Machu Picchu Tours. The most important and visited place in South America is in Peru and it is the wonder of the modern world, recently discovered in 1911, after being abandoned for centuries. An Enigmatic City, built on the highest part of the mountain, until today the purpose for which it was built is unknown, the environment that surrounds the Inca city, is impressive for the number of mountains, cloud forests, tropical valleys and the impressive vilcanota river. We started this Tour very early in the morning, we will begin our bus trip to the city of Ollantaytambo, crossing small local communities. The landscape is spectacular, with wonderful views of the mountains and glaciers of the Andes. We will board the train to the town of Machu Picchu from this place; Throughout the trip we will realize that the vegetation is becoming tropical.
Overview
Inca Trail Express (1 Day) – Overview
The 1-day Inca Trail, also called the Inca Trail Express, is the shortest version of the famous trek. It follows part of the Classic Inca Trail, leading through breathtaking landscapes and archaeological sites before reaching Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This is perfect for those with limited time who still want to experience the Inca Trail.
Why Choose the 1-Day Inca Trail?
✅ Perfect for travelers short on time
✅ No camping required
✅ Still includes the iconic Sun Gate entrance to Machu Picchu
✅ Less physically demanding than the 4-day trek
Would you like help choosing a tour operator or packing recommendations? 😊
Key Details
- Total Distance: ~10 km (6.2 miles)
- Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m (8,923 ft)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best Time to Go: May – September (dry season)
- Permit Required? Yes (book in advance)
- Guide Required? Yes (must go with an official tour operator)
Tourism
- Accessibility: Machu Picchu can be reached by train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus ride up to the site. Alternatively, visitors can hike the Inca Trail, a multi-day trek that culminates at Machu Picchu.
- Visitor Experience: Guided tours are available to help visitors understand the historical and cultural context of the ruins. There are also opportunities for hiking within the site, such as climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views.
Practical Information for Visitors
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season from May to September is the most popular time to visit, with fewer rain showers and clear skies. However, this is also the busiest time.
- Weather: The weather can vary greatly, with warm days and cool nights. Rain is common, especially during the wet season from November to March.
- Preparation: Visitors should prepare for the high altitude and physical activity by acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and bringing appropriate clothing and supplies.
Machu Picchu remains a symbol of the ingenuity and cultural richness of the Inca civilization, drawing millions of visitors each year to marvel at its architectural beauty and stunning mountain setting.
Itinerary
DAY 01: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
- Early Morning: Take the train from Cusco (or Ollantaytambo) to Km 104, the trailhead.
- Start the Trek: Hike uphill to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (~3 hours).
- Continue to Inti Punku (Sun Gate): After another 2-hour hike, reach Inti Punku, where you’ll get your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
- Descend into Machu Picchu: Walk down into the site for a short visit (no guided tour).
- Return to Cusco: Take the bus to Aguas Calientes, then the train back to Cusco in the evening.
Very early transfer by bus from your hotel to the train station in Ollantaytambo, where you will board the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival at the Aguas Calientes train station, a representative of the company will be waiting to guide you and organize your Guided tour of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, you will go to the bus station.
Early Morning: Departure from Cusco or Ollantaytambo
- Cusco to Ollantaytambo: If starting from Cusco, you will need to take an early morning transfer (usually around 4-5 AM) to Ollantaytambo train station, which takes approximately 1.5-2 hours by car.
- Train Ride: From Ollantaytambo, board the train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride takes about 1.5-2 hours and offers stunning views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River.
Mid-Morning: Arrival in Aguas Calientes
- Aguas Calientes: Arrive in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. From here, take a shuttle bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu. The bus ride is about 25-30 minutes and winds up the mountain.
Late Morning: Explore Machu Picchu
- Guided Tour: Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, join a guided tour (typically 2-3 hours) that covers the main highlights of the site, including:
- The Main Gate (Intipunku): The entrance to Machu Picchu.
- The Temple of the Sun: A significant ceremonial site.
- The Main Plaza: The central area of the site.
- The Sacred Rock: A large, carved rock believed to have spiritual significance.
- The Temple of the Three Windows: Known for its impressive stonework and views.
- Free Time: After the guided tour, you will have some free time to explore Machu Picchu Tours on your own, take photos, and soak in the views.
Itinerario Detallado
🔹 4:00 – 4:30 AM | Salida de Cusco
- Recojo del hotel y traslado a la estación de tren en Ollantaytambo (aprox. 1h 45 min en carro).
- Desayuno ligero (opcional, no incluido).
🔹 6:10 – 6:30 AM | Tren a Chachabamba (Km 104)
- Viaje en tren hasta el punto de inicio de la caminata (aprox. 1h 30 min).
- Control de ingreso en Chachabamba (Km 104).
🔹 8:00 AM | Inicio de la Caminata
- Ascenso gradual hacia el sitio arqueológico de Wiñay Wayna (2,720 m).
- Visita guiada en Wiñay Wayna (30 min aprox.).
- Descanso y almuerzo box lunch.
🔹 12:30 – 1:00 PM | Llegada a la Puerta del Sol (Inti Punku)
- Primera vista panorámica de Machu Picchu.
- Descenso hacia la ciudadela de Machu Picchu.
🔹 2:00 – 3:00 PM | Visita a Machu Picchu
- Recorrido guiado (aprox. 2 horas) por los puntos principales.
🔹 4:00 – 5:00 PM | Descenso a Aguas Calientes
- Caminata o bus (opcional, $12 aprox.) a Aguas Calientes.
- Tiempo libre para explorar o cenar (no incluido).
🔹 6:20 – 7:00 PM | Tren de regreso a Ollantaytambo
- Viaje en tren hasta Ollantaytambo (aprox. 1h 30 min).
- Luego, traslado en bus a Cusco (2 horas aprox.).
🔹 10:00 – 10:30 PM | Llegada a Cusco
- Fin del tour.
After the tour, you will have free time, to explore the city of Machu Picchu a little more on your own, and return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and go to the train station and board the train back to Ollantaytambo, from this place you will have bus transportation to the city of Cusco.
Inclusions
What’s Included in Most Tours?
✔️ Inca Trail & Machu Picchu permit
✔️ Professional guide
✔️ Train tickets (to and from Cusco)
✔️ Bus ticket (Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes)
✔️ Box lunch & snacks
What’s Not Included?
❌ Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (extra cost)
❌ Tips for guides
❌ Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes (optional)
Should Bring
YOU HAVE TO BRING
Main Tickets:
Secure your entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and Train tickets well in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
Packing List:
- Bring essentials such as a passport (required for entry),
- comfortable walking shoes,
- sun protection (hat, sunscreen),
- insect repellent,
- water,
- snacks,
- and a rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable).
- small backpack
- documents
- light clothing
- tools grooming
- extra money.
Acomodation
Price
Price: Season 2025
Shared Service:
- Price per person: U$. 380
- Approximate group: is 10 people
Private & Personalized Service:
- Price per person U$ .450.00
- Minimum people 02 pax
DEPARTURE: EVERYDAY: 05:00.a.m to 22:00.p.m
AVAILABLE DISCOUNTS: Students: (students require identification, Isic valid International Student Card and must be below 26 years of age)
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