The fast trekked 1 Day Inca trail hike is perfect for those who are short on time but still want to experience the world-famous Inca Trail and the marvel of Machu Picchu. Starting from KM104, you will embark on a hike along the Inca trail passing by various archaeological sites and encountering unique mountain and rainforest flora and fauna. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, lush valleys, and the tranquil Urubamba River from the top of the awe-inspiring ancient site, Wiñay Wayna. As you continue your journey, the Sun Gate will unveil your first breathtaking view of the magnificent Inca City of Machu Picchu. From this vantage point, you will be able to admire the unobstructed views of the citadel and be captivated by its sheer size and architectural marvel. For anyone with limited time, this trek is the perfect opportunity to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
Cusco
max 8 people
Group
Adventure Trek
Moderate
Reservations Needed
This is an unforgettable adventure from KM 104 to the Sun Gate and into Machu Picchu? Pick up bright and early at the hotel in Cusco, around 4 am. Don’t forget to request a packed breakfast from your hotel the night before. If your hotel is in the Sacred Valley, our pick-up time is at 5:30 am.
The journey to Ollantaytambo takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes in our comfortable private transportation. At 6:10 am we board the Expedition Train to KM 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail. Before crossing the picturesque footbridge over the Urubamba River, pass through a checkpoint where you need to show your passport. From there, embark on a 3-hour trek to the fascinating Wiñay Wayna archaeological site (2,650/8,747 ft), also known as “Forever Young” in the local Quechua language.
The initial part of the hike is a gentle ascent, offering breathtaking views of the Urubamba River and passing through a beautiful cloud forest. Make stops at lookout points and visit a refreshing waterfall to capture memorable photos. Built into the mountainside Wiñay Wayna will slowly reveal itself section by section. Our knowledgeable guide will share intriguing information about the site’s history, construction, and purpose, some of which remain concealed beneath the dense jungle.
After conquering the challenging incline, pause at the Wiñay Wayna campsite to savor a gourmet box lunch provided by our guides. Throughout this trek, we maintain a steady pace to ensure we arrive at Machu Picchu in good time for a comprehensive guided tour within the citadel.
Once we’ve rested, it’s just a one-hour final hike to reach the Sun Gate (2,730m/9,00ft). This last stretch includes the famous “gringo killer steps” or “monkey steps,” an original set of steep stairs carved directly into the bedrock by the Inca. As you pass through the Sun Gate, a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu awaits.. The descent to Machu Picchu is a one-hour walk down the flat rock stairs, providing ample opportunities to capture incredible views of the citadel.
Once you reach Machu Picchu, take time to admire the site from the viewing platforms, including the iconic “House of the Guardians” where you get an opportunity to capture breathtaking photos. During a comprehensive tour lasting about two hours, our guide will highlight the most significant features of Machu Picchu, allowing you to appreciate its historical and architectural wonders.
After immersing yourself in the magic of these ancient ruins, take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. In the evening, at 6:20 pm, we board the return Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo, where our private van will be waiting to transport you back to Cusco and your hotel. We estimate arriving around 10:00 pm, concluding an extraordinary day of exploration.
***It is not possible to do the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb due to time restraints
***If you wish to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to spend the night in Aguas Calientes at an extra fee. Please request at booking. The extra hike is $75
***You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $67. This train will depart from Aguas Calientes at 6:10 pm.
TRANSFER: from the airport to the hotel included (Airport to Hotel in CUSCO only)
The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available on any date as long as we have a minimum of 2 people except in February when it is closed for maintenance.
| No. OF PEOPLE | PRICE |
| 2 to 3 people | US$ 437 per person |
Please read the following information! It will help answer any questions you may have about the 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Upon your arrival at the airport in Cusco, our team will be there to warmly welcome you. To ensure a smooth process, kindly provide us with your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins. Look for our friendly representative who will be holding a distinctive Orange SAM CORPORATIONS board at the exit of the arrivals terminal. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangements).
Before your trek begins, we will provide you with a comprehensive briefing the evening prior. The briefing will be held at our office, conveniently located at Calle Garcilaso 210, office 213 (second floor) in the La CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center. Please refer to your confirmation email for the exact time, which will be either 6:00 pm or 6:30 pm. During the briefing, we will ensure that you have all the necessary information and address any remaining questions or concerns you may have.
Absolutely! We understand that carrying your main luggage during 1 DAY INCA TRAIL may not be ideal. You have the option to store your main luggage either at our office or at your hotel, depending on what suits you best. We want to ensure that you have a comfortable and hassle-free trekking experience. Therefore, we encourage you to simply let us know your preferences. By doing so, we can make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs and ensure your satisfaction.
To reserve your Hike from KM 104 to the Sun Gate and then into Machu Picchu, please follow these two simple steps:
First, click on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or use this link: BOOK NOW to access our booking form. We kindly request each participant in your group to provide the following information:
This information is crucial for purchasing the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and the train tickets.
Second, a deposit of USD 211.00 per person is required to secure your reservation and obtain the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and the train ticket. You can conveniently make your deposit by clicking on the PayPal symbol located at the top of our home page or on our booking page.
By completing these two steps, you’ll be one step closer to embarking on an extraordinary adventure to Machu Picchu!
It’s understandable that you may prefer alternative payment methods to avoid high credit card fees while in Peru. We offer the following options for paying your balance:
We want to ensure that you have flexibility and options when it comes to settling your balance. If you have any further questions or need assistance with payment arrangements, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to make the process as smooth as possible for you.
After a night of drinking, people often feel dehydrated and thirsty. Similarly, when arriving in Cusco, due to the high altitude, dehydration can occur quickly. To combat this, it is important to drink plenty of water before and during your trip. It is also recommended to avoid heavy meals, as digestion can take longer at high altitudes. Instead, a diet consisting of low proteins and high carbs is advisable. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Cusco.
Unfortunately, No. Once the tickets have been purchased, it’s important to note that the government does not allow any changes to the departure date. It is not possible to modify the date or transfer the tickets to another person. Additionally, please be aware that the tickets are non-refundable. Therefore, it’s crucial to carefully plan and select the desired departure date when purchasing the tickets to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
*** If you cancel your 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, your deposit non-refundable! ***
YES! It is essential that you bring your original passport with the exact same passport number that you provided to us during the booking process. Your passport will be checked both when you enter Machu Picchu and when you board the train. It is a mandatory requirement to ensure that the information matches and to ensure a smooth entry and travel experience. Please make sure to carry your passport with you at all times during your visit to Machu Picchu and when traveling on the train.
If you are satisfied with the services provided during your tour, it is customary and greatly appreciated to give a tip. Tipping is an important part of the tourism industry in various destinations, including those offered by SAM CORPORATION. Firstly, it serves as a way to show appreciation to the staff who have taken care of you throughout your tour. Furthermore, it can inspire them to continue providing excellent service in the future. Importantly, the amount you choose to tip is entirely up to you. It should be based on factors such as your budget, the level of satisfaction with the service you received, and the duration of your tour.
At our core, we are a local, sustainable, and responsible tourism operator. We commit ourselves to uphold the universal principles of tourism, which involve protecting the environment and supporting the well-being of local communities while respecting their culture and religion. In order to uphold these principles, we have implemented several measures. Firstly, we prioritize comprehensive training for all our local staff. This training equips them with the necessary knowledge and understanding to respect the places we visit and the local people we interact with. Moreover, we emphasize the significance of cultural sensitivity and responsible tourism practices. By doing so, we aim to foster meaningful and positive experiences for both our guests and the communities we engage with.
The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu DOES NOT INCLUDE an extra porter! You need to carry all your things, please try to pack as light.
Cusco
Imperial city of the ancient Inca empire
Ollantaytambo
Ancient Inca fortress
Machu Picchu
One of the 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu the lost citadel of the Incas
Sam Corporations
Our company is 100% locally owned. We directly contribute to economic development and environmental sustainability in Peru.
The quality of our service is one of our most important values which demands all our effort, determination, and courage to be successful in what we are doing and the services we provide
We aim to have a positive impact in all the areas that we visit. Through our training sessions and social projects, we empower women, indigenous communities and children
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you a personalized tour in our small comfortable vans
Interested in visiting only specific destinations? No problem, all our packages can be fully customized to suit your budget and schedule. Contact our travel advisors to plan the most comprehensive trip of a lifetime.
We commit socially and culturally to the community and adapt our business strategies to the preservation of the environment
Quality
Contact our travel advisors to plan the most complete trip of your life.
Simplified ease of communication, text us on WhatsApp, email or call us.
Our guides are local and have vast knowledge in Peruvian culture and history.
100% local company. Development and environmental sustainability
Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you an unforgettable experience
Discover an exceptional journey where perfection meets adventure.
