Urubamba River. A well-preserved Inca road will take us to the checkpoint, where our passports and permits will be checked. Then you will visit Incan ruins at Chachabamba, believed to be a former important military outpost. From there, a gradual 2- to 3-hour morning ascent takes you along the mountainside towards the terraces of Wiñay Wayna, an Inca site built into the hills overlooking the Sacred Valley.
Your guide will explain everything about this amazing place, also here you will have lunch.
After Wiñay Wayna Inca site, we will follow the trail inward into the cloud forest and connect with the traditional final day portion of this short Inca Trail. (The Sun Gate) or Inti Punku from where you will get the first views of Machu Picchu citadel. Here we will have a short stop to contemplate the piqturesuqe vista.
Machu Picchu:
We will then hike down the hill and arrive at Machu Picchu citadel. Our local expert will be giving you an immersive tour of the citadel. On this two hours tour, you will be visiting some of the prominent sites like the sacred plaza, the sun temple, the temple of the condor.
After the tour, you will have some free time to enjoy the Inca citadel on your own.
We will then take the Machu Picchu Aguas Calientes bus down to the town. You will have some free time to walk around the narrow streets of this town.
Later in the evening you will be taking a train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will be meeting you at the train station and will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. You will be reaching by 10:30 PM.
Meals: Box lunch
Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles
Hiking time: 6-7 hours
Minimum elevation: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft.
Maximum altitude: 2,720 m.
Physical level: Moderate
Important:
The one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu does not include porter service to carry your belongings during the trek.
Therefore, it is recommended to travel light.
To enjoy this wonderful Inca trail hike. A light backpack is the essential to feel good. The box lunch will also be carried by you.
Meals
Yes, lunch Included
Walking Distance
12 km/ 7.45 mil.
Difficulty
Moderate / Intermediate
Minimum Elevation
2,000m (6,560 ft).
Highest Elevation
2,720m (8,924 ft).
Tickets Included
Yes, all Tickets Included
Inclusions
Included
Check carefully what we include and what we don’t include for the 1 day Inca Trail tour. If you want to add something extra to the 1 day inca trail tour just let us know when booking.
Professional english-speaking tour guide
Experience the best trekking Inca route and let yourself be carried away by an epic adventure with a very experienced local tour guide at your side.
Briefing the night before the tour at your hotel
Your tour guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco the night before the tour to go over the itinerary of the 1 day Inca trail trek. Tour orientation is usually in the afternoon or evening over the phone.
Private transport to the train station in Ollantaytambo from Cusco
Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley let us know so we can arrange a later pick up.
Round trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to 104 kilometer and viceversa.
For the 1 Day Inca Trail Hike we take the Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo. The train allows you to continue enjoying more spectacular views of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. In a little over an hour you will arrive at KM 104 where you begin your hike to Machu Picchu.
01 Box lunch
Tourist bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
Admission Ticket to the Inca trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological site.
Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank carried by your guide.
No Included
Huayna Picchu Mountain
Drinks, snacks, or water
Dinner at Aguas Calientes
Walking sticks
Tips for your guide
What To Bring
What to Bring
Need to take for the 1 Day Inca Trail
Before embarking on any hike or trek, it’s important to make sure you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead. Along with adequate clothing and gear, you should also bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your one day Inca Trail adventure. Additionally, a good-quality sun hat and sunscreen are also highly recommended, as is an insect repellent. With the right preparation gear in place, you’ll have an unforgettable experience!
- Original Passport
- Student card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
- Water
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- T-shirts
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Personal medication
- Torch with spare batteries
- Small backpack with rain cover.
- Clothes for warm and cold weather like a waterproof jacket.
- Hiking shoes.
- Slippers or sandals (for showers and thermal baths) .
- Synthetic or wool socks and a sweater .
- Long or short sleeve polo shirt.
- Plastic rain poncho and hat.
- Bathing clothes (for the thermal waters in Aguas Calientes).
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, alcohol disinfectant gel and toilet paper.
- Camera (wrapped in a plastic bag), a flashlight and batteries.
- Some snacks such as chocolate bars and nuts .
- And extra money in soles .
Important: It is necessary to acclimatize in Cusco, one or two days before starting the tour. For a good acclimatization it is necessary to rest as much as possible, to eat little, to drink abundant liquid; specially the mate of coca that possesses known healing and digestive properties. An adequate acclimatization avoids that it affects the “soroche” or bad of height, that could cause numerous annoyances to the health.
Pricing
Pricing
Price for: 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Before booking ask for availability for the date of your trip, to book the Inca Trail it is necessary to book at least 2 months in advance otherwise it will not be possible to book your trip.
Due to the short time that this trip has it is not possible to climb WaynaPicchu or Machupicchu Mountain because after the visit to Machu Picchu you will have to take the bus to Aguas Calientes town to take the train back to Cusco.
We offer daily departures on the Inca Trail (excluding February when the trail is closed)
- 1 person $380 per person for a group of two people
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Based on group size
The price for the One Day Inca Trail depends on the final number of people in your group. If there is a cancellation please note, the price per person will reflect the actual number of people going on the trek.
To secure a booking with Come See Perú Tours, the client must deposit 40% of the entire price of the tour. You will receive a confirmation email for the tour that you made a deposit. The total balance must be paid in cash at your hotel before the start of your trip.
2 Persons
Price
US $ 399.00
per person
3 Persons
Price
US $ 390.00
per person
4 Persons
Price
US $ 390.00
per person
5 Persons
Price
US $ 380.00
per person
6 Persons
Price
US $ 380.00
per person
7 Persons
Price
US $ 380.00
per person
8 Persons
Price
US $ 380.00
per person
Terms and Conditions
Terms and Conditions
Deposit
We use PayPal as the most secure method for our customers. When you pay with PayPal, your financial information is never shared with the vendor, and you can pay using only your email address.
PayPal charges a 7% fee which must be paid by the traveler. The PayPal fees will be automatically added to the total cost during the transaction.
Remaining Balance
The remaining balance can be paid upon your arrival to Cusco before the start of the tour. the total balance must be paid in ” CASH “You can pay the remaining balance in Peruvian Soles or Dollars.
(Bills must be in good condition – no torn bills are accepted).
PERMITS: Inca Trail permits are in your name and cannot be transferred to another person under any circumstances. Changing dates is also not possible once the permit has been bought. Keep in mind permits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not of Come See Perú. Learn more about our terms and conditions.
In extreme cases in which the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for security reasons, Come See Perú will replace your hike with an alternative hike or day tour.
Faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Day Inca Trail tour Faqs
Overwhelmed with questions about our 1 day Inca Trail? Let us help you, here we have collected the most frequently asked questions from our customers who have already taken the 1 day Inca Trail tour. If we didn’t answer your question, you can also write us at info@comeseeperutours.com
Make the most of your time and get our best tips for visiting the Inca Trail in just one day. This comprehensive guide includes frequently asked questions, what to expect, and more!
The weather on the 1 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is relatively warm, the rainy season in Cusco starts from December to February, so the best time to do the one day Inca Trail tour is from March to November and December but you have to know that the weather in Cusco is unpredictable so you have to be prepared to ensure that nothing ruins your trip, we recommend wearing rain ponchos as well as hiking boots, mosquito repellents, sun blocker, a good backpack.
It is very important for trekkers for the 1 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu to understand that you are doing the same trip as the 2 Day Inca Trail, just a little quicker. You should be in excellent physical condition to be able to do this trek and arrive at Machu Picchu Citadel in time. otherwise you may miss the train back to Cusco. If you’re over 50 and think the trek may be too difficult, you may book the 2 day Inca Trail.
Trekkers need to be in moderate to excellent physical condition to do the inca trail 1 day
If you think the one day hike machu picchu may be too strenuous and quick, you can opt for the 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail which offers the same hike at a slower pace.
If you renew or change the number or names of your passport or documents after booking the tour/walk, you must send us a photograph of the new passport or document; we will make the change with the authorities before you arrive in Cusco; the extra cost to make the change is $20 which will cover expenses for the change of Inca Trail Entry, MachuPicchu Entry and train tickets. If you do not wish to pay the $20 for the corresponding changes you must bring your new and old passport or document to show it to the authorities (Inca Trail, entrance to MachuPicchu, train tickets). If you don’t have the 2 passports you will have to buy a new entrance to the Inca Trail, MachuPicchu and by train on your own, the costs could be around $100.
In Aguas Calientes; we will reserve in the hostels Golden Sunrise or similar offers comfortable beds, hot water for the bath, Wi-Fi and breakfast.
NOTE: We guarantee the above mentioned hotel reservation only if you make your reservation in advance. Otherwise, we may have to offer alternative accommodation.
Yes, each traveler has their own expectations of accommodations. That is why we offer you the option of reserving your own independent hotel.
Book it yourself or request that we book it for you.
Yes, you can make this change personally at the Aguas Calientes train station. However, they will ask you to pay an additional fee for changing the ticket and this change will be subject to the availability of spaces and timetables on the train. In this case you will be responsible for assuming the cost of your return transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
You will travel for about two and a half hours before returning to Cusco. And this is divided into a one-and-a-half hour train ride to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there our driver will pick you up outside the train station. Our driver will be waiting for you with a sign with your name on it, so there will be no confusion. If you don’t see our driver initially you just have to wait for him outside the station. Once our driver has picked you up you will travel for another hour and a half before returning to Cusco.
You can leave or store the things that you will not take to the Inca Trail in the hotel or hostel where you are staying. Most of these establishments have stores where they will keep their things. If you do not trust the place where you are staying, we will gladly store your belongings in our office.
From May to September (dry season) is the ideal time to travel the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. These months are generally good for the crossing due to the low frequency of rains.
In the months of November to March the summer (rainy season) is present. This season is usually very rainy, which makes walking and access difficult. You will not even be able to walk the Inca Trail in February due to rainfall and maintenance work.
Travel Guide
Your Quick and Easy Guide to Visiting the Inca Trail in One Day
Explore the Inca Trail in Peru without spending several days there – with this concise guide! Discover how you can visit this amazing destination in a single day, learning all about its culture and heritage along the way.
With the right planning and preparation, it is possible to experience the Inca Trail and get a glimpse of its fascinating culture and history in only one day. This travel guide will provide you with all the essential tips to make the most out of your short trip to Peru, so read on to find out more!
Trekking to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail in 1 day
Between Andean mountains and tropical forest there is a great Inca Trail crossing the mountains and the Sacred Valley. The first archaeological site we will visit is Chachabamba (2,200 m / 7,218 ft) located next to the Urubamba River and at the top is Wiñaywayna (2650 m / 8,694 ft) then we will go to Intipunku (2,720 m / 8,924 ft) where we will have a panoramic view of Machu Picchu (2,490 m / 8,169 ft), you can also find a wide variety of flora and fauna as well as a diversity of birds.
The walk takes approximately 6 to 7 hours to reach the Puerta del Sol known as Inti Punku, where you can get the first panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Prior to the walk the guide will be presented at your hotel and will give precise information about the walk and recommendations of the things you should bring, you will also be given the tickets (entrance to the Inca Trail, train ticket, etc..) ideal time at which you can make your queries.
One of the main attractions along the route is the ancient network of settlements built on granite rock by the Incas such as Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca immersed in an overwhelming natural scenery. Hundreds of varieties of orchids, multicolored birds, and dream landscapes provide the ideal setting for a route that the walker should walk at least once.
All You Need to Know About Our 1 Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu
Want to experience the majestic beauty of one of the new seven wonders of the world through the classic Inca Trail but don’t have enough time?
The 1 Day Inca Trail is a great option for those wanting to set their sights on Machu Picchu and experience a taste of the Classic Inca Trail on a 1-day hike.
For the 1 day Inca Trail it is not necessary to be acclimatized to the altitude since the maximum altitude you will reach is only 2,720 m / 8,924 ft.
But what’s so special about this 1-day Inca trail? read on to find out more.
What Inca ruins will you see on the 1 day Inca Trail?
Hiking the 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu you will see about 6 archaeological sites along the way, including Machu Picchu.
Here we share with you some information about each site you’ ll see.
Chachabamba
This Inca site was once a military checkpoint, which was used to control the access to Machu Picchu from the Sacred Valley. Exploring Chachabamba we will also find a small religious sector, temples, water fountains, a sacred carved rock, agricultural terraces, irrigation canals and a ceremonial plaza.
Inti Pata
Intipata is one of the most striking archaeological sites during the 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu as it can be seen from far away. The site was used as an agricultural settlement back in Inca times. The Intipata ruins are spectacular for the number and steepness of the terraces which draw a lot of attention from the travelers during the hike to Machu Picchu. “Inti Pata can only be seen from a distance along the Inca Trail but not visited due to the short time”.
Wiñay Wayna
Wiñay Wayna (in Quechua means “always young”) is an Inca ruin along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The site is built into a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba River. This Inca site may have been a spiritual destination, a special place for royalty to rest before arriving at Machu Picchu. The ruins consist of upper and lower collections of Incan architecture, connected by stone steps that are laid out in graceful curves. (This site can be explored closely during the 4-day Inca Trail and the 1-day Inca Trail).
Inca Relay Stations
During the final part of the Inca Trail before arriving at the Sun Gate we will be able to explore some Inca structures along the way. A type of lodges which hosted the Inca runners or messengers and provided them with water and food to continue the journey to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
Inti Punku
Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate is the final part of the Inca Trail. Inti Punku served as the entrance to Machu Picchu—which is now one of the 7 wonders of the world. What is now referred to as, “The Sun Gate at Machu Picchu” was once protected by Incan military and dedicated to the Sun God. The rising sun passes through the Sun Gate each year on the summer solstice and goes through one of the windows of the temple of the Sun.
Machu Picchu
Our 1 day Inca trail culminates with a visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
We enter the site through the Sun Gate, from there we will descend for 1 hour until we reach Machu Picchu.
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude – 2100m / 6900ft.
- Highest Altitude – 2730m / 8,792ft.
- Walking Distance – 10km / 6.3 miles
- Overall Difficulty – Easy to Moderate difficult (depends on your level of fitness).
1 Day Short Inca Trail Availability
Only 250 trekking permits are issued per day for 2 day and 1 day Inca Trail trek in 2023 therefore, booking the Inca Trail in advance is essential.
The best time to hike the One Day Inca Trail is the dry season, which runs from May to Octuber. It is also the busiest time of the year, so it is important to book your trip as far in advance as possible especially during the high season.
Note:
One thing you should know about the 1 day Inca Trail is that it will start as early as possible so as not to rush and make the hike more pleasant as you will take the train back that same day, for this our guide will give you a briefing or orientation the day before your trip either in your hotel or by phone if you are in urubamba or ollantaytambo, once you make the reservation we will arrange the day of your briefing.
You also have to inform us if you are vegetarian so we will have your lunch bag ready for the day of your trek.
We do not recommend walking sticks because you will only be walking for 1 day or for 4 hours but if you have knee problems or have any knee surgery then you will need to purchase them.
Consideration
It is very important for trekkers for the 1 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu to understand that you are doing the same trip as the 2 Day Inca Trail, just a little quicker. You should be in excellent physical condition to be able to do this trek and arrive at Machu Picchu Citadel in time. otherwise you may miss the train back to Cusco. If you’re over 50 and think the trek may be too difficult, you may book the 2 day Inca Trail.
Need to Know For “The 1-Day Inca Trail Tour”
You should understand that you are doing the same trail as the 2 Day Inca Trail, just more quickly and without overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Trekkers need to be in moderate to excellent physical condition to do the inca trail 1 day
If you think the one day hike machu picchu may be too strenuous and quick, you can opt for the 2-day, 1-night Inca Trail which offers the same hike at a slower pace.
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