Inca Jungle Trail

3 days | 03 days in Inca Jungle
  • Dificulty
    Moderate
  • Duration
    3 Dias
  • Altitude
    4350 m.s.n.m
Price
 
From$

Departure & Return
Cusco

Departure Time
3:00 am

Group Size
Máx. 10 personas

Language
Español / Inglés

Tour Description

Daily Statistics:

  • Optional Hike: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Guided Tour: 2 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,430 meters
  • Weather: Mild and humid
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Return: Bus + Train to Cusco
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

The Inca Jungle Trail 3D/2N will offer a unique adventure full of adrenaline, nature, and history. We will start our journey early in Cusco and drive towards Abra Málaga, located at 4,350 meters. This mountain pass will become the perfect starting point for our Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu. Along the way, we will enjoy spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and lush jungle landscapes.

We will continue descending into warmer valleys and enjoy thrilling outdoor activities that make this Inca Jungle Tour so special. As we follow the winding roads, we will feel the climate changing from the cold highlands to the tropical Amazon basin. We will reach small villages surrounded by dense vegetation and colorful birds. Later, we will relax in the soothing thermal baths of Cocalmayo hot springs, a well-deserved rest after an active day.

ItineraryIncludes ExcludesPhotosFaqsReviews

 Itinerary   

Day 1Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María – Santa Teresa | Biking and Rafting

We will start our Inca Jungle Trail adventure early in the morning from Cusco. Our vehicle will take us through the Sacred Valley, where we will enjoy a hearty breakfast surrounded by Andean peaks. Afterward, we will continue toward Abra Málaga (4,350 meters), the starting point of our journey. The mountain pass will offer breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-covered Verónica peak and the tropical forest below.

After a safety briefing, we will receive helmets, gloves, and bicycles. We will then begin our exciting downhill ride, descending for about 3 hours (55 km) through cloud forests, small waterfalls, and tropical valleys. Along the route, we will make short stops to rest, take photos, and admire the beauty of the Inca Jungle Trek.

By midday, we will reach Santa María (1,200 meters), where we will enjoy a local lunch prepared with regional ingredients. In the afternoon, those seeking more excitement may join an optional rafting experience on the Vilcanota River (US$40). The rapids range between class III and III+, making it a perfect activity for adventure lovers. The government requires participants to know how to swim for safety reasons.

We will end the day with a scenic drive to Santa Teresa, where we will have dinner and rest in a comfortable hotel surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes | Zip Line and Trekking

We will begin the second day of our Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu with a delicious breakfast in Santa Teresa. Those who wish may experience a thrilling zip line adventure, soaring over the high jungle valleys. This activity will offer incredible aerial views of the green landscapes and deep canyons.

Afterward, we will continue by transport to Hidroeléctrica, where we will start our 11 km (6.8 mi) trek toward Aguas Calientes. The path follows the train tracks and offers stunning views of waterfalls, orchids, and local wildlife.

We will stop at Intihuatana, an ancient Inca site believed to have astronomical significance. Later, we will enjoy a homemade lunch in San Gabriel, a small village surrounded by green hills and mountain views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu.

As we continue walking, the sound of the Urubamba River will accompany us until we reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to the Inca Citadel. In the evening, we will have dinner at a local restaurant and rest in our hotel, preparing for the highlight of our journey.

Day 3Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Train Station – Cusco | Guided Tour

Today, we will visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — the legendary Machu Picchu. We will leave our hotel before sunrise and choose between two options to reach the citadel. We may walk for 1 hour and 30 minutes along stone paths or take the shuttle bus (30 minutes, US$12). Both options will lead us to the entrance of the Inca Citadel.

Once inside, our professional guide will begin a 2-hour guided tour through the most impressive areas of Machu Picchu. We will explore temples, agricultural terraces, and sacred plazas while learning about the Ancient Inca civilization. The views of Huayna Picchu and the surrounding valleys will be unforgettable. Those who booked in advance may climb Huayna Picchu (optional, US$65) for a panoramic experience.

After exploring, we will descend to Aguas Calientes to have lunch and relax before our train journey back to Ollantaytambo station. From there, our private transport will take us returning to Cusco in approximately 3 hours, completing an unforgettable 3-day tour full of adventure, culture, and discovery.

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Your safety is our top priority. With strict safety protocols, comprehensive travel insurance, and 24/7 support, you can travel with peace of mind knowing you are in safe hands.




Why Choose Us?

  • Safe and Secure Travel Experiences
  • 24/7 Support During Your Trip
  • Years of Industry Experience
  • Reliable Transportation

 Includes

  • Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Abra Málaga and Santa María.
  • Safe and comfortable travel in a modern tourist vehicle.
  • Return train ticket to Cusco included (tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, with final transfer to Cusco city center).
  • Equipment and safety gear for all adventure activities.
  • Mountain bikes in excellent condition.
  • Full protective gear: full-face helmet, gloves, and knee pads.
  • Zip Line (canopy) experience in Santa Teresa.
  • Accommodation for 2 nights (one night in Santa Teresa and one night in Aguas Calientes).
  • Entrance fees and access tickets for all included sites.
  • Professional bilingual guide specialized in adventure and history.
  • Meals included: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
  • Vegetarian option available at no extra cost (upon prior request).
  • First aid assistance throughout the entire route.
  • First aid kit available during the trek.
  • Qualified staff trained to handle any minor emergencies.

 Excludes

  • List all the exclusions of the Inca Jungle Trail - Inca Jungle Trek 3D/2N
  • Private tourist transportation from Cusco to Abra Málaga and Santa María.
  • Safe and comfortable travel in a modern tourist vehicle.
  • Return train ticket to Cusco included (tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, with final transfer to Cusco city center).
  • Equipment and safety gear for all adventure activities.
  • Mountain bikes in excellent condition.
  • Full protective gear: full-face helmet, gloves, and knee pads.
  • Zip Line (canopy) experience in Santa Teresa.
  • Accommodation for 2 nights (one night in Santa Teresa and one night in Aguas Calientes).
  • Entrance fees and access tickets for all included sites.
  • Professional bilingual guide specialized in adventure and history.
  • Meals included: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.
  • Vegetarian option available at no extra cost (upon prior request).
  • First aid assistance throughout the entire route.
  • First aid kit available during the trek.
  • Qualified staff trained to handle any minor emergencies.

 Complementaries

  • Original passport (mandatory for entrance to Machu Picchu)
  • Student card (ISIC) if applicable, for entrance discounts.
  • Small backpack (20–30 L / 1,200–1,800 in³) for daily essentials.
  • Light and comfortable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather.
  • Warm jacket for cold mornings and evenings.
  • Rain poncho or waterproof jacket, especially during the rainy season (November–March).
  • Trekking shoes or hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
  • Sandals or flip-flops for hot spring visits and resting periods.
  • Swimsuit for the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa.
  • Swimsuit for the Cocalmayo hot springs in Santa Teresa.
  • Insect repellent (highly recommended for the jungle sections).
  • Personal medication and small first aid kit.
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration pack (1–2 liters).
  • Snacks such as energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits.
  • Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries.
  • Camera or smartphone to capture the scenery.
  • Portable charger or power bank for electronic devices.
  • Towel and personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, etc.).
  • Plastic bags to separate wet or dirty clothes.
  • Cash in Peruvian soles (PEN) for optional activities and small purchases.

Gallery

Tourists crossing the bridge in Cusco
View of the road in the jungle of Cusco
View of the Inca Trail in the Cusco Forest

Faq’s

 

What is the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Jungle Trail is a 3-day adventure tour that combines biking, hiking, and optional activities like zip line and rafting. It connects the high Andes with the tropical jungle before reaching Machu Picchu.

How difficult is the Inca Jungle Trek 3D/2N?

The trek is moderate. It requires basic fitness, as it includes downhill biking and several hours of walking each day. No previous experience is necessary.

What is the highest altitude on this route?

The highest point is Abra Málaga at 4,350 meters above sea level, and the lowest point is Aguas Calientes at 2,050 meters.

What type of accommodation is included?

We will stay one night in Santa Teresa and one night in Aguas Calientes, both in comfortable lodges or hotels with private bathrooms.

Is the entrance to Machu Picchu included in the price?

No, the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is not included and must be purchased separately before the tour.

Can we do optional activities like rafting or zip line?

Yes, both are optional. The rafting in the Vilcanota River costs around US$40, and the zip line in Santa Teresa is included.

When is the best time to do the Inca Jungle Trek?

The best season is the dry season, from April to October, when trails are more stable and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

Do we need to carry all our luggage during the trek?

No, we only carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. The rest can be left at the hotel or with the agency.

How do we return to Cusco after visiting Machu Picchu?

We will take the tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then continue by private transport to Cusco, taking approximately 3 hours in total.

Is travel insurance required for this tour?

Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended. It should cover adventure activities like biking and rafting.

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Sort By:RatingDate

Aurelio C

Solo Traveller

I chose the 3D/2N Inca Jungle Trek because I didn’t have many days available, and it turned out to be the best decision. In just three days, I experienced so much of Peru’s nature and culture. The bike ride through the mountains was one of the best moments of my whole trip.

July 10, 2025

Silvana A.

Solo Traveller

The 3-day Inca Jungle Trek was intense but absolutely worth it. I loved how much we experienced in such a short time: biking, jungle hiking, beautiful landscapes, and finally Machu Picchu. Every day felt like a new adventure and the scenery kept getting better and better.

February 21, 2025