4D/3N
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The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most dynamic and comprehensive routes to reach the citadel, ideal for those seeking adventure while still enjoying nature and culture. The trek combines downhill biking, hiking through tropical valleys and Andean trails, passing through local villages and landscapes that transition from the cold of the highlands to the warm climate of the jungle. Along the way, you’ll visit areas such as Abra Málaga, Santa María, Santa Teresa, and Hidroeléctrica, with time to rest, enjoy local cuisine, and, in many cases, relax in natural hot springs.
The tour culminates with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, after a final hike to Aguas Calientes. Over four days, the Inca Jungle Trek offers a varied and accessible experience, with a moderate level of difficulty and logistics designed for active travelers. It’s an excellent alternative to the traditional Inca Trail, allowing for a different kind of adventure, more flexible and with closer contact with nature and the communities along the way.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Downhill Bike Ride – Santa María
📅 Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Downhill Bike Ride – Santa María
Early Morning
- Pick-up in Cusco (approx. 4:30–6:00 a.m., depending on the area).
- Travel by tourist transport to Abra Málaga (high, cold area).
- Stop for breakfast (usually en route).
Mid-morning/Afternoon
- Safety briefing and equipment distribution (helmet, gloves; sometimes elbow/knee pads).
- Downhill bike ride: descent from high altitude to warmer, greener areas.
- Scenery: dramatic change in climate, forests, crops, viewpoints.
- Pace: group ride with a guide, short stops for photos and checks.
Afternoon/Evening
- Arrival in Santa María.
- Dinner and briefing for the following day.
- Overnight in basic accommodation (shared or private rooms depending on the package).
- What to expect this day: cold at first, then hot and humid. It’s the most adrenaline-pumping day because of the cycling.
Day 2: Santa María – Valley Trekking – Santa Teresa (optional hot springs)
Day 2: Santa María – Valley Trekking – Santa Teresa (optional hot springs)
Morning
- Early breakfast.
- Hike along valley trails (temperate/warm climate).
- You’ll often pass through agricultural areas: coffee, cacao, fruit (depending on the season).
- Some tours include a suspension bridge/cable or other extra activities (varies considerably).
Midday
- Lunch en route or in a village.
Afternoon
- Arrival in Santa Teresa.
- Recommended option: Cocalmayo Hot Springs (if included in the tour or by paying the entrance fee).
- Ideal for resting your legs.
Night
- Dinner and rest.
- Practical tip: Bring insect repellent and a change of dry clothes; the weather can change quickly.
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
Day 3: Collpapampa – Lucmabamba – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
We begin our third day of trekking with a hearty breakfast at 6:00 a.m., before embarking on an approximately five-hour hike through the rainforest, with ascents and descents. This section of the route takes us through the cloud forest, where we can admire coffee plantations, orchids, and various medicinal plants typical of this warm climate. Shortly after, we’ll stop for lunch and then take our transport to Hidroeléctrica to begin the approximately 3-hour hike to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll have dinner and spend the night in a hotel.
The hike distance for today is approximately 32 km.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Very early
- Departure to enter Machu Picchu:
Option A: Bus Aguas Calientes → Machu Picchu (more comfortable). - Option B: Hike up (challenging, but epic if you like a challenge).
Morning
- Guided tour (usually lasts 2–3 hours depending on the route and regulations).
- Free time (if the ticket allows) for photos and visiting the designated viewpoints.
Midday/Afternoon
- Descent to Aguas Calientes.
- Return by train + bus or combination depending on the package.
- Arrival in Cusco in the evening.
INCLUDES
✅ INCLUDES
What the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu Includes
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (city center).
- Tourist transportation throughout the Inca Jungle Trail.
- Professional guide during the tour (English/Spanish).
- Descent by bicycle on the first day, with basic safety equipment (bicycle, helmet, gloves).
- Accommodation for 3 nights in tourist accommodations (shared or private rooms depending on the option).
- Meals as per the program:
- 3 breakfasts
- 3 lunches
- 3 dinners
- Guided hikes along the Inca Jungle Trail (Santa María, Santa Teresa, Hidroeléctrica).
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu with free time for photos.
Ongoing assistance from the team throughout the tour.
NOT INCLUDED
❌ NOT INCLUDED
What the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu does not include
- Breakfast on the first day, as pickup from Cusco is usually very early.
- Dinner on the last day after visiting Machu Picchu.
- Entrance to the Cocalmayo hot springs (payable directly at the destination, optional).
- Round-trip bus fare from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (optional; you can hike up).
- Personal expenses such as extra drinks, snacks, souvenirs, or tips.
- Travel or personal insurance (recommended to purchase before the tour).
- Additional activities not specified in the program (ziplining, rafting, or others, if not clearly included).
- Tips for guides, drivers, or support staff (optional, but customary).
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
📌 Before your trip
- Acclimatization in Cusco – Allow your body to adjust to the altitude and avoid discomfort.
- Confirm Machu Picchu entrance – Verify that it is included and has the correct date.
- Travel insurance – Recommended, as this is a tour with adventure activities.
👕 Clothing and footwear
- Trekking shoes – They should be comfortable and have good grip.
- Quick-drying clothing – Ideal for the humid climate of the trek.
- Light jacket – Necessary in high-altitude areas like Abra Málaga.
- Waterproof poncho or jacket – Essential, especially during the rainy season.
🧴 Personal items
- Sunscreen – The sun is strong even on cloudy days.
- Insect repellent – Very useful in tropical and jungle areas.
- Reusable water bottle – To stay hydrated during hikes.
- Hygiene items – Pack only the essentials in small sizes.
📷 Technology and Miscellaneous
- Cell phone or camera – For photos of the tour and Machu Picchu.
- Power bank – Outlets aren’t always available.
- Waterproof bag – Protects documents and electronics from the rain.
🏞️ For Machu Picchu
- Original ID on hand – You’ll need it at the entrance checkpoint.
- Small backpack – There are size restrictions within the archaeological site.
- Respect for rules and designated routes – Important for preserving the site and avoiding penalties.
FAQs
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does the Inca Jungle tour last?
- The Inca Jungle tour usually lasts 4 days and 3 nights, although there are 3- or 5-day options depending on the operator and the included activities.
What is the difficulty level of the Inca Jungle tour?
- The level is moderate. It doesn’t require prior trekking experience, but a basic level of fitness and a willingness to walk several hours a day are necessary.
Is it necessary to acclimatize before the Inca Jungle Trek?
- Yes. It is recommended to spend at least 1 or 2 days in Cusco before the tour to acclimatize to the altitude, especially for the first day.
Does the Inca Jungle Trek include the entrance to Machu Picchu?
- Most tours do include the entrance, but it is important to confirm this before booking, as some packages offer it as an add-on.
Can the Inca Jungle Trek be done year-round?
- Yes, the Inca Jungle Trek can be done year-round. The best time is from April to October (dry season). From November to March there is more rain, but fewer tourists.
What type of accommodation is used?
- The tour includes basic or standard tourist accommodations, with shared or private rooms, depending on the package purchased.
Is it mandatory to do the descent by bicycle?
- No. If you do not wish to do the descent by bicycle, you can travel in the support vehicle to the next point of the trek.
Are hot springs visited during the tour?
- Generally, yes, Cocalmayo is visited in Santa Teresa, although entry is usually optional and not always included in the price.
How do I get from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu?
- You can take a tourist bus or hike. The bus is more comfortable; the hike is more demanding but very popular with active travelers.
Do I need to bring cash?
- Yes. It’s recommended to bring cash in soles, as cards are not accepted in several towns.
Is the Inca Jungle Trek suitable for children or seniors?
- It can be done, but it depends on physical condition. It’s not recommended for people with knee or back problems, or reduced mobility.
What happens if it rains during the tour?
- The tour continues as normal. The guide will adjust the schedule if necessary, so it’s important to bring waterproof clothing.
