Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day
General description
Our One Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers the most thrilling way to experience one of the Wonders of the World for those who don’t have the time to complete the full Inca Trail. This famous trek captivates with its stunning display of Inca archaeological sites, breathtaking mountain views, lush vegetation, and extraordinary ecological diversity.
The trail passes through Wiñay Wayna, a beautiful Inca citadel and the most significant site along the entire traditional Inca Trail. You will also enter Machu Picchu, the World Wonder, through the Sun Gate, where you’ll be amazed by the awe-inspiring views of this mystical site. You’ll explore the key areas of Machu Picchu before heading back to Cusco – all in one day!
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Cusco - KM 104 - Chachabamba - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes
Hike Ancient Trails and Travel Back in Time at Historic Sites
Kick off this epic day trip with a pickup from your hotel at around 4:00 a.m. We’ll drive to the Ollantaytambo Train Station and take the train for a one-and-a-half-hour journey to the starting point of this one-day Inca Trail, KM 104.
After passing the checkpoint, we’ll head to the first archaeological site, Chachabamba. This was one of the last shelters used by Inca pilgrims before reaching Machu Picchu. It features several buildings, making it the perfect spot for your guide’s first introduction to the fascinating history of the Inca civilization.
Then, the real hike begins with a 3-hour ascent up the stone steps of the original Inca Trail. The ecosystem in this area is truly unique. Along the way, you’ll encounter various types of flora and fauna, including orchids, flowers, trees, and other local species, as well as a waterfall along the trail. We’ll reach the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, the most significant along the Inca Trail. Here, everyone is amazed by its exquisite architecture!
At Wiñay Wayna, you’ll see its numerous water sources for rituals, impressive agricultural terraces, and sacred areas dedicated to natural deities, such as the Rainbow Temple. Take some time to relax, rest your legs, enjoy the silence, and connect with Mother Nature through the sounds of birdsong or the refreshing breeze. Afterward, we’ll take a short walk to enjoy lunch at one of the Classic Inca Trail campsites. You’ll have time to recharge while gazing at the steep valleys below before continuing on.
We’ll resume hiking toward the famous Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the main entry point to Machu Picchu for all Inca Trail hikers. From here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Inca city for the first time. This is also the place where the Incas would have gotten their first glimpse of their magnificent citadel. It’s hard to describe the emotional impact of witnessing this ancient, sacred, and world-famous site. You’ll feel the goosebumps as the moment sinks in.
After taking in the views and capturing some memorable photos, we’ll complete the final stretch to Machu Picchu. You’ll have a little more time to explore and contemplate the site and its surrounding landscape while listening to a brief historical explanation from your guide. Take plenty of photos and allow your spirit to be filled with the energy of this magnificent, sacred place.
Later, we’ll begin our descent to the Machu Picchu main entrance. From there, you’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. We’ll catch the train back to Ollantaytambo at 18:20 (subject to availability). Our transport will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation for a well-deserved rest after this unforgettable journey.
Included
Permits & Entrance Tickets
- Inca Trail Permits and Tickets
As soon as we receive your complete information and the deposit that secures your reservation, we will purchase all the necessary permits (subject to availability). These permits are issued for a specific date and will be in your name. They cannot be changed under any circumstances. A change of passport number is only allowed for renewal purposes. In that case, you must bring both your old and new passports.
High-Quality Service & Safety
- Pre-departure Briefing
You’ll have an orientation meeting with your guide the evening before the tour. The meeting will be at 5:00 p.m. in our office or, depending on the itinerary, at your hotel. - Experienced Tour Guide
Our official tour guides speak both English and Spanish and are professionally trained and certified. We select them based on their experience, responsibility, passion for exploration, and pride in sharing our culture and history. They will ensure your safety and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your experience without worries.
Bilingual tour guide in group service or shared service (English and Spanish). - Medical Kit / First Aid Kit
All Salkantay Trekking guides receive specialized first aid training. We hold mandatory training sessions for our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to handle basic emergencies (altitude sickness, travelers’ diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.), as well as oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the trail quickly and ensure you receive treatment at a clinic. - 24/7 Customer Service
We offer 24-hour telephone support for easy communication with Salkantay Trekking before and during your tour.
Meals
- Box Lunch, Snacks, and Water
- One cloth snack bag per person.
To reduce plastic waste and protect the environment, we provide each participant with a cloth bag for their snacks.
- One cloth snack bag per person.
Transportation
- Transfers
- Pickup from your hotel in the morning and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Transport from Ollantaytambo train station back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Train Tickets
- Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (the trek starting point).
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Not Included
- Breakfast
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for our staff
Tipping is customary on any excursion in Peru. Although we provide fair wages to our team, gratuities are always appreciated. - Additional Costs or Delays Beyond Our Control
- Landslides, bad weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, pandemics, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or acts of God.
Recommendations
- Original Passport (for check-in to the trail),
- A light day pack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek –
- prepare for a vast range of changes in temperature
- Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho. Plastic ponchos
- can be bought for about $1 in Cusco .
- Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended.
- Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces, gloves, scarf and beanie/touk.
- Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping.
- Camera, films and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold
- conditions)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
- Sun block
- After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
- Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – although no
- malaria risk has been reported
- Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc.
- Non-disposable canteen (Nalgene type) and water for the first morning.
- We advise you to bring water sterilizing tablets in case you collect water
- from streams.
Your own medical kit with any special medications that you might require, paracetamol, second skin for blisters etc.
Bathers/swimsuit (if you intend on swimming in hot springs ) Cash – sufficient for snacks, tips and souvenirs.
Walking sticks or poles (we can hire these to you. Please note poles with metal tips cannot be carried into Machu Picchu and should be left at your hotel on the final day)
Prices
Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group.
(Groups consisting of Max. 8; Min. 2 people)*
420 USD per person for adult.
Frequently Asked Questions:
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTION
How to book the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private tours with Cach Life Peru
To reserve your Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private service, please find the “book now” button on our website. once you click the button, you will be redirected to a booking platform where you can choose your desired departure date and provide essential personal information about each participant. the payment process can be completed using either a credit card or a debit card.
If you are interested in additional options like the Huayna Picchu mountain hike, we recommend booking them simultaneously with your Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day reservation. this approach ensures that you don’t miss out on any possible opportunities due to the rapid-selling Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day permits. You can rent walking sticks in Cusco 1 day before your trip.
We will send you a confirmation email once the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day permit has been secured to ensure a meticulously organized and successful trip. we guarantee that it will proceed as planned once the start date is confirmed.
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Certainly! During the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private trek to Machu Picchu, we provide a luggage storage facility at our office. we kindly request that you only bring the essentials necessary for the duration of your hike to Machu Picchu.
What about the outstanding balance?
We would like to inform you that settling your outstanding balance can be done efficiently and securely with our various payment options. you may choose to pay in cash, either in USD or soles, one day prior to your trip. for your convenience, credit card payments can also be made with a 5% service fee. please let us know your preferred payment method in advance.
Please note that cash payments must be made one day prior to your trip without exception. we appreciate your prompt attention in settling your outstanding balance and look forward to providing you with the best service possible.
How about the student discount?
Please note that individuals who are 18 years or older must present a valid student card in order to be eligible for discounts on the tour. for students aged 11-17 years, a discount of $30 USD applies, while children aged 2-11 years can avail of a discount of $ 40 USD. in order to obtain the student discount, please ensure that a copy of your passport and student card are sent to our team at the time of booking via email to info@cachilifeperu.com
May I change the departure date after the permits have been bought?
We regret to inform you that the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day permits are non-transferable and non-refundable, according to the regulations set forth by the government. we would like to clarify that the only information allowed to be modified is the passport numbers. please let us know if there are any other questions we can help answer or concerns we can address. thank you for your understanding.
Do I need to bring my original passport on the private Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day to Machu Picchu?
We kindly remind you that it is imperative to bring your original passport for your upcoming private Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day permits. it is highly important that the passport you bring is the same one you provided to us during the reservation process. we just want to ensure that you have a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout your journey. please take note that your passport will be checked at three different Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day checkpoints, as well as at Machu Picchu, and when boarding the train.
Updating passport numbers
If you are in the process of renewing your passport and planning to book Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private guided trek permits, we kindly request that you email us a copy of your old passport for verification purposes. in case you do not possess your old passport anymore, any valid government-issued identity card can be presented as long as it bears the same name.
Furthermore, once you receive your new passport, we sincerely ask that you immediately email us a copy of it to modify the information on your permit. it is essential to ensure that all details on your permit match those on your passport exactly to avoid any inconvenience during your private premium Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day Tours.
What is the schedule of my train ticket?
Typically, return train tickets are reserved for departure at 14:55 pm or 15:20, allowing arrivals in Cusco at 07:00 pm. This itinerary allows for sufficient rest and the opportunity to participate in tours such as Rainbow Mountain on the subsequent day.
Can I stay in the Sacred Valley for my Private Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day?
We recommend that you consider staying in either Urubamba or Ollantaytambo during your visit to the sacred valley. by opting for accommodation in this area, your pick-up time will be scheduled an hour and a half after the usual pick-up time in Cusco, which will allow you some more time to rest.
If I cancel my Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private tour. do I get any refund?
If you are unable to join us for any reason such as illness, missing your flight, or a natural disaster, we regret to inform you that we will lose $150 USD automatically. please note that once the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day permit is purchased, it becomes non-refundable and non-transferable. this is because the Ministry of Culture of Peru and Peru Rail are in charge of issuing permits and train tickets, and do not provide refunds.
We understand that unexpected changes can occur, and we want to assure you that we will always do our best to be reasonable and only charge you for any expenses that have already been incurred.
What time will we get to Machu Picchu?
our group’s usual arrival time at the sun gate is around 7:00 a.m. with slight variations. afterward, it takes approximately 45 minutes to reach Machu Picchu from the Sun gate. thus, we can estimate your arrival at Machu Picchu at around 8:00 am in the morning.
Will water be provided?
We recommend that you purchase 2 liters of water for the first day of your trek for adequate hydration. From the second day onwards, we will supply you with boiled water three times a day — after breakfast, during lunchtime, and at dinner. this measure has been implemented for your health and safety, ensuring that you have access to safe drinking water throughout your trekking journey.
What kinds of reusable water bottles should we bring to the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private Tours?
From march 2022, the use of single-use plastic water bottles and other plastic waste will be strictly prohibited while trekking on the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day. to comply with this policy, we kindly ask that all guests bring their own personal reusable water bottles to be filled with the water we provide. we suggest opting for a bladder, hard shell bottle, or pouch that is most convenient for your needs. this measure is part of our ongoing commitment to minimize our environmental impact and preserve the natural beauty of this iconic landmark. thank you for your cooperation in this endeavor.
Is there an age limit for the Private Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day?
It is important to note that there is no age limit for the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day private tours. however, for safety purposes, ab expeditions recommend a minimum age of 6 years old. this is due to the presence of steep sections that may prove challenging for younger individuals. our team prioritizes the safety and well-being of our customers, and we believe that this recommendation will help ensure an enjoyable, memorable, and safe experience for all who embark on this journey with us. we appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with an exceptional experience on the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day.
How many kilos is it allowed to carry on the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day?
As per our porter policy, our porters carry no more than 20 kilograms for safety and well-being. however, we understand that as a guest, you may wish to carry your own personal belongings, there is no weight limit for guests. so you can carry the weight that you want. we saw some people carrying up to 30 kg.
Is there any location where I can plug and charge my electronic devices on the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 1 Day?
“Please note that there is currently no electricity available at any of the campsites. to ensure a comfortable stay, we highly recommend that all visitors bring along extra portable battery packs or power banks to keep their devices charged.”
What is the temperature rating of Cachi life Peru sleeping bags?
We offer top-quality mummy-style sleeping bags that are designed for use in temperatures as low as -15°c / 5°f.
Which campsites do you usually book for your groups?
During the booking process, you will be presented with four options to choose from. we typically recommend selecting option 01 or 02. By choosing either of these options, your last campsite will be wiñaywayna, which is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Machu Picchu. this allows you to reach Machu Picchu early in the morning, ensuring you have ample time to explore and fully enjoy the site.
On the other hand, options 03 and 04 are not recommended. these options involve camping at phuyupamarca, which is situated around 6 hours away from machu picchu. choosing these options would result in a longer trekking time on the final day, and you might arrive at machu picchu later in the day, potentially limiting the time you have to explore the site.
Extra information:
INFORMATION
Additional Info for Private Inca Trail Tours
We would like to inform you of the regulations put in place by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and SERNANP regarding access to the Inca Trail. Please ensure that you have a permit that matches your full name, passport number, nationality, and age, issued by the Ministry of Culture.
The number of visitors to the Inca Trail is tightly controlled with a maximum of 500 people per day, including support staff such as authorized porters, cooks, and tour guides. It’s important to note that when the daily visitor limit is reached, the Trail is closed off, and no further reservations can be made. We highly recommend booking permits a year in advance if possible.
Please note that only licensed Inca Trail Travel Agencies like Cachi life Peru can secure permits, which are not transferable at any point. In case of a change in the start date, a new permit must be purchased. We strictly adhere to the regulations set by the government of Peru.
In the event that permits are sold out for your desired start date, we are happy to suggest alternative treks to Machu Picchu, including Salkantay Trek, Inca Quarry Trek, and Lares Trek. Please feel free to contact us for further assistance.
Things to know
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Inca Trail hike, we recommend breaking in your trekking shoes beforehand.
We advise spending two days in Cusco prior to the hike, especially for those not acclimatized to the altitude.
For peak season bookings in June to August, it is essential to reserve permits a year in advance.
Along the trail, bottled water is available for purchase on the first and second days, but not again until Machu Picchu.
Please keep in mind that individuals with back problems are discouraged from taking part in this 4-day trek.
Departures are available daily for groups of two or more, with no departures in February due to trail maintenance.
wheelchair access is not available on the trail.
DON’T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS: Original passport, insurance card, and personal medications.
Duffle bag
As part of our service, we will provide you with duffel bags that can be provided from our guide after the briefing. These duffel bags will be carried by your porters and will only be accessible at the campsites. We suggest placing your non-hiking attire and personal items in the duffel bag, allowing you to carry your essential items, such as water, snacks, first aid kit, and rain gear, separately in your day pack.
We ask that you ensure that your duffel bag does not exceed 7kg, of which only 4kg should be allocated to your personal belongings. The remaining 3kg should be reserved for your sleeping pad and sleeping bag. By allocating the weight correctly, you will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience.
Strikes
We would like to inform you that, at times, strikes and roadblocks may occur in Peru which may cause disruption to our Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike and rail service to and from Machu Picchu. We understand the importance of your journey and want to ensure that any changes to your travel plans are kept to a minimum.
If a strike occurs on the first day of your Private Machu Picchu 4-day tour, we will take you to the trailhead the night before your start date, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. In the event that a strike occurs on the day of your return from the Private Inca Trail 4-day hike, we will send our vans to Hidroelectrica, where you will be required to hike an additional 2 hours from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica. From there, we will transport you by van to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.
We are committed to providing a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience, and we thank you for your understanding should any unforeseen circumstances arise.
Returning from Machu Picchu to Cusco.
At Cachi Life Peru, we have taken care of all the logistics for your return trip from Machu Picchu to Cusco. We have arranged for a bus to take you from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, with buses departing every 15 minutes. From there, you will take a train to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station. Our guide will provide you with your train tickets and we ask that you arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure time.
The journey to Ollantaytambo is estimated to take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the journey to Poroy will take approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the train station, our transfer will be waiting for you with the Cachi Life Peru logo and will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Inca trail weather
When hiking the Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it is important to understand that the weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, with rain falling during the dry season and sunshine during the rainy season. As a professional, we recommend hikers prepare for variable weather conditions by bringing essential gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Additionally, hikers should be aware that the trail has various microclimates that can change throughout the day, so it is important to dress in layers that can be easily adapted to temperature changes. Hikers should also bring a down jacket for the early morning and evenings when the weather is colder. Overall, being prepared with the right gear and clothing will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Travel Insurance
We highly suggest that you acquire travel insurance as it offers essential coverage for unforeseen circumstances during your Private 4-day Inca Trail tour. It can provide reimbursement for your pre-paid, non-refundable Inca Trail permit in case of last-minute cancellations. Additionally, having travel insurance can offer peace of mind as it can cover medical emergencies that may arise while traveling far away from home. In the event of a covered medical emergency, travel insurance can reimburse for necessary medical expenses incurred. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase travel insurance to ensure that you have adequate protection throughout your journey.
Physical requirements
We highly recommend that individuals embarking on this trek be in good physical condition due to the strenuous nature of the hike. The classic Inca Trail boasts elevation changes that challenge even seasoned hikers, featuring three passes throughout the trek. It is important to prepare and take into consideration the physical demands of the trail in order to fully enjoy your experience.
Pre-departure briefing
We would like to remind you that a pre-departure briefing is essential for a successful and unforgettable Inca Trail experience. The briefing will be one day before your hike, the meeting point will be in the lobby of your hotel or Airbnb at 6:00pm. The session takes approximately 30-45 minutes where your guide will be introduced to you and provide you with detailed information about the upcoming private tours to the Inca Trail, such as the list of essential items to bring, rental equipment, and answer any questions you may have. Should you have any difficulty attending the scheduled briefing, please contact us info@cachilifeperu.com team via email to coordinate an alternative time.
Tipping
We kindly remind our valued guests that it is customary to tip Inca Trail Trail tour staff, including our hard-working porters and skilled chefs. On the third afternoon of the tour, we will bid farewell to these incredible individuals and it is at this time that we request you provide a gratuity, if you so choose. Please note that tipping is voluntary and should never be a source of discomfort or coercion.
Typically, our guests choose to combine their tips for the chefs and porters, while tips for the tour guide are reserved for after the Machu Picchu guided tour. Additionally, we recommend providing tips in Soles for our chefs and porters, while both Soles and U.S. dollars are acceptable for the tour guide.
To assist in guiding your gratuity amount, we suggest considering a range of 60-90 Soles per porter and 120-150 Soles per chef. As always, any additional amount is greatly appreciated by our staff members. Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to providing you with an unforgettable Inca Trail experience.
Typical meals on the trek
Our commitment to offering the ultimate culinary experience during your trek to Machu Picchu is unwavering. To ensure that our meals are always of the highest quality, we regularly provide our cooks with intensive training during the low season. The menus we prepare are designed to showcase the freshest local ingredients and provide you with a range of dietary options, which includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options upon request at the time of booking.
For breakfast, indulge in hot porridge, quinoa, or oats, accompanied by a variety of freshly baked bread, fried eggs, omelets, and pancakes. To complete the meal, enjoy fresh fruit and a selection of hot beverages like coca tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.
Our lunch and dinner course offerings, a combination of traditional dishes and international cuisine, are served in two courses. The first course is typically a vegetable-based soup or a stuffed avocado, followed by hearty options such as beef stew, quinoa, and hamburgers. Finally, cap off the dining experience with a selection of desserts like chocolate pudding, vanilla cake, or fresh fruit.
During the trek, snacks such as candies, cookies, fruit juices, and a variety of Peruvian fruits, like bananas, chirimoya, and apples are also available to satisfy any cravings or keep up your energy levels
Starting from
Duration
1 Day
Destination
Cusco
Type of activity
Inca Trail to Machupicchu, Trekking in Cusco
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