Inca Trail Full Day Hike to Machu Picchu
About this experience
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Full Day is a unique trekking experience in Peru that allows you to hike part of the famous Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and reach one of the world’s wonders on foot. This tour combines history, nature, and adventure as we follow ancient Inca paths surrounded by breathtaking Andean landscapes, mountains, and cloud forests.
During the journey, we will explore the important archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful complexes along the Inca Trail, while learning about the history of the Inca Empire and its connection to Machu Picchu.
The hike continues to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the viewpoint where you will get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu—an unforgettable moment for every traveler walking the Inca Trail. Then, we descend to the citadel to explore its main sectors and understand Inca architecture and culture.
Finally, we head down to Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Ollantaytambo and continue to Cusco, completing an experience that combines trekking to Machu Picchu, Andean culture, and adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1:
Cusco – KM 104 – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Day 1: Cusco – KM 104 – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We begin early at 03:00 AM with hotel pickup in Cusco. Then we travel by private transport to Ollantaytambo, where we board the train to KM 104, the starting point of the hike. Our guide will provide a biodegradable box lunch and explain the one-day Inca Trail route.
We start hiking around 07:30 AM toward Chachabamba, an archaeological site that functioned as a religious center dedicated to water worship and as a control point to Machu Picchu. We will explore its terraces and ceremonial areas while learning about Inca culture.
After Chachabamba, we continue hiking for approximately three hours to Wiñay Wayna, a complex featuring structures around a central courtyard, likely used by Inca priests. Along the way, we enjoy tropical flora and stunning scenery.
Around 12:30 PM, we enjoy our box lunch at Wiñay Wayna. Then we hike for about 45 minutes to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
Next, we descend for about one hour to reach Machu Picchu. Our guide will lead a 2-hour tour through the main sectors, including the Temple of the Condor, Main Plaza, urban sector, circular tower, Intihuatana (sun clock), and the Inca cemetery.
After the guided tour, we take the bus to Aguas Calientes to rest. In the evening, we board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by tourist transport to Cusco, completing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Full Day experience.
DAY STATISTICS
- Distance: 11 km
- Highest altitude: 2,720 meters above sea leve (Inti Punku)
- Lowest altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level (Machu Picchu)
- Route: Cusco – KM 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
- Difficulty level: Moderate
Inclusions & exclusions
What's included
- Pre-tour briefing
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Round-trip tourist transport (Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco)
- Train: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 and return from Aguas Calientes
- Professional licensed guide
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Meals: 1 breakfast, lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Vegetarian or special diet options upon request
- Train ticket Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (Expedition or Voyager)
- Tourist transport Ollantaytambo – Cusco (bimodal service)
- Official Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Consettur bus ticket (Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes)
- Trekking poles
What's not included
- Domestic or international flights
- Activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation in Cusco
- Hot springs entrance in Aguas Calientes (optional)
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
Recommendations
Before booking
- Book in advance (minimum 2 participants)
- Available in English and Spanish
- Good physical condition required
Before traveling
- Small backpack with extra clothes
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Comfortable trekking boots and extra socks
- Warm clothing (jacket, fleece, gloves, scarf, hat)
- Camera or video equipment
- Hat or cap for sun/rain
- Sunscreen and moisturizer
- Toilet paper
- Snacks (energy bars, fruit, chocolate, granola)
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal first aid kit
- Cash in local currency
- Binoculars (optional)
Policies
The Inca Trail 1-day tour includes official permits, Machu Picchu tickets, and train tickets, which are non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Cancellations more than 30 days in advance: 50% penalty
- Cancellations less than 5 days or no-show: 100% penalty
- Date changes are subject to availability
- In case of strikes, natural disasters, or external events, rescheduling will be offered
- Refunds (if applicable) take 7 to 45 business days
Frequently asked questions
We answer your questions about this tour
Frequently asked questions
We answer your questions about this tour
1 How long is the Inca Trail?
The classic Inca Trail lasts 4 days and 3 nights, offering a complete trekking experience to Machu Picchu. For travelers with limited time, there is also a 1-day Inca Trail option, which includes the most scenic sections of the route.
2 What is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from May to September, when you can enjoy clear skies and better trail conditions. June to August are the most popular months.
3 Where does the Inca Trail start?
The traditional Inca Trail begins at Kilometer 82 of the railway to Machu Picchu, located about 2.5 hours from Cusco. The short Inca Trail starts at KM 104.
4 Do we need permits for the Inca Trail?
Yes, official permits are mandatory to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. These permits are limited and often sell out months in advance, so early booking is highly recommended.
5 How difficult is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is considered moderate to challenging, depending on the itinerary. It includes steep ascents, uneven paths, and high-altitude sections, making good physical condition important.
6 What should we bring for the Inca Trail?
You should pack trekking boots, layered clothing, a waterproof jacket or poncho, sunscreen, snacks, and a comfortable 20L backpack. Personal essentials and a reusable water bottle are also recommended.
7 Can children or older adults participate?
Yes, both children and older adults can join the Inca Trail, as long as they are in good health and have an adequate level of fitness.
8 How can we prevent altitude sickness?
To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, it is important to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, stay hydrated, eat light meals, and follow your guide’s recommendations.
9 Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, meals are included in most Inca Trail tours, with vegetarian and special dietary options available upon request.
10 Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not mandatory but strongly recommended to cover unexpected situations during your trip.
11 How do we reach the trailhead from Cusco?
Travelers are transported by private or tourist transport from Cusco to the trailhead, depending on the tour itinerary (KM 82 or KM 104).
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