Tour Details
Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu (4 Days) is an adventure that combines downhill biking and hiking—an alternative route to reach the Inca Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. Along this route through Cusco’s tropical high jungle, you’ll see a variety of fruits and local crops. The Inca Jungle also offers optional activities such as white-water rafting and ziplining on the way to the Lost City of the Incas.
What’s included?
- ✅ 3 nights of accommodation.
- ✅ All ground transfers from/to your hotel.
- ✅ Full-suspension mountain bikes, helmets, and gloves.
- ✅ 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- ✅ Experienced bilingual adventure guide.
- ✅ Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu.
- ✅ Guided tour in and around Machu Picchu.
- ✅ Return train to Ollantaytambo.
- ✅ White-water rafting with full gear.
- ✅ Zip line (canopy).
What’s not included?
- ⛔ Bus up/down Machu Picchu.
- ⛔ Tips.
- ⛔ Hot springs entrance (approx. US$ 6.00).
- ⛔ First day’s breakfast and last day’s lunch in Aguas Calientes.
Important recommendations
It’s recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before to acclimatize to the altitude. Bring comfortable hiking clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.- ➡️ Small backpack with a change of clothes.
- ➡️ Personal toiletries.
- ➡️ Comfortable footwear (trekking shoes recommended).
- ➡️ Personal medication and original passport.
- ➡️ Water bottle and purification tablets.
- ➡️ Rain gear in the rainy season (October–March).
- ➡️ Headlamp, camera, and spare batteries.
- ➡️ Warm layers for cool mornings/evenings.
- ➡️ Swimsuit (for hot springs, optional).
- ➡️ Insect repellent.
- ➡️ Sunscreen and lip balm.
- ➡️ Sun hat/cap.
- ➡️ Toilet paper and small towel.
- ➡️ Snacks: cookies, chocolate, nuts, etc.
- ➡️ Trekking poles (optional).
- ➡️ Sleeping bag (if staying in basic lodges that require it).
Meeting point: Pick-up from your hotel or a coordinated spot in Cusco’s historic center.
Route overview: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María – Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco.
Important: Inca Jungle is a 4-day adventure combining cycling, hiking, add-on adventure sports, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu. Recommended for travelers with decent fitness and prior acclimatization.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Abra Málaga – Santa María
Pick-up at 6:00 a.m. and ~4-hour drive to the starting point. Safety briefing before a ~3-hour paved downhill ride by bike to the Inca site of Huamán Marka. Continue by vehicle to Santa María for lunch and check-in to a local guesthouse. In the afternoon, rafting on class III–IV rapids.Biking distance: ~60 km
Accommodation: Guesthouse.
Day 2: Santa María – Hot Springs – Santa Teresa
Breakfast and jungle hike up towards Santa Teresa with stops to learn about local crops. Visit a family home for a rest, hydration, and to taste tropical fruits. Walk a recently uncovered section of Inca Trail. Descend to Quellomayo for lunch and hammock time. Final 2-hour walk to the Cocalmayo hot springs. Transfer to Santa Teresa for overnight in a basic lodge.Hiking distance: ~14 km
Accommodation: Guesthouse.
Day 3: Santa Teresa – Hidroeléctrica – Aguas Calientes
Optional morning zipline (canopy). Transfer to Hidroeléctrica for lunch. 3-hour walk along the railway, passing banana, avocado, and other tropical crops with views of Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu, and Putucusi. Arrive in Aguas Calientes, check in, shower and rest. Dinner at a local restaurant and briefing for the Machu Picchu visit.Hiking distance: ~10 km
Accommodation: Guesthouse/hostel.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Early start (~4:30 a.m.) to hike ~1 hour up to Machu Picchu. Enter early to enjoy sunrise and a guided tour through the Temple of the Sun, the Inca’s Palace, Main Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, Sacred Plaza, and the sundial/astronomical sector. Walk back to Aguas Calientes to board the tourist train to Ollantaytambo. Private transfer to Cusco, evening arrival.Hiking distance: ~7 km
Meals: Breakfast.
Photo Gallery
Explore highlights of the route through images that capture the essence of this experience.
Practical Information
Tour Facts
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Hiking distance: ~31 km total
- Max altitude: 4,316 m (Abra Málaga)
- Difficulty: Moderate – combination of cycling, hiking, and adventure activities
- Minimum age: 12+
- Group size: Up to 15 travelers
What to Bring
- Passport or ID
- Light clothing for warm weather and warm layers for mornings
- Windbreaker or rain jacket
- Hat/cap and sunglasses
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle or canteen
- Swimsuit and small towel (hot springs)
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Cash (PEN) for entrances, optional activities, and personal purchases
Health & Safety
- Arrive in Cusco at least 1–2 days in advance to acclimatize
- Stay hydrated throughout
- Consider coca tea or altitude medication as advised by a doctor
- Keep a steady hiking pace and rest when needed
- Not recommended for travelers with severe heart/respiratory conditions without medical clearance
- Use sunscreen even on cloudy days
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation 7+ days before: 50% of total cost
No show: No refund
Frequently Asked Questions
What fitness level do I need?
This is a moderate adventure. Expect cycling, 3–6 hour hikes per day, and optional activities like rafting or canopy. Prior experience isn’t essential, but good overall fitness and health are recommended.
When is the best time to go?
You can go year-round, but the dry season (May–September) offers more stable weather and better trail conditions. In the rainy season (December–March), the scenery is greener but trails can be slippery.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Book at least 2 weeks in advance to secure guides, lodging, and train tickets—especially during high season (June–August).
What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine. Bring a rain poncho or waterproof jacket and pack your gear in dry bags. Rain adds atmosphere but requires extra caution.
Is Machu Picchu admission included?
Yes, the package includes the Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are optional add-ons, subject to availability and an extra fee.
Is the Cusco Tourist Ticket required?
No. Inca Jungle doesn’t require the Cusco Tourist Ticket. Route permissions and Machu Picchu entry are covered by the tour.
Can I rent gear?
Yes, you can rent a sleeping bag and other items in advance. Rafting and canopy include required technical equipment.