Inca Trail Express 1 Day Private Tour to Machu Picchu

04:00–04:30 – Pickup from hotel in Cusco and Transfer to Ollantaytambo station 1h30min

05:10 – 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.

After 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.

The 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.

Around 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.

Bus 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.

Train 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.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your private transport will take you back to Cusco, arriving around 9:30–10:00 PM.