Embark on an exhilarating 4-day Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu, an adventure packed with thrilling activities and stunning landscapes. This isn’t just a trek; it’s a multi-sport journey that blends downhill mountain biking, white water rafting, and ziplining with scenic hikes through the lush cloud forest and ancient Inca paths.
As you traverse the diverse terrain, you’ll encounter notable Inca archaeological sites and visit local farms, learning about tropical fruits and coffee plantations. Our expert local English-speaking guides will lead the way, sharing fascinating insights into the region’s history and culture. Many campsites are nestled within the serene cloud forest, offering a tranquil escape with the soothing sounds of chirping birds.
The grand finale is a captivating visit to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. Here, your guide will provide a comprehensive two-hour tour, revealing astonishing facts and secrets of this iconic Inca citadel, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.
Abra Malaga Pass & White Water Rafting
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Your adventure begins with an early 5:30 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll travel by private transport through the scenic Sacred Valley of the Incas, stopping briefly for breakfast. Our journey continues to Abra Malaga Pass, the trek’s highest point at 4350 m.a.s.l. (14,271 ft). Here, your guide will conduct a detailed safety briefing and provide all necessary biking equipment for an exhilarating three-hour downhill mountain biking descent. Covering 55 km (34.18 miles), you’ll witness a dramatic change in scenery from snow-capped Andean peaks to lush tropical jungle. Our support vehicle will trail behind for immediate assistance. After a few stops, we’ll take transport to Santa Maria (1200 m.a.s.l. / 3,937 ft) for lunch and check into our lodge. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to experience exciting white water rafting on the Vilcanota River (Class III+ rapids). A safety briefing and all necessary gear, including Category V life vests, will be provided. (Note: Rafting is available during the dry season, April to November, and requires swimming ability). We’ll return to the lodge in Santa Maria for a delicious dinner.
Original Inca Trail, Ziplining & Ccocalmayo Hot Springs
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Start your day with a delicious and nutritious traditional breakfast. Today’s Inca Jungle Trek begins with a hike through the tropical jungle. We’ll visit a local family home to gain insight into their customs and traditions before crossing a section of the original Inca Trail, known as Qhapaq Ñan. This ancient path once connected Machu Picchu to Vilcabamba, the last refuge of the Incas. Your local expert will explain the fascinating history of the Incas and their extensive road network. Enjoy breathtaking views as we hike along the Huancarccasa Canyons, with distant glimpses of the mighty Salkantay Mountain. We’ll then descend to Huacayupana for lunch at another local family’s home. After lunch, transport will take us to Santa Teresa, where you can experience an exhilarating zipline ride over the dense forest. Next, a 20-minute drive brings us to Ccocalmayo, home to natural hot springs renowned for their medicinal benefits and scenic mountain views. After a refreshing soak, we’ll take transport to our camp in Lucmabamba, where a delightful dinner awaits.
Llactapata Archaeological Site & First Views of Machu Picchu
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Wake up to a fresh cup of locally brewed coffee or coca tea, followed by a delicious breakfast. We’ll depart Lucmabamba early to trek a section of the renowned Inca Trail leading towards Machu Picchu. Along the way, we’ll visit a coffee farm, learning about the entire coffee production process in this region famous for its exports. A three-hour uphill hike will bring us to the stunning Llactapata archaeological site, built by the Incas with a commanding view of Machu Picchu. This is where you’ll get your first mesmerizing glimpse of the citadel, nestled between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains. Your travel expert will provide a detailed tour of the complex and share facts about Inca civilization. You’ll have free time to explore and soak in the views. Afterward, we’ll hike downhill for 1.5 hours to Aobamba for lunch. Post-lunch, we’ll drive to Hidroelectrica. From here, you have two options to reach Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes): either take a scenic train ride (at an additional cost of $34 USD) or enjoy a beautiful hike alongside the train tracks.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
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Today is the culmination of your journey: a visit to the magnificent Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, we’ll take a bus up to the citadel (bus ticket not included). Your professional bilingual guide will lead you on an insightful two-hour guided tour, exploring the main sectors of this ancient Inca city, sharing historical facts, theories, and the secrets behind its construction. You’ll have ample free time afterward to wander, take photos, and absorb the breathtaking views of this wonder of the world. Later in the afternoon, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes. From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo (train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is included), where our private transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, concluding your unforgettable Inca Jungle Trek.
A valid passport is required for all travelers. The train ticket from Hidroelectrica to Aguas Calientes is optional and an additional cost; the bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu is also not included.
During the trek, your main luggage will typically be stored at your hotel in Cusco. You will only carry a small daypack with essentials for the 4 days, such as clothing, toiletries, and personal items. Specific luggage allowances for the train journey will be communicated by your guide.
This tour is considered moderate in difficulty. Participants should have a good level of physical fitness, be comfortable with multi-day hiking, and be able to participate in activities like downhill biking, and potentially rafting and ziplining. Prior experience with these activities is not required, but a general active lifestyle is recommended.
The best time to undertake the Inca Jungle Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. During these months, the weather is generally sunny with less rain, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. The rainy season (December to March) can make trails muddy and some activities like rafting might be restricted due to high water levels.
Yes, solo travelers are very welcome on the Inca Jungle Trek. You will be joining a group, which is a great way to meet other travelers and share the adventure. Group tours offer a safe and social environment for individuals traveling alone.
It is highly recommended to book the Inca Jungle Trek at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak season (June to August). While it doesn’t require specific Inca Trail permits, components like Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train tickets can sell out. Booking early ensures availability and allows you to secure your preferred dates.
Traveler Experiences
Recent comments
A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
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