Embark on a thrilling 4-day, 3-night Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu. This adventure mixes exciting outdoor activities with stunning natural beauty and historical exploration. Start high in the Andes and dive into action with mountain biking, river rafting, and hiking, all while enjoying breathtaking views.
Journey through diverse landscapes, from snowy peaks to lush forests, and visit local communities to learn about their cultures and taste freshly made coffee. The path includes hidden archaeological sites and leads you to the spectacular Machu Picchu at sunrise—an unforgettable experience.
This tour is perfect for those who love adventure, nature, and history. It's an engaging, easy-to-follow experience designed for both avid trekkers and those new to exploring ancient wonders.
Trek details
The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable 4-day adventure that combines exciting activities such as trekking, biking, and river rafting. As you traverse the lush landscapes of the Peruvian jungle, you'll have the chance to meet local villagers and gain insights into their daily lives and traditions. The trek also includes visits to local coffee farms, where you can learn about the cultivation of coca and coffee, essential crops in the region.
One of the highlights of this journey is hiking along an ancient Inca Trail that historically linked Machu Picchu with Vilcabamba, known as "the last capital of the Incas." This path is steeped in history and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Throughout the trek, you'll be surrounded by the jungle's natural beauty, with its rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems. The experience is not only a physical adventure but also a cultural immersion, offering a deep connection with the history and people of this unique area. This journey promises lasting memories and a deep appreciation of Peru's natural and cultural heritage.
Highlights:
- Mountain Bike to Salineras: Enjoy a thrilling bike ride to the historic Salineras salt mines.
- White River Rafting: Experience the excitement of rafting along the scenic Urubamba River.
- Hike Inca Trails: Discover hidden trails with beautiful views on your hike.
- Relax in Hot Springs: Soothe your muscles in the natural Colcalmayo hot springs.
- Machu Picchu at Sunrise: Get to Machu Picchu early to enjoy a peaceful sunrise without the crowds.
Inca Jungle Trek at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco - Salineras - Pispitayoc (Biking / Rafting)
- Tour Duration: 2 hours mountain biking and 2 hours river rafting.
- Activities: Mountain biking & river rafting
- Meals Included: Lunch and dinner.
- Accommodation: Rustic Lodge in Pispitayoc.
Day 2: Pispitayoc - Colcalmayo - Santa Teresa (trekking)
- Tour Duration: 6 hours of hiking.
- Activities: Hiking, Cocalmayo hot springs.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Accommodation: Basic hotel in Santa Teresa.
Day 3: Santa Teresa -Llaqtapata - Aguas Calientes (trekking)
- Tour Duration: 8 hours.
- Activities: Visit coffee farm, hiking, exploring Llactapata
- Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco
- Tour Duration: 2-3 hours of guided tour.
- Activities: Explore Machu Picchu and return on the Panoramic Train.
- Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel.
- Accommodation: Book a hotel in Cusco
Optional Hikes after Machu Picchu guided tour:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: This climb takes about 2 hours—1 hour to ascend and another to descend. You should book your spot well in advance. The ticket costs $68 per person.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: This hike is longer, requiring about 3.5 hours to complete. Like Huayna Picchu, you'll need to reserve your spot early, and the cost is also $68 per person.
Your Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu adventure begins at 7:00 AM at your hotel in Cusco. Please have breakfast at your hotel before departure. From there, you will drive to the village of Cruzpata (3,557 m / 11,667 ft). Upon arrival, you will prepare for mountain biking by putting on safety equipment and participating in a safety briefing. Then, you'll start your ride, enjoying views of fields dotted with potatoes and wheat against a backdrop of stunning mountains.
The first stop is in the town of Maras. After visiting Maras, you will descend to Salineras to explore over 3,000 ancient salt pans, where locals have harvested salt using traditional methods since Incan times. The biking portion of the trip lasts approximately 2 hours and concludes in the Sacred Valley, where you'll have lunch at a local restaurant (2,843 m / 9,327 ft).
After lunch, a 1.5-hour drive takes you to Santa Maria (1,185 m / 3,887 ft), where you can enjoy two hours of river rafting on the Urubamba River, navigating class III rapids. The day ends with a return to our rustic lodge at Picpitayoc for tea and dinner (1,515 m / 4,970 ft).
- Biking Time: 2 hours
- Rafting Time: 2 hours
- Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner
- Accommodation: Rustic lodge
Start your day with a refreshing cup of coffee in the middle of the high jungle. After breakfast, you'll begin hiking through the rainforest, surrounded by diverse fruit plantations like avocados, maniocs, oranges, mangoes, cacao, coffee, and coca shrubs. Along the way, you'll traverse a well-preserved segment of the original Inca Trail that clings to a steep mountainside. The four-hour hike will bring you to Quellomayu (1,311 m / 4,301 ft), where you'll enjoy lunch in a local home.
After lunch, continue hiking for another two hours to the Cocalmayo hot springs. These springs are divided into several pools of varying temperatures, all filled with pure volcanic water believed to have medicinal properties beneficial for bones, stress, muscle aches, and headaches. After relaxing in the baths, take a bus to Santa Teresa. Here, you will spend the night in a basic hotel equipped with a private bathroom, hot shower, and Wi-Fi.
- Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
- Elevation in Santa Teresa: 1,559 m / 5,114 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Accommodation: Local hotel
Today is the highlight of the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, you'll take a 35-minute bus ride to Lucmabamba (2,009 m / 6,591 ft), where an organic coffee farm awaits. Here, you'll learn about the coffee harvesting process and even make your own espresso. The journey continues with a 3-hour hike through an original Inca trail, constructed in the 15th century, which connected Vilcabamba—the last Inca capital—with Machu Picchu. After a three-hour hike, you'll reach Llactapata, a unique site located directly across from Machu Picchu. Here, you'll delve into the history of the Incas and enjoy your first views of the Machu Picchu citadel from a distance.
Then, descend for two hours to the hydroelectric station, where you'll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Post-lunch, you'll visit the Sundial, a precisely carved rock that aligns with the Machu Picchu sundial during the winter solstice. Following this, continue along the train tracks for three hours to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, your tour guide will take you to your hotel for a well-deserved shower and rest after a day of significant hiking. Dinner will be at a local restaurant.
- Altitude in Aguas Calientes: 2,051 m / 6,729 ft
- Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
- Duration: 8 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
On the final and most significant day, you'll wake up early, have breakfast at the hotel, and catch the first buses to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival at the main entrance, you'll need to show your original passport and then begin your exploration with your tour guide. You can start with a short hike to the viewpoints and then proceed to explore the citadel. Your guide will lead you through the temples, palaces, and altars, after which you'll have some time to explore on your own. After the guided tour, you have the option to hike either Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (please note that both require separate tickets and are distinct from the Machu Picchu citadel; you can only choose one).
Once you've explored the citadel, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Later, you'll board the 1.5-hour Vistadome panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo. The Ultimate Trekking team will be waiting there to transfer you by van back to Cusco. You'll be dropped off right at your hotel door around 7:30 p.m.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,400 m / 7,874 ft
- Duration of Tour: 2-3 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel
- Return: Vistadome Panoramic Train
Included:
- Pre-departure Briefing: Information session the day before the tour.
- Tour Guide: Professional local guide; an additional guide for groups of 9+
- Transportation: All transportation during the tour
- Rafting: Equipment and expert guides provided.
- Day 1: One night in a rustic lodge
- Day 2: One night in a basic hotel
- Day 3: One night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners.
- Entrances: Salineras, Colcalmayo Hot Springs, and Machu Picchu.
- Train Ride: Panoramic Vistadome to Ollantaytambo.
- Safety Gear: All safety equipment and a first aid kit are included.
Not Included
- First breakfast
- First & last day lunch
- Huayna Picchu Mountain tickets
- Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (different from Machu Picchu Citadel)
- Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
What is the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu is an adventurous journey that combines outdoor activities with cultural exploration. This multi-day trek leads adventurers through various landscapes, from high mountain passes down to lush jungle, culminating in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu.
How long is the Inca Jungle Trek and what does it involve?
The Inca Jungle Trail 4 days 3 nights tour to Machu Picchu involves activities such as mountain biking down steep descents, hiking through historic trails, rafting on vibrant rivers, and engaging with local communities.
What is the best time to go on the Inca Jungle Trek?
The best time to go on the Inca Jungle Trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making trekking conditions more enjoyable. However, the trek can be done year-round, with the wet season (November to March) experiencing more rain and potentially muddy conditions.
What are the key highlights of the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu?
Key highlights include biking through breathtaking mountain scenery, hiking parts of ancient Inca trails, exploring traditional coffee farms, relaxing in natural hot springs, and the ultimate visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
What should I pack for the Inca Jungle Trek?
Essential packing items include durable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers for cold and rain), a daypack, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a water bottle, and personal medications. Don’t forget a camera to capture the stunning landscapes!
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and warm layers
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Snacks and energy bars
- First aid kit and personal medications
- Camera or smartphone
- Passport
- Cash for emergencies and additional expenses
What fitness level is required for the Inca Jungle Trek?
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness as the trek involves several days of physical activities that include lengthy hikes and biking. A good level of endurance will enhance your enjoyment and ability to traverse the varied terrains.
Can you describe the typical itinerary of the Inca Jungle Tour?
The adventure begins with a thrilling bike descent, followed by hikes on trails rich in history. Participants will raft on the Urubamba River, visit organic coffee plantations, and explore archaeological sites, culminating with a guided tour of Machu Picchu.
What is the best time of year to go on the Inca Jungle Trek?
The optimal time for this trek is from April to October, during the dry season in the Andes. This period provides clearer skies and more pleasant weather conditions, making the activities more enjoyable and safer.
How do I get to Cusco for the start of the Inca Jungle Trek?
Cusco is accessible via air from Lima with several daily flights. Alternatively, if you prefer ground travel, buses from major nearby cities like Arequipa or La Paz offer scenic routes into Cusco.
Are permits required for the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu?
No special permits are required for the Inca Jungle Trek itself, but you will need to pre-purchase entrance tickets to Machu Picchu and any additional sites like Huayna Picchu, as they are limited to protect the sites.
What are the accommodation options during the Inca Jungle Tour?
The Inca Jungle tour includes 1 night staying in a rustic lodge, 1 night in a basic hotel in Santa Teresa, and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
What meals are provided on the Inca Jungle Tour?
The tour includes only meals mentioned in the itinerary: breakfasts to start your active day, lunches to refuel during your journey, and dinners to relax and enjoy in the evening. Meals usually feature local cuisine, offering a taste of Peruvian culture.
What are the safety measures for the Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu?
Comprehensive safety measures are in place, including professional guides with first aid training and emergency response skills, safety equipment for all activities, and clear protocols for ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants.
How does the Inca Jungle Trek differ from the classic Inca Trail?
The Inca Jungle Trek is more varied, incorporating biking and rafting alongside hiking, providing a more adventurous alternative to the traditional, hike-centric Inca Trail.
What wildlife might I see during the Inca Jungle Peru trek?
The diverse ecosystems you'll traverse offer chances to see a range of wildlife, particularly birds like the Andean condor and hummingbirds, as well as unique plant species and occasionally larger fauna like the Andean fox or spectacled bear.
Are there any cultural activities included in the Jungle Trek?
Yes, the trek includes visits to local villages where you can interact with indigenous people, learn about their customs and traditional farming techniques, and even participate in coffee-making processes.
What are the costs involved in booking the Inca Jungle Group Tour?
The cost generally includes all necessary services such as transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, meals, and guide services. Prices vary based on the tour operator and the level of service provided.
How can I book a spot on the Inca Jungle Expedition Tour?
Booking must be done through reputable travel agencies specializing in Peruvian tours like Ultimate Trekking, either online through their websites or by visiting their offices directly in Cusco.
What is the maximum group size for the Jungle Trek Machu Picchu?
To maintain a personalized experience and minimize environmental impact, group sizes are often limited to about 10-15 people, depending on the tour operator's policies.
How sustainable is the Inca Jungle Tour to Machu Picchu?
Many operators focus on sustainability by using local guides, supporting community projects, practicing leave-no-trace principles, and limiting group sizes to reduce environmental impact.
What are the cancellation and refund policies for the Jungle Trip to Machu Picchu?
To book the Inca Jungle trip to Machu Picchu, we require an initial deposit of $200. This money is used to book the Machu Picchu permits, train tickets, and hotels. In case of cancellation, this initial payment is nonrefundable and nontransferable.
