1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Small Group Discount Tickets

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Get your discount tickets for the 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Small Group, save up to 9% !

Overview

The 1-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect way to experience the magic of the Inca Trail and the wonder of Machu Picchu in just one unforgettable day. Hike the final section of this legendary route, surrounded by ancient ruins, vibrant cloud forests, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. Arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon, when the crowds have faded, and enjoy the serenity of the citadel bathed in golden light — a privilege few travelers experience. Along the way, explore hidden archaeological sites and connect with the living history of the Incas through the insights of your expert local guide.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

We’ve chosen this square for its convenient location just steps away from Cusco’s main square, Plaza de Armas. It’s easily accessible and surrounded by many hotels, making it a comfortable and central meeting point for all our travelers.

Pickup Information

Travelers can get picked up. We offer convenient hotel pickup to make your experience smooth and stress-free. Please share your accommodation details, and our friendly team will coordinate everything for you. We’ll make sure your day starts comfortably and on time, so you can relax and enjoy your journey to Machu Picchu.

Language Offered

English-GUIDE

Italian-GUIDE

French-GUIDE

Spanish-GUIDE

Itinerary

1. Cusco
Your unforgettable adventure begins early in the morning with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Cusco (around 4:00 AM). Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive through the Andes to the Ollantaytambo train station, where your journey to the Inca Trail begins. If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley, such as Ollantaytambo, we’ll start a bit later—around 5:30 AM—to make your morning easier and give you more time to rest. From the very beginning, our team ensures everything runs smoothly so you can relax and focus on experiencing one of the most iconic hikes in the world leading to Machu Picchu.
Duration: 60 mins
2. Ollantaytambo
After arriving in Ollantaytambo, we’ll board the scenic Expedition Train, traveling along the Urubamba River surrounded by stunning Andean landscapes. The ride lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering incredible mountain and valley views. We’ll disembark at Km 104 – Chachabamba, the gateway to the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Here, your guided hiking adventure begins through lush cloud forest, ancient Inca ruins, and breathtaking natural scenery—an unforgettable start to your journey toward Machu Picchu.
Duration: 30 mins
3. Chachabamba
We arrive at Chachabamba (Km 104) around 8:00 AM, where your Short Inca Trail adventure officially begins. After presenting your original passport at the checkpoint, take a moment to get ready for the hike and explore the beautiful Chachabamba archaeological site, a hidden gem surrounded by lush vegetation. From here, your guided hike along the legendary Inca Trail starts, leading you through ancient paths toward Wiñay Wayna and the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku)—the breathtaking entrance to Machu Picchu.
Duration: 60 mins
4. Winay Wayna
After about 4 hours of scenic hiking along the Short Inca Trail, we’ll reach the spectacular Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Inca ruins on the trail. Here, your expert guide will lead you on a fascinating guided tour of this breathtaking complex, explaining its history, architecture, and spiritual importance. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and fully appreciate the incredible beauty and meaning of Wiñay Wayna, a true masterpiece of Inca engineering built into the mountainside.
Duration: 60 mins
5. Intipuncu
After enjoying a well-deserved lunch at Wiñay Wayna, we continue our hike toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the final stretch of the Short Inca Trail. Arriving around 2:00 PM, you’ll experience one of the most unforgettable moments of the entire journey—your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. From this sacred viewpoint high above the mountains, take time to breathe, admire the beauty of the Lost City of the Incas, and capture incredible photos as the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu reveals itself for the very first time.
Duration: 30 mins
6. Machu Picchu
From the Sun Gate, you’ll descend for about one hour along the ancient trail until reaching the classic viewpoint of Machu Picchu—the perfect spot for stunning panoramic photos. In the afternoon, enjoy your guided tour of Machu Picchu through Circuit 1, exploring the most iconic temples, terraces, and sacred areas with fewer visitors and a more peaceful atmosphere. Your expert guide will share the fascinating history, culture, and secrets of the Lost City of the Incas, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
Duration: 120 mins
7. Aguas Calientes
Around 5:00 PM, begin your gentle descent to Aguas Calientes, the charming town at the base of Machu Picchu. Enjoy some free time to relax, shop for souvenirs, or grab a snack before boarding the Expedition Train at 6:20 PM back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, your private van will be waiting to take you comfortably back to Cusco, where you’ll arrive around 9:30 PM—tired but filled with unforgettable memories of your Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure.
Duration: 60 mins

Inclusion

Bus Ticket Down from Machu Picchu

Hotel Pickup – Early pickup from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.

Pre-Trek Briefing – Briefing at our office anytime the day before your tour.

Professional Bilingual Guide

Expedition / Voyager Train – Round-trip train between Ollantaytambo and KM 104/Aguas Calientes

Optional Add-ons – Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (book early; limited spaces).

All Transportation – Smooth travel by van, train, and bus during the tour.

Box Lunch & Snacks

Entrance Tickets – Admission to the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Exclusion

Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain – Not included; limited spots, reserve in advance.

Cancellation Policy

Check mark icon Refundable tickets

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled 1+ days before the start date
  • 0% refund if cancelled less than 1 day(s) before the start date

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

Supplied by Cosmo Expeditions

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