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One Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

ONE Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

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.

Itinerary For One Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantay Tambo – Km 104 – Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

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.

  • Meals: Picnic lunch
  • Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

***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.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE HIKE FROM KM 104 TO THE SUN GATE?

INCLUDED

  • Transfer from the Airport to your Hotel in Cusco (on any date)
  • Private transportation from the hotel to the trailhead
  • Local Licensed guide, fluent in English and Spanish
  • Round trip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and a transfer back to Cusco
  • 2 Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and return to Aguas Calientes
  • Admission ticket to the Machu Picchu Archeological Complex
  • Permits for Inca Trail Hike
  • Admission ticket to Machu Picchu Archeological site
  • 2 Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back
  • Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
  • Private guided tour in Machu Picchu for 2 hours
  • Box Lunch
  • First-aid kit including an emergency oxygen tank

NOT INCLUDED:

  • It is not possible to do the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hike in one day.
  • Snacks such as chocolate bars, dried fruits, etc.
  • Tips for the staff (Optional but greatly appreciated).

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE:

TRANSFER: from the airport to the hotel included (Airport to Hotel in CUSCO only)

Best Price For ONE Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

PRICE:

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 PEOPLEPRICE
2 to 3 peopleUS$ 437 per person

***PRIVATE SERVICE PRICES:

  • $497 USD per person – 2 to 3 people
  • $477 USD per person – 4 or more people

***PRIVATE SERVICE PRICE for 1 person only:

  • $577 USD per person – 1 person only private trek

EXTRAS

  • Upgrade to Vistadome: $67 per person from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • Stay the night in Aguas Calientes: 2,3, 4 or 5*hotel. (we will book your return train back to Cusco for another day but you must book your own hotel.)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please read the following information! It will help answer any questions you may have about the 1 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

WELCOME TO CUSCO

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).

THE BRIEFING

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.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE:

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.

HOW TO BOOK THE HIKE FROM KM 104 TO THE SUN GATE?

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:

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

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!

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

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:

  1. Cash Payment: You can visit our office in Cusco and make a cash payment in either US dollars or Peruvian soles. Our friendly staff will assist you with the payment process. Please note that it’s advisable to withdraw money from ATMs located within the historical center of Cusco, as they offer convenient access to cash.
  2. Online Payment via VISA or PayPal: If you prefer the convenience of online payment, you can choose to pay with VISA or PayPal. However, please be aware that a 5.5% service fee, charged by VISA and PayPal, will apply. To complete the payment through PayPal, log into your PayPal account and use our provided email address: info@samcorporations.com.

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.

STAY HYDRATED

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.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

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! ***

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT FOR THE HIKE FROM KM 104 TO THE SUN GATE?

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.

TIPPING

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.

ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE?

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.

PACKING CHECKLIST FOR THE HIKE FROM KM 104 TO THE SUN GATE

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.

  • Original Passport (Must be the same name and passport number used to Book the Trek).
  • Good daypack with extra room for your box lunch.
  • Water bottle: 1 – 2 liters (depending on how much you drink).
  • Comfortable hiking boots or shoes.
  • Toilet Paper.
  • Jacket.
  • Dress in layers.
  • Sun Hat.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Rain gear – just in case.
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, ice cream, cereal bars or dried fruits.
  • Rain poncho.
  • Camera.
  • Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips.

Gallery One Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

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Sam Corporations

Why Choose SAM CORPORATION

Local Peruvian Company

Our company is 100% locally owned. We directly contribute to economic development and environmental sustainability in Peru.

Service Quality

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

Responsible travel

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

Small Personalized Groups

Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you a personalized tour in our small comfortable vans

100% Customised Itinerary

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.

Community and Environment

We commit socially and culturally to the community and adapt our business strategies to the preservation of the environment

  • 100% Locally owned and operated.
  • Best Tour guides & trip leaders.
  • Quality-Touch & Personalized service
  • Highest quality, name brand equipment.
  • All Inclusive Tours with no hidden fees.
  • Sustainable Prctice and responsible travel.
  • Safety conscious with first aid training annually.
  • Unique Tours & Trekking routes
  • Customized Tours & Packages forFair and kind travel.
  • Personalized Attention with the Most Dedicated Team
  • Giving back to our local communities
Why Choose SAM CORPORATION

Quality

Why Choose SAM CORPORATION

100% Customised itinerary

Contact our travel advisors to plan the most complete trip of your life.

Easy communication

Simplified ease of communication, text us on WhatsApp, email or call us.

Professional and experienced

Our guides are local and have vast knowledge in Peruvian culture and history.

Local peruvian company

100% local company. Development and environmental sustainability

Small personalized groups

Our groups never exceed 10 people, giving you an unforgettable experience

Memorable trips

Discover an exceptional journey where perfection meets adventure.