Short Inca Trail 1-Day : A Quick Journey to Machu Picchu

Highlights of the 1 Day Inca Trail hike

The 1 Day Inca Trail hike offers a unique and captivating experience. It allows you to explore a portion of the Inca Trail at a leisurely pace, without the challenges of high altitudes. This adventure lets you follow in the footsteps of the Inca, visit impressive Inca ruins along the trail, catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, and ultimately arrive at Machu Picchu on foot. The Inca Trail path gently ascends, leading you directly to Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate, just like the Classic Inca Trail. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the valleys below, the majestic surrounding mountains, and a trek through lush cloud forests. It all culminates in your arrival at the awe-inspiring New 7th Wonder of the World: the Machu Picchu Citadel.

Why to hike the 1 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu?

• Hike the last 1/3 of the famous Classic Inca Trail, that is on bucket lists worldwide.
• Explore Winay Wayna, an amazing and unique Inca archeological site.
• Trek the actual trail that the Ancient Incas hiked more than 600 years ago.
• Hike through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) all the way to famous Machu Picchu Citadel.
• Experience the spectacular views of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
• Visit Machu Picchu Citadel in the late afternoon when it is less crowded.

It is very important for potential trekkers for the 1 Day Inca Trail to understand that you are doing the same trail as the 2 Day Inca Trail, just more quickly. Trekkers need to be in moderate to excellent physical condition to be able to do this trek and arrive at Machu Picchu Citadel in time. If you think the trek may be too strenuous, you may book the 2 day Inca Trail which arrives to Machu Picchu in one day but at a slower pace later in the day.

This the schedule when do you the 1 day Inca Trail hike

• :00 AM: Your day starts with hotel pickup.
• 6:10 AM: Depart for the train station in Ollantaytambo.
• 6:10 AM: Board the train to Km 104, following the scenic Urubamba River.
• 7:40 AM: Arrive at Km 104 (at 2,000 m) and commence the trek. You will explore the first Inca site, receiving a brief orientation and a walking tour.
• 11:00 AM: Reach Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young) at 2,600 m/8,500 ft, a stunning Incan site with water fountains, temples, and agricultural terraces.
• 12:00 PM: Continue the hike to the Sun Gate, where you’ll have your first view of Machu Picchu. The walk is approximately one hour, including a set of steep stairs carved by the Inca.
• 1:00 PM: Begin the last 45-minute descent to Machu Picchu, with opportunities to take photos and visit more Inca sites along the way.
• 2:00 PM: Your guide will provide a comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu, lasting about two hours. Explore key areas such as the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of Three Windows, Sun Dial, Quarry, and the House of the Inca. Learn about the three sectors of Machu Picchu: agricultural, residential, and religious.
• 4:30 PM: Take a 25-minute bus ride to Aguas Calientes.
• 6:20 PM: Board the return Expedition train to Ollantaytambo.
• 10:00 PM: Arrive at your hotel in Cusco.
• Please note that this schedule is approximate and may vary depending on the specific tour company and other factors. Make sure to confirm the details with your tour operator.

01 Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

Your adventure begins with a 4 am hotel pickup in Cusco, where your knowledgeable guide will accompany you on a private transport journey to the Ollantaytambo train station. (If you prefer to start in Ollantaytambo, we can pick you up at your hotel between 5:20 – 5:30 am). After a scenic 1-hour and 10-minute Expedition train ride, we reach Kilometer 104 (2,100m/6,927ft) along the Cusco-Machu Picchu route, marking the starting point of your trek. We pass the initial checkpoint and embark on a moderate three-hour ascent to the awe-inspiring Wiñay Wayna archaeological site (2,650m/8,747ft).

Upon reaching Wiñay Wayna, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Urubamba canyon, captivating Inca structures, and a connection to the traditional four-day Inca Trail. Following a guided tour of these significant Incan ruins, we proceed to the Wiñay Wayna campground for lunch. Here, you’ll have a comfortable spot to dine, complete with nearby restroom facilities and handwashing stations. Once you’ve had your fill of the wonders at Wiñay Wayna, we continue our hike towards the Sun Gate (2,730m/9,007ft), which grants you the first magnificent view of the resplendent and monumental Machu Picchu.

After savoring this panoramic sight, we descend for about an hour to reach the majestic Machu Picchu citadel. Here, we embark on a 2-hour guided tour that immerses you in the intriguing history of these enigmatic ruins. During your private tour, your expert guide will lead you through the mystical remnants, highlighting the most significant sites, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Condor, Temple of Three Windows, Sun Dial, Quarry, the House of the Inka, urban areas, agricultural terraces, and a variety of architectural marvels. Following the tour, you’ll have ample time for capturing memorable photos before we head down to Aguas Calientes for dinner.

In the evening (at 6:20 pm), you’ll board the return Expedition train to Ollantaytambo and then catch our private van to Cusco, arriving at around 10:30 pm. If you opt for the Vistadome upgrade, your departure time will be at 6:10 pm.

Meals: Box lunch Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.

FAQs

What is the 1-Day Inca Trail?

The 1-Day Inca Trail is a shorter trek to Machu Picchu designed for those with limited time or who prefer a less strenuous hike. It allows you to experience some of the highlights of the Inca Trail, including Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate, before reaching Machu Picchu.

Do I need a permit for the 1-Day Inca Trail?

Yes, you need a permit to hike the 1-Day Inca Trail. These permits are limited, and it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

How difficult is the 1-Day Inca Trail?

The 1-Day Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. You’ll be hiking for several hours, including some uphill sections, so it’s important to be reasonably fit. Proper hiking gear is also recommended.

How early does the tour start, and when does it end?

The tour often starts with a very early morning pickup at your Cusco hotel, typically around 4 am. The return to Cusco is usually in the late evening, around 10:30 pm, after exploring Machu Picchu.

Can I stay in Aguas Calientes if I want to spend the night there?

If you choose to spend the night in Aguas Calientes, you will need to make your own hotel reservation, or book with us. Once your hotel reservation is confirmed, we will reserve your return train ticket for the next day.”

Machu Picchu Mountain & Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains are two distinct peaks located within the Machu Picchu archaeological site. They offer stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu, but the hikes to these mountains are separate from the regular Machu Picchu tour.

Is it possible to hike both Machu Picchu Mountain and Huayna Picchu Mountain on the 1-Day Inca Trail?

No, due to time constraints, it’s not possible to complete the hikes to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain as part of the 1-Day Inca Trail. You’ll need to choose one or simply explore the Machu Picchu citadel.

the 2-Day Short Inca Trail allows you to enhance your trek with the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain hikes, each providing stunning vistas. Securing the necessary permits and scheduling the mountain adventures on the second day is pivotal. Whether you decide to conquer these peaks or opt for an immersive exploration of Machu Picchu, meticulous planning and early booking are crucial for a remarkable and unforgettable experience within the Inca Empire’s ancient marvels.