Service:
Premium
Type of Activity:
Type of hike:
Group service
Level:
The Cusco City Tour + 3-Day Inca Jungle Tour is the perfect combination for those seeking a balance of history, culture, and adventure in a short amount of time. The initial exploration of Cusco allows you to understand its Andean and colonial heritage before embarking on a much more dynamic experience. Unlike other traditional routes, this option blends high-altitude landscapes with a transition into the jungle, creating a breathtaking natural contrast that is felt at every stage of the journey.
The Inca Jungle Tour stands out for its active and flexible approach: it combines sports, hiking, and scenic routes to reach Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. It is an ideal alternative for travelers who prefer a less conventional route, with greater interaction with local communities and diverse natural landscapes. In just three days, you’ll experience an intense adventure that combines cultural connection with unique views of the southern Andes of Peru.
ITINERARY
City Tour Cusco
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 — Cusco City Tour (half day) + acclimatization afternoon
Goal of the day: to see the essentials without exhausting yourself (cultural morning, relaxed afternoon).
🥗Breakfast + checklist
- Sunscreen + hat/cap (the sun at altitude is deceiving).
- Anxiety medication and bandages (just in case).
- Layers of clothing: t-shirt + fleece + windbreaker.
📌Pick-up/Meeting
- You will be picked up or met in the city center (Plaza or nearby).
- Tip: bring coins for restrooms or quick purchases.
1. Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun)
- What to do: walk slowly and admire the stonework; compare it with the colonial structure above.
- Mini tip: this is a good time for the guide to explain the history without leaving you feeling breathless, as you might at Sacsayhuaman.
Transfer to Sacsayhuamán
- As you ascend, the cold and wind become more noticeable.
2. Sacsayhuamán
Recommended walking route (short):
- Main viewpoint (view of Cusco).
- Walk along the walls (enormous blocks).
- Group photo at the top.
Tip: If you get dizzy from the altitude, breathe through your nose and speak little while walking.
3. Q’enqo
- What to see: carved channels and an amphitheater.
- Best idea: listen to the explanation and then have 5 minutes to explore at a leisurely pace.
4. Puka Pukara
- Short stop: panoramic photos + quick explanation.
- Mini tip: it’s often windy here: have a windbreaker handy.
5. Tambomachay
- What to see: fountains/waterfalls and walls.
- Tip: If you have a water bottle, this is a good place to rehydrate.
Lunch
- Prioritize simple food: soup + rice + chicken, or something light.
- Avoid alcohol today (altitude + dehydration = a bad combination).
Easy afternoon (choose 1-2 things, not everything)
- Option 1 (relaxed): San Blas + viewpoint + coffee.
- Option 2 (local): San Pedro Market (fruits, bread, juices).
- Option 3 (if you feel up to it): Stroll along Hatun Rumiyoq Street (12-angled stone).
Early dinner + preparation for Inca Jungle Trek
Backpack checklist (for Day 2):
- Sneakers with good traction (if you have them, bring a second pair).
- Poncho/raincoat.
- Insect repellent (very important starting Day 2).
- Headlamp or phone flashlight + power bank.
- Cash in small bills.
- ID (passport or national ID card, as applicable).
Night | Go to bed early.
- Your body will thank you the next day.
Day 2 — Inka Jungle
Day 2 — Inca Jungle: Cusco → Abra Málaga → Bike → Santa María
Goal of the day: challenging adventure + arrival in warmer weather.
Hotel pickup
- Usually early due to the distance.
- Tip: lay out your clothes for the day the night before.
Travel Cusco → Sacred Valley (brief stops)
- Typical stop for restroom/snack.
- Advice: if you get carsick, sit near the front and don’t use your phone.
Ascent to Abra Málaga
- Climate change: high Andean cold.
- Dress warmly; the contrast with the jungle is striking.
Arrival + equipment + briefing
- You will be provided with: helmet + gloves (sometimes) + protective gear.
Key briefing:
- How to brake.
- Distance between cyclists.
- Guide signals.
Downhill bike ride (Abra Málaga → jungle area)
- What you’ll feel: cold at first, then warm.
Typical highlights:
- Natural viewpoints.
- Small towns/roadside.
Practical tips:
- Don’t overtake unless there’s a clear path.
- Keep your hands steady but relaxed.
- Drink water at every break, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Lunch
- Home-cooked meal at a local restaurant.
Transfer to Santa María + check-in
- Settle into your accommodation (basic, comfortable).
Dinner
- Take the opportunity to charge your phone if you can.
- Tip: Dry your wet items (socks/gloves) if it rained.
Day 3 Briefing
- Exact departure time.
- What to pack for the day (and what to leave at your accommodation).
Rest
- The heat here can make it difficult to sleep: drink water and ventilate your room if possible.
Day 3: Inka Jungle
Day 3 — Inca Jungle: Santa María → Santa Teresa → Hydroelectric Plant → Aguas Calientes
Goal of the day: long hike + arrive in Aguas Calientes ready for Machu Picchu.
Breakfast
- Prioritize: carbohydrates + protein (bread/oatmeal/egg).
- Tip: apply insect repellent early in the morning.
Hike Santa María → (jungle route)
- Trails with ascents and descents.
Typical stops:
- Valley viewpoints (photos).
- Small farms (sometimes they show you coffee/cacao).
Recommended pace:
- 25–30 min walking + 5 min short break.
Long break + snack
- Fruit/cookie/water.
- The sun is strong here: hat and sunscreen again.
Arrival in the area near Santa Teresa
- It feels more humid and hot.
Lunch
- Eat enough, but not too heavy (you’ll be walking soon).
Optional: Santa Teresa hot springs
- Ideal for relaxing your legs.
- Tip: Sandals are helpful (otherwise, be careful).
Transfer to Hidroeléctrica (as per the itinerary)
- Some people walk, others take short transport.
Hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
- Mostly flat route alongside the road (not technical, but long).
Key tips:
- Maintain a steady pace; don’t run at the beginning.
Apply insect repellent every 2–3 hours. - If it rains: have a poncho ready and your backpack protected.
Arrival in Aguas Calientes
- Check-in at your hotel/hostel.
- Quick shower + dry clothes.
Dinner + final briefing for Machu Picchu
You will receive confirmation of:
- Exact departure time (very early).
- Whether you are going by bus or on foot.
- What to pack (only the essentials).
Morning Preparation
- Have ready: ID, ticket, water, snacks, rain gear, flashlight.
Night | Sleep
- Real tip: Set two alarms (phone + another alarm).
INCLUDES
✅INCLUDES
- Tourist transportation throughout the tour.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English).
- Guided tour of the main archaeological sites.
- Ongoing assistance from the tour operator.
- ⚠ Generally does NOT include the Cusco Tourist Ticket or entrance to Qoricancha (these are paid separately).
- Professional mountain bike.
- Safety equipment: helmet and gloves (depending on the operator, knee/elbow pads may also be included).
- Guide specializing in adventure activities.
- Lunch and dinner.
- First aid kit.
- Informative briefing for the visit to Machu Picchu.
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Entrance to Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun).
- Entrance to the Santa Teresa hot springs (optional activity).
- Rafting activity (if not specified as included in the program).
- Entrance to Machu Picchu (not normally included in the 3-day program).
- Consettur bus Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Return train from Aguas Calientes.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary (dinners on the first day, personal snacks, extra drinks).
- Tips for guides, drivers, or support staff.
- Travel insurance or personal medical assistance.
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, etc.).
RECOMMENDATIONS
💡RECOMMENDATIONS
🌄 General Recommendations
- Pre-tour acclimatization: If possible, arrive in Cusco at least one day before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude. Walk slowly and avoid strenuous activity on the first day.
- Constant hydration: Drink water throughout the tour, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Adequate rest: Getting a good night’s sleep before starting the Inca Jungle Trek will make a big difference in your energy levels.
- Travel insurance: Always recommended for adventure activities.
🎒 What to Bring
- Trekking shoes with good grip (not brand new, to avoid blisters).
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for the day, and a jacket for the morning/evening.
- Raincoat or rain poncho (the weather changes quickly).
- Insect repellent (very important in the jungle).
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Small backpack (approximately 25–30L) for hiking.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Headlamp or a fully charged cell phone flashlight. Original
- ID or passport.
- Cash in small bills.
🌿 Practical Tips
- Bring a small bag for wet or dirty clothes.
- Protect your electronic devices with a waterproof case.
- Eat light meals and avoid excessive alcohol during the tour.
- Respect the natural environment and leave no trace.
FAQ´S
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to be in good physical condition to do the 3-day Inca Jungle Trek?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended. It’s not a technical trek, but it does include mountain biking and long hikes. If you exercise occasionally, you’ll be able to do it without any problem, maintaining your own pace.
2. Is prior cycling experience required?
It’s not required. Before starting the descent by bike, a safety briefing and basic practice session are given. The route is mostly downhill, but you should always follow the guide’s instructions.
3. Is the entrance to Machu Picchu included in the 3-day tour?
Generally, it’s not included in the 3-day program unless the operator specifically indicates it. It’s important to confirm this detail before booking.
4. How difficult is the hike from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes?
It’s a long hike but of moderate difficulty. The terrain is mostly flat, following the railway line. The most challenging aspects are usually the duration and the humid weather.
5. Can I do the tour during the rainy season?
Yes, the tour operates year-round. Between November and March, there may be rain, so it’s essential to bring a raincoat and appropriate clothing.
6. What if I’m affected by the altitude in Cusco?
The City Tour takes place on the first day to allow for gradual acclimatization. It’s recommended to rest, stay well-hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or alcohol on the first day.
