Machu Picchu had been a long-held dream destination before the chance to visit materialized last fall. Unable to commit to the renowned four-day Inca Trail trek, I opted instead to embark from KM 104 of the Cusco-Machu Picchu railway for a guided 15km day hike to the ancient Incan citadel with Kenko Adventures. For those weighing a multi-day trek against a one day Inca Trail tour option preceded by train travel, here are five compelling considerations:
Unparalleled Panoramic Perspectives
While Machu Picchu itself is an awe-inspiring marvel, the primary draw transcends this iconic archaeological site. The Sacred Valley’s full scenic splendor is invisible from any train window or tour bus.
Our journey unveiled vistas along the Andean mountainside overlooking the Urubamba River, the sacred ruins of Chachabamba, a waterfall-side luncheon respite, and exploration of the ancient agricultural terraces of Winay Wayna before our cloud forest descent towards the Sun Gate’s ethereal, rainbow-tinged mists.
Inclement Weather Resilience
The Andean climate is unpredictable, with rapidly shifting cloud cover and precipitation patterns. For those intent on capturing Machu Picchu’s quintessential panoramic views, a one-day hike doubles your chances of favorable weather unveiling the iconic scenery. Our group was fortunate to have afternoon showers clear just as we concluded the trek, rewarding us with an unspoiled, crowd-free vista of the sun-drenched ruins. Conversely, the next morning’s downpours imparted a mystical ambiance as the ancient complex emerged from low-hanging clouds.
Maximizing Limited Timeframes
With finite travel days, you may be facing difficult sacrifices between Peru’s multitude of attractions. The one-day Inca Trail allows you to experience Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes and arrive at the sacred finale via the legendary Incan route without overly constraining your itinerary.
A Gentler Introduction to Trekking
If high-altitude, multi-day mountain trekking seems a daunting initiation, the one-day Inca Trail presents a rewarding entry point.
You can earn your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate after ascending the iconic Monkey Steps, with just enough challenging Incan staircases to appreciate the trail’s difficulty without being overwhelmed as a novice hiker.
Optimizing Machu Picchu Exploration
Day hikers typically arrive as the morning crowds begin dispersing, affording ample time for unobstructed exploration and photography before descending to Aguas Calientes.
You can then return well-rested the next day for a guided tour or self-guided immersion amongst the ruins.
Find out more by visiting Kenko Adventures agency’s website. Their help and experience for this alternative tour to visit the Inca Trail is unparalleled, I’d highly recommend it for anyone interested in this alternative to hike this path in such a short fashion.