No expiration date
Easy refund
Free exchange
Easy booking
Inca Trail Express 1 Day Private Tour to Machu Picchu
Cusco, Peru
$470
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after
they redeem the gift voucher.
Overview
Experience the most exciting way to reach Machu Picchu in just one day by hiking the final section of the Inca Trail and entering through the Sun Gate, just like the ancient Incas. This express version is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want the magic of the original trail, stunning Andean views, and the unforgettable first sight of Machu Picchu.
Your day starts early with hotel pickup in Cusco and a train ride to KM 104. After crossing the Urubamba River, you begin the hike, visiting the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before continuing along the original stone path to the Sun Gate. From here, Machu Picchu appears in full view — a moment earned step by step, not by bus.
You then enjoy a guided tour inside the citadel before taking the bus to Aguas Calientes and the PeruRail Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo No camping, no crowds, just a small-group, full-service experience Permits are limited, so early booking is essential.
Your day starts early with hotel pickup in Cusco and a train ride to KM 104. After crossing the Urubamba River, you begin the hike, visiting the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna before continuing along the original stone path to the Sun Gate. From here, Machu Picchu appears in full view — a moment earned step by step, not by bus.
You then enjoy a guided tour inside the citadel before taking the bus to Aguas Calientes and the PeruRail Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo No camping, no crowds, just a small-group, full-service experience Permits are limited, so early booking is essential.
—
The experience offers several options. This price includes:
Regular Service Group Tour
This is a small-group tour: is with (maximum 10 participants), not a private service, and it includes access only to Circuit 1 inside Machu picchu
Pickup included
This is a small-group tour: is with (maximum 10 participants), not a private service, and it includes access only to Circuit 1 inside Machu picchu
Pickup included
Tour guide
Language: English
Human tour guide
Duration: 17 hours
Availability depends on seasonality and number of participants. Bookings can not be made for the same day. Please read our TnC’s.
When giving as a gift, your recipient can choose a date at their convenience during a booking process. Otherwise, you can choose one after checkout and voucher redemption.
When giving as a gift, your recipient can choose a date at their convenience during a booking process. Otherwise, you can choose one after checkout and voucher redemption.
Check available dates by emailing us at [email protected]
The experience offers several options, check yours above
- Box lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco or Sacred valley
- Official Inca Trail permit (KM 104)
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Tourist transport back to Cusco
- Return train: Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo (PeruRail Expedition)
- First-aid kit and oxygen bottle
- Train ticket: Ollantaytambo → KM 104
- Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Breakfast and dinner
- Tips for the guide
- Walking sticks (available for rent)
-
Cusco04:00–04:30 – Pickup from hotel in Cusco and Transfer to Ollantaytambo station 1h30min
-
Ollantaytambo05:10 – Train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104
-
After crossing the bridge over the Urubamba River, your guide checks in the group at the official Inca Trail control point. Here you’ll receive a brief orientation before starting the hike. The first section is a steady ascent surrounded by lush vegetation, orchids, hummingbirds, and views of the river below. Your guide will explain the importance of Chachabamba, an Inca religious and administrative site that once protected the entrance to Machu Picchu.
-
Winay WaynaAfter approximately 3 hours of trekking, you reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca archaeological sites on the trail. Built on a steep mountainside, it features perfectly aligned agricultural terraces, ceremonial fountains, temples, and dwellings. Your guide will lead a detailed visit and share the story of how this site functioned before Machu Picchu. Then, you’ll enjoy your box lunch with a panoramic view, surrounded by mountains and clouds drifting through the valley.
-
IntipuncuThe final stretch follows a narrow original stone path built by the Incas. This section is scenic and gradual, passing through cloud forest, ancient stairs, and viewpoints. Shortly before reaching the top, you’ll climb the famous “gringo killer” – a short but steep set of steps that rewards you with the most anticipated moment of the day. You arrive at Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, the traditional entrance used by Inca nobility. From here, Machu Picchu suddenly appears in the distance, framed perfectly between the mountains. This is the emotional highlight of the day – a moment earned step by step, unlike travelers who arrive by bus. You’ll have time for photos, reflection, and a well-deserved rest.
-
Machu PicchuAround 2 to 3pm you will have Guided visit inside Machu Picchu You walk downhill from the Sun Gate and enter the archaeological site. Your guided tour covers the most important areas: the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Plaza, the agricultural terraces, and the iconic viewpoint. Your guide explains the engineering, astronomy, and symbolism behind the city and its mysterious abandonment. After the tour, you’ll have free time for photos.
-
Machu PicchuBus to Aguas Calientes After visiting Machu Picchu, you take the official bus down the mountain road to Aguas Calientes (approx. 25 min). Once in town, you can relax, buy snacks, or simply enjoy free time before boarding the train.
-
OllantaytamboTrain to Ollantaytambo (PeruRail Expedition) Board the PeruRail Expedition train, a comfortable tourist-class service with large windows and onboard service. Enjoy the scenic ride along the river as the sun sets behind the mountains.
-
CuscoUpon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your private transport will take you back to Cusco, arriving around 9:30–10:00 PM.
How it works?
01
—
You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
02
—
We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
03
—
Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
Inca Trail Express 1 Day Private Tour to Machu Picchu
Cusco, Peru
$470
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after
they redeem the gift voucher.
How it works?
01
—
You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
02
—
We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
03
—
Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!