Differences Between Inka Jungle Tours (With/Without Rafting, With/Without Ziplining)
We know that choosing between Inka Jungle Tours with rafting, with ziplining, or the classic version can be confusing. Not all agencies offer the same experience, and the price varies depending on the activities. Here you’ll discover the real differences, how much each version costs, and which one best suits your needs and budget.
🌎 What is Inka Jungle Tours and why are there different versions?
Inka Jungle Tours is a 3- or 4-day alternative tour that combines:
- Biking downhill
- Trekking
- Rainforest exploration
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
Depending on the agency, it may or may not include:
Rafting on the Urubamba River
Ziplining in Santa Teresa
⚖️ Inka Jungle Tours: What Really Changes?
🚵 Classic Version (without rafting or ziplining)
- Includes biking + trekking + Machu Picchu.
- This is the most economical option.
🌊 Inca Jungle with Rafting
- Add 1–2 hours of moderate rafting (level II–III depending on the season).
🪂 Inca Jungle with Zipline
- Includes a zipline circuit in Santa Teresa (4–6 cables).
🔥 Complete Version (rafting + zipline)
- The most adventurous and complete experience.
📊 Comparison Chart
| Versión | Average Price | Difficulty | Duration | Best Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | USD 450–550 | Moderate | 3–4 days | April–October |
| With Rafting | USD 480–600 | Moderate | 4 days | May–September |
| With Zipline | USD 480–600 | Moderate | 4 days | Year-round |
| Complete | USD 520–700 | Moderate–High | 4 days | May–September |
🛠️ How does each additional activity work?
🌊 Rafting
- Typically done on the first day near Cusco or in the Sacred Valley.
- Includes helmet, life jacket, and certified guide.
River level:
- Dry season: gentler
- Rainy season: more intense
🪂 Zipline
- Located in Santa Teresa.
- A circuit of cables suspended above the valley.
- No prior experience required.
📋 Requirements and Physical Condition
- Usual minimum age: 12–14 years
- Not recommended for people with serious injuries
- Maximum weight for ziplining: usually 100–110 kg (check with the agency)
No prior experience is necessary, but you must be tolerant of:
- Humid weather
- Long hikes
- Uneven terrain
💰 Transaction Value
💲 Additional Activities
- Rafting: +USD 30–50
- Ziplining: +USD 30–50
- Both: +USD 60–90
🌦️ Best time for each activity
☀️ Dry season (April–October)
- Better visibility
- More stable trails
- More controlled rafting
🌧️ Rainy season (November–March)
More adrenaline rush on rafting
More slippery trails
Fewer tourists
🎒 Pro-Tips for Foreigners
🎒 Essential Gear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing
- Strong insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Waterproof bag for electronics
🏔️ Altitude
Acclimate for at least 1–2 days in Cusco before the tour.
🌡️ Climate
Warm days in the jungle (25–30°C), cool nights at higher altitudes.
💡 Strategic Tip
If you’re looking to save money → Classic version.
If you’re looking for a complete experience and more value for your trip → Version with rafting and ziplining.
🧠 Which version to choose based on your profile?
- Backpacker on a budget → Classic
- Water adventure lover → With rafting
- Looking for adrenaline without getting wet → With ziplining
- One-off, all-inclusive trip → Combined version
