Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Experience an authentic and exclusive journey along the legendary Short Inca Trail with Enjoy Machupicchu Travel, one of the most exciting ways to reach the wonder of the world: Machu Picchu.

The day begins very early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco (4:00 a.m.) and transfer by private transportation to the Ollantaytambo train station. For passengers starting from Ollantaytambo, pickup will be between 5:30 and 5:40 a.m. We will board the Expedition tourist train to Km 104, the starting point of the hike.

After the entrance checkpoint, we begin an uphill and scenic hike of approximately 3 hours to the impressive archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna, considered one of the most beautiful sites on the Inca Trail. From here, you will enjoy privileged views of the Urubamba Canyon, ancient Inca terraces, and a direct connection to the Classic Inca Trail.

We continue toward the mythical Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will experience one of the most breathtaking moments of the journey: the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, a simply unforgettable scene. Afterwards, we descend for approximately one hour to the citadel.

At Machu Picchu, you will enjoy a guided tour accompanied by an official guide from Enjoy Machupicchu Travel, who will explain the history, architecture, and mysticism of this sacred sanctuary. At the end, you will have free time for photographs and to enjoy the unique surroundings.

Then, we head to Aguas Calientes, where you may have dinner before boarding the return train in the afternoon (6:20 p.m. on Expedition or 6:10 p.m. on Vistadome, with upgrade available). Upon your arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will comfortably take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Includes:

• Private transportation
• Tourist train
• Authorized professional guide
• Box Lunch

Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Ideal for travelers seeking adventure, history, and an epic arrival at Machu Picchu with quality service.

What Is Included in the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

INCLUDES

• Arrival transfer from the airport to your hotel in Cusco.
• Pickup from your hotel and private transportation to the train station.
• Expedition tourist train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Official entrance to the Inca Trail and the Machu Picchu citadel.
• Highly experienced official tour guide throughout the entire experience.
• Private guided tour in Machu Picchu, for a more personalized experience.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
• 1 Box Lunch during the hike.
• First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
• Private transportation from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.

DOES NOT INCLUDE

• Breakfast and dinner.
• Tips for the team (optional).
• Upgrade to Vistadome train: US$ 57 per person.

Prices – 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Group Service

US$ 447 per person – Groups of 2 to 3 people
US$ 427 per person – Groups of 4 people or more

Private Service

US$ 427 per person – 2 to 3 people
US$ 407 per person – 4 people or more

Private Service – Solo Traveler

US$ 547 per person – Private hike for 1 person

A minimum of 2 hikers is required to start the hike.
Solo travelers may inquire about availability to join a group on specific dates.

Special Discounts

Young adults aged 18 to 25: US$ 30 discount
(With a valid university ID: university name, student name, photo, and expiration date. A copy is required at the time of booking and is subject to government approval).

Minors under 18 years old: US$ 30 discount
(A copy of the passport is required at the time of booking).

Children under 11 years old: US$ 40 discount
(A copy of the passport is required).

Availability

The 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available כמעט all year round, except in February, when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance.

This experience will allow you to enter Machu Picchu on foot through the mythical Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as the ancient Incas did, exploring along the way impressive archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna, surrounded by unique Andean landscapes.

1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Enjoy Machupicchu Travel

We recommend reading the following information carefully. Here you will find clear answers to the most frequently asked questions about our services and your experience on the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Welcome Upon Your Arrival in Cusco

Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, a representative from Enjoy Machupicchu Travel will welcome you and comfortably transfer you to your hotel.

Please send us your full flight details at least 14 days in advance. Our representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals area with an Enjoy Machupicchu Travel sign.

This service can be arranged on any date that fits your itinerary.

Briefing Session

The briefing session will take place the evening before the hike at 6:00 p.m., at our office located at:

Av. Manco Ccapac #306 (second floor)
(Near Wanchaq Market or parallel to the Peru Rail station)

Here you will receive key information about the hike, recommendations, and we will answer all your questions.

Can I store my luggage?

Of course! During the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be stored free of charge at our office or at your hotel.
We recommend bringing only what is necessary for the hike.

How to Book

Step 1 – Booking Form

To book the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, complete our form by clicking BOOK NOW on our website.

Please have the following information ready for each participant (required to issue the official Inca Trail permit):

• Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
• Gender
• Passport number
• Date of birth (dd / mm / yyyy)
• Nationality

Without this information, it is not possible to purchase the Inca Trail permit.

Step 2 – Deposit

A deposit of US$ 211.00 per person is required to secure your permit for the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Payment can be made by VISA or PAYPAL directly through our website.

What about the remaining balance?

The remaining balance can be paid in the following ways:

In cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco.
Online payment with VISA or PAYPAL, with a 5.5% service charge applied (set by the platforms).

Cusco has numerous ATMs in the historic center for your convenience.

Do I need my original passport?

Yes, it is mandatory!
You must carry your original passport during the Inca Trail, and it must match exactly the number sent at the time of booking.

If you are renewing your passport, please send us the old number first to secure your permit, and then the new number as soon as it becomes available.

What is the weather like?

The weather in the region is unpredictable. We recommend dressing in layers, which will allow you to easily adapt to changes in temperature, rain, or sun.

Will you drop us off at our hotel at the end of the tour?

Absolutely!
Return transfer to your hotel is included in all our packages.
If your hotel is located in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there, and vice versa.

Responsible and Sustainable Tourism

Enjoy Machupicchu Travel is a local operator committed to sustainable and responsible tourism.

We work under principles that seek to:

• Protect the environment
• Respect local culture and traditions
• Directly benefit Andean communities

All of our local staff are trained to provide ethical, respectful, and high-quality service.

What Should I Bring for the 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Enjoy Machupicchu Travel

The 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu does not include an extra porter, so each traveler must carry their personal belongings. We recommend packing as light as possible, as this is key to enjoying the hike comfortably.

Essential Equipment

• Original passport (it must be the same one used to make the reservation).
• Comfortable and lightweight backpack (the smaller, the better).
• Water bottle (minimum 2 liters).
• Comfortable trekking boots with good ankle support.

Recommended Clothing

• Warm clothing (layering system).
• Windproof or thermal jacket.
• Sun hat.
• Wool hat (only during the cold season).
• Rain gear (essential during the rainy season).
• Plastic rain poncho (available for purchase with Enjoy Machupicchu Travel).

Personal Items

• Toilet paper.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Wet wipes.
• Personal medications.
• Sunscreen.

Recommended Extras

• Light snacks (energy bars, chocolate, or dried fruits).
• Camera or cell phone with good battery life.
• Cash for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.

Enjoy Machupicchu Travel Tip:
Packing light will make your experience more comfortable and allow you to fully enjoy the landscapes, Inca ruins, and the arrival at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate.