Availability · 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Choose your start date. Permits are issued with each traveler’s passport details.
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- Closed (February)
Inca Trail permits are limited and sell out fast. Availability can change within minutes and is guaranteed once your booking is confirmed.
Overview 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Duration 1 Day
- Tour type 2 to 10 people
- Difficulty Group/Private
- Max altitude 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
- Group size Minimum 2 people
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, experiencing the magic of the ancient Inca Empire in just one day. This tour is the perfect alternative for travelers who want to hike the famous Inca Trail but have limited time, while still enjoying stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Hike through the Machu Picchu National Archaeological Park, passing Andean mountains, lush cloud forests, and vibrant vegetation. You’ll enter the sacred city through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most iconic sunset views of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, enjoy a private guided tour of the most important temples, terraces, and hidden corners of the ancient Inca citadel with a professional guide.
IMPORTANT:
The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will include Circuit #1
This applies to reservations made for 2026 – 2027
Optional additional entrance tickets for or #3 are available for US $55 per person2027 prices: this year’s prices do not apply to next year. Every departure from 1 January 2027 costs US$490 per person (US$460 for under-18s and university students), even if you book in 2026. Our booking form and checkout apply the right price for the date you choose.
Plan your Inca Trail: check live Inca Trail permits and availability for 2027 · when 2027 permits go on sale · what the Inca Trail really costs.
Itinerary 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Altitude profile and distances
| Day | Section | Distance | Hiking | Highest point | Up / down | Sleep at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Km 104 → Machu Picchu | ≈11.5 km 7.1 mi |
6–7 h | 2,720 m 8,920 ft |
+650 / −320 m | Machu Picchu visit |
Approximate distances and times; campsites are assigned with each permit and may vary.
Machu Picchu included: You arrive through the Sun Gate and your guided visit follows Circuit 3 · Route 3-B “Realeza diseñada”, the route Peru’s RM 306-2025-MC assigns to Inca Trail hikers. Huayna Picchu (route 3-A) is a separate ticket: US$80. See Machu Picchu circuits
-
Your journey begins early with hotel pick-up in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. in our private transport to the train station in Ollantaytambo. If you’re staying in Ollantaytambo, pickup is between 5:30 and 5:40 a.m.
You’ll board the Expedition train for a scenic 1 hour and 10-minute ride to Km 104 (2,100 m / 6,927 ft), the official start of the Short Inca Trail. After clearing the first checkpoint, you’ll begin a moderate uphill hike of approximately 3 hours to reach the impressive Wiñay Wayna archaeological site (2,650 m / 8,747 ft).
This spectacular Inca site offers sweeping views of the Urubamba Valley and links with the Classic 4-day Inca Trail. After a short break to explore and rest, continue toward the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku – 2,730 m / 9,007 ft), where you’ll get your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Descend for about 1 hour to reach the citadel itself, one of the most spiritual and visited places on Earth. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour with our professional guide through its temples, plazas, terraces, and sacred areas, learning about Inca history and architecture.
After the tour, you’ll have some free time to take photos and soak in the energy of this mystical site. Then, walk down to Aguas Calientes where you’ll have a well-deserved dinner.
In the evening, board the Expedition train at 6:20 p.m. back to Ollantaytambo, where private transport will return you to your hotel in Cusco. Optionally, you can upgrade to the Vistadome train at 6:10 p.m. for panoramic windows and onboard service.
- Meals Included: Box lunch
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 2,730 m / 9,007 ft
- Total Tour Duration: Full day (approx. 16 hours)
- Experience Type: Cultural trek + Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Includes / Does not include 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Includes
- Private transport from your hotel to the train station
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Experienced licensed tour guide
- Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transport back to Cusco
- Entry fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu archaeological site
- 1 Box lunch
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
Not included
- Breakfast and dinner
- Circuit #2: US $55
- Circuit #3: US $55
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: US$80, subject to availability
- Tips for staff and guide (optional)
Packing list 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
WHAT TO BRING FOR THE 1-DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
Please note: This hike does not include an extra porter, so you’ll need to carry your own belongings. Pack light — it’s key to enjoying this amazing experience.
- Original passport (must match the one used to book)
- Small daypack (the smaller, the better)
- 2L water bottle
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Toilet paper
- Warm jacket
- Layered clothing for variable weather
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medication
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Warm hat (especially in cold season)
- Rain gear (during rainy season)
- Snacks (chocolate, granola bars, dried fruit)
- Plastic rain poncho
- Camera
- Extra cash (for souvenirs, drinks, tips)
Prices 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Tour price
Price per person · ask us for group-size rates
- Starting from US$435 per person Check dates
- Groups & private service Rate based on your group per person Get a quote
2027 prices: this year’s prices do not apply to next year. Every departure from 1 January 2027 costs US$490 per person (US$460 for under-18s and university students), even if you book in 2026. Our booking form and checkout apply the right price for the date you choose.
The 1-Day Inca Trail runs on any date with open permits, except in February, when the trail closes for maintenance. It brings you to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), past the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna. Check live Inca Trail availability.
GROUP SERVICE PRICE
- US$435 per person for departures in 2026.
- US$490 per person for departures in 2027.
- Under 18 and university students aged 18–25: US$30 less.
- Private service: ask us for a quote.
HOW TO BOOK AND PAY
- Book online with each traveler’s full name, gender, passport number, date of birth and nationality, exactly as in the passport.
- A 30% deposit online by card or PayPal secures your place; we request your permit with it.
- The 70% balance is paid at our office in Cusco (Calle Garcilaso 210) on your first day in Cusco, in cash or by card (6% card fee).
- If we cannot get your date and you do not accept another option, we refund your deposit by PayPal within 15 business days (the PayPal fee is deducted).
- Deposits are non-refundable if you cancel or change your date, because the permit is personal and cannot be transferred. If you change your date, the whole deposit is lost and a new booking, with a new deposit, is needed.
PASSPORT
Bring your original passport, the same one used for your permit. It must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter Peru. If you renew it after booking, send us the new number and we update it in the system.
DISCOUNT REQUIREMENTS
Under 18: send a copy of the passport when you book. University students aged 18–25: send a copy of a valid university card showing your full name, your university and the current year (ISIC cards are not accepted). Discounts are not cumulative.
BRIEFING AND LUGGAGE
A briefing takes place the evening before at 6:00 p.m. at our office: Calle Garcilaso 210, office 204, 2nd floor (Galería Casa del Abuelo), across from the Ministry of Culture. Leave your main luggage at your hotel or, free of charge, at our office. There are no porters on this route, so pack only what you need for the day.
EXTRAS
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: US$80 each (request it when you book)
- Vistadome train upgrade for the return: US$50; Vistadome Observatory: US$70
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes: US$65 (subject to availability)
- Hot springs in Aguas Calientes: S/20, not included, paid in cash
WEATHER
The weather on the Inca Trail changes fast: dress in layers and be ready for sun, rain and cold on the same day.
Overview
- Duration 1 Day
- Tour type 2 to 10 people
- Difficulty Group/Private
- Max altitude 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
- Group size Minimum 2 people
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, experiencing the magic of the ancient Inca Empire in just one day. This tour is the perfect alternative for travelers who want to hike the famous Inca Trail but have limited time, while still enjoying stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Hike through the Machu Picchu National Archaeological Park, passing Andean mountains, lush cloud forests, and vibrant vegetation. You’ll enter the sacred city through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most iconic sunset views of Machu Picchu.
Upon arrival, enjoy a private guided tour of the most important temples, terraces, and hidden corners of the ancient Inca citadel with a professional guide.
IMPORTANT:
The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will include Circuit #1
This applies to reservations made for 2026 – 2027
Optional additional entrance tickets for or #3 are available for US $55 per person2027 prices: this year’s prices do not apply to next year. Every departure from 1 January 2027 costs US$490 per person (US$460 for under-18s and university students), even if you book in 2026. Our booking form and checkout apply the right price for the date you choose.
Plan your Inca Trail: check live Inca Trail permits and availability for 2027 · when 2027 permits go on sale · what the Inca Trail really costs.
Altitude profile and distances
| Day | Section | Distance | Hiking | Highest point | Up / down | Sleep at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Km 104 → Machu Picchu | ≈11.5 km 7.1 mi |
6–7 h | 2,720 m 8,920 ft |
+650 / −320 m | Machu Picchu visit |
Approximate distances and times; campsites are assigned with each permit and may vary.
Machu Picchu included: You arrive through the Sun Gate and your guided visit follows Circuit 3 · Route 3-B “Realeza diseñada”, the route Peru’s RM 306-2025-MC assigns to Inca Trail hikers. Huayna Picchu (route 3-A) is a separate ticket: US$80. See Machu Picchu circuits
-
Your journey begins early with hotel pick-up in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. in our private transport to the train station in Ollantaytambo. If you’re staying in Ollantaytambo, pickup is between 5:30 and 5:40 a.m.
You’ll board the Expedition train for a scenic 1 hour and 10-minute ride to Km 104 (2,100 m / 6,927 ft), the official start of the Short Inca Trail. After clearing the first checkpoint, you’ll begin a moderate uphill hike of approximately 3 hours to reach the impressive Wiñay Wayna archaeological site (2,650 m / 8,747 ft).
This spectacular Inca site offers sweeping views of the Urubamba Valley and links with the Classic 4-day Inca Trail. After a short break to explore and rest, continue toward the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku – 2,730 m / 9,007 ft), where you’ll get your first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu.
Descend for about 1 hour to reach the citadel itself, one of the most spiritual and visited places on Earth. Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour with our professional guide through its temples, plazas, terraces, and sacred areas, learning about Inca history and architecture.
After the tour, you’ll have some free time to take photos and soak in the energy of this mystical site. Then, walk down to Aguas Calientes where you’ll have a well-deserved dinner.
In the evening, board the Expedition train at 6:20 p.m. back to Ollantaytambo, where private transport will return you to your hotel in Cusco. Optionally, you can upgrade to the Vistadome train at 6:10 p.m. for panoramic windows and onboard service.
- Meals Included: Box lunch
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum Altitude: 2,730 m / 9,007 ft
- Total Tour Duration: Full day (approx. 16 hours)
- Experience Type: Cultural trek + Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Includes
- Private transport from your hotel to the train station
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Experienced licensed tour guide
- Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transport back to Cusco
- Entry fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu archaeological site
- 1 Box lunch
- Private guided tour of Machu Picchu
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
Not included
- Breakfast and dinner
- Circuit #2: US $55
- Circuit #3: US $55
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: US$80, subject to availability
- Tips for staff and guide (optional)
WHAT TO BRING FOR THE 1-DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
Please note: This hike does not include an extra porter, so you’ll need to carry your own belongings. Pack light — it’s key to enjoying this amazing experience.
- Original passport (must match the one used to book)
- Small daypack (the smaller, the better)
- 2L water bottle
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
- Toilet paper
- Warm jacket
- Layered clothing for variable weather
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Personal medication
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Warm hat (especially in cold season)
- Rain gear (during rainy season)
- Snacks (chocolate, granola bars, dried fruit)
- Plastic rain poncho
- Camera
- Extra cash (for souvenirs, drinks, tips)
Tour price
Price per person · ask us for group-size rates
- Starting from US$435 per person Check dates
- Groups & private service Rate based on your group per person Get a quote
2027 prices: this year’s prices do not apply to next year. Every departure from 1 January 2027 costs US$490 per person (US$460 for under-18s and university students), even if you book in 2026. Our booking form and checkout apply the right price for the date you choose.
The 1-Day Inca Trail runs on any date with open permits, except in February, when the trail closes for maintenance. It brings you to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), past the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna. Check live Inca Trail availability.
GROUP SERVICE PRICE
- US$435 per person for departures in 2026.
- US$490 per person for departures in 2027.
- Under 18 and university students aged 18–25: US$30 less.
- Private service: ask us for a quote.
HOW TO BOOK AND PAY
- Book online with each traveler’s full name, gender, passport number, date of birth and nationality, exactly as in the passport.
- A 30% deposit online by card or PayPal secures your place; we request your permit with it.
- The 70% balance is paid at our office in Cusco (Calle Garcilaso 210) on your first day in Cusco, in cash or by card (6% card fee).
- If we cannot get your date and you do not accept another option, we refund your deposit by PayPal within 15 business days (the PayPal fee is deducted).
- Deposits are non-refundable if you cancel or change your date, because the permit is personal and cannot be transferred. If you change your date, the whole deposit is lost and a new booking, with a new deposit, is needed.
PASSPORT
Bring your original passport, the same one used for your permit. It must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you enter Peru. If you renew it after booking, send us the new number and we update it in the system.
DISCOUNT REQUIREMENTS
Under 18: send a copy of the passport when you book. University students aged 18–25: send a copy of a valid university card showing your full name, your university and the current year (ISIC cards are not accepted). Discounts are not cumulative.
BRIEFING AND LUGGAGE
A briefing takes place the evening before at 6:00 p.m. at our office: Calle Garcilaso 210, office 204, 2nd floor (Galería Casa del Abuelo), across from the Ministry of Culture. Leave your main luggage at your hotel or, free of charge, at our office. There are no porters on this route, so pack only what you need for the day.
EXTRAS
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: US$80 each (request it when you book)
- Vistadome train upgrade for the return: US$50; Vistadome Observatory: US$70
- Extra night in Aguas Calientes: US$65 (subject to availability)
- Hot springs in Aguas Calientes: S/20, not included, paid in cash
WEATHER
The weather on the Inca Trail changes fast: dress in layers and be ready for sun, rain and cold on the same day.
