Recommended Total Time in Cusco Before and After the Inca Jungle Trail
We know that planning your days in Cusco before and after the Inca Jungle Trail can be confusing. We promise to help you calculate the ideal amount of time to acclimatize, enjoy yourself, and avoid health risks. Here you’ll discover how many days you really need, what to do before and after, and how to optimize your itinerary.
🏔️ What is the Inca Jungle Trail and why does it affect your planning?
The Inca Jungle Trail is an alternative route to Machu Picchu that combines mountain biking, trekking, zip-lining, and hot springs.
It starts in Cusco (3,400 meters above sea level), so acclimatization is key to avoiding altitude sickness.
📅 How Many Days Are Recommended in Cusco?
✅ Before the Inca Jungle Trail: 2 to 3 days minimum
Why?
- Altitude acclimatization
- Jet lag adjustment
- Ticket arrangements
- Reduced altitude sickness risk
Ideal recommendation: 3 full days.
✅ After the Inca Jungle Trek: 1 to 2 days
Why stay longer?
- Physical recovery
- Visit archaeological sites
- Enjoy local cuisine
- Shopping and souvenirs
Ideal recommendation: 2 days if your flight schedule allows.
🗺️ Ideal Itinerary
| Phase | Days | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival in Cusco | Day 1 | Rest and acclimatization |
| Acclimatization | Days 2 | City Tour or Valle Sagrado |
| Preparation | Days 3 | Free day |
| Inka Jungle | 4 days | Adventure to Machu Picchu |
| Post-Trek | 1–2 days | Recovery and sightseeing |
💳 Transactional Value: Actual Costs
✔️ The Inka Jungle tour typically includes:
- Transp trainortation Cusco–Abra Málaga
- Bicycle and equipment
- Basic accommodation
- Meals during the trek
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Return
❌ Not included:
- International flight
- Hotels in Cusco before/after
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Premium personal equipment
💰 Additional budget in Cusco:
- 3-star hotel: $40–$80 per night
- Meals: $10–$25 per day
- Tours Additional costs: $15–$60
🌤️ Best Time to Plan More Days
- May to October: Dry weather, best for trekking.
- November to March: Rainy season; add 1 extra day for possible delays.
🧳 Pro-Tips for Foreigners
🫁 1. Altitude Sickness
- Arrive 48–72 hours before the trek.
- Avoid alcohol on the first day.
- Stay hydrated.
🧥 2. Weather
- Cold mornings, warm afternoons.
- Layering is essential.
💊 3. Health
- Bring altitude sickness medication.
- Travel insurance is recommended.
🔋 4. Technology
- Bring a power bank.
- Limited internet access outside of Cusco.
🗓️ 5. Return Flight
- Do not book an international flight on the same day you return from Machu Picchu.
The total recommended time in Cusco before and after the Inca Jungle Trek is 7 to 9 days for a safe, comfortable, and complete experience. A rushed itinerary increases the risk of altitude sickness and reduces your enjoyment. Plan well and maximize your Machu Picchu adventure.
