Short Itinerary

  • DAY 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco The Inca Trail is one of the most iconic trekking routes in the world, a journey that combines history, nature, and adventure as you follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas. This tour begins at 4:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel in Cusco or, if you prefer, in Ollantaytambo,

ITINERARY

SHORT INCA TRAIL TOUR – 1 DAY

DAY 1: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – SUN GATE – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO

The Inca Trail is one of the most iconic trekking routes in the world, a journey that combines history, nature, and adventure as you follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas. This tour begins at 4:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel in Cusco or, if you prefer, in Ollantaytambo, heading to the train station. Before boarding, our guide will provide each traveler with a boxed lunch. The train ride will take us to the famous Kilometer 104, where the checkpoint is located to enter the fascinating Inca Trail.

The official trek starts at Kilometer 104, from where we begin the hike along ancient trails surrounded by high Andean jungle and mountainous landscapes, with approximately 3 hours of ascent. Along the way, we will discover several Inca archaeological sites, showcasing the skill of their builders and their deep connection with nature.

One of the most impressive highlights is Wiñay Wayna, an archaeological complex whose name means “Forever Young” in Quechua. Its agricultural terraces, temples, and ceremonial fountains reflect Inca ingenuity and spirituality, while also offering spectacular views of the jungle and surrounding mountains. After this visit, we will make a short stop to enjoy our boxed lunch.

Next, we continue our hike to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where we will get our first panoramic views of Machu Picchu.

Finally, the hike culminates at Machu Picchu, where we will stop at a platform near the Guardhouse to take the classic photos of this iconic site. We will arrive in the afternoon, meaning there will be fewer tourists, perfect for exploring the citadel and taking pictures without large crowds. Then, our guide will lead a 2-hour tour of the citadel, explaining its history, architecture, and the secrets of the Incas.

After this magical experience, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. In the evening, at 6:20 p.m., we will board the Expedition Train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will take us back to Cusco and drop us off at your hotel.

.Meals: Picnic lunch

.Aguas Calientes elevation: 2040 m / 6692 ft

.Machu Picchu Elevation: 2430 m/ 7972 ft.

.Walking time: 6 hours

  • Included
  • WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR ONE DAY INCA TRAIL HIKE TO MACHU PICCHU?
  • Hotel pick up (We do offer DOOR to DOOR service).
  • Private transportation from your hotel to the train station
  • Permits for the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and entrance to Machu Picchu.
  • Bus tickets: from Machu Pichu down to Aguas Calientes
  • English speaking professional guide experienced in trekking
  • Private guided tour in Machu Picchu
  • box lunch
  • Train Tickets from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 and  from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Taxes
  • Not Included
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person ( It is not possible to do in one day)
  • First breakfast and Diner
  • Tips for your staff 

    Price

    The  One Day Inca Trail hike is available only by group service (from 2 persons). Then, we need minimum 2 persons to open this service for you.

    Group SizePrice (USD per person)
    2 person (Private)  497 USD (best Price!)

    Max Group Size: 8
    Reservation price (deposit): USD $250 per person
    Balance (Cusco): US$ 247.00 Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing

    *All students from 11 to 17 years old have a discount of $25 USD. Private treks, single trekker, custom treks, large groups, and packages welcome email us to customize.

    Important Info

    Welcome to Cusco

    You will be welcomed at Cusco airport and driven to your hotel. Please send flight details at least 14 days before your trek or tour. Look for our representative holding a NOMAD IN PERU logo at the arrivals terminal. This can be arranged for any date that suits you.

    The Briefing

    We usually visit your hotel at 6:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. for your briefing. If you prefer daytime, email us your preferred time we’ll be ready anytime for our clients.

    Can I Store My Luggage?

    Yes. During the Cusco–Machu Picchu tour your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel (free). Please don’t pack anything you need during the hike.

    How to Book the Short Inca Trail (2 Days)

    FIRST: Fill out our booking form (BOOK NOW) with each participant’s details (exactly as on passport):

    • Gender
    • Passport number
    • Full name
    • Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
    • Nationality

    SECOND: Pay the initial deposit of USD $250 per person.

    What About the Balance?

    The remaining balance is due 1–2 days before departure in Cusco. To avoid high card fees in Peru, you may pay cash (USD or PEN). ATMs are plentiful in Cusco. You may also pay using the same method as your deposit.

    Student Discount

    By government rules, you must be under 18 at the time of your trek/tour to qualify (students 18+ need ISIC per original text). All students 11–17 receive a $25 USD discount. Email a copy of your passport at booking: info@nomadinperu.com.

    ISIC Card Discount

    An ISIC card can receive a US$25 discount. Apply at https://www.isic.org/ and send a copy of your valid card at booking to info@nomadinperu.com.

    Can I Change the Date After Permits Are Bought?

    No. The government does not allow date changes once Short Inca Trail permits are issued. Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable. Only passport numbers can be updated. Deposits are non-refundable if you cancel.

    Do I Need My Original Passport?

    Yes. Bring the same passport used for your permit. It will be checked at the Short Inca Trail checkpoint, at Machu Picchu, and for the train.

    Climate in Cusco

    Weather can vary widely in a single day. Best season: April–October (dry), with May–August the driest and busiest. November–March is wet season trekking is possible with proper rain gear.

    Food on the 2-Day Hike

    • Day 1: Box breakfast included; picnic lunch at Wiñay Wayna; dinner in Aguas Calientes.
    • Day 2: Hotel breakfast included; last lunch not included (many restaurant options in town).

    Huayna Picchu Mountain

    ~45 minutes up/down from inside the park; features Inca remains like the Moon Temple and tunnels. Offers a 360° view over the citadel. Book ~3 months in advance due to limited spaces.

    Machu Picchu Mountain

    ~1:20 hrs hike to the summit with sweeping panoramas of the valley and surrounding Andes. Book at least 2 months in advance. Time slots: 07:00–08:00 or 09:00–10:00; limit 200 people per group.

    Packing List

    Packing List for the Short Inca Trail (2 Days) to Machu Picchu
    Consider weather, remoteness, season, distance, and access to villages/transport. If you’re new to day hiking, bring the following:

    • Original Passport (same used for booking)
    • Good daypack (25–30 L)
    • 1–2 liters of water
    • Medium hiking backpack (if preferred)
    • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
    • Hiking poles (rentals available)
    • Fleece/pullover for early/late hours
    • Rain jacket/poncho
    • Sun hat & sunscreen
    • Insect repellent
    • Snacks: chocolate/cereal bars, dried fruit
    • Camera
    • Extra cash for souvenirs, drinks & tips
    • Toilet paper
    • Personal medications
    • Hand sanitizer
    Inquire for Details