Service:
Premium
Type of Activity:
Type of hike:
Group service
Level:
The 4-day City Tour + Inca Jungle program is the perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure in Cusco. It begins with a historical introduction that allows you to understand the Inca and colonial legacy before embarking on an active experience that connects the Andes with the high jungle. It’s an ideal option for travelers seeking something more dynamic than the traditional tour, but without the need for long hikes like those on the classic Inca Trail.
During the Inca Jungle route to Machu Picchu, the journey transforms into a progressive experience where the landscape changes dramatically and each day offers different activities. More than just reaching the Inca citadel, the trek becomes an essential part of the adventure, combining sports, local interaction, and spectacular views. It’s a highly sought-after alternative for those who want to experience Machu Picchu in an active, flexible, and unique way from Cusco.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco City Tour
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco City Tour (Acclimatization + Living Culture)
Morning (Recommended):
- Pick-up at your hotel in Cusco (city center).
- Gentle walk through Cusco’s Historic Center, ideal for acclimatization: Plaza de Armas, Cathedral (optional), and Hatun Rumiyoc Street (the famous 12-angled stone).
- Time to try coca tea or local coffee (practical tip: stay hydrated and eat light).
Afternoon (Classic City Tour):
Guided visit to the main archaeological sites:
- Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun) (depending on ticket/schedule)
- Sacsayhuaman (top views of Cusco)
- Q’enqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay
Return to Cusco and recommendations for getting an early night’s rest (the adventure begins tomorrow).
Day 2 — Inka Jungle
Day 2: Inca Jungle – Biking + Trekking (Cusco → Abra Málaga → Santa María)
Very early: Departure by tourist transport from Cusco to Abra Málaga (high Andean region).
- Short stops for photos and snacks.
Biking Adventure (downhill):
- Begin biking at Abra Málaga with a descent through Andean landscapes and a gradual entry into the cloud forest.
- Safety equipment and a briefing before departure.
Local Lunch:
- On the trail or in a village along the way to the jungle (simple, home-cooked, and energizing food).
Trekking to Santa María:
- Hike along trails with warmer vegetation, rivers, and cultivated fields.
- Arrival in Santa María in the late afternoon/evening.
- Dinner and rest.
Recommended optional activity: River rafting (weather and river level permitting).
Day 3: Saint Mary → Saint Teresa
Day 3: Santa María → Santa Teresa
Early breakfast.
- Trekking with stops to explore the area: coffee, cacao, and tropical fruit plantations (many routes include a simple tasting).
- Guide explains local agriculture and life in the high jungle.
Trail to Santa Teresa:
- Streets of hiking through the valley and along trails.
- Lunch en route.
Free afternoon / optional:
- Visit to the Cocalmayo hot springs (very popular for its pools and natural surroundings).
- Overnight in Santa Teresa, dinner, and briefing for the following day.
Day 4: Santa Teresa → Hydroelectric Plant
Day 4: Santa Teresa → Hydroelectric Plant → Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu (full day)
Very early departure.
- Short transfer or walk to the Hydroelectric Plant, a classic starting point for continuing to Aguas Calientes by walking along the road (a route frequently used by travelers).
- Walk to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo): Arrival in time for lunch and preparation for your visit.
Visit to Machu Picchu:
- Ascent by bus or according to the option booked.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (circuit subject to availability) with historical explanation + time for photos.
- Return to Aguas Calientes and return trip (train/bus according to package).
INCLUDES
✅INCLUDES
🏨 Services
- Tourist transportation during the City Tour
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English)
- Ongoing assistance throughout the activity
🚐 Inka Jungle Transportation and Logistics
- Tourist transportation Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María
- Internal transfers along the route (as per the program)
- Complete logistical coordination to Machu Picchu
🚴 Adventure Activities
- Professional downhill bike at Abra Málaga
- Guided trekking along Andean and high jungle trails
- Technical briefing and safety briefing
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Cusco Tourist Ticket (BTC) for the City Tour
- Entrance to Qorikancha (if not specified in the package)
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day in Aguas Calientes
- Bus to/from Machu Picchu (if you choose the hiking option)
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Optional activities (rafting, ziplining, Cocalmayo hot springs)
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips for guide and support staff
- Personal expenses (drinks, additional snacks, souvenirs)
RECOMMENDATIONS
💡RECOMMENDATIONS
- Lightweight and comfortable backpack (30–40L maximum)
- Layered clothing (cold mornings in the Andes, warm weather in the rainforest)
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Trekking boots with good grip
- Sandals for relaxing at your accommodation
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent (very important in the high jungle)
- Reusable water bottle
- Original documents (passport or ID)
- Cash for additional expenses
Pro tip: Avoid overloading your backpack. The route combines biking and trekking, so mobility is key to enjoying the experience.
FAQ´S
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Inca Jungle Trek difficult?
It’s moderately difficult. It doesn’t require prior technical experience, but good basic fitness is necessary. The biking day is primarily downhill.
- Is it necessary to acclimatize in Cusco?
Yes. It’s recommended to arrive at least one day before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude (3,400 m).
- Can it be done year-round?
Yes, although November to March is the rainy season. It can still be done, but with extra caution and appropriate equipment.
- Does it include the entrance to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the package includes the official ticket, subject to availability.
- Where does the tour end?
It ends in Cusco after the return trip by train and ground transportation.
- Is it better than the traditional Inca Trail?
They are different experiences. The Inca Jungle Trek is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, biking, and trekking combined before arriving at Machu Picchu.
