Cusco: Private – Inca Trail 1 Day – Machu Picchu

Set out on a captivating one-day private trek along the Inca Trail to the iconic Machu Picchu. This breathtaking journey takes adventurers through remarkable archaeological sites, where they’ll enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Inca civilization. With a professional bilingual guide, guests will not only explore the remarkable ruins of Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, but also witness the awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu from the renowned La Puerta del Sol. From hotel pickup to scenic train rides, this all-inclusive experience promises an unforgettable adventure. But the real question is, what secrets will be unveiled during this extraordinary trek?

Key Points

• This private Inca Trail tour offers a 1-day hike to Machu Picchu, including hotel pickup, transportation, train tickets, and professional bilingual guide.
• The tour is priced from $571 per person and includes essential services like entrance fees, packed lunch, and return transportation to Cusco.
• The itinerary involves an early morning pickup, a train ride to the starting point, a guided hike with visits to archaeological sites, and a final arrival at Machu Picchu.
• Participants will be able to enjoy the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from La Puerta del Sol and explore important temples within the complex.
• This private tour experience is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with medical conditions, and a recommended packing list is provided.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This Inca Trail 1 day tour to Machu Picchu is a private experience that allows visitors to explore the ancient Inca ruins and landscapes. Priced from $571 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, train tickets, entry to Machu Picchu, a professional bilingual guide, and return transportation.

It’s a full-day adventure that starts early in the morning and finishes in the evening. Highlights include visiting archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, taking in the first views of Machu Picchu from La Puerta del Sol, and exploring the important temples within the citadel.

The tour isn’t suitable for certain groups, and participants should bring essential items like passports and hiking gear.

Pricing and Inclusions

The private Inca Trail 1 day tour to Machu Picchu is priced from $571 per person.

The tour includes:

1. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation between Cusco, Ollantaytambo, and Aguas Calientes.
2. A tourist train ride from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and a bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
3. Entrance fees to the Machu Picchu citadel and the services of a professional bilingual guide.
4. A packed lunch to enjoy during the hike.

This private experience allows visitors to explore the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu at their own pace, with the convenience of personalized service and flexibility throughout the day.

Detailed Itinerary

At 3:45 am, the guide picks up guests from their hotel or other agreed-upon location.

They transfer to Ollantaytambo station and board the train to Km 104.

The hike begins at the checkpoint with the guide. Guests visit archaeological sites like Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna.

A lunch break is included along the way.

They then hike to La Puerta del Sol for the first view of Machu Picchu, and explore important temples.

After, they take a bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner.

The return journey involves the train back to Ollantaytambo and transportation to Cusco.

Departure and Transportation

For the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, guests are picked up from their hotel or agreed location at 3:45 am. The journey begins with a transfer to the Ollantaytambo train station, where they board the scenic rail service to Km-104.

The hike commences at the checkpoint, led by a professional, bilingual guide.

The transportation plan includes:

1. Cusco to Ollantaytambo by private vehicle
2. Train from Ollantaytambo to Km-104
3. Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
4. Return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco.

This efficient itinerary ensures a seamless exploration of the iconic Inca Trail and Machu Picchu within a single day.

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Hiking and Archaeological Sites

After being transferred to the Km-104 checkpoint, the hike along the Inca Trail commences.

With a professional bilingual guide, travelers visit the archaeological sites of Chachabamba and Wiñaywayna, marveling at the Incan architecture and learning about their significance.

The hike then continues towards the iconic La Puerta del Sol, providing the first breathtaking view of the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.

Along the way, travelers make a lunch stop to refuel before visiting important temples within the Machu Picchu complex.

The day culminates with a bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where a return train to Ollantaytambo and transportation back to Cusco await.

First View of Machu Picchu

As the hike progresses, travelers reach the iconic La Puerta del Sol, or the "Sun Gate", which provides the first awe-inspiring view of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

This dramatic moment is the culmination of the journey, where hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the iconic ruins nestled between towering mountain peaks.

The following sights greet visitors:

1. The grand, stone structures of Machu Picchu, meticulously constructed by the Incas, stand in testament to their remarkable engineering prowess.

2. Lush, verdant terraces cascade down the mountainside, creating a harmonious blend of nature and architecture.

3. The Urubamba River winds its way through the valley, adding to the serene and picturesque landscape.

4. Majestic Andean peaks, such as Huayna Picchu, rise majestically in the background, completing the stunning panorama.

Important Temple Visits

What important temples do visitors get to explore after reaching Machu Picchu?

The guided tour takes visitors to key temples and structures within the Machu Picchu citadel. These include the Temple of the Sun, an important religious site dedicated to the Inca sun god Inti.

Visitors can also explore the Intihuatana, a carefully carved rock formation believed to have served as an astronomical instrument.

The tour also covers the Principal Temple, with its finely carved stonework, and the Room of the Three Windows, offering panoramic views.

These temple visits provide valuable insights into the Inca civilization and their advanced architectural and astronomical knowledge.

Additional Information

The Inca Trail 1 Day to Machu Picchu also offers some additional important information for travelers.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, a sun hat, sunscreen, cash, and hiking pants.

A contact number with country code and WhatsApp is required for communication.

Last-minute reservations can be checked via email, subject to availability.

The tour is a private group experience with a live guide available in Spanish and English.

1. Restricted accessibility for certain groups
2. Recommended packing list
3. Contact details for communication
4. Flexibility for last-minute bookings

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Approximate Group Size for This Private Tour?

This is a private tour experience, so the group size is flexible and tailored to the specific needs of the travelers. The tour is not limited to a fixed number of participants.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements That Can Be Accommodated?

The tour company can accommodate a variety of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Guests should inform the company of any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary or Add Extra Activities?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences. Additional activities like visiting local markets or exploring Aguas Calientes can be added upon request. The tour operator is generally flexible to accommodate personalized requests.

How Difficult Is the Inca Trail Hike for Average Fitness Levels?

The Inca Trail hike is moderately challenging for average fitness levels. It involves a 6-7 hour trek with steep ascents and descents, but the pace is reasonable, and there are plenty of stops along the way to rest and take in the views.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum/Maximum Participant Requirements?

The Inca Trail hike has no age restrictions, but is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. There’s no minimum or maximum participant requirement, as it’s a private group experience.

Recap

This one-day private Inca Trail tour offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cusco and Machu Picchu. With a professional guide, visitors will explore remarkable archaeological sites, culminating in a stunning view of the iconic Incan ruins. Priced affordably, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a scenic train ride, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable Peruvian adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: