1 Day tours
Easy
Min: 2 - Max: 8 people
Cusco - Machu picchu
Experience the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in just one unforgettable day. This 12-km hike follows the same sacred route as the classic 4-day Inca Trail, passing impressive archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñayhuayna. Enjoy breathtaking Andean landscapes and arrive at Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate, where your first view of the citadel will stay with you forever.
Once there, explore Machu Picchu on a guided tour, discovering its temples, terraces, and sacred plazas. The Short Inca Trail is the perfect option for travelers short on time who still want to experience the beauty, history, and adventure of the world-famous Inca Trail — all in a single unforgettable day.
Prefer a longer adventure? Check out our Inca Quarry Trail Trek, a 4-day alternative through remote Andean landscapes.
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 1 Day
| Duration | 1 Day |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Distance | 12 km / 7.5 mi |
| Starting Point | Km 104, Cusco |
| Route | Km 104 → Chachabamba → Wiñayhuayna → Sun Gate → Machu Picchu |
| Price |
Why Choose the Short Inca Trail?
Starting Point: Km 104
The trek begins at Km 104, named for its position along the railway line to Aguas Calientes. This starting point is shared with the Short Inca Trail’s control checkpoint, where travelers’ passports and guides’ licenses are verified before entering the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary.
Keep in mind: while shorter than the classic Inca Trail, this hike can still be demanding. Being in good physical condition is recommended.
Briefing
You’ll receive a detailed briefing with your guide 1 to 2 days before your trek. During this session, we’ll cover all the important details of your Short Inca Trail experience, answer your questions, and make sure you’re fully prepared for the day ahead.
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Full Itinerary
We begin the tour with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 3:40 a.m. for a private bus transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station. We board the train at 6:10 a.m., and after a 1-hour-15-minute journey on the Expedition train, we arrive at Kilometer 104 (2,100 m / 6,927 ft) of the Cusco–Machu Picchu route, where the trek begins and we pass through the first checkpoint.
From there, we climb for 2 hours and 40 minutes to the incredible archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna (8,748 ft). Once there, you’ll take in spectacular views of the Sacred Valley canyon, impressive Inca ruins, and the point where this trail connects with the classic 4-day Inca Trail.
After Wiñay Wayna, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Machu Picchu and take photos before heading down to Aguas Calientes for dinner. In the evening, at 6:20 p.m., we board the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo, then take our private van back to Cusco and your hotel.
Trek Highlights
Day Details
Altitude range: 2,100 m – 2,745 m / 6,758 – 9,006 ft
Distance: 12 km / 7.46 mi
Weather: Warm, windy
Difficulty: Moderate (3/5)
Schedule: 3:40 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Total time: 19h 20m (7h walking)
