Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1D
Dificulty
Easy
Duration
1 Day
Group Size
14 a 19 People
Max Altitude
3,400 msnm
Description
One Path, One Eternal Story: Discover Machu Picchu Step by Step.
Our one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most exciting way to reach this wonder of the world. Designed for those who don’t have enough time to complete the full Inca Trail, this world-famous hike offers a breathtaking cultural experience. Along the way, you’ll witness stunning Inca archaeological sites, exotic mountain views, lush native vegetation, and extraordinary ecological diversity.
Short on Time but Want to Experience the Incredible Inca Trail and Machu Picchu?
No worries! You can enjoy the wonderful Inca Trail and enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) all in just one day! That’s right! This trek is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds but only have a single day to do it all.
This 1-day trek covers 12 km (7.4 miles) and reaches an altitude of 2,720 m (8,924 ft). It is classified as a moderate hike with a slightly high altitude gain. Along the Inca Trail section of your journey, you will pass through stunning landscapes, breathtaking Andean scenery, and rich history.
You’ll stop at the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna and witness other remarkable achievements of the ancient Incan culture. The highlight of your adventure will be entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, where you’ll be rewarded with the most spectacular panoramic views of the lost city.
You don’t have to worry about a thing—we take care of all the details, from meals to transportation, so you can focus on enjoying the experience. Sounds exciting?
Day 1: Cusco | Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku) – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco.
Wake Up Early for the Adventure of a Lifetime!
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 a.m. Rest or even catch a little more sleep in our comfortable private transportation as we drive to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, your guide will hand you a box lunch to pack in your backpack. Your train departs at 6:10 a.m., giving you a little over an hour to enjoy the scenic ride and have breakfast (not included). Your hotel can provide a to-go breakfast, or you can prepare your own.
At Km 104, the starting point of your hike (2,150 m / 7,053 ft), you will disembark from the train and cross the Urubamba River via a charming pedestrian bridge. Here, you’ll need to show your original passport at the checkpoint before visiting the first Inca site, Chachabamba. Your guide will provide an introduction to Inca history and the Inca Trail before you begin your trek along an ancient Inca pathway.
The first section of the Inca Trail consists of a gradual uphill hike for four hours until you reach the stunning Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, one of the most breathtaking spots along the Inca Trail. After exploring the ruins, you’ll enjoy your box lunch at a covered shelter in the Wiñay Wayna campsite, which serves as the final stop for those on the classic four-day Inca Trail. Outdoor sinks and restrooms are available nearby. Take your time to savor your meal and admire the tropical flowers surrounding the campsite. Make sure to inform us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions when booking!
Next, a one-hour hike with both ascents and descents, including some steep Inca staircases, will bring us to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Here, you’ll catch your first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu, a truly unforgettable view. We then hike downhill for 40 minutes until we enter the Machu Picchu Citadel (2,400 m / 7,872 ft) through the famous “Guardian’s House,” where you can take the classic postcard-perfect photos of Machu Picchu.
Arriving in the afternoon, when most crowds have started to leave, you’ll have the unique opportunity to explore the site with fewer tourists and take stunning photos in the softer afternoon light. Your guided tour (about 1.5 hours) will take you through some of the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, where you’ll learn about its agricultural, urban, and religious divisions.
After the tour, we will head to the main entrance of Machu Picchu and board a bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner at a local tourist restaurant.
Finally, we will take the 6:20 p.m. train back to Ollantaytambo (subject to availability), a two-hour journey. Upon arrival, our private driver will meet you at the train station and drive you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving at approximately 10:30 p.m.
🍽 Meals included: box lunch, dinner
🥾 Total distance walked: 12 km / 7.4 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 6 hours
🕰 Machu Picchu exploration time: 2 hours
📈 Difficulty level: moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 2,150 m / 7,053 ft
📍 Maximum altitude: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
🏞 Machu Picchu’s altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Incluye
✓ HIGH-QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY
- PRE-DEPARTURE BRIEFING:
You will meet your guide one day before the trek at our office or your hotel for an orientation. The briefing will take place at 6:00 p.m.
✓ PERMITS AND ENTRANCES
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance permits:
Once we receive your booking confirmation and deposit, we will immediately request your permit from the Ministry of Culture (the institution that regulates the Inca Trail) to ensure availability.
✓ FIELD STAFF
- Professional guides:
Our guides are trekking specialists, selected from accredited universities. They are fluent in English and have 3 to 10 years of experience leading treks in the region. They are trained in group management under pressure, first aid, and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities, bringing their cultural heritage to your experience. Along with the rest of our field team, our guides will make your journey a truly unique adventure.
✓ MEALS
- 1 box lunch, 1 dinner.
✓ TRANSPORTATION AND TRAIN
- Private transportation for the group:
From your hotel in Cusco to the Ollantaytambo train station. - Consettur Bus Ticket:
From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes. - Private transportation for the group:
From Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco. - Train ticket to Km 104:
Travel from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, the starting point of your trek. - Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- Radios:
Our radios have a 10 km range and 8 frequencies, allowing communication between guides, cooks, and porters. Additionally, they can be used to contact Inca Trail park rangers in case of an emergency. - First aid kit:
Equipped with alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive medical tape, surgical gloves, painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, and fever reducers. If you take prescribed medication, please bring your own. - Portable oxygen tank.
✓ IMPORTANT:
- Please note that only a medical professional can prescribe medication. Our guides are not authorized to provide medical prescriptions. Any medication provided during the trek will be given under your consent and responsibility. If you require prescription medication, we strongly recommend bringing your own.
No Incluye
× BREAKFAST
- Breakfast is not included. Your hotel may provide a takeaway breakfast, or you can bring your own.
× PERSONAL CLOTHING AND HIKING GEAR
- Make sure to bring appropriate trekking gear, including comfortable clothing, hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.
× TRAVEL INSURANCE
- This is not mandatory, but we highly recommend that our clients purchase travel insurance in case of unexpected flight issues or health emergencies.
Please check if your policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies become void above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Unforeseen delays beyond our control, such as landslides, extreme weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety reasons, illness, government policy changes, political instability, or strikes, are not covered.
× TIPPING YOUR CREW
- Tipping is customary in tourism and any excursion to Machu Picchu.While we pay fair wages to our entire team, a tip is always appreciated, especially given the hard work they do.
× Why is tipping important?
- Acknowledges effort: It is a way to thank the team for their excellent service and dedication.
× Supports the local economy:
- Tipping contributes to the income of local workers in tourism-dependent communities.
× Encourages exceptional service:
- It motivates staff to continue providing outstanding support and hospitality.
× Recognizes hard work:
- Our guides and team work tirelessly to make your trek comfortable and memorable. A tip is a meaningful way to show appreciation.
∴ ESSENTIALS
- Original Passport
If you booked your trip with an old passport and later renewed it, your passport number has likely changed. It is crucial to inform us so we can update this information at least 10 days before your arrival in Peru. As soon as you receive your new passport, notify Bestrek. Failure to do so in advance may result in additional costs and complications for last-minute updates. Also, make sure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip. - Student ID
If you booked your trip with a student discount using an ISIC card, you must bring the original and valid document (no copies or expired cards). It will be required at control points along the route. Without it, you will not be allowed to enter Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu. - Backpack
Choose a small, ergonomic backpack for comfort. Machu Picchu only allows backpacks up to 25 liters; larger bags must be stored outside the site. - Water Storage
Bring 1.5 to 2 liters of water in a Camelbak or reusable bottle. You will also be able to purchase water along the way. - Hiking Boots
Select lightweight boots with good traction, and make sure you have worn them before to avoid blisters. - Headlamp
Essential for hikes during early morning or late hours.
∴ FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG
• Clothing
- 1-2 moisture-wicking t-shirts.
- 1-2 pairs of hiking pants.
- 2 sets of underwear.
- 2 pairs of hiking socks.
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights.
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants.
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat for different temperatures.
- Comfortable shoes for camping and sturdy boots for hiking.
- Waterproof gloves.
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket.
• Personal Hygiene
- Quick-dry towel.
- Biodegradable soap in a small bottle.
- Battery charger (power sources are scarce on the trail).
- Large plastic bags to organize and protect items.
- Sleeping bag (rated for at least -10°C for cold nights).
- Toiletries.
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer for skin protection.
- Insect repellent and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
- Wet wipes for quick clean-ups.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Toilet paper for personal use.
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
∴ INSIDE YOUR DAYPACK
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided afterward.
- Rain and fleece clothing: Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture unforgettable moments.
- Music: An iPhone or similar for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain cleanliness.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags: Manage waste responsibly.
- Extra money: For additional purchases and tips.
- Earplugs: For a quiet rest.
∴ NOTES
- Waterproofing: Protect your belongings from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Wear well-fitted and comfortable footwear to avoid blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essential items within reach.
Following this complete list will help ensure a comfortable and memorable experience during your Salkantay trek.
✓ PRICE PER PERSON
- $400 USD – Adults
- $370 USD – Children and Students
To book the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an initial payment of $200 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ STUDENT DISCOUNT
- Travelers under 17 years old receive a $30 USD discount.
- If you are 25 years old or younger at the time of travel, you may qualify for the discount with a valid student ID.
- Please email us to receive a discount code.
✓ VALID STUDENT ID FOR INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHU
- To obtain the student discount, your student ID must meet the following requirements:
✓ IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT ISIC CARD
- Although the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is widely recognized, the Peruvian government does not accept it for student discounts at Machu Picchu.
- Just as a passport cannot be replaced by any other ID for international travel, a student ID cannot be substituted by an ISIC or any other document for discounts in Peru.
- The Peruvian government strictly enforces student verification policies.
- You must present a physical student ID that complies with the government’s criteria.
- Failure to meet these requirements at Machu Picchu may result in denied entry, requiring you to pay the full price based on availability.
- We strongly recommend verifying that your student ID meets Peruvian regulations before booking as a student.
✓ ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT FOR RENT
- Trekking poles (pair): $10.00 USD
✓ PRICE GUARANTEE
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that your price will not increase, regardless of external circumstances. Before booking, please read all important information about the tour.
✓ HOW TO BOOK
- Booking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is easy!
- You can reserve your spot online through our website, where our booking system will guide you step by step.
- Payments can be made with credit or debit cards, and you may pay in your local currency for added convenience.
✓ INCA TRAIL RESERVATION POLICY
- To secure your spot, we require a non-refundable deposit of $200 USD.
- This deposit secures your permit for the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu entrance tickets, and train tickets, which must be purchased well in advance.
Our booking system allows you to:
- Pay only the deposit, along with any additional services selected.
- Pay the full amount upfront if preferred.
If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before your tour departure.
✓ BALANCE PAYMENT OPTIONS
- If you only pay the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour.
The balance can be paid in Peruvian soles or USD:
- Cash (no extra fees)
- Credit/debit card (+5% fee)
- Online payment via our website (+5% fee)
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY
Bestreks follows strict cancellation policies due to the regulations set by Machu Picchu National Park.
- Reservations are non-transferable and non-refundable: Once your permit is secured, it cannot be canceled, transferred, or modified.
- If you fail to arrive on the scheduled date, no refunds will be issued.
- Permits are non-refundable as they are purchased immediately upon confirmation.
- If you cancel 30+ days in advance, you will lose your deposit, but you will still receive the entrance tickets we purchased for you.
✓ Last-Minute Cancellations:
- eIf you cancel 2–3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show”, and you will be charged 100% of the total cost.
However, you will still receive:
- Your entrance ticket
- A guided visit to Machu Picchu
- Train and bus tickets
- If you choose to stop the trek for personal reasons, all included services will be forfeited.
- Any extra costs (e.g., food, transport, accommodation) will be your responsibility.
- You can still meet your group at Machu Picchu and use your entrance ticket, guided tour, bus ride, and train ticket.
Uncontrollable Events:
- Situations like strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or overbooked hotels/flights may affect the tour.
- If this happens, we will suggest alternative arrangements, but any additional costs will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATIONS
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand the booking and cancellation policies before making a payment.
- This ensures your investment is protected, and you have a smooth booking experience for your Inca Trail adventure.
✓ Informational Meeting or Briefing
- All informational meetings take place the evening before your trip begins, at 6:00 p.m., either at our main office in Cusco or at your hotel. During this meeting, your guide will also provide you with the duffel bag. The session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
If you are unable to attend, please coordinate another time via email or phone call.
✓ Payment of the Trek Balance (in Cusco)
- If you have an outstanding balance, you must pay it at least one day before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed.
- We appreciate payments in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco or during the briefing. You can withdraw money from ATMs along Avenida El Sol.
- We also accept credit/debit card payments and IZIPAY, both online and in person, with an additional 5% service fee applied by our payment gateway (Niubiz and IZIPAY).
✓ Customer Pickup
- All pickups are conducted within Cusco city. We recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a good location.
- Our guide or staff will confirm your pickup time one day before the tour. Due to traffic conditions, pickup times may vary by 30 to 45 minutes.
- Cusco is an old city with many narrow and cobblestone streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are inaccessible by vehicle or located on steep hills, making luggage transport difficult. We highly recommend choosing accommodations with easy access.
✓ Health
- If you have medical restrictions for any of the activities in your reservation, consult your doctor about the risks before your trip.
✓ Weather
- Cusco’s weather is unpredictable. The dry season runs from April to October, but it can still rain in June or be sunny in December.
Regardless of the month you travel, bring rain gear, including:
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Poncho
- Waterproof gloves
Many people forget gloves, but cold and humidity can make the hike uncomfortable.
The Andes have multiple microclimates, so layering is essential. Also, bring a warm jacket, as nights can be very cold.
✓ Altitude Sickness (Soroche) and Stomach Issues
- If you are arriving in Cusco from a low-altitude location, we recommend arriving at least two days before your trek.
✓ Altitude sickness (soroche):
- Symptoms include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Diamox, Sorojchi Pill, or Alti Vital can help reduce symptoms. If symptoms persist, oxygen may be required. Our team is equipped to assist you if needed.
✓ Stomach issues:
- Drink three to four liters of water daily. We recommend:
- Hot drinks like coca leaf tea
- Soups, vegetables, and light carbohydrates
- Sweets, chocolate, cookies, and fruits
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Other recommendations:
- Sleep at least eight hours
- Avoid excessive exercise
- Stay warm to prevent cold exposure
✓ Medical Restrictions
- Clients must inform their travel agency of any medical conditions before the trip.
Examples of medical restrictions include:
- Allergies
- Special diets
- Medications you are currently taking
- Health conditions
For severe medical restrictions, consult your doctor before joining the trek. This information helps us design a plan to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
✓ Water
- On the first day, clients must bring their own water, which can be purchased in Cusco or at Km. 82.
- From the first lunch onward, we will provide boiled water until the end of the trek. You must bring a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic waste and protect the environment.
- If you wish to buy water during the trek, you can do so on the first, second, and fourth days in Machu Picchu. You may also bring water purification tablets or a filter, but past travelers who used these alternatives often experienced stomach issues. We strongly recommend drinking the boiled water we provide.
✓ Lost Items
- Please be mindful of where you leave your belongings and ensure you collect everything before leaving our transport, campsites, or restaurants.
You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.
We can say that the Inca Trail is 100% worth it; it is one of the best hikes in the world, according to National Geographic and many other sources. On this incredible route, you will:
- Walk along ancient paths on an Inca trail that is hundreds of years old.
- Visit many archaeological sites that can only be seen on this route.
- Learn a lot about the fascinating ancient Incan culture.
- Discover unique flora and fauna.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, only possible on this route.
- Explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is the most popular hike in South America. We recommend booking your spot on the Inca Trail as soon as possible. Most dates sell out at least 3 months in advance for the low season (November to March) and 6 months in advance for the high season (April to October).
Note: Even if you book before these suggested periods, we cannot guarantee your spot on the trail as it is impossible to predict exactly when it will sell out.
This question is often difficult to answer. The Inca Trail will amaze you whether you experience sun, rain, wind, cold, or any other weather conditions during the journey. You must have the right gear and always be prepared for all types of weather. The Inca Trail is located in the cloud forest, known for having the most unpredictable climate in Peru and possibly in the world.
- The best months to hike and visit Machu Picchu are from April to October.
- The driest months on the Inca Trail are May, June, July, and August. However, these are also the busiest months at Machu Picchu.
- The rainy season starts in November and lasts until March; however, entire weeks without rain are still possible.
- The Inca Trail is closed in February due to heavy rains and trail maintenance.
The most common way to get to Cusco is by taking an international flight to Lima (the capital of Peru) and then a domestic flight to Cusco. First, take a flight from your home country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Lima is Peru’s main international flight hub.
Once in Lima, you can take a domestic flight to Cusco. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several airlines offer this route, including LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air. If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco. This road trip can take between 20 and 24 hours. However, flying is recommended for comfort and time savings.
If you are traveling from nearby countries like Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you may also find direct flights to Cusco from some of their main cities, though they are less frequent than flights to Lima.
While no specific training is required for hikes in Cusco, we suggest the best way to physically prepare is by exercising on a treadmill with steep incline settings, as well as climbing stairs or using a stair climber.
We always recommend using the lightest possible trekking shoes. Those that provide ankle support are very helpful, especially for inexperienced hikers, as they will be climbing up and down many stairs built by our ancestors, the Incas.
Yes, it is recommended to bring trekking poles, especially if you want:
- More stability
- Less impact on your knees and joints
- Reduced muscle fatigue
- More safety on stairs and slopes
Our trekking poles are adjustable, so when you are not using them, you can shorten them to avoid inconvenience. If you want to bring your own trekking poles, ensure they have rubber tips; otherwise, park rangers will not allow you to use them. If you forget to bring them from your home country, you can buy rubber tips in Cusco.
All luggage that is not needed for the trek should remain in Cusco. All hotels in Cusco are accustomed to storing luggage. If you do not have a place to store your luggage, you can leave it at our offices until the adventure is over. We will make sure your luggage is stored safely—don’t worry!
The Classic Inca Trail is closed throughout February. It may also be closed occasionally due to bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Before planning your trek, check the latest closure information.
Only authorized and registered local tour operators can book Inca Trail permits in Cusco. You cannot book permits on your own; you must travel with a licensed tour guide.
No, you cannot enter the Inca Trail without booking with a registered tour company. You must hike the Inca Trail with a tour guide.
Send Us a Message