The 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Your adventure begins when our driver picks you up at the early in the morning (around 4am). We will travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing its valleys and mountain peaks on the way to Ollantaytambo where we will catch the Expedition Train at 6:10am. If you are staying in Ollantaytambo, our driver will pick you up at around 5:20am. Be sure to let our office know.

You arrive at the train station as the sky begins to brighten which sooths our souls for the adventure ahead. The train ride in itself is magical. On your left, the Urubamba River curves gently, acting as a road to the mountains and forest on your right. You are flanked on your right by rugged mountains. You can´t help but gaze up at the rugged snow capped mountains with a sense of awe. The ruggedness of the mountains transforms to lush trees, with dazzling splashes of color and an aroma of the forest fresh and organic.

The Expedition Train takes you to KM104 (elevation 2,100m/6,927ft) the checkpoint and starting point of your trek. Be ready to meet likeminded trekkers when you cross the bridge over the Urubamba River. Once at the checkpoint take this opportunity to use the restrooms, apply insect repellent and sunscreen, make sure you pack your gourmet box lunch, purchase extra snacks if needed and fill up on water.

The first Archeological site you will see is just a minute outside the checkpoint. Learn the history and about thriving culture of the Incas from a 100% authentic and knowledgeable Peruvian guide. The trek passes by flora and fauna unique to the Inca trail, with its vivid and radiant colors. The Urubamba River guides your path to your left and spectacular snow draped, heaven-kissing mountains to your right. You pass a small waterfall cascading onto the rocks. Splash your face with the glistening, clear waters of the small serenity pool at the bottom of the waterfall. Take pictures of the gently nodding vegetation.

Now take the moderate climb up to the remote archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, (2,650m/8747 ft). The views from this point are absolutely spectacular. Be thrilled with your achievement so far. Once you reach the campsite of Wiñayhuana, stop and take a breather. Enjoy the some time getting to know your fellow trekkers. Your scrumptious box lunch consists of a quinoa salad complete with beef, chicken or vegetarian options. 

The rest of the trek is pretty gradual, apart from the Monkey Steps which are so names as you will need to climb like a monkey to reach the top. Further along you reach the top of Sun Gate Elevation (2,730mts/9,007ft) so be prepared to be blown away with awe. The size and majesty of Machu Picchu at the bottom will simply take your breath away. Take loads of pictures, as in our opinion there is no better view in the world. As you make your way down to Machu Picchu be sure to ask your guide as many questions as possible. At the “Guardian Gate”, you will be able to take the famous picture perfect postcard photos that will rival any screensaver on your computer.

Your exploration of Machu Picchu will be in the afternoon with a minimum of tourists, with a less probability of getting photo bombed. On arrival, you will get a full 2-hour guided tour of the incredible Citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. Be mesmerized by the sheer brilliance, genius and precision of Inca Engineers, with the brillance to have constructed a site with such great structural integrity, with very little tools and in such unforgiving terrain. Their mastering of the Ashlar technique is to be marveled. Immerse yourself in its rich historical legacy and their long and layered history.

At around 4pm, you make your way down the winding roads of Machu Picchu by bus to the quaint town of Aguas Calientes. Browse the many local markets in town, enjoy the walkability of the coble stone streets and have a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

At 6:20pm you will then return on the Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo and catch our private transportation back to Cusco. Estimated arrival time in Cusco is 10pm.

• Meals: Box Lunch & Dinner (Included)

***Please note: It is not possible to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain due to time restraints.  

***If you choose, you can stay the night in Aguas Calientes, and we will book your return train for the next day. 

*** You can start the trek from Ollantaytambo, if you do we recommend  that you stay in our own lodge; Veronica View Hotel.