INCA TRAIL PACKING LIST
April 6, 2025
Duration
Full Day
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day: Discover the Magic in Just One Epic Day
Short on time but eager to experience the world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 day trek? Our Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day tour is the perfect choice for travelers visiting Cusco who want to hike the legendary trail and explore the breathtaking Machu Picchu citadel—all in a single, unforgettable day.
Your journey starts with a scenic train ride to Kilometer 104, the official trailhead for this exhilarating 1-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. Over the next six hours, you’ll trek along authentic Inca pathways surrounded by stunning mountain vistas, lush tropical vegetation, and incredible biodiversity inside Machu Picchu National Park. Along the route, you’ll encounter well-preserved Inca ruins that add a rich historical layer to your adventure.
The highlight of this hike is arriving at the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku)—the original entrance used by the Incas—where you’ll be greeted by your first awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu perched high in the Andes. From the Sun Gate, a scenic 40-minute downhill walk leads you directly to the ancient citadel. Here, you’ll enjoy a private guided tour exploring the iconic temples, plazas, and hidden corners along Circuit 1. For travelers seeking a deeper experience, Circuit 2 is also available at an additional cost, offering access to less crowded and more extensive sections of Machu Picchu.
This all-inclusive Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 day package covers everything you need for a smooth, hassle-free adventure—from round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, professional guiding, and Expedition train rides. Our convenient door-to-door service ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the journey without worry.
With this tour, you will have the unique opportunity to experience the majesty of full day short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, connecting with history, nature and Andean culture in a single unforgettable day.
OVERVIEW Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day
Dia
1
1
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 Day – Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
- Hiking Duration: 6 to 7 hours
- Starting Altitude: 2,170 m / 7,120 ft.
- Highest altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft.
- Difficulty: Challenging (4/5)
Begin your unforgettable Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 day adventure with an early morning hotel pickup at approximately 3:00 a.m. in Cusco—or 4:30 a.m. if you choose to start in Ollantaytambo. From the Ollantaytambo train station, board the scenic Expedition Train, departing around 5:00 a.m., and soak in stunning views of the Sacred Valley’s lush landscapes as you journey toward Km 104 (Chachabamba)—the official starting point of the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 day trek.
Upon arrival, cross the iconic Urubamba River via a charming footbridge, present your passport at the checkpoint, and begin your hike with a visit to the historic Chachabamba archaeological site. This section features a moderate climb through diverse microclimates, including misty cloud forests, where sudden rain showers are always a possibility, so be prepared for changing weather.
After about three hours, arrive at the spectacular Wiñay Wayna ruins (2,650 m / 8,747 ft), famous for its extensive agricultural terraces and breathtaking views overlooking the Urubamba Canyon. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights about the site’s Incan history, as well as the region’s rich flora and fauna.
Enjoy a satisfying lunch nearby before continuing your trek to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at 2,720 m (8,923 ft). This ancient Inca gateway offers your first awe-inspiring panoramic view of the iconic Machu Picchu citadel, nestled dramatically amid the Andes mountains—an unforgettable photo opportunity and a moment to savor.
From the Sun Gate, embark on a gentle 45-minute downhill walk to the entrance of Machu Picchu, Where a guided tour along Circuit 1 awaits you, allowing you to discover the majesty of this wonder. Enjoy the history, architecture, and Inca engineering at its finest—right in the heart of one of the most fascinating civilizations in the world.
Following the guided tour, enjoy free time to further explore or simply take in the stunning views. Later, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can dine at your leisure (meals not included).
In the evening, board the return Expedition Train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer back to Cusco. Expect to arrive at your hotel around 10:30 p.m., concluding your thrilling and culturally rich short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 1 day journey.
Includes
What’s Included in the 1 Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
- Professional, English-speaking guide to lead you through the hike and Machu Picchu
- Entry tickets for both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological Site circuit 1.
- Round-trip train tickets (standard Expedition class) between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town)
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes
- Private transport from your hotel in Cusco to the train station and back
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco, plus airport transfer if needed
- Briefing before the trek to prepare you for the hike and the day ahead
- Box lunch and snacks to keep you energized during the trek
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank for emergencies.
Not Included
What’s Not Included
- Breakfast and dinner meals
- Machu Picchu circuit 2 0r 3.
- Optional upgrade to the panoramic Vistadome train for a more scenic ride (extra cost)
- Tourist Train ticket for your guide
- Entrance ticket for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain climb (not available on the 1-day trek)
- Travel insurance (recommended but not included)
- Tips for guides and staff (appreciated but optional)
- Extra snacks or personal purchases during the trip
One-Day Inca Trail Packing List: What You Need for a Great Hike
Hiking the One-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an amazing adventure. To enjoy it fully, packing smart is key. Here’s a handy list of essentials to bring with you:
Original Passport
You must carry the same passport you used to book your trek. It’s required to enter the trail and Machu Picchu.Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Wear sturdy, broken-in shoes with good ankle support for rocky and uneven paths.Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers—think moisture-wicking shirts, a light jacket for chilly mornings, and flexible pants. The weather can change quickly in the mountains.Sun Protection
Bring a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with high SPF. You’ll be outdoors for hours, so protecting your skin and eyes is important.Rain Gear
Pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and staying dry will keep you comfortable.Small Backpack
A daypack to carry your essentials—water, snacks, rain gear, and camera—is a must. Keep it light and comfortable.Water
Carry at least 2-3 liters in reusable bottles. Staying hydrated at high altitude helps you feel your best.Snacks
Bring energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit to keep your energy up during the hike.First Aid Kit
A small kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medicine can be helpful.Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from bugs, especially in forested or humid areas.Basic Toiletries
Toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes are useful for freshening up along the trail.Camera or Smartphone
You’ll want to capture the stunning views and memories!Trekking Poles (Optional)
These can help with balance and reduce strain on your knees, especially on tricky sections.
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Walking Stick | $ 7 USD |
| Upgaded Train (return) | $ 40 USD |
| Machu Picchu ticket circuit 3 or 2 | $ 60 USD |
Why book with Inca Trail Camping?
At Inca Trail Camping, we’re more than just a travel agency based in Cusco — we are your local gateway to authentic, unforgettable adventures on the legendary Inca Trail and beyond. As a 100% Peruvian-owned and operated company, our passionate local team is dedicated to sharing the magic of the Andes with every traveler who joins us.
We specialize in carefully crafted trekking experiences, from the classic Inca Trail to the short and extended versions, tailored to fit your unique needs and adventure style. Whether you’re an avid backpacker, a family exploring together, a VIP seeking comfort, or a retiree chasing lifelong dreams, our personalized tours guarantee memories that last forever.
Booking with us means more than just walking the trail—you’ll truly live it. Our comfortable campsites, freshly prepared organic meals, and expert local guides ensure you experience every step safely, deeply, and meaningfully.
We take pride in operating with integrity and care: our well-paid staff and porters enjoy fair working conditions and ongoing education, reflecting our commitment to equality and community empowerment. Sustainability is at the heart of what we do, with environmentally friendly practices designed to preserve the breathtaking landscapes you’ll explore.
Your safety is paramount, with first aid kits, oxygen tanks, and experienced guides always ready to support you. From your hotel pickup in Cusco to the final goodbye in Machu Picchu, our seamless hotel-to-hotel service ensures your journey is smooth and worry-free.
Discover why travelers from around the world choose Inca Trail Camping — not just for the destination, but for an immersive cultural experience that connects you to Peru’s rich history, warm people, and stunning natural beauty.
Book with us today and prepare to embark on an adventure that goes far beyond the trail.
