Trekking through the High Jungle and sections of the original Inca Trail
The second day is the heart of the trek. After the downhill bike ride on day 1, the group ventures into the Andean cloud forest, combining tropical nature, Inca history, and contact with rural communities before continuing towards the Machu Picchu area.
🌄 Morning: Start from Santa María
📍 Starting Point: Santa Maria
⏰ Typical Departure: 6:30 – 7:30 a.m.
After breakfast:
- Quick itinerary review.
- Adjusting backpacks.
- Start of the trek with a gradual ascent.
The first part is usually uphill, but not extremely technical. The goal is to gain altitude to access ancient Inca trails with panoramic views.
🏔️ Original sections of the Inca Trail
One of the most special moments of the day is walking along authentic sections of the ancient Inca Trail.
Along these sections you will observe:
- Original pre-Hispanic cobblestones.
- Stone retaining walls.
- Engineering adapted to the mountainous terrain.
- Sweeping views of the Urubamba River valley.
These segments are not as extensive as the classic Inca Trail, but they do offer a strong historical and cultural component.
🌿 Landscape and Biodiversity
Throughout the day you will experience:
- Dense cloud forest.
- Coffee plantations.
- Fruit trees.
- Warm and humid climate.
It is common to find:
- Tropical butterflies.
- Local birds.
- Lush vegetation.
The ecological transition that began the previous day is consolidated here.
🍽️ Lunch en route
Lunch is usually served at:
- A local restaurant along the way.
- A small rural community.
- An area midway towards Santa Teresa.
It’s time to:
- Rest your legs.
- Stay hydrated.
- Prepare for the second part of the trek.
🥾 Afternoon: Descent towards Santa Teresa
After lunch:
- Easier or downhill section.
- Rural trails and local roads. Passing through small villages.
- The weather is usually warmer than in the morning.
🛏️ Arrival in Santa Teresa
📍 Destination: Santa Teresa
Here:
- Check-in at accommodation.
- Free time.
- Group dinner.
Some agencies allow you to visit the hot springs this afternoon, although it is more common to do so the following day.
📊 Day 2 Summary
| Element | Approximate Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance | 12–16 km |
| Duration | 6–7 hours |
| Elevation change | Moderate |
| Weather | Warm and humid |
| Highlight | Original Inca Trail |
🌊 Day 3 of the Inca Jungle Trek in Detail
Zipline, Hot Springs, and Arrival in Aguas Calientes 🪂♨️🚶♂️
The third day is more flexible and combines optional adventure with relaxation before arriving in Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
🪂 Optional Activity: Zipline in Santa Teresa
Many travelers choose to start the day with a zipline.
Includes:
- Short transfer.
- Safety instructions.
- Harness and helmet.
- Several ziplines suspended above the valley.
Approximate total duration: 1.5–2 hours.
This is an optional activity and is usually paid separately.
♨️ Cocalmayo Hot Springs
📍 Cocalmayo
These natural hot springs are one of the most pleasant spots on the tour.
Features:
- Tiered pools.
- Clear, warm water.
- Mountainous setting.
- Ideal for relaxing muscles.
Many groups visit Cocalmayo before heading to the Hydroelectric Plant.
🚐 Transfer to the Hydroelectric Plant
After the activities:
- Transfer by vehicle.
- Lunch nearby.
Preparation for the final hike.
🚶♂️ Hike from the Hydroelectric Plant to Aguas Calientes
Approximate distance: 10–12 km
Duration: 2.5–3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
This section is:
- Flat.
- Parallel to the train tracks.
- Surrounded by jungle vegetation.
- With views of the river.
It’s an easy but long hike.
🌄 Arrival in Aguas Calientes
📍 Aguas Calientes
Upon arrival:
- Hotel check-in.
- Final group dinner.
- Information session for Machu Picchu entrance the following day.
It’s important to get a good night’s rest.
📊 Day 3 Summary
| Element | Approximate Detail |
|---|---|
| Activities | Zipline / Hot springs |
| Hiking distance | 10–12 km |
| Total duration | 6–8 hours |
| Difficulty | Low–moderate |
| Destination | Aguas Calientes |
🎯 Comparison Day 2 vs Day 3
| Aspect | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Physical intensity | Moderate | Low–moderate |
| Historical component | High | Low |
| Adventure component | Medium | High (zipline) |
| Relaxation | Low | High (hot springs) |
The second day offers a blend of history and nature with sections of the ancient Inca Trail and jungle landscapes. The third day balances adventure and relaxation before arriving in Aguas Calientes.
Both days prepare body and mind for the culminating moment at Machu Picchu, combining culture, biodiversity, and adrenaline into a complete experience.
