• Cusco - Begin your unforgettable adventure with a convenient early morning pickup from your Cusco hotel (around 4:00 AM). Enjoy a picturesque 1.5-hour drive through the Andes to the Ollantaytambo train station, marking the start of your Inca Trail journey.

If your stay is in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo, the start will be slightly later—around 5:30 AM—allowing for a more relaxed morning and extra rest.

From the outset, the team ensures everything proceeds smoothly, allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most iconic hikes leading to Machu Picchu.

• Ollantaytambo - Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, board the scenic Expedition Train, traveling along the Urubamba River amidst stunning Andean landscapes. The journey lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.

Disembark at Km 104 – Chachabamba, the entry point to the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Here, your guided hiking adventure begins through lush cloud forests, ancient Inca ruins, and stunning natural scenery—an unforgettable start to your journey toward Machu Picchu.

• Chachabamba - Arriving at Chachabamba (Km 104) around 8:00 AM, your Short Inca Trail adventure officially begins. After presenting your original passport at the checkpoint, take a moment to prepare for the hike and explore the beautiful Chachabamba archaeological site, a hidden gem surrounded by lush vegetation.

From here, your guided hike along the legendary Inca Trail commences, leading you through ancient paths toward Wiñay Wayna and the renowned Sun Gate (Inti Punku)—the breathtaking entrance to Machu Picchu.

• Winay Wayna - After approximately 4 hours of scenic hiking along the Short Inca Trail, reach the spectacular Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Inca ruins on the trail.

Here, your expert guide will lead a fascinating tour of this breathtaking complex, explaining its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and fully appreciate the incredible beauty and meaning of Wiñay Wayna, a true masterpiece of Inca engineering built into the mountainside.

• Intipuncu - After enjoying a well-deserved lunch at Wiñay Wayna, continue the hike toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the final stretch of the Short Inca Trail. Arriving around 2:00 PM, experience one of the most unforgettable moments of the entire journey—your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu.

From this sacred viewpoint high above the mountains, take time to breathe, admire the beauty of the Lost City of the Incas, and capture incredible photos as the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu reveals itself for the very first time.

• Machu Picchu - From the Sun Gate, descend for about one hour along the ancient trail until reaching the classic viewpoint of Machu Picchu—the perfect spot for stunning panoramic photos.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu through Circuit 1, exploring the most iconic temples, terraces, and sacred areas with fewer visitors and a more peaceful atmosphere. Your expert guide will share the fascinating history, culture, and secrets of the Lost City of the Incas, making this a truly unforgettable experience.

• Aguas Calientes - Around 5:00 PM, begin a gentle descent to Aguas Calientes, the charming town at the base of Machu Picchu. Enjoy some free time to relax, shop for souvenirs, or grab a snack before boarding the Expedition Train at 6:20 PM back to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival, your private van will be waiting to take you comfortably back to Cusco, where you’ll arrive around 9:30 PM—tired but filled with unforgettable memories of your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure.

• Hotel Pickup – Early pickup from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
• Pre-Trek Briefing – Briefing at our office anytime the day before your tour.
• Professional Bilingual Guide
• Expedition / Voyager Train – Round-trip train between Ollantaytambo and KM 104/Aguas Calientes
• Entrance Tickets – Admission to the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Bus Ticket Down from Machu Picchu
• All Transportation – Smooth travel by van, train, and bus during the tour.
• Box Lunch & Snacks
• Optional Add-ons – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (book early; limited spaces).

• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – Not included; limited spots, reserve in advance.

The 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an incredible opportunity to experience the enchantment of the Inca Trail and the awe of Machu Picchu in just one memorable day. Trek the final stretch of this iconic path, surrounded by ancient ruins, lush cloud forests, and stunning Andean scenery.

Reach Machu Picchu in the afternoon, when the crowds have diminished, and relish the tranquility of the citadel illuminated by golden light — a rare experience for most travelers. Along the journey, discover hidden archaeological sites and engage with the living history of the Incas through the knowledge of your expert local guide.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.