Inca Jungle Adventure to Machu Picchu
The Inca Jungle Trek is the ultimate trip to Machu Picchu for adventure lovers. It was designed for people who want to include in their package different fun activities, from Mountain Biking from the mountains down to the high Peruvian jungle with breathtaking vistas to whitewater rafting activities with some rapids, hiking through the incredible Inca Trail with a lot of history, flying on the world's longest zipline and enjoying the view from different angles, and exploring Machu Picchu at the end of your journey.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
WHY CHOOSE THE INCA JUNGLE TREK TO MACHU PICCHU?
Before reaching Machu Picchu, the Inca Jungle Trek takes you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, thrilling adventure activities, lush cloud forests, and authentic local communities, creating one of Peru's most exciting and unforgettable travel experiences.
- Experience the Most Adventurous Route to Machu Picchu: The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu combines mountain biking, hiking, optional whitewater rafting, and ziplining into one unforgettable journey. It is the perfect choice for travelers looking for more than a traditional trek.
- Explore Peru's Incredible Natural Diversity: Travel from the high Andes through cloud forests and tropical valleys, discovering breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, coffee plantations, fruit orchards, and lush landscapes before arriving at the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.
- Visit Machu Picchu with an Expert Local Guide: Complete your adventure with a professionally guided tour of Machu Picchu. Learn about the fascinating history, architecture, and engineering of the Inca civilization while exploring one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Enjoy an Adventure for Every Traveler: Unlike traditional trekking routes, the Inca Jungle Trek offers a unique combination of outdoor activities. Whether you're cycling down mountain roads, hiking ancient trails, crossing suspension bridges, or soaring above the forest on a zipline, every day brings a new experience.
- Discover Authentic Local Culture: Walk through traditional villages, meet local families, visit organic coffee farms, and experience the warm hospitality of the people who live along this historic route. This cultural connection makes the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
- Relax in Natural Hot Springs:After an exciting day of hiking, unwind in the famous natural hot springs of Santa Teresa. Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, these thermal pools provide the perfect opportunity to relax before continuing your trek.
- Create Memories That Last a Lifetime: The Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu is more than a hike, it's a complete adventure through Peru's most spectacular landscapes, combining adrenaline, nature, culture, history, and the unforgettable reward of reaching the world-famous Inca citadel.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Cusco - Malaga Pass -Santa Maria
Mountain bike 55km /34 miles, have fun on the whitewater rafting.
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Day02
Santa Maria - Hot Spring - Santa Teresa
Hike through on the Inca Trail and enjoy the Cocalmayo hot springs after the hike
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Day03
Santa Teresa - Hidroelectrica - Aguas Calientes
Feel the adrenaline flying via Zipline near to Machu Picchu
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Day04
Aguas Calientes - Machupicchu - Cusco
Be amazed by the incredible of Machu Picchu and enjoy the view along the train ride
Cusco – Abra Malaga - Santa Maria : Cycling (55 km-34 miles)
Shuttle to Abra Malaga:3.5 hour by bus from Cusco
Biking time: 2.5 to 3 hour approximately.
Maximum Altitude: 4,350masl. / 14,271 feet
Minimum Altitude:1275masl. / 4180 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Private room (Hostel)
Adventure: Absolutely¡ River rafting Class I-II-III
The adventure to the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu begins at 6:00 a.m. Then we’ll head towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas (Ollantaytambo) there we have a short stop to enjoy a breakfast or buy something you will need along the tour.
Afterwards, we’ll continue in our private van to reach the highest point of this trip, the Malaga Pass (4,316/ 14,160ft) here you will have a stunning view of the Veronica mountain at a side of the road. This is where we begin our mountain biking tour starts. Your guide will give a quick informational briefing and provide the bikes with the appropriate safety gears, then, we’ll begin our mountain biking about three hours (42km / 26miles), you will enjoy the landscape how it changes from the misty mountains to the beginning of the lush jungle along the cycling route you’ll pass through small streams and the warm climate while you descend from the mountains. After a few stops you’ll reach Huamanmarca. From there, we continue our journey by bus to the town of Santa Maria 1200 m / 3937 ft. Where we have our first lunch and spend the first night in our lodge.
During the afternoon you’ll have option to go rafting on the Vilcanota river on category I, II, III and III+ with some rapids, you’ll be safe as we’ll provide you all the safety equipment (Helmet, windbreakers, and lifejacket) it takes 2.30 hours in total. Please note this exciting activity is only available from April to December as the river rises during the wet season)
Santa Maria - Santa Teresa : Trekking (11 miles, 18 km)
Walking Distance: 15 km./9.3miles
Starting Elevation: 1275masl. / 4180 feet
Campsite Elevation: 1500masl. / 4921 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation:Private room Hostel
Adventure: Absolutely, hot spring, cable car.
After a delicious breakfast, we take our private van to the trail head to start the Santa Maria to Santa Teresa trek. The first 2 hours of our trek will be ascending, but there will be various stops in order to learn a bit more about the rich variety of flora and fauna that can be found in the region we are in. One of these stops will be a family house where we will rest for 20 minutes and supply ourselves with more water and some regional tropical fruit. After resting for a bit, we will cross a section of the Inca Trail that historically connected Machu Picchu with the city of Vilcabamba. Here, our guide will explain a bit more about the history of the Incas, as well as the system of communication that existed during that time. At this point, we will also see one of the most impressive views in all of the Huancarccasa Canyon. Afterwards, we will descend to the small town of Quellomayo, where we will stop to take our lunch and rest in the near-by hammocks. We then continue 2 more hours on foot to the thermal baths of Cocalmayo, where you will have plenty of time to enjoy the naturally heated water of the baths. After bathing, we will continue on to the final destination of the day, Santa Teresa, by private van and spend our second night in our hostel.
Santa Teresa – Hydroelectric - Aguas Calientes : Trekking (10 miles, 16 km)
Walking Distance: 11 km. / 6.miles
Starting Elevation: 1500masl. / 4921 feet
Campsite Elevation: 2000masl / 6561 feet (AguasCalientes hotel)
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Private roomHotel 3 stars
Adventure: Absolutely, Zip Line. (6 cables,)
This day our adventure will continue, after breakfast we will go to Zip Line near to Machu Picchu, they will pick you up at the restaurant, then, we drive for a few minutes towards the base camp, here your instructor will provide you the safety equipment and instructions.
Then begins our adventure flying between mountains through the valley and thick forest, you’ll feel how the adrenaline takes over your body and enjoy the incredible views of the river and valley. You’ll available to fly in different positions.
Afterwards, we’ll take our van to Hydroelectric, where you'll enjoy our delicious lunch in the restaurant surrounded by trees beside of the train truck. Then we’ll heading to Aguas Calientes hiking along the train rail with stunning views of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba river, your guide will show you the location of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu, also you’ll see a several times the train riding to Hydroelectic, after three hours of hike we’ll arrive to Aguas Calientes town where you guide will accommodate in your hotel to rest then explore the picturesque town.
Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu - Cusco
Walking Distance: By Bus
Starting Elevation: 2,000masl. / 6561 feet
Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,400masl. /7874 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast
Adventure: Absolutely
This is the most important day of the tour – the day that we arrive to one of the 7 Wonders places of the World. Our last day of the tour begins very early in the morning in order to be able to watch the sun rise over the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. We begin the ascent from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu at 5:30 AM, by bus to reach the citadel.
Once inside the park, your guide will take you to the best spots to enjoy this magical Inca site. Then, he’ll provide you two hours of tour, afterwards you’ll have your time to explore by your own other places of Machu Picchu, maybe even hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (previous reservations are needed with two months of anticipation, plus a fee of $35. There are only 400 entrance tickets per day to climb these two mountains). You can climb these on your own time, you’ll need to return to Aguas Calientes by bus in order to board a returning train to Ollantaytambo and finally bus drive towards Cusco.
NOTE:
In order to receive detailed information about your trip, including when and where you will be picked up on the first day, you must visit the “Cusco Climbing” office one day before embarking on your journey.
KEEP IN MIND:
Please bring your passport and the immigration slip you received upon your arrival to Peru. Cash is the only acceptable form of payment (Dollars or Soles). The type of change (Dollars or Soles) given for payments made in Soles will be determined by the Agency.We are transparent and provide the specific details of what is included and excluded in our Inca Jungle Trail. We know this is very important so that you know what exactly to bring and you don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your Inca Jungle trek.
WE INCLUDE
Our Team Provides
Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your adventure guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Inca Jungle trail departure. During this briefing, you will receive important details of this adventure.
Professional Adventure Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation in customer service, our tour guide have graduated with tourism career from National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco, they have also studied English in a private language institute. Through to their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking and proud to have been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the Magic Machu Picchu.
Permit for Machu Picchu
Once we receive your details and the deposit for your tour, we purchase all the necessary tickets for your trek and these permits will be for a specific date and will be in your name. unfortunately, this information can’t be modified under any circumstance once confirmed, only your passport number it can be update, however for this change you must to bring both you old and new passport.
Accommodations
We included private accommodations 3 nights along our Inca Jungle trail, these are safe and clean lodges located along the route, each room of our lodges has private bathroom with a hot water and clean towel, you also will be available to recharge your cameras, phones, etc. But remember the electrical outlets are different than you are used it is mostly USA and South American standard outlets. If you want to spend an extra night in Aguas Caliente town or Machu Picchu town please contact to Cusco Climbing team.
Hot Spring and Cable Car Tickets
We know the small details are important for you during your trip and Cusco Climbing makes everything possible to provide an excellent service where you don’t need to be worry about these things
Transportations
Private Transport
We included all the transportations during your tour, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the beginning of the biking, the bus returning from Ollantaytambo to Cusco will drop off you at your hotel.
Train Ticket
In the Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu, we include the returning train ticket after you have explored Machu Picchu on the last day. The train ticket will be one of the available train schedules of 14:20hrs, 14:55hrs and 16:20hrs.
Equipment
Biking Equipment
Rainbow Mountain Guide been leading tours to Machu Picchu with a suitable biking equipment to make of your trip an experience of the life time. Our bikes and biking gears are very safe and professional for this kind of activities we include from suspension bike, DH helmet, body armor, knee pads and globes.
Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides of RMG are very well trained in First aid. They received training courses every 6 months how to assist to someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained how to supply a balloon oxygen in the case if someone requires it.
Meals
Meals
We know food is such an important part of any vacation and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial… We include 3 breakfast, 3 lunch and 3 dinner. And of course, we cater to all dietary restrictions Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten free and others just let us know. Our team is well-trained to prepare the best food ever you’ve had with local and organic ingredients.
WE NOT INCLUDED
Extra Activities
During the Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu you will have the option to do the extra activities whitewater rafting & zipline that offers incredible experience and fun, on the whater rafting you will find some rapids, it combines different class between I-II-III. and the zipline offers stunning views of the valley, this is one of the most langest in whole South America. In case you want to book these activities contact to Cusco Climbing team.
First Breakfast
We do not provide breakfast on the day of your departure. However, most hotel offers breakfast during your stay there. In case your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will stop at a restaurant near to Ollantaytambo where you will be available to purchase a breakfast.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes
Lunch on the las day at Aguas Calientes is not included in this tour. However, you and the group can enjoy the last lunch together in a restaurant recommended by your tour guide.
Water
Water bottle is not included in this tour, however you will be able to buy water along the way in different shops.
Travel Insurance
We recommend to buy a travel insurance before to leave your country in case something happen along your visit to Peru
Tips for our team
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion to Machu Picchu, although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team hard work
Huayna Picchu
Huayna Picchu is the mountain which stands next to Machu Picchu. It is really famous hike normally takes 45 minutes hike up to the top by narrow steps steep with a great view of Machu Picchu citadel. If you would like to hike Huayna Picchu after your tour to Machu Picchu there is an extra cost of $75.00US Also, this booking must be done at least 3 months in advance due the popularity.
INCA JUNGLE TREK PACKING LIST
We focus to make your trip an unforgettable experience and we want to provide all details which you need to know before to leave your country and start your life experience in Peru.
What you need to pack?
Essential Items
- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- Trekking poles
FOR YOUR DAYBACKPACK:
Your backpack will be with you everyday.
- 3 wicking t-shirts
- 3 hiking pants
- 3 sets of undergarments.
- 1 Warm, down jacket: gets little cold at the morning in Machu Picchu
- 1 Rain jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat
- Bathers / swimsuit for the hot spring
- Small towel
- Flip flops
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
EXTRA ITEMS YOUR DAYPACKS:
Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25L will not be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside citadel gates. But don´t worry, they have a secure storage facility.
Water: we supply a bottle of water the 2nd day and the same the 3rd day, however you will be available to buy more water along the route or at the restaurant. You are responsible for your first and last day
- Sun hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (iPhone)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
- Some snacks (Chocolate, fruits, energy bars, etc.)
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
INCA JUNGLE TREK FAQs
Here some frequently asked question about the Inca Jungle trail to Machu PicchuWhat is the Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days?
The Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days is an exciting adventure tour to Machu Picchu that combines mountain biking, hiking, optional whitewater rafting, ziplining, and a guided visit to the Lost City of the Incas. It is one of Peru's most popular alternatives to the Classic Inca Trail.
How difficult is the Inca Jungle Trek?
The Inca Jungle Trek is considered a moderate trek. While it includes several hours of hiking, it is less physically demanding than the Classic Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, making it suitable for active travelers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Is the Inca Jungle Trek suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Inca Jungle Trek is ideal for beginners who enjoy outdoor activities and have good general fitness. No previous trekking experience is required, although regular exercise before the trip is recommended.
What is the best time to do the Inca Jungle Trek?
The best time to hike the Inca Jungle Trek is during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and mountain views are at their best. The trek is available throughout the year.
Does the Inca Jungle Trek include Machu Picchu?
Yes. Every Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days includes a guided tour of Machu Picchu, where you'll explore the famous Inca citadel with a professional guide and learn about its fascinating history and architecture.
Is mountain biking included in the Inca Jungle Trek?
Yes. Mountain biking is one of the highlights of the tour. The adventure begins with an exhilarating downhill ride from the high Andes through spectacular mountain scenery toward the edge of the cloud forest.
Are rafting and ziplining included?
Yes! The Inca Jungle Trek itinerary includes whitewater rafting and ziplining activities, depending on the tour package. Be sure to review your itinerary before booking
What should I pack for the Inca Jungle Trek?
Bring lightweight hiking clothes, waterproof hiking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, swimwear for the hot springs, personal medications, and a small backpack for daily essentials.
Do I need a permit for the Inca Jungle Trek?
No. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Inca Jungle Trek does not require a government trekking permit. However, you should book in advance to secure Machu Picchu entrance tickets, which have limited daily availability.
How high is the Inca Jungle Trek?
The highest point of the trek is Abra Málaga Pass, located at approximately 4,316 meters (14,160 feet) above sea level. From there, the route descends into the warm cloud forest and tropical valleys..
Is the Inca Jungle Trek worth it?
Absolutely. The Inca Jungle Trek is one of Peru's most exciting adventures, combining thrilling outdoor activities, breathtaking landscapes, authentic local culture, and an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu in a single four-day experience.
How much does the Inca Jungle Trek 4 Days cost?
The cost depends on the tour operator, group size, accommodation type, and included activities. Most tours include transportation, mountain biking, accommodations, meals, a professional guide, and entrance to Machu Picchu.
From: USD 390.00 per person
USD 00.00: from 4 people to more
*Upgrade the returning train to Vistadome service( with larger windows and more confortable seats $60US per person
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Rainbow Mountain Guide. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
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Feel free to reach us via email at rainbowmountainguide@gmail.com or by calling us directly at +51 951 359 694
Monday - Friday:
09:00 to 18:00 Hrs.
Saturday:
09:00 to 13:00 Hrs.
Prolongacion Av. Grau L-8, Santiago - Cusco
4 Days / 3 Nights
Inca Jungle Trek
Inca Jungle Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights Map
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT TOUR OPERATOR?
As direct local tour operator, we offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
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Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 12 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
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Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture, English speakers.
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Modern Private Transportation Travel in comfort and style with our modern, safe, and fully equipped private vehicles.
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Safety First: Our licenced guides and drivers are well trained in customer service. We always carry oxygen tank during our Rainbow Mountain excursions.
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No Hidden Cost: Our prices are set up clearly, and we dont have any hidden cost. Our tour guides always will explain what really is the tour.
Activities Inca Jungle Trail
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