Special Inca Trail

Day 1: Inca Trail from Km 104 - Wiñay Wayna - Sun Gate and Machu Picchu (Box Lunch)

Inca Trail starts early with a 4:00 am pickup from your hotel in Cusco. You will be comfortably transported to Ollantaytambo train station, located in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, to board the train to Km 104, the starting point of your exciting Inca Trail hike.

Start of the Inca Trail - Scenic Views and History

The one-hour train journey offers breathtaking views along the Vilcanota River, a sacred body of water to the ancient Incas. Once we arrive at Km 104, we disembark and cross a charming bridge over the Urubamba River to begin our trek. The first stop is Chachabamba, a fascinating Inca archaeological site featuring intricate water channels and sacred fountains, thought to have played a major role in ceremonial practices.

Hiking to Wiñay Wayna

Then from here, the hike gradually ascends over roughly 3.5 hours to Wiñay Wayna (which translates to "forever young"). This stunning Inca site served as a significant agricultural hub, complete with terraces, religious structures, and a residential area. It's also the perfect location to catch your breath and enjoy your boxed lunch while marveling at the impressive architecture and spectacular views.

The Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and First View of Machu Picchu

Continuing the hike for about an hour, we reach the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From this vantage point, you'll have your first glimpse of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This is a magical moment—often considered a spiritual experience—offering a panoramic view of the citadel that is well worth the effort of the hike.

Descend to Machu Picchu for Iconic Photos

After soaking in the views and taking some memorable photos, we will descend for about 40 minutes to reach the enigmatic citadel of Machu Picchu, where you'll capture the classic and famous photos of this ancient marvel.

Return to Aguas Calientes and Back to Cusco

After your unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, we will board a bus for a 30-minute ride to Aguas Calientes. Here, you will have time to enjoy a well-deserved dinner and explore the town. Once the day concludes, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our representative will meet you for a comfortable transfer back to your hotel in Cusco.

• Total distance: 13 km (8.08 miles)
• Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
• Altitude gain: 600 meters

This day offers a harmonious blend of historical exploration, physical challenge, and stunning views that bring the ancient Inca world vividly to life.

Overview: This one-day adventure takes you on the scenic Inca Trail starting at Km 104, with key stops at Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu. You'll explore rich archaeological sites, experience breathtaking views, and enjoy the rewarding moment of arriving at Machu Picchu via the famous Sun Gate.

Duration: Full day (4:00 AM to approximately 7:00 PM).

Itinerary Breakdown:

Early Morning:

• Pickup from Cusco Hotel: Start your day with a 4:00 AM pickup from your Cusco hotel for a transfer to Ollantaytambo train station.
• Train to Km 104: Enjoy a scenic one-hour train ride through the Sacred Valley along the Vilcanota River.

Morning:

• Start of Inca Trail Hike: Begin your hike at Km 104. After crossing the Urubamba River, visit the Inca site Chachabamba, known for its water channels and fountains.
• Hike to Wiñay Wayna: A 3.5-hour hike uphill to reach Wiñay Wayna, a stunning Inca site with terraces and a ceremonial center.

Midday:

• Lunch at Wiñay Wayna: Enjoy a boxed lunch while taking in the panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the impressive Inca architecture.

Early Afternoon:

• Hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku): Continue for another hour to the Sun Gate, the iconic entrance to Machu Picchu with your first view of the ancient citadel.

Late Afternoon:

• Descent to Machu Picchu: Walk down for 40 minutes to Machu Picchu, capturing the classic photo spots and learning about the site's history.
• Bus to Aguas Calientes: Board a 30-minute bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner.

Evening:

• Return to Cusco: Board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer back to your hotel in Cusco. Expected return around 7:00 PM.

Why it matters: This one-day itinerary offers a compact version of the classic Inca Trail experience, including key archaeological sites, cultural insights, and the breathtaking arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Key highlights:

• Hike along the ancient Inca Trail.
• Visit Wiñay Wayna and Chachabamba.
• Enjoy stunning views from the Sun Gate.
• Explore Machu Picchu in the late afternoon, with fewer crowds.

This adventure is perfect for those who want to experience the best of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in one day, blending physical challenge with cultural and historical discovery.

Includes / Does not Include

Includes:

• Hotel pick up and drop off (door to door service)
• Boxed Lunch
• One day Inca Trail hike
• Roundtrip train tickets (at your selected train class) Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Ollantaytambo
• Bus tickets (Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Aguas Calientes)
• Admission ticket to the Inca Trail
• Professional English-speaking tour guide
• Overland transportation for all transfers during the program
• 1 Bottle of Water

Does not Include:

• International and domestic air tickets
• One-way Vistadome train upgrade US$ 55
• Meals (Breakfast, Dinner)
• Travel insurance (Highly recommended)
• Gratuity (optional)

Recommendations (What to bring?):

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