Inca Trail One Day Tour
+5 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 12–13 hours
- Price from
- $630 / person
- Location
- Cusco, Peru
- Rating
- 5.0 / 5 · 6 reviews
- Languages
- EN, EN, EN, ES
- Group
- Small group, up to 12
- Cancellation
- See policy below
- Hotel pickup
- Available
- Confirmation
- Within 24h
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Operator
- Salkantay Trekking
Description
This one-day Inca Trail experience is designed for travelers with limited time who still want to live the magic of the legendary trail and Machu Picchu. Instead of a multi-day trek, you’ll hike the most iconic section of the Inca Trail in a single day, following the footsteps of the ancient Incas through remarkable archaeological sites such as Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. What makes this tour truly special is the combination of adventure and efficiency. You’ll arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), just as the Incas once did, and enjoy breathtaking views from the classic viewpoint. Along the way, you’ll walk through stunning Andean landscapes, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. With transportation, logistics, and details fully organized, including a scenic panoramic train ride through the Sacred Valley, you can focus entirely on enjoying an unforgettable journey that blends history, nature, and adventure in just one incredible day.
Schedule & prices
- Runs
- Every day
- Start times
- 4:00 AM
- Next available
- Fri, Oct 30
- Adult (ages 18–70)
- $630
Prices change with the date; the lowest is shown.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 29.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Cusco
Begin your adventure at 4:00 a.m. with a transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
After a beautiful panoramic train ride, start your hike at Km 104, the starting point of the Short Inca Trail.
Winay Wayna
Visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, surrounded by lush Andean nature, orchids, and waterfalls.
Intipuncu
After a picnic lunch, continue ascending toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first magical view of Machu Picchu.
Machupicchu
Walk to the classic viewpoint to capture the iconic photo of the citadel and soak in the energy of this sacred place as your guide shares its history.
Aguas Calientes
Finally, descend to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo
In Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting to take you to Cusco.
Cusco
We will drop you off at your hotel in Cusco, ending a day full of culture, nature, and wonder.
What's included
Included
Experienced tour guide
Pre-departure briefing
Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104 (Trek starting point)
Transport from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco
Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Box lunch, snacks and water
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (Circuit 1C)
Medical Kit or First AID Kit
Pick up from your hotel in the morning and transfer to Ollantaytambo train station
Inca Trail permits and entrance tickets
Not included
Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation
Gear: Sleeping bag and trekking poles
Personal hiking clothing and gear.
Gratuities for the staff (Optional)
Travel Insurance
Pickup Locations & Times
We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco. The pickup time is between 04:00 and 04:30 am.
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
Important Information
- 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
- It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
- The Inca Trail is highly demanded, specially in high season (May to September). Book this trip at least five months in advance to secure a spot.
- Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
- Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
- Children aged 10 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
- Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
- Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
0+ days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does Inca Trail One Day Tour take?
Inca Trail One Day Tour lasts about 12–13 hours. The itinerary has 8 stops.
How much does Inca Trail One Day Tour cost?
Prices start at $630 per person for this Cusco experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 7 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does Inca Trail One Day Tour run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 4:00 AM.
Can I cancel Inca Trail One Day Tour for free?
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered. We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco. The pickup time is between 04:00 and 04:30 am. Pickup points include Hospedaje Casa Elena, Arco de Oro Hostal.
What languages is Inca Trail One Day Tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN, EN, EN, ES, ES, ES.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 12 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 10 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Confirmation is sent by the operator within 24 hours of booking.
Is Inca Trail One Day Tour worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 6 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Salkantay Trekking.
Reviews(6)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Compare similar tours in Cusco
- Lowest price: 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Vistadome & 4-Star Hotel — $585
- Best rated: Inca Trail 4-Day Trek to Machu Picchu – Return by Vistadome Train — 5.0 (11,598 reviews)
- Shortest: Inca Trail One Day Tour — 12–13 hours
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inca Trail One Day Tour | 12–13 hours | 5.0 (6) | $630 | |
 Inca Trail 4-Day Trek to Machu Picchu – Return by Vistadome Train | 4 days | 5.0 (11,598) | $835 | View |
 2-Day Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Vistadome & 4-Star Hotel | 2 days | 5.0 (4,074) | $585 | View |
 2-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with VistadomeTrain | 2 days | 5.0 (2,102) | $590 | View |
 Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - One Day! - Glamping Service | 14 hours | 5.0 (45) | $596 | View |
 Inca Trail 4-Day Hiking Tour to Machu Picchu from Cusco | 4 days | 4.8 (380) | $932 | View |
 Sacred Valley & One Day Inca Trail 3 Days | 3 days | 5.0 (28) | $850 | View |
from$630
5.0(6)