2D/1N
Servicio:
Premium
Tipo de Actividad:
Tipo de caminata:
Private Tour & Semi-Private Tour
Nivel:
The 2-day Inca Jungle Tour is one of the most exciting alternative routes to Machu Picchu, ideal for travelers seeking adventure and direct contact with nature. This tour combines Andean landscapes and high jungle, including a downhill bike ride from Abra Málaga, hikes through tropical valleys, and visits to small local communities. Along the way, the climate changes, the vegetation becomes more lush, and the experience feels much more intimate and authentic than on traditional routes.
During the trip, you’ll also enjoy moments of relaxation, such as a visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs, before continuing to Hidroeléctrica and Aguas Calientes. The tour culminates with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the main areas of the historical sanctuary while the guide explains its history and significance. The 2-day Inca Jungle Tour is an excellent option for those with limited time in Cusco who want an active, natural, and unique experience on their way to one of the wonders of the world.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María – Santa Teresa (High Jungle + Adventure)
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María – Santa Teresa (High Jungle + Adventure)
- 4:00 – 4:30 AM | Pick-up in Cusco
Early departure from your hotel. The journey heads towards Abra Málaga, crossing valleys and experiencing changing climates (from Andean city to high jungle). - 7:30 – 8:30 AM | Breakfast stop (Cusco–Ollantaytambo route / intermediate zone)
Enjoy a light breakfast to fuel up. Take this opportunity to adjust your helmet, gloves, and rain gear. - 9:30 – 10:30 AM | Arrival at Abra Málaga (starting point for the bike ride)
Brief briefing from the guide: safety, braking, turns, and approximate distance. From here begins one of the most exciting parts of the Inca Jungle Trek: the descent into the cloud forest. - 10:30 – 13:30 | Bike descent into the high jungle
You’ll descend along misty paths through forests and verdant mountains. You’ll typically pass through small communities and natural viewpoints.- Tip: Maintain a safe distance between cyclists and brake smoothly, not suddenly.
- Photo tip: The best spots are usually found on sweeping curves overlooking the valley.
- 13:30 – 14:30 | Lunch in Santa María
A hearty meal (rice, chicken, salad, etc.). Short break. - 15:00 – 18:00 | Transfer/Hike to Santa Teresa
On the 2-day Inca Jungle Trek, this part may combine sections using local transport with hiking along trails. The route changes depending on weather and logistics, but the goal is to reach Santa Teresa. - 18:30 – 20:00 | Cocalmayo Hot Springs (optional, highly recommended)
A classic trip. Hot water, relaxed atmosphere, and perfect for loosening up your legs. - Bring sandals and a light towel.
- 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Dinner and rest in Santa Teresa
Overnight in a hostel/guesthouse. Pack a small backpack for the next day (just the essentials).
Day 2: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
Day 2: Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
- 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Early breakfast
Something energizing (bread, fruit, mate). This day is more about hiking and keeping to a schedule. - 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Route to the Hydroelectric Plant (depending on the option chosen)
- This could be a short transport ride followed by a hike, or a continuous hike along trails and the main road.
- 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Hike from the Hydroelectric Plant to Aguas Calientes (along the railway tracks, with caution)
This section is very popular: you walk alongside the train line (always within the designated area and following the signs). It’s a beautiful route through the valley, with lush vegetation and the sound of the river. - 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Lunch in Aguas Calientes
Eat and settle in. If your Machu Picchu ticket is for an early start the next day, some 2D/1N tours start on Day 2; others start very early on Day 3. - 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM | Ascent to Machu Picchu + Guided Tour
- The ascent can be by bus (faster) or on foot (more demanding).
- Guided tour of the main points: viewpoints, agricultural areas, urban sectors, history, and photo recommendations.
- 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Descent to Aguas Calientes and free time
Shop for snacks, small souvenirs, or simply relax. - 7:00 PM – Night | Return (train or bus + transfer), depending on the package
The return trip depends entirely on your tour: some include the train, others combine a return bus from Hidroeléctrica and then a bus to Cusco.
INCLUDES
✅ INCLUDES
- Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco
- Bicycle and helmet for the descent from Abra Málaga
- Professional guide throughout the tour
- 1 night’s accommodation (Santa Teresa)
- 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner
- Ongoing assistance during the tour
- Visit to the Santa Teresa hot springs (optional)
DOES NOT INCLUDE
❌ DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Entrance to the Cocalmayo hot springs
- Lunch on the second day
- Bus to and from Machu Picchu
- Return train
- Personal expenses and tips
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
- Acclimatize in Cusco at least one day before the tour
- Wear comfortable, layered clothing (cold in the morning, hot in the jungle)
- Bring a raincoat or poncho
- Wear trekking shoes or sneakers with good traction
- Bring a small, lightweight backpack For the tour:
- Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
- Bring cash in soles for personal expenses and entrance fees.
- Stay hydrated throughout the tour.
- Always follow the guide’s instructions, especially during the bike ride.
- Purchase or confirm your Machu Picchu entrance ticket in advance.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2-day Inca Jungle tour suitable for beginners?
- Yes, it’s recommended for people with basic fitness. The bike ride is downhill, and the hikes are at a moderate pace.
What’s the best time to do the Inca Jungle tour?
- It can be done year-round, but the best season is from April to October, when there’s less rain and better trail conditions.
Is the Machu Picchu entrance included?
- It depends on the tour operator. It’s included in some tours and paid separately in others, so it’s recommended to confirm before booking.
Where do we spend the night during the tour?
- Generally in Santa Teresa or Aguas Calientes, in basic and comfortable accommodations.
Is cycling experience necessary?
- It’s not mandatory, but it is important to know how to ride a bike and follow the guide’s safety instructions.
Is Machu Picchu visited on the second day?
- In most 2-day programs, yes. However, some operators schedule the visit very early the next day, so it’s crucial to check the itinerary.
What differentiates the Inca Jungle route from other routes to Machu Picchu?
- It’s an alternative route that combines adventure, nature, and contact with the high jungle, unlike the more traditional, historical routes.
