Short Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

Follow the footsteps of ancient Inca messengers to enter Machu Picchu through the famous Gate of the Sun, while sleeping in comfortable eco-lodges.

This one-day trek allows you to enjoy the wonder and mystique of the Inca Trail in an abbreviated version. You’ll follow the final day of the classic 4-day Inca Trail Trek for a legendary introduction to the majestic citadel Machu Picchu.

Wake early to start your epic day. Your Andean Discovery guide will transfer with you to the Ollantaytambo station in time for your morning train to KM 104-Chachabamba at 7,053 feet above sea level, the starting point of your trek to Machu Picchu. Depart the station, also known as Kilometer 104, and hike uphill for approximately 3 hours until you reach the Wiñaywayna campsite. Here, you’ll enjoy a box lunch at 8,858 feet above sea level and have time to explore the ruins. Then, re-energized by your meal, you’ll depart for the famous Intipunku or “Gate of the Sun”. Here, you’ll enjoy the fruit of your labors with a panoramic view of Machu Picchu’s mountaintop palace and temples. Relax as you watch as white mists swirl through the surrounding green slopes. Explore the ruins on your own before a transfer to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. Spend the afternoon as you desire, either visiting the thermal hot springs, perusing a local handicrafts market or resting after your hike.