Inca Trail 1 day to Machu Picchu

My dream day would kick off very early, around 4:00 AM, with a guide picking me up from my hotel in Cusco (elevation: 3,399 m / 11,152 ft). We’d head straight for the train station in Ollantaytambo (elevation: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft) to catch the 6:10 AM Expeditions train. I can just picture the journey, a magical 1.5-hour ride through the Sacred Valley, before we hop off at the famous Km 104—the starting point of our trail.

After passing through the checkpoint, the adventure truly begins with a visit to our first archaeological site, Chachabamba (elevation: 2,100 m / 6,927 ft), an ancient refuge the Incas used before reaching Machu Picchu. From there, it’s time to up the step count with an approximately 3-hour ascent. I imagine climbing the original Inca stone steps, surrounded by a fascinating ecosystem bursting with orchids, unique trees, and waterfalls, until we reach the incredible site of Wiñay Wayna, or “Forever Young” (elevation: 2,650 m / 8,747 ft).

After a well-deserved rest, we’ll continue the push to the legendary Inti Punku, “The Sun Gate” (elevation: 2,730 m / 9,007 ft). This is the moment I’m most desperate for—that first, stunning, panoramic view of Machu Picchu spread out below.

After taking way too many photos, we’ll walk the final, triumphant stretch down into the city itself. We’ll access the upper part of Machu Picchu, which is part of Circuit 1, giving me just enough time to contemplate the view and listen to a brief historical explanation from the guide. For an extra $50 USD, there’s even an option to book Circuit 2 or 3 to explore different perspectives of the site.

Finally, we’ll catch the bus down to Machu Picchu Pueblo, also known as Aguas Calientes. From there, we’ll board the train back to Ollantaytambo and then take our private transport back to Cusco, ending an absolutely epic day.

• Meals: Box Lunch included
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Total Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Estimated Hiking Time: 6 to 7 hours
• Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft