Departure & Return

Cusco

Departure Time

3:00 am

Group Size

Máx. 10 personas

Language

Español / Inglés

Tour Description

Daily Statistics:

Maximum altitude: 2,430 meters above sea level
Minimum altitude: 2,040 meters above sea level
Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles (optional walk)
Temperature: 12°C – 24°C / 54°F – 75°F
Difficulty: Easy – Cultural

We will experience the ultimate adventure on the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu, a perfect blend of nature, adrenaline, and history. This exciting route will combine mountain biking, hiking, rafting, and zip lining as we follow the ancient Inca paths through the tropical highlands of Cusco. From the snow-capped peaks of Abra Málaga, at 4,350 meters, we will descend into the warm jungle valleys filled with exotic vegetation and wildlife. Every moment will connect us with the beauty and energy of the Andean landscape.

We will enjoy refreshing thermal baths in Cocalmayo’s hot spring after a day of adventure on the Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu. Along the route, we will pass through small towns, local plantations, and rivers, discovering the vibrant life of the Peruvian jungle. Our journey will include optional zip lining and rafting activities for those seeking even more excitement.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María

We will leave Cusco early in the morning and drive towards Abra Malaga, located at 4,350 meters. The scenery will change from Andean peaks to cloud forests filled with mist and greenery. After a safety briefing, we will begin our downhill biking adventure of 55 kilometers. We will ride for around three hours, feeling the mountain wind and admiring waterfalls, valleys, and small villages.

We will reach Santa María around midday to enjoy a local lunch and some rest. In the afternoon, we will have the option to experience rafting on the Vilcanota River with class III and III+ rapids for an extra cost. This thrilling activity will give us an exciting start to our Inca Jungle Tour. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner and stay overnight in a local lodge.

Day 2Santa María – Santa Teresa (Inca Jungle Trail Hike)

After breakfast, we will begin hiking along the scenic Inca Jungle Trail. The path will lead us through tropical plantations of coffee, coca, and bananas. We will pass local farms, cross small rivers, and walk along ancient Inca paths surrounded by dense vegetation. Our guide will explain the local flora, fauna, and traditional customs of the Andean people.

After several hours of trekking, we will reach the town of Santa Teresa, known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Here, we may visit the Cocalmayo hot spring (entrance not included) and relax in its soothing thermal baths surrounded by mountains. Later, we will enjoy a delicious dinner and rest at our hotel.

Day 3Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes

We will start the day with pure adrenaline, taking part in a zip lining activity above the jungle valley. This optional experience will allow us to glide through the air surrounded by green hills and tropical forest. Afterward, we will take a short transfer to Hidroeléctrica, the starting point of our next section.

From there, we will begin a 19-kilometer (12-mile) trek following the train tracks towards Aguas Calientes. Along the way, we will stop for lunch at a family house in San Gabriel, enjoying a homemade Andean meal. The trail will offer stunning views of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, hidden between the mountains. We will arrive at Aguas Calientes in the evening to rest at our hotel and prepare for the visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 4Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

We will wake up early and start our ascent to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. We may choose to walk for 1.5 hours or take the bus service (US$12 each way, not included). Once inside, we will enjoy a two-hour guided tour visiting temples, agricultural terraces, and sacred viewpoints.

After the guided exploration, we will have free time to explore more or climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, at extra cost). We will then return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train back to Cusco. Please note that the entrance fee and train ticket are included in the package. This final day will close our Inca Jungle Trek with unforgettable memories and incredible views.

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Price

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Includes

Tourist transportation from Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María
Professional bilingual guide (English / Spanish)
Mountain bikes in excellent condition
Full safety equipment: helmet, gloves, knee pads, and waterproof jacket
Zip Line activity included
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Cusco (via Ollantaytambo + transfer to Cusco)
Entrance ticket and guided tour to Machu Picchu
3 nights of accommodation (Santa María, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes)
Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners
Vegetarian option available at no extra cost
First aid kit and permanent assistance during the trek

Excludes

Entrance fee to Cocalmayo Hot Springs
Rafting on the Vilcanota River (optional, US$ 40)
Bus ticket Machu Picchu ↔ Aguas Calientes (US$ 12 each way)
Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional, US$ 65)
First and last lunch
Additional beverages (water, soft drinks, alcoholic drinks)
Travel or medical insurance (mandatory)
Tips for guides and staff

Complementaries

Original passport (required for entrance to Machu Picchu)
Small backpack (20–30 L / 5–8 gal) for daily essentials
Comfortable hiking shoes or trekking boots
Light clothing for the jungle and warm layers for the Andes
Rain jacket or poncho (especially from November to March)
Hat, cap, and sunglasses for sun protection
Insect repellent and sunscreen (high SPF recommended)
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack (at least 1.5 L / 0.4 gal)
Personal toiletries and quick-dry towel
Swimsuit for Cocalmayo hot springs

Gallery

Majestic jaguar resting in the Manu forest

Faq’s

What is the total distance of the Inca Jungle Trek?

The total distance is approximately 90 kilometers, combining biking and hiking over four days.

What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point is Abra Málaga at 4,350 meters above sea level, on the first day.

Is the Inca Jungle Trek difficult?

The trek has a moderate level of difficulty. It combines biking, hiking, and optional adventure sports like rafting and zip lining.

What kind of accommodation will we have?

We will stay in basic but comfortable lodges or hostels in Santa María, Santa Teresa, and Aguas Calientes. Each includes a private or shared bathroom.

Are meals included in the tour?

Yes, the tour includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. A vegetarian option is also available at no extra cost.

Do we need travel insurance for this trek?

Yes, travel or medical insurance is mandatory for the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu. It should cover adventure activities.

Is rafting or zip lining included?

Zip lining is included in the package, while rafting on the Vilcanota River is optional for US$ 40.

Can we visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

Yes, both are optional hikes with an extra cost of US$ 65. Availability is limited, so early booking is recommended.

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

The best time is from April to October, during the dry season, with clear skies and pleasant weather.

What should we bring to the trek?

Bring your passport, hiking shoes, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable bottle, and swimsuit for the hot springs.

Inca Jungle Trek

Tour Description